Jeff Francis threw 80 mph in his freshman year. Could not get a US school to offer him a scholarship. Ended up at the U of Britsih Columbia in Vancouver BC. According to his coach he worked hard and was hitting 90 at the end of his college years. All of you guys who try to qualify and quantify your chances of making it based on what you are doing now are wasting mental enegy. Work hard, work smart and your dream may become a reality.

DENVER (AP) - Canadian pitcher Jeff Francis was happy the Colorado Rockies gave him a long-term deal that covers his salary arbitration years.

"I think at this point in my career, it's a huge thing and an exciting thing for them to come to me when they don't have to," the North Delta, B.C., native said Thursday after he and the Rockies finalized a US$13.25 million, four-year contract. The deal also includes a $7 million team option for 2011

Bobble,

Another great post from you! Hey, when is Vancouver going to get a team?