No professional baseball player loves fans of the Oakland Athletics more than Royals outfielder Jeff Francoeur.  Actually, let’s toss the mockery aside right off the bat because this story is pretty outstanding. It all began last September when Francoeur engaged with a bunch of Oakland diehards seated out in right field on a night when it happened to be “Bacon Tuesday.” The following evening he strolled to his spot in right and threw a ball in their direction with a hundred dollar bill wrapped around it along with a note that read, “Beer or Bacon Dog on me. Jeff Francoeur.” And it’s been authentic love ever since.

He did it again last night — 20 pizzas to Section 149 (here’s video). Jeff Francoeur is awesome.

Those same well-fed fans presented him with a green shirt that said “Second Annual Bacon Fest sponsored by Jeff Francoeur.” Here’s the keeper quote from Frenchy: “I told them I’ll come out early and hang out with them in the parking lot and eat bacon.”

A’s 5, Royals 4, 12 innings — Speaking of, the A’s won on a walkoff hit by pitch in the bottom of the 12th. Why is that so perfect?

Rays 4, Tigers 2 — Tampa put four runs up against Justin Verlander and they beat up Mariano Rivers on Opening Day with a walkoff win. They’re off to quite a start. It’s early, but I’m penciling in an appointment for the Rays and Tigers in the ALCS.

Nats 4, Mets 0 — The Mets scored zero runs in support of starting pitcher Johan Santana. It’s just like old times.

Phillies 7, Marlins 1 — So much for a showdown between fierce aces. Josh Johnson’s line? 3.2 IP, 11 H, 6 ER, 1 BB, 1 K. Abomination.

Rockies 17, Giants 9 — Tim Lincecum, clearly inspired by Josh Johnson, gave up six runs and eight hits over a putrid 2 1/3 innings.