River Ave. Blues' Ben Kabak links to a mailbag article by Bryan Hoch from March 19, where he talks about Bob Sheppard's status for opening day.

Sheppard appeared recently on WFAN and said that he is feeling strong enough to return to work on April 3, having been brought "back up to good fighting weight." Sheppard checked into the hospital at 103 pounds, but told host Ed Randall that he now weighs 145 pounds.

"The doctor said to me, 'When you get to 145 pounds, and you have adequate stamina, I'll allow you to go back to work,'" Sheppard said. "I'll be ready if God is willing, because I'm willing. He knows I'm willing."

Let's hope. We wish Mr. Sheppard well.