FBR . . . 'Welcomes Bubba Watson'

[RX Phoenix]

It's likely that some bomber is going to come out on top, but which one?

Bubba Watson: 1st in driving, 23rd all around, 24th money list.

Last 2 rounds at South Course Torrey Pines . . . -8 . . . ties for 4th.

Didn't play in the FBR last year so this will be his first time there.

Now what does the TPC in Scottsdale and Torrey Pines have in common . . . long hitters paradise.

It's going to be very interesting to see what Bubba does there, J.B. Holmes won last year by hitting the balata out of the ball . . . on 18, lake is 300yd carry, caddie says, 'Lake is not in play, don't worry."

Will this be Bubba Watson's time to win? He put on a great charge on Sunday at Torrey Pines. Could be his breakthrough tournament this week.

And what about Duval? Shot 76/67 last year to miss the cut, but is playing much more consistenly now. A top 40 finish?

A lot of rain in Scottsdale today but should be decent by Thursday with frost expected Fri. and Sat.

[RX Phoenix]

OK, first round in the books.

Bubba's at -5 and looking strong.

This is the 5th event of the year and by now some trends are emerging.

Who is hot on tour:
Charles Howell III is on fire
John Rollins still hot
Jeff Quinney is the real deal, a great putter
George McNeill showing that he belongs on tour
Bubba Watson looks like he will have a solid second year
David Toms continues to be a force
Charlie Wi keeps playing well
Will McKenzie continues to play well
Robert Garrigus is playing steady golf
Bart Bryant is making some cash

Who is not doing well this year:
Phil Mickelson has not got untracked
Vijay after a brilliant start has done nothing since
J.B.Holmes is struggling
Jason Gore is sinking
Chad Campbell hadn't found his touch


Daly continues to be borderline
Duval likewise

It's hard to see who is going to emerge this year (exempting Tiger) as a force, Howell seems the man at this time, with Quinney a close second as rookie of the year candidate.