I'm not bugged by injuries

Kenny Lofton, Nomar Garciaparra, Jason Werth, Cesar Izturis, now Eric Gagne and in the back of one's mind Jeff Kent (hit by pitch) and Olmedo Saenz (strained back) are either on the injured list (first five) or questionable for this afternoon's game at the Phillies.

I say: I'm not bugged! Not a single chance. This team will pull it through based on sheer will-power, stamina and psychological strength. Mark my words. Loney will step up for Nomah, Izturis (when he's back) will provide Figginsonian backup at SS,2B and CF, while Werth and Repko "rep" it up in the outfield.

My reason for optimism? We have more than adequate replacement at each position threatened by injury. Due to Rafael Furcal signing Izturis has more time to heal and his injury is not that detrimental to the team, James Loney is already showing all kinds of promise in lucky hitting (inluding errors made by defense when he makes contact) and the offseason acquisition of Danys Baez looks to be a steal now that Gagne will be out for a long stretch of time, following his second elbow injury.

In short - don't let that injury bug get to you, folks. With every passing day it seems that this year's roster was put together with the thought of being competitive regardless of whom and when our share of injuries strikes. We'll survive.