The Zapper is a new edition for 2006, so no, there was no premature zapping last year.
I contend that once a team gets on the zapped list, they have NO chance to make the playoffs, even if they play well for awhile. I am a bit nervous the Padres may prove me wrong this year, but I'm sticking to my theory.
BTW, I will be STUNNED if the Reds don't get zapped in June
