As the Brewers struggle to get back into the playoff chase there are several other stories in major league baseball that should be noted because they are so unlikely.

We thought the Washington Nationals were getting better but few thought they would have the best record in baseball a week into September. Even more surprising are the Baltimore Orioles, Oakland A's and Chicago White Sox.

The Orioles are in first place this late in a season for the first time since 1997 and they are doing it with a payroll that is a fraction of the Yankees and weathering numerous injuries to an already questionable pitching staff.

The A's are right in the thick of the wild card chase with a lineup that few outside of Northern California could name and the White Sox , with a rookie manager and a number of aging stars have taken over first place in the AL Central.

Spending money doesnt guarantee success. Just ask the Red Sox, Angels or Marlins. It's refreshing to see some new faces rise to the top and I'm looking forward to the pennant races and playoffs this year.

Of course your attention may have truned to football and who could blame you. The Badgers and Packers are both expected to be very good this season. Wisconsin plays at Oregon State tomorrow afternoon...that's a late afternoon kick...and the Packers host San Fran in a late start on Sunday afternoon. You can hear both games on WSAU.

A pair of tough matchups for the area teams on Foxsports1390 tonight. First up Wausau East takes on Appleton North and then DC Everest travels to Kimberly. Pre game starts at 6:45.

Keep On Tryin-Poco (1975) a cool Tim Schmidt song that was a hit for Poco back in the day...I found this version from Ringo Starr & his all-star band...check out the harmony singers

Keep Pushin-REO Speedwagon (1976) Kevin Cronin returned to the band after a four year abscence and since he's still with them today I guess it was a good decision.