Even if Mickelson played the weekend, he wouldn't have much to look forward to

CHASKA, Minn. -- Phil Mickelson's plan was to hang around at Hazeltine to see if he had even a glimmer of hope of playing the weekend. But after a second consecutive 74 here, Mickelson didn't sound like a couple more rounds would do him much good.

"I'm not going to beat many people putting the way I am," Mickelson said. "I've got to get this thing turned around."

Whatever momentum Mickelson put together on Friday came late in his round, when he eagled the par-5 seventh to get back to four over. But that was low as he could go. There are currently 84 players at 3-over or better, which makes his chances of making the cut remote.

Should he head home, Mickelson's plan was to next play at The Barclays, the first of four FedEx Cup playoff events which is being played this year at Liberty National Golf Club in Jersey City, N.J. One might think that's a reflection of Mickelson's undying devotion to the season-ending playoff series. It might also have something to do with the Barclays logo he currently wears on his shirt.Â

Either way, it also says something about the improving health of Mickelson's mother and wife, both of whom are being treated for breast cancer.

"Right now things are OK," he said of his plan to play the Barclays. "We'll see where I go from there."

-- Sam Weinman