Well, it was quickly announced amidst the post-game patter that Tony Batista had been designated for assignment.

There's a slim chance, I suppose, that someone might claim him and absorb his salary, which will be around $600,000, rather than wait for him to become a free agent. Advantages: Tony has to accept the assignment if claimed, he can quit playing or market himself if a free agent. Hey, maybe he'll accept an assignment to Rochester! I hear it's sunny there at this time of the year!

Jason Bartlett is up.

But who's on third? Tiffee? Rodriguez? Do we still need Castro? Is Punto a candidate for third base, or should he be?

Next week: Bye-bye Rondell!