We Are Hot Chicks Wednesday: Extra Innings

One thousand, four hundred fifty-eight. That, my friends, is the minimum number of innings a Major League Baseball player signs up for per regular season. No All-Star game, no post-season, no overtime games. Just the regular year's work. Like most first halves of baseball seasons, there've been quite a few games that've gone into extra innings so far this year. Last night's All-Star game was no exception. I did not make it beyond the sixth, as that sweet, sweet darkness took hold of my being. Had I, along with those in attendance, playing, and viewing, made it the distance, I can only imagine it felt something like the last seven years of White House blissery: too damn long. Now I'm sure it had its enjoyable moments. Quite certain, even. But it's a grind out there to make it through nine, let alone extra. We, your proud House of Georges team, offer you, the blessed readership, tips and advice on keeping your head in the game, just after the jump.

Jessica Canizares



Poise. Aptly displayed here by Miss Canzinares is what it takes to mow through games of ten or more innings. A stern stance, confidence, and killer instinct.

Nadia Nicole



Flexibility is certainly a plus, especially down the stretch when the injury bug threatens to bite more frequently.

Emily Scott



Emily is a model for veteran leadership. She's been around for some time,



and knows not to take it personally when substitutions are made, always remembering that hitting the showers early does not constitute failure.

April Stadelman



Overtime in baseball requires an intense focus, especially when a player's stripped down to the bare bones of competition.



Such concentration generates rest and readiness for the next day's game; a clear conscience will hit the pillow nightly.

Carmela DeCesare



In a game of lengthy competition, a little flair goes a long way.



The more flair you display, however, the more your individual tendencies are exposed.



This can be a good thing, though. Exposure can be masked with disguise.

Dannii Harwood



Longer games can be even more brutal in the daytime. The sun will take its toll on the exposed parts of the body, and instigate fatigue with ferocity.



When an extra-innings victory is achieved, though, reaping the reward is twice as pleasing at home.

Irina Sheik



As I mentioned, the hungry look can translate to victory.



Veterans like Irina know that taking it easy on the off days will build a better supply of stamina.



Rest and healthy eating will thwart threats of fatigue and leave a player more flexible, more physically apt.

Shyla Ryan



Those that keep late nights and party hard will find themselves famished at the end of the day, too tired to even stand.



A look back on the previous evening's decisions yields hindsight for the next go 'round.

Rebecca Tysnes



Those who've been deep into the 15th, or played in both ends of a double-header recognize the importance of having a hard body,



and a tranquil mind.

Jeri Lee



Following these practices of health will lead to a stronger heart,



and ample dexterity?

Ramona Chorleau



For pitchers, battling through even nine innings can be trying, especially if your delivery isn't hitting the mitt's webbing like planned.



The best advice is to follow the guns of your catcher, paying close attention to his hands.

Patricia Ford



After an extra-innings games, there will be more numbers for your skipper to crunch.



Not to fret, though. He may have advice on how to better your game next time, especially if you have to come from behind.

Jennifer Korbin



Jennifer knows the importance of keeping cool.



Longer contests will require a player to stay calm and sleek in the heat of a battle.



Taking advantage of competitors' errors and scoring opportunities up the chances for a kickback on the board,



and are likely to help an athlete see through his opponent.



While the opposing guys aren't likely wearing skirts,



chances are they're a bit rougher, even if they lose their cool in a late one.



So remember, keep your pants on and buckle down for the better part of a second game. I promise, you'll enjoy the ending.

Thanks to our friends at the Daily Niner, who always cover innings one through nine, and the donners of Gorilla Masks, who always bring up the rear.