The A's aren't solid everywhere, but there are several positive team factors that weren't mentioned: 1. The fine play of Terrence Long in center field. He takes some of the sting out of a less-than-average outfield defense. 2. The infield play of Eric Chavez, Miguel Tejada, and Randy Velarde. Watch Chavez especially in the second half. Velarde is consistent both offensively and defensively and tends to be overlooked. Tejada is developing and while he may not end up in the Jeter/Garciaparra/A-Rod tier, he's got the potential to be right at the top of the second tier.
Annie Russell
Berkeley, Calif.

One player who is extremely important to the A's that you guys didn't mention is Miguel Tejada.

	“	The pitching has to be first-half MVP for this squad. That's the biggest difference between the A's in the first half of 1999 and the A's in the first half of 2000. ”
		— Adrian Hemond, Lansing, Mich.

The production he's giving offensively is beyond what the team expects from him and I have seen him save the A's runs in the field many times this year.
Ryan Matsunaga
Pinole, Calif.

This team is going to be one of the best teams in baseball in the next few years. I agree with the 3 baseball rating because they aren't quite there yet. I think once Tim Hudson matures a little more, then they will be a 4-baseball team.
Jared Halter
York, Pa.

I take issue with the statement that Jason Giambi is carrying the team. Granted, his numbers are impressive, but he also hits in one of the plum spots in the lineup. There are plenty of young, talented bats on this team. The pitching has to be first-half MVP for this squad. That's the biggest difference between the A's in the first half of 1999 and the A's in the first half of 2000. Not only is Hudson blooming, but we managed to ship out 50-time retread Kenny "The Gambler" Rogers, removing a lockerroom cancer as well as a dead arm in one fell swoop.
Adrian Hemond
Lansing, Mich.

Don't discount the contribution that a healthy Randy Velarde makes to the A's. He is a consistent, reliable, workhorse who brings non-streaking stability. He hits, plays defense and provides mature leadership for this team. His work ethic is unmatched in major league baseball.
Dee Dern
Fort Collins, Colo.

I'd have to give the A's 4 baseballs for their first half performance -- but not for their batting! It's their defense, deceptively good pitching, and ability to take walks which gives them status as of one of baseball's elite teams.
Tony DeCaria
Riverview, Mich.

Omar Olivares is also a big disappointment this year. He goes from winning 15 games one year, to only having three in the first half.
Robert Kalman
Auburn, Calif.