Already raining in Baltimore?

Sometimes, you can tell how a season will go before you even get started. You think that's how the Baltimore Orioles might feel after getting the news that Kris Benson will miss the entire 2007 season with a partially torn rotator cuff?

Pitchers and catchers haven't even reported to Fort Lauderdale, and things already look bleak for the O's. They were probably already looking at a fourth-place finish in the AL East. I don't suppose a team can just forfeit a season before it's even begun, eh?

Nah. Benson's not the only quality starting pitcher the Orioles have. Erik Bedard and Daniel Cabrera (if he can find the strike zone this year) should give them a chance when they play.

Having said that, this is a sobering reminder of just how fortunate the Detroit Tigers were with their pitching last year. (Yes, I see you, Mike Maroth. You can put your hand down. Keep that elbow safe.) I want to rub some rabbits' feet, look under the snow for four-leaf clovers, and make sure I avoid black cats and broken mirrors before the Tigers officially begin Spring Training.

Anyway, I feel kind of bad for Kris Benson today. I can't imagine what he'll do to make himself feel better while he's recuperating. Poor guy.