a few observations

Desmond Jennings, the Tampa Bay flash from Itawamba Community College, scored three runs in the Rays’ 15-8 rout of the New York Yankees on Thursday night. In 57 games, primarily as the leadoff batter, Jennings has scored 43 runs and driven in 25. There is no overstating the influence he has had on Tampa Bay’s resurgence into the American League postseason chase. … Roy Oswalt took another loss Thursday in what was essentially a meaningless game for Philadelphia. The former Holmes CC star from Weir is 8-10 with a 3.86 ERA but apparently will be the Phillies’ No. 4 starter in the postseason over rookie Vance Worley, whose numbers (11-3, 3.00) are significantly better. That’s something to keep an eye on. Oswalt reportedly has decided he’ll pitch again in 2012, his back troubles notwithstanding; the Phillies can pick up his option for $12 million. That’s also something to keep an eye on. … Mississippi State product Mitch Moreland, whose average has slipped to .262, hasn’t been playing much for Texas of late. Nelson Cruz, back from injury, has been DH’ing instead of playing the outfield, which has shifted Michael Young from DH to first base in Moreland’s place. Moreland will get his hacks again soon enough for the playoff-bound Rangers. … Paul Maholm, who is done for the season with a shoulder injury, went 6-14 with a 3.66 ERA for Pittsburgh. The Pirates can bring the former MSU ace back for $9.75 million in 2012. But will they? … And props to Lance Berkman, who got a new $12 million deal for 2012 with St. Louis. The former Jackson Generals star is batting .300 with 31 home runs and 91 RBIs. And to think, many called the Cardinals crazy when they signed him last off-season.