I don't even need to go into the statistics for you guys.  We all understand how historically bad Tony Pena Jr. is.  Even most sane sports journalists understand that concept that you can't have a hitter in your lineup that bats worse than pitchers.  Even if he plays good (although not VERY good) defense.  Just when we all had pretty much forgotten (some of us may never forget) about TPJ, thank God, he reappeared in Trey Hillman's lineup Sunday afternoon.  The reason we forgot about him, Mike Aviles, was moved to 2nd for the game.  Nothing wrong with the move here, except for the fact that Tony Pena was playing again.  In the game, Pena was taken out of the game in favor of pinch-hitter Alberto Callaspo during the Royals 5-run comeback inning (seemingly the first time Trey has realized the proper time for pinch-hitting for TPJ and having it work).  But, here we are.  The day after.  What do we have?  The media again heaping praise towards Tony Pena.  The Royals.com preview for tonight's game has the headline, "Pena provides Royals with fresh infield option" with a caption that states, "Proving capable his last outing, Tony Pena hopes to get another chance tonight when the Royals face the Rockies in interleague play."  In today's Royals rundown in the KC Star headlined, "Mahay gives Royals bridge to closer," the third heading section is about Pena's return to the lineup and his new comfort with his swing.  TPJ is quoted as saying, "I'm just trying to feel comfortable, see the ball and not force anything.  I feel better than what I've been feeling."  Well, isn't that great?  To make it more unsettling, Hillman says, "Hopefully we can get him more comfortable with his swing.  Mentally, he's been strong.  He has a good attitude."  I hope Hillman is talking about these things in an attempt to distract us from Pena's terrible play and recent lack of playing time.  He still should not see the field.  Aviles is the reason why, even if he is not the future at SS.  But the bigger issue I see is this: Why is TPJ in the news the day after the stunning 11-10 win?  He played 5 innings.  He hasn't played in weeks.  Why are we hoping for him to return?  Is there optimism about TPJ?  While we can all agree we love TPJ's enthusiasm and love of the game, we can also agree that he is a bad baseball player.  Let's stop plugging him as a useful part of this team royals.com and KC Star.