world series champions

It was fun while it lasted, but thanks to a rash of injuries and an absolutely atrocious offense, the Giants' reign as World Series champions is coming to a painful end, writes Ann Killion.

Outfielder Aaron Rowand and infielder Miguel Tejada were designated for assignment Wednesday by the San Francisco Giants , a major shake-up for the stumbling defending World Series champions.

At this rate, the defending World Series champions are going to need an incredible September to avoid missing the postseason altogether.

The St. Louis Cardinals stood politely and patiently through a prolonged pregame celebration for the World Series champions, clapping for the San Francisco Giants on several occasions.

Another game, another loss and more miscues for the winless San Francisco Giants. The defending World Series champions lost 4-3 to the rival Los Angeles Dodgers on Friday night, committing two errors to go with the three they had in a 2-1 loss in the teams' season opener a night earlier.

"That's not what you thought would happen opening up here.

The Giants open the season on unfamiliar ground -- as the defending World Series champions. Ace Tim Lincecum looks to get his team off to a fast start against the arch-rival Dodgers tonight.

Finally the Florida Marlins started playing like a team that was getting a new stadium, without doubt someone in the front office said hey we are getting public monies to build a new home it is time to start playing like it.

While the 2009 Marlins were not the best baseball team, they took a big step towards looking like the two time World Series champions that they are.

However, when it counted, and a wild card spot was on the line, this team could not beat the bums. This team lost six of their final nine to the Washington Nationals.

One day after a talented left-hander carried the Philadelphia Phillies to another postseason victory, the reigning World Series champions will hope for a repeat performance in Thursday's Game 2.

They already know Cole Hamels is capable of October excellence. Hamels hopes to put his inconsistent regular season behind him and begin another dominating playoff run as the Phillies try to push the...