As a native Nebraskan and Husker Fan, I keep a close eye on the home-state heroes in the MLB, such as Alex Gordon (KCR) and Joba Chamberlain.  Joba rocketed to national fame by rising from A-ball to the savior of the Yankees bullpen last season, and I'm glad to see him do well even if it is for that hated New York team.

 Last night, his dad, who has been suffering from polio and a burst appendix, collapsed at his home in Lincoln and is currently listed in critical condition at the hospital.  As MLB.com reports,

Chamberlain learned of his father's condition after the Yankees' 8-5 loss to the Red Sox at Fenway Park. Chamberlain returned a telephone call from his sister after the game and broke down in tears in the clubhouse as manager Joe Girardi consoled him, according to the report.

Asked about the situation, Girardi told the Daily News, "Personal stuff stays in there," pointing to the clubhouse.

Chamberlain is not expected to be with the club as it opens a two-game series at Tampa Bay on Monday. He and his father are extremely close, speaking by telephone on a daily basis during the season.

Best wishes to you and your pops, Joba.