MLB

Japan, U.S. fight over Fukudome for WBC The Japanese swear they have never heard of Kosuke Fukudome. The U.S. won't let him play because he's not an American. The struggling Cubs' outfielder has taken the role of the last kid picked at recess as teams finalize their World Baseball Classic rosters. Neither side is willing to give in and take him on. Both nations agree it would be best if he's traded to Italy, who have said they won't accept him despite a lack of one recognizable pro on their roster.

With Spring Training underway, Cubs management decided to hold a reality contest to replace fifth starter Jason Marquis in the rotation after he was dealt to the Rockies last month. Cubs GM Jim Hendry stated his rationale for the unorthodox move at a press conference unveiliing "Who Wants to Be the 5th Starter?"

Former Cubs fan favorite Kerry Wood started his spring in a familiar way: with an injury. Now on the Indians, the closer sat out practices this week with a sore back before easing into workouts this morning. Despite a frustrating, injury-riddled career, Wood says he's not too concerned about the achy back.

Texas Rangers general manager Jon Daniels was shopping Friday at Big Lots in Southlake and picked up Kris Benson off the shelf in the pitcher's aisle of the store.

Run and hide, or start drinking heavily, because the Texas Rangers released their 2009 television schedule on Friday.

Slick-fielding and slick-haired Joe Crede will be picking at third base for the Minnesota Twins next season, according to a Major League source.

A study released yesterday revealed President Obama has made history by being the first White Sox fan to wear a suit and tie to work.