A series that for so long has been billed as an early September showdown between division rivals has suddenly turned into San Francisco's last stand.
The start time of the Little League World Series championship game Sunday between Japan and California has been pushed back to 3 p.m. EDT because of Tropical Storm Irene.
Alex Rodriguez finally returned to the New York Yankees lineup on Sunday, more than a month and a half after he hit the disabled list with a knee injury that sapped the power from his swing.

Montana had never had a team in the Little League World Series. So, a couple of weeks ago, 12-year-old Andy Maehl asked his Billings coach if their team was ready to make history.
Montana had never had a team in the Little League World Series. So, a couple weeks ago, 12-year-old Andy Maehl asked his Billings coach if their team was ready to make history.
Hunter Pence is adding his big bat to a pennant race.
Hunter Pence is adding his big bat to a pennant race.

Rather inexcusably, local obituaries on Dick Williams didn't dwell on his greatest achievement and the greatest major league pennant race of modern times.
Jack McKeon was home in North Carolina watching his granddaughter's softball game when the phone rang with a job offer.