Here’s what went down Thursday on G&A

Short show today after day baseball at Coors Field

A View from the Couch - NBC opted not to send several announcers and analysts to Beijing to cover events like archery, badminton, tennis, baseball, soccer, and softball.  G&A wonder why NBC, which is already spending millions of dollars in coverage expenses, not foot the bill for the remaining commentators - especially popular ones like former U.S. Soccer star Brandi Chastain.  Ash wonders why they’re not there for “big” sports like baseball and softball.  Gambo thinks they could miss out on a possible controversial play by not being on-site to broadcast.

Age Rule - The Chinese women’s gymnastics team is under a microscope because many feel they are falling far short of the minimum age of 16.  Ash doesn’t have a problem with these “kids” experiencing so much success at a young age but feels the official rules must be followed - even with the Games being held in Beijing.  Gambo feels the Chinese “system” of intense training - often away from her parents for up to a year, benefits them more than the “traditional system” like we run here in America where many gymnasts lead fairly “normal” lives.

Redeem Team - Team USA whacked Greece today to stay perfect in Beijing.  Gambo thinks the biggest reason is an upgraded backcourt (Kobe Bryant and Jason Kidd) from a former roster which featured Kirk Heinrich at the point and Joe Johnson at the two.  He thinks Spain, with several NBA players on the roster, will easily serve as the toughest test yet.

Big Inning - The Diamondbacks pick up another win in Colorado this afternoon to keep pace with the Dodgers in the NL West.  Gambo thinks, with the acquisition of Adam Dunn, the Snakes are content to play for the big inning and let their two aces (Webb & Haren) do the rest.  Ash has been impressed with the way Haren has really come on in the past couple months.