Dugout Diary by Joe Boesch

One Year Down, Four to Go I sat in my car with my head resting in my hands, not wanting to believe that I was just diagnosed with cancer. As I sat there trying to control my emotions, the song "Vision Thing" (live version with Lars Nootland) by Simple Minds was playing, which is about the celebration of life. At that moment, I wasn't too sure what to expect with life and this new fight that I have to undertake.  It was exactly one-year ago when I was diagnosed with cancer, and as my doctor said when he walked into the exam room, "Well, Joe…one year down, four to go." To be deemed cancer-free, for five years at six-month intervals, I will have tumor tracing, CAT scans performed, and doctor visits. It seemed like yesterday that I was being rolled into the operating room with the surgical team telling me to be calm, and all I remember is looking up, seeing bright lights, and then waking up in the recovery room.  As I watched the MLB All-Star Game this past July, at...

Maybe the Yankees should sign their furry friend, as they need as much help as they can get. On a downslope for the better part of the summer, the Yankees need to turn it around quick if they have aspirations to play in October. The way they are playing, they don't look like last year's AL Championship team. The season is over in five weeks, which may or may not be in the Yankees favor? Only time will tell. Until then, see you at the park. — Joe Boesch

Who would have thought so late in the MLB season that the Brewers are currently the best team in baseball with a 77-44 record, sitting nicely in first place in the NL Central? While the Mets, Phillies, Yankees, Astros, and Dodgers were the talk of their respective cities, they all have struggled as of late. So, don't discount the Brew Crew, as they are a team to be reckoned with, and look towards October. Until then, see you at the park. — Joe Boesch

 I must admit that Ichiro was one of my favorite players, and I still PC (personally collect) his cards and memorabilia. Besides him being inducted into the Hall of Fame, it's great to see that the Mariners retired his number.  Here's the wording from the back of his Topps Now retirement card: The legend of Ichiro continued to be celebrated as his No. 51 was officially retired before Seattle's clash with Tampa Bay. The Hall-of-Famer was on hand to cherish the moment and his Mariners career. "I'm so grateful to be here today to receive this highest honor," Ichiro said. The Japanese icon is one of three Mariners with his number in the rafters at T-Mobile Park.  Until then, see you at the park. — Joe Boesch 

At 62-56, the Yankees are not looking like the team they were last season, making the World Series. From injuries to the need for starting pitching, they seem to be in a rut and can't shake it. Sloppy plays in the field have also been a cause for concern, with Anthony Volpe at the top of the list. The trade deadline is over, and they made some good moves, but it seems to be not enough. What's next? Maybe start in a different direction with a new manager. — Joe Boesch