But in Dan McDonnell's first year as head coach the Cards are making history. I'll be honest, earlier in the season I gave the Cards no chance of making it this far. I mean they struggled to draw even 500 fans at Jim Patterson Stadium for a home game during the regular season. But in the Super Regionals I saw Planet Red embrace the team.

One of the players I spoke with said the fanfare reminded him of the 2002 valley Sports Little League team which won the World Series. I wasn't here for that but the amount of love being heaped upon these players are tremendous. And from all accounts it couldn't happen to a better group of guys.

They've been pleasant to cover, always willing to give an interview. I'm sure part of that has to do with this team, just a few years ago (2004), finished with a losing record (26-30). But it's also because they are good guys. I haven't noticed any egos, or any cockiness on this team. It seems like they are just happy to be playing baseball. Now they are one of eight teams that will be in Omaha for the World Series.

The road will be tougher, starting with a Friday matchup against powerhouse Rice, but from the vibe I get hanging around these guys, it's nothing they can't handle.