Brown replaced Jose Akbar Shabaz two-thirds into the season last year and the team took a while to get used to his laid back attitude, after the rigourous,
military-type way Shabaz ran the team. "I told the guys that it is just a game, and that they should relax and have fun, and I think that once they got used to that attitude, we started to put some wins together," said Brown.

Key injuries to Todd Stottlemyre and Chan Ho Park further weakened an already thin starting rotation, but young hurler Aaron Sele stepped it up late in the season and was runner-up for pitcher of the month in the last month of the season and ace Dustin Hermanson won 19 games. 

Brown said that the Padres are still the team to beat in the West. "They are very strong, with an exceptional pitching staff led by Pedro Martinez, and a great shortstop in Garciaparra. 

They do not appear to have a weakness." Brown believes that the Wild Card is definitely attainable. "If we commit to keeping close to the Padres, we should definitely be in contention (for the Wild Card). We may need to upgrade at a couple of positions, but we plan on being in the thick of things when the dust settles." 

RUMOURS DU JOUR:

Sources close to the Angels, on the condition that they not be identified, report that the club is interested in moving a number of players. The
following players are reported to be available:

P Troy Percival - With the emergence of John Rocker as a quality closer, Percival could be had by any team
looking to upgrade their bullpen.

1B Frank Thomas - Not happy with his role as everyday DH, Thomas (player of the month for October) could be
available for a quality outfielder or Starting Pitcher.

3B Travis Fryman - Is also reportedly unhappy at being brought to Anaheim from the Yankees last season, and
he wants out.

P Rick Reed - With Todd Stottlemyre returning from a
torn Rotator Cuff, Rick Reed is available.