by Andy Furman

David Ortiz was the most valuable player for the Boston Red Sox in the 2004 American League Championship series. Many Ramirez was the M.V.P. of the World Series. Last week both names were connected to having tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs in 2003. Now the question must be asked – who’s next? Derek Jeter? Albert Pujols? Alex Rodriguez was among players tested positive in a February SI.com report. He subsequently admitted to using a performance-enhancing drug from 2001 to 2003. And there were the admitted users, like Jose Canseco and Ken Caminiti. Most recently, Bronson Arroyo, the Reds’ pitcher who went public last week in the Boston Herald. At this point in time, either fans could care less about players doping – or they’re numb to it. What’s really created from this mess – not who did it – but who’s next? · 

 Wrigley Field has turned into the newest hot-spot for concerts in Chicago . It’s also served as host for the NHL’s winter classic – and now Illinois football coach Ron Zook wants to get into the act. Zook recently said he’d like the chance for Illinois and Northwestern – two Big Ten rivals – to square off in the “Friendly Confines.” According to recent reports, Northwestern has been trying to schedule a game at Wrigley Field. The Illinois-Northwestern proposed matchup would take place in 2010. The Chicago Bears played at Wrigley Field from 1921 to 1970 before moving to Soldier Field. 

 This takes us to Paul Brown Stadium, the site for the University of Kentucky-Miami of Ohio football game next month. Not a bad idea and some 60,000 will pack the house – probably 50,000 from Kentucky . But why not get some national attention in our town. How about a basketball game – or perhaps even Midnight Madness – in early October at either Paul Brown or Great American Ball Park . Now that’ll get some nationwide attention.

Now that Dan Patrick has a national forum with his daily radio show, he lets anyone and everyone know how much he misses the “Mother Ship” – ESPN. Enough already, Dan, enough. The few times I’ve listened to Darryl (Doc) Rodgers after weekend Reds’ games on WLW Radio, he never fails to remind me he worked in major league baseball. How that helps him become an entertaining and informative radio personality is beyond me. In fact, the most entertaining sports voice in this town doesn’t even have a full-time gig. His name is Marc Amazon.