I've been a bit too busy to write lately and even today don't have much time. However I couldn't resist when I heard the news about today's game.

Boo-birds get ready...The Rangers' Kenny Rogers has been reinstated by the league and will start tonight at Fenway Park vs. my beloved Red Sox.

He, as most are aware, was suspended for his aggressive altercation with two cameramen. The incident happened long before the All Star Game and he has since apologized. The original penalty was 20 games but only had to serve 13. He wasn't due back until August 18.

If Rogers was truly sorry, he should have served his full suspension. The appellant process went on so long, he was able to get two or three starts and play in the All Star Game before any time was served.

MSN's Mike Celizic says commissioner Bud Selig blows it again and I have to agree.

Apparently Mr. Selig was judge, jury and executioner in the Rogers case. The arbitrator didn't like that fact and reduced Rogers' sentence. Whether guilty or not, Rogers didn't get a fair trial.

Bud Selig should have removed himself during some portion of this process. If he handed down the penalty, then don't sit on the board of appeals.

But Bud Selig is the father of conflict of interest. He handled the Palmeiro case poorly again having the suspension held for more than two months. He also handled the Montreal Expo situation poorly. The Washington Nationals (former Expos) are still without ownership. During this interim period the MLB has been controlling the team; making trades while ruling on others. These trades, etc. have a direct impact on divisional races. For instance: What if Vladimir Guerrero didn't get traded to the Angels? Would they have made it to the playoffs? What would the AL West look like. Isn't it also interesting that they would end up with Jose Guillen? Guillen was sent away by the Angels after some bad blood with management.

Selig is a "former" owner, who sits in baseball's highest chair. His views are not those of a fair-minded individual - no matter his intentions. He has only an owner's perspective.

However, I do not believe 20 games is that harsh for a pitcher who only pitches at best every four games. CBS Sportline's Scott Miller says the reinstatement sets a dangerous precedent. The Star Telegram's Randy Gallloway says Rogers gets a free ride all around.

Rogers has at least admitted his mistakes, has taken responsibilty for them. Which is more than I can say for the commissioner of baseball.

Anyway, I've never been much of a Rogers fan. Until this year, his numbers have never been that impressive (career 4.20 ERA and 1.40 WHIP). I agreed with Texas when they decided not to offer him an extension to his contract.

But he has always won games - 187 in all. Although, as to slap the organization in the face and make his free agency more appealing, Rogers has pitched extremely well (11-4, 2.77 ERA and 1.24 WHIP).

While I'm sure Rogers has been throwing on the side for quite some time and 13 games for a pitcher is really at most three starts - more likely two, Rogers should be a bit rusty. Tonight's game could be interesting, indeed.

I still like the matchup. Rogers hasn't pitched against the Sox this year. but in the past he has not fared to well. 1-1 with a 6.92 ERA in five starts. The Sox also have batted .347 against him in those games.

Watch out for Johnny Damon - currently on a 13 game hit streak - and Manny Ramirez. These two guys have hit well against Rogers in the past, .326 and .321 respectively.

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