ATLANTA – Chance are U.S. Presidents Cup captain Fred Couples will be intently watching this week’s action at the Tour Championship as Tuesday’s deadline for his final wild-card pick approaches.
Captain America may also want to take note of Wednesday’s practice round at East Lake. Phil Mickelson teamed with Keegan Bradley for his normal Wednesday match against Dustin Johnson and Chez Reavie.
Bradley is said to be the leader in the clubhouse for Couples’ final pick and he may have helped his cause at East Lake. Although the day ended with the teams all square, Lefty and the rookie won the first match, 1 up, according to Reavie, thanks in large part to Bradley’s eight-birdie effort, while Johnson secured the half with a birdie at the 17th hole in the second match.
Mickelson has become an unofficial mentor for Cup rookies in recent matches and he and Bradley have become regular practice-round partners, which should only help the PGA champion’s chances on Tuesday.