Pitchers and Catchers - Forty-two Days

1928 Cardinal Outfield: Martin, Hafey, Roettger, Douthit, Williamson, Harper, Holm, Orsatti, and Blades (L to R).

Perhaps the most melodious phrase in the English language or any other is "pitchers and catchers report to spring training today." For 2009 the date is February 14, so mark your calendars (you may have to scratch out that heart-shaped thingy).

Special Southern Illinois baseball fan bonus: Check out this great site with an old newspaper clipping about Ray Blades: Old Newspaper Clippings. His stats: Ray Blades Baseball Stats by Baseball Almanac. (How does a guy who hit .301, slugged .466. and had an .855 OPS only get 2400 at bats in 10 years? Knee injuries.)

Clyde Ware, coach; Gabby Street, manager; Frank Frisch, captain, and Ray Blades, coach, preparing for the 1930 World Series.