Aug. 13
Everybody knows I'm a sports junkie, baby! I'm not just a hoop guy, though of course I have a passion for it and make my living announcing college basketball. I love all sports, and my adrenaline rushes whenever there's a big event or competition.

I was recently talking baseball with radio hosts Mike Greenberg and Mike Golic on ESPN Radio. The subject turned to baseball's MVP awards, and I heard the cry, "You can't be the MVP when your team is in last place."

	A-Rod

I said, "No way, baby!" I'm biased, because I love Texas Rangers shortstop Alex Rodriguez and everything he stands for, from his work ethic to his approach to the game. He's a beautiful person, a leader and an inspiration to so many. Yes, he makes $25 million per year, but he comes to play, never taking a day or an inning off. A-Rod is always encouraging others -- just talk to his teammates and find out what they think about him.

He is special as a human being and special with the lumber and the leather in his hands. Rodriguez is an outstanding fielder and as graceful as can be. His agility and arm strength are unbelievable.

Remember, he's about to become the first shortstop to post five straight seasons with 40 or more home runs. Why shouldn't he be a candidate for MVP? Why should he be penalized for being on a team that hasn't pitched well? Rodriguez has done everything humanly possible as a player. He can't carry a club on his back like a basketball player can, like Magic Johnson and Larry Bird.

Look at his numbers: He's among the leaders in home runs, slugging percentage, runs scored and RBI. Take those numbers to New York and see what would happen. I know the New York Yankees have a great shortstop, a future Hall of Famer in Derek Jeter. But how would A-Rod be viewed if he played in the Big Apple?

The MVP voters should consider the way he performs and how he comes to play every day. This 27-year-old is a PTPer. Alex Rodriguez is my choice for MVP, baby! He will go down as more than the best shortstop in this era, but as the best in baseball history.