How would you rank yourself as a Sox fan? "Die-hard. Want to see my basement?" he says, reaching for his cell phone. "I just camcorded it. It's all White Sox."

As the video rolls on the tiny phone screen: "I've got lights, signs. The rug. Oh yeah, you've got the right guy. I've even got the dream seat (a Sox recliner). Nothing but the best. Balls, bats, gloves … I spent at least 12 grand."

Also amazing: "My wife (Virginia) is a Cubs fan. Our bedroom is one-half Cubs, one-half Sox. The minute I leave she turns my Sox stuff over. She goes to Wrigley, but I won't go with her."