Weeklings

Quote of the week

Righthander Scott Linebrink, on being sent to the Brewers on Wednesday after being the center of trade speculation for 2 years: "I hadn't been hearing any rumors. It's always the one you don't hear that gets you."

Nickname of the week

Pirates righthander Ian Snell is called "Baby Sheff" by teammate Shawn Chacon, a reference to outspoken Tigers outfielder Gary Sheffield and Snell's recent string of controversial remarks. "He just says whatever comes to his mind and he wears his emotions on his sleeve," Chacon explained.

Amazing Julio Franco fact of the week

When the soon-to-be-49-year-old signed with the Braves last week after being released by the Mets, five players on Atlanta's active roster hadn't even been born when he made his major league debut in 1982.

Bad idea of the week

With the Mariners in a free fall, somebody got the brilliant idea that everyone around the team should get a haircut as a gesture of solidarity. When it was over, most had opted for crew cuts, but designated hitter Jose Vidro's head was completely shaved and Ben Broussard had a mohawk.

So, when will the team picture be taken?

- Paul Hagen