BASEBALL: Texas at Minnesota

I was all set to break down this matchup of playoff contenders when I heard on SportsCenter that Francisco Liriano had been scratched from his scheduled start today. But since the health of Liriano's arm now determines the fate of his team, the wildcard race, and a lot of post-season hardware, I'm making this game the one to watch anyway.

Last place Texas still has a good shot at winning the wide-open AL West. Their lineup has been bolseted by the trade for Carlos Lee. Although their pitching is never impressive playing in a bandbox in Arlington, today's starter Vincente Padilla has been their most consistent hurler with a 10-7 record and a 4.36 ERA on the season.

Frankie Liriano will miss the start due to a "stiff arm." Those words are often used as a precursor to a stint on the DL, if not a dreaded visit to Dr. James Andrews. I sincerely hope that is not Liriano's fate. He's been amazing so far and comprises half of baseball's best 1-2 punch along with Johan Santana. Liriano even began the year in the Twins bullpen and has still amassed a 12-2 record with a sick 1.96 ERA. If he stays healthy, Liriano could become the first pitcher to win a Cy Young Award but, at the same time, fail to win the Rookie of the Year, since Boston closer Jon Papelbon has also impressed - and Liriano (unlike Papelbon) had a cup of coffee with the big club last September.

My pick: Minnesota. I haven't seen who the Twins will start in Liriano's place, but their young guns like Justin Morneau, Michael Cuddyer, and Joe Mauer should more than carry the load after a loss last night.

Here's basketball star and 2006 WNBA All-Star Game MVP Katie Douglas shooting and later accepting her award as TOTW's Athlete of the Day.