As much as he loves the Denny’s Grand Slam, an occasional bong hit and the watery kicking of Milorad Cavic’s ass, Michael Phelps may enjoy one thing even more. He has expressed the desire in the past to one day play poker professionally, and has been seen haunting casinos on more than one occasion. That’s why it just may be possible that he’ll be appearing at the Asian Poker Tour event in Macau next week.

If Phelps accepts the invitation, you know who’s going to be next to show up. Sitting across from Phelps at the $10,000 no-limit hold-’em table will be his old nemesis, The Pope.

“You dodged me in Rome,” growled the Pontiff, slowly removing his sunglasses to reveal a pair of cold, bloodshot eyes. “But now you’re mine.” (Dramatic pause). “Beat these!” (Throws down a queen-high straight).

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Nats manager Manny Acta couldn’t get into his office Thursday morning. Did he lock himself out? Did he accidentally show up at RFK instead?

No, his work space was taken over by a touring visitor - Pope Benedict.

(”Hey, Manny - Toss it over here!“)

The WASHINGTON POST reports that Acta’s office was used by the holy father to dress and prepare for mass held at Nationals Park that day.

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With Pope Benedict coming to America this week, good catholic Tommy Lasorda plans on meeting the pontiff. And this will be the third pope he claims he’s had the honor of visiting with in person.

However, Tom Hoffarth of FARTHER OFF THE WALL questions Tommy’s truthfulness of one of his papal encounters.

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SbB’s Adventures in Air Travel: Kickin’ it in Kansas City, chillin’ in Charlotte.

• Ana Ivanovic gets the stamp of approval from the Serbian postal service.

• USC’s Song Girls make $1 million in just one day by basking in bikinis.

• Matt Leinart’s car spotted in L.A. - or could it be Nick Lachey’s wheels?

• Pope Benedict can come in to Yankee Stadium, but he’s have to leave the Popemobile with the valet.

• Carmelo Anthony gets into a nugget of trouble with a DUI charge.

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