I hate to trade in horrible stereotypes (most of the time, anyway), but after getting a hint of the harsh treatment meted out to Audrey Raines at the hands of the Chinese government, surely I am not the only person thrilled by the possibilities offered by this story?  While Yankee and Red Sox fans alike will undoubtedly balk at losing a home game or 3, the thought of Mike Francesca, Chris Russo, John Dennis and/or Gerry Callahan serving a long stretch in a Chinese prison is awfully tempting.

Speaking of Ms. Raines, her and Tim’s son, Tim Jr. is currently playing center field for the Round Rock Express following Hunter Pence’s promotion to Houston.  The new Astros CF (above) hit his first big league HR earlier today, a grand slam off St. Louis’ Dennis Dove, as part of Houston’s 13-0 win.  Another Express alumnus, Matt Albers picked up his first win of 2007, scattering 3 singles and walking one in 7.1 IP.