Leading Off

Inaugural Ball
President George W. Bush, the former owner of the Rangers, threw out the ceremonial first pitch on Monday at the Reds' traditional home opener. Bush's delivery was sharper than many thrown by the Cincinnati pitchers, who gave up 10 earned runs in a 16-7 loss to the Cubs.

A Wie Bit Short
At the Kraft Nabisco championship in Rancho Mirage, Calif., Michelle Wie teed off on the 2nd hole last Saturday in search of her first pro title. On Sunday the 16-year-old would claim the lead from Lorena Ochoa (far right) for one hole, but Karrie Webb (middle), with an eagle on 18, took a two-stroke edge into the clubhouse. On the first playoff hole Webb defeated Ochoa to win her seventh major, celebrating with the customary plunge into water alongside the 18th green (inset).

Taking the Fifth
Barbaro, with Edgar Prado aboard (in green and blue), charged to a half-length victory over Sharp Humor last Saturday in the Florida Derby at Gulfstream Park. In winning for the fifth time in five starts, the 3-year-old Barbaro announced himself as one of the favorites for the Kentucky Derby on May 6.

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