RC takes an off-day along with Royals...

Tonight RC got a preview of October, when we return to our civilian lives and try to find something to do with our evenings other than watch Royals games. And we didn't like it! TV sucks now -- the next season of 24 doesn't start until January -- so there's nothing to watch, and there are only so many times you can call someone an idiot on the KC Royals message board before that too gets old. Anyway, since the Royals didn't play tonight, we don't have much to report on. Just a couple notes from the minors, as usual.

Billy Butler continued to avenge that little slump he had last week by going 3-for-3 (at press time) with his 25th HR of the season, which the High Desert announcer described as a mammoth homer to left-center. His three RBIs tonight place him in a first place tie for the league lead with minor league HR leader Brandon Wood. Yes, we know RBIs is a grossly overrated statistic, and we know we probably refer to them too often, but it's still pretty cool that Butler can miss a couple weeks after taking a pitch on the hand and still lead the league in ribbies.

By the way, we've been meaning to throw some kind words toward whoever it is that announces the Mavs games. We have no idea what his name is, but the guy is really good, particularly for a solo act. If you're ever up late, give him a listen. His play-by-play is stellar, and he's always got something interesting to add about the players and the California League. We can't imagine how hard it must be to announce a game without a partner, but the Mavericks' guy pulls it off nicely.

Justin Huber got his first hit and RBI at Omaha tonight, going 1-for-4 with two strikeouts. He's now 1-for-13 with seven Ks since his promotion. Not exactly the AAA debut we were hoping for, but it's important to remember that it has only been three games. Huber will hit.

EDITORS NOTE: We just heard the Mavs announcer say his name when he was signing off, and we're pretty sure he said it was John Rosen. The spelling on that last name could be all screwed up, but we know it's John something...Anyone who knows for sure, feel free to chime in.