What could be worse for A-Rod's career than his play versus the Angels? Winning the MVP.

Alex followed up a magnificent regular season (.321, 48 HR, 130 RBI) with a disappearing act during the ALDS (2-for-15, no RBI). He's earned goat status. The story is unlikely to go away, but it won't do more than linger this offseason.

Unless A-Rod wins the MVP.

I can't think of another time in sports history where a player's career wouldn't benefit by winning a prestigious award. But in this case, the story wouldn't be "A-Rod Wins MVP!" Instead, "A-Rod Still Goat, Remember?" The sports talk shows would skewer him. "He's not even the Most Valuable Player on his own team. In his own infield!"

There's the YesButNoButYes Sports Minute. It's a slow day.