Depending on which side of the equation one sits, a double play is either a pitcher’s best friend or a hitter’s nightmare. Jacksonville State and Eastern Kentucky got ample doses of both Wednesday in their Ohio Valley Conference tournament opener. They combined to turn eight double plays in the game, setting what is believed to be a neutral-site tournament record and tying Southeast Missouri’s team record with four each.

Evan Gattis no longer seems amazed by his improbable rookie season. Yet, there are still times when it's a bit of an adjustment for the Atlanta Braves catcher. Like when someone recognizes him in the grocery store. "It's a little weird," the 26-year-old Gattis said. "I'm not used to that yet." Gattis did it again Wednesday, hitting his first career grand slam. B.J. Upton and Ramiro Pena also homered for the Braves, who finished off a sweep of the woeful Minnesota Twins with an 8-3 rout.

Anniston High School football coach Eddie Bullock will serve as an assistant coach for the North team in the state all-star football game, the Alabama High School Athletic Directors and Coaches Association announced this morning.

The Southeastern Conference announced Wednesday that CBS has picked up Alabama's game at Texas A&M on Sept. 14. Kickoff will be 2:30 p.m.

By all accounts, this has been a good year for Jacksonville State center fielder Michael Bishop. A fun year. A productive year. It’s been a different kind of year, as well, particularly as it relates to the role the junior has assumed and embraced.