Pre-trip ramblings...

I'm leaving for Cincinnati in 36 hours, and I've alreadycompiled a checklist of everything I'll need, including "wallet" and "underwear." It's amazing what I've forgotten on previous trips.

I've been successful (so far) in steadily shifting my bedtimes and wake-up times to prepare for Monday's 9:45am flight. Today, I forced myself up at 9:30am with five and a half hours of sleep even though I'm scheduled to work until 2am tonight. Fun.

I'm excited about catching my 2,600th ball outside of New York City. My other non-NYC milestones include:
#1,100 at Bank One Ballpark
#1,200 at Comiskey Park
#1,500 at the Metrodome
#1,700 at Kaufman Stadium
#1,900 at Pacific Bell Park
#2,000 at Olympic Stadium
#2,200 at Citizens Bank Park

Thanks to Melvin Mora's foul tip on Thursday, I've now snagged a foul ball DURING each of my last three games. Earlier this afternoon, I realized that I've done this only once before. Back in April of 1996, I had a four-game streak—three at Yankee Stadium and one at Shea—so I now have a clear mission at Great American Ballpark. As for the entire trip, I'd like to come home with at least 20 balls (including practice) and get at least 10 at each ballpark. There's something nice about double digits.

Roger Clemens is on the hill tonight...which means he'll be resting on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday...and pitching again at Minute Maid on Thursday...my last night on the road. I'm more nervous than excited. I don't have tickets for any of the four games I'll be seeing. I'm afraid this one might be sold out.