Playoff Reflections: Philly Goes to the World Series...

It looks like FOX will not be getting its dream World Series match-up of the Dodgers and Red Sox, since the Phillies took the National League pennant last night.

Now, the Rays just have to won tonight.

Cole Hamels dominated as Philadelphia found itself playing for a championship as they downed the Dodgers last night, 5-1. They used offense -- and a whole lot of Dodger miscues -- including three errors from Rafael Furbcal (in one inning) to earn an easy victory.

Chad Billingsley was awful, and Greg Maddux sadly may be ever so-close to retirement after his painful outing.

So, the first time since '93, they find themselves playing for only their second World Series victory (they only have one in their existence - 1980). For the Dodgers, it was a fun a little run they put together and they made the NLCS exciting; however, one man -- Manny -- does not make a team, and perhaps if everyone else had done their jobs, they would still be playing.

Finally, I just really, really, liked this photo...

Phillies Upend Dodgers; Rays Shock The Formerly Invinicble Jon Lester

The 2008 NLCS seems close to being wrapped up as the Philadelphia Phillies thanks to late homers by Shane Victorino -- who has seemed to be in the middle of everything -- and Matt Stair's long shot in the 8th led them over the Los Angeles Dodgers, 7-5.

Tuesday's action had none of the drama of the previous night, and Philadelphia staged a dramatic comeback as the knocked up the Los Angeles bullpen in the latter half of the game. Derek Lowe was strong -- especially giving up two runs in the first inning -- and went only five innings; however, he kept the Dodgers in the game long for them to take the lead in the bottom of fifth by taking a 3-2 lead.

Now, why he was taken out by Joe Torre early -- who knows (maybe it's the fact he pitched on 3 days rest); however, that decision might have cost the Dodgers.

Joe Blanton -- the starting pitcher for the Phillies -- went five innings and gave up three runs, but it was Chad Durbin who opened up the flood gates by giving up a 2-run-homer to Casey Blake in the sixth to put the Dodgers up 5-2.

Both bullpens were taxed, but in the end, it was Philadelphia who reigned supreme. The reliable Dodger bullpen imploded and could not hold the lead.

They tied the game at three in the sixth at Ryan Howard plated in a run off Chan Ho Park; thereafter, two innings later they added a four spot thanks to 2-run homers by each Victorino and Stairs.

The Dodgers must win game five, or the season is over -- plus, I will not be able to use my tickets for game six...

There's an off-day for the NLCS on Wednesday (maybe to have the Red Sox in prime time); however, Philly will play for all the marbles on Thursday.

***

Tuesday's afternoon game had the Rays -- yes, the Rays -- whoop on the Red Sox and the previously invincible Jon Lester, 9-1.

Tampa touched up Jon Lester sail to the easy win. Lester only lasted a little over five innings, gave up five runs and his teammates could do nothing but watch the carnage.

B.J. Upton, and Evan Longoria homered early, while Rocco Baldelli's shot (what an incredible comeback story this kid has had), and Carlos Pena's homerun in the ninth has now sent Red Sox Nation thinking collectively, "Are you serious that Tampa could beat us?"

Yes, I am. I still think the Red Sox will come back and take it, but folks, these are the old Rays -- or Devil Rays -- they have the athleticism and power to beat anyone.

Matt Garza, who did not look too hot in Chicago during the ALDS, threw six innings of one-run ball for the easy win.

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Playoff Reflections: What An Ugly God-Damn Game last Night; All is Written For The Dodgers To Take Game Three...

Well, the Rays won last night in a long, ugly, but exhilarating game in the Tropicana Dome. The game didn't end until long after 1am, as B.J. Upton plated Fernando Perez -- who was even gutsy for even attempting to score -- on a sacrifice fly to end the contest.

Dustin Pedoria -- all five-foot-right (I say five-foot-six) -- hit two homers and showed why he's an MVP candidate plus giving all short guys hope that they can make it in Major League Baseball, along with homers from Kevin Youkilis and Jason Bay.

Meanwhile, for the Rays, Evan Longoria and B.J. Upton both homered for Tampa.

Josh Beckett nor Scott Kazmir looked good, as each got touched up -- and touched up badly. it looks like both men are tired, needless to say. Both need to be on their game to really help out their teams, for sure.

Tampa had a 8-6 lead, until allowing the Red Sox to come back late. Rookie call-up David Price got the win, while long-term veteran Mike Timlin took the loss.

It's needless to say that the Rays needed to take Game Two and tie the series heading into Boston. I think the Rays will make this a close series by taking at least one game in Boston (most likely Game 4 when they face Wakefield), but the Red Sox right now seem to have a killer instinct and determination on their side.

The Rays, no doubt, are inspired to win too; however, it looks like the Red Sox are playing like men possessed...


Ah, Game three of the NLCS is upon us -- this is all tailor made for the Dodgers to whoop up some Philadelphia arse. Moyer is on the mound versus Manny and company at home -- I say L.A. wins big -- in a huge blowout.

The Manny factor will be too much, and the troops will help him out on Sunday.

Playoff Refelctions: Philly Goes Up 2-0, Boston Strikes First...

Last night, I spent much of it flipping between the games along watching the political news on TV.

Well, the baseball on the air has been somewhat compelling so far, and it is fascinating to see what has come about so far.

The first game, which featured the Philadelphia Phillies versus the Los Angeles Dodgers just two hours up I-95 showed why October is so unpredictable. The Phillies won the game, 8-5, thanks to the golden arm (ok, no so much) of Brett Myers and also his – um, bat – as he went 3 for 3 with three RBI’s and went five innings for the win.

Shane Victorino, also had a huge night with two hits, four RBI, and a huge game saving catch in centerfield in the eighth inning robbing Casey Blake of a sure double, if not a triple.

Chad Billingsley, who I thought would win, only went a little more than two innings in the loss and surrendered eight runs – all but one earned.

The one-man team of Manny Ramirez hit a 3-run homer in top of the fourth; however, the rest of the Dodger offense could not wake up and squandered a chance in the latter innings to make a difference.

Needless to say, with the series at 2-0 in favor of the Phillies, it could be over unless someone else besides Ramirez wants to help out with the offense.

Meanwhile, the Philadelphia offense is tearing it up, and at this venture, they could end it all by Monday.

One more thing, my prayers are with Philadelphia manager Charlie Manuel and his family as he suffered the loss of his mother.

***

The game of the night was the Red Sox and the Rays, down in sunny Florida – albeit, in a dome.

The Rays, in their first ever ALCS were stymied by Daisuke Matsuzaka and lost, 2-0.

Matsuzaka -- whom I really didn’t think much of coming into the series despite 18 wins – hurled a gem as took a no-hitter into the seventh inning and led Boston to a win. Tampa had chances in the seventh and eighth off Dasiuke to score; however, could not.

Jonathan Papelbon closed out the game.

An RBI single by Jed Lowrie, and one from Kevin Youlikis in the eighth made the difference.

James Shields held his own by a little only seven inning and giving up two runs; however, that could do little to stop the Red Sox.

Kazmir – who has given up 18 runs in 18 IP against the Red Sox in 2008 – is on the hill against Josh Beckett. The Rays must win game two or I am going to count this series as being close to over as they would have to travel to Fenway and win at least two games – a place which is nothing short of intimidating for anyone on the opposing team – playoffs or not.

Tampa needs to simply get on base and use their athleticism to beat Boston, and hope Beckett is off is game and still in the process of getting rhythm back.

Dodgers Lose to Phillies, 3-2; Red Sox and Rays; Playoff Reflections...

Last night, the Dodgers and Phillies played game one of the NLCS and everything came down to a fateful sixth inning. Los Angeles went up 2-0 in the top of the first inning, thanks to Manny Ramirez -- again -- with an RBI double; thereafter, Blake DeWitt plated Matt Kemp with an RBI.

Derek Lowe had things in control in the sixth inning; however, Shane Victorino reached base on a error off Rafael Furcal, and the Chase Utley homered to tie the game. Two batters, Pat Burrell hit his third homer of the postseason -- a two-run shot -- to make the difference. Cole Hamels was shaky in the first, but kept things in order with yet another post-season start for the victory. Lowe was good, but his two mistakes -- homers to Utley and Burrel -- cost them the win.

Like I said, if the Dodgers fall 2-0 in the series, it will be hard for them to come back. It was a very well played game yesterday night in the City of Brotherly Love, and I expect the same tonight in Beantown as the Red Sox and Rays begin their series.

I see Boston taking this series in six games and here's why -- Jon Lester and Josh Beckett. Lester has been an inspirational story -- whether you care for the Red Sox or not -- and has become a a hell of a pitcher, and Beckett, I think will bounce back.

If you add to that the fact that the Red Sox just seem to have that killer instinct about them -- Tampa might find themselves done.

A lot of people are discounting Tampa because of their experience, or lack thereof; however, let's not forget what division they played in -- the AL East. They used to the wild atmosphere of sold-out Fenway, considering they have played there 9 times in 2008, plus if you add Yankee Stadium in the mix, Tampa has played in a pressure-cooker place 18+ times.

They'll be fine.

I think Tampa is more athletic, and maybe even better than the Red Sox on paper, but a lack of a true ace may cost them the series.

Then again, anything can happen in the playoffs.

***
Before I go, I'll say I'm not all that impressed by the playoff coverage on TV at all.

Sometimes, I'd rather just watch the TV in silence and then get analysis on the internet, because frankly, I'm not liking what I am watching.

We all know about Tim McCarver and Joe Buck (last night was McCarver ever negative against Manny -- perhaps even rightfully so), but I am not a fan of the bells and whistles that Fox has; thus, I prefer TBS' coverage -- but not by much.

TBS seems to just labor through the playoffs and their analysis; however, they sick to the meat and potatoes rather than go into endless prattle. The studio show is actually rather dull, and not all that insightful; however, I did really enjoy seeing Curtis Granderson on the tube -- ok, LCD TV -- but everyone else I could have fallen asleep on.

NLCS Thoughts and Playoff Reflections; Markakis & A New Contract...

The 2008 playoffs resume tonight as game one of the NLCS is played in the City of Brotherly Love.

Manny Ramirez and the Dodgers take on the Phillies; thus, for me, although I am a fan of the Orioles, the NL style of baseball appeals to me a lot more. That being said, I am very interested to see how this series turns out.

Both teams match up well with their lineups, as well as their pitching staffs although I think Philadelphia might have a slight edge with their bullpen (because of Brad Lidge). I think the starters for the first three games are suitable, there’s a significant drop-off from there with their starting rotations for both teams.

That’s why I see things so even matched up.

Right now, I am picking the Dodgers in seven games for the upset.

Why?

I think the Dodgers have been greatly underestimated, and obviously Manny in that lineup makes the difference; however, I think Joe Torre has also been a calming influence on this team as well by virtue of his experience dealing in New York.

Again, there’s the Manny factor. They look and play like a different team from the one we saw from April to the end of July. If the Dodgers go down 2-0 when they return to California, I think they are as good as done. I don’t think the Phillies can stop Manny based on how well he’s doing right now -- (but I think Ramirez only has a career batting average of .200 versus the Phillies) -- but shutting down the rest of the offense is ey.

However, if the Dodgers can touch up on Cole Hamels, Brett Myers and Jamie Moyer, the Phillies are in trouble. As well, if Howard and Burrell are shut down, it’s too curtains for them.

Although I think the Phillies have the superior hitting lineup, I think there’s an upset.

I would so love to see a Dodgers-Red Sox World Series. Just imagine all the story lines, drama, and I'm sure MLB would be happy with the ratings as it would be a blockbuster.

***

While a handful of teams are still in the playoffs, teams like the Baltimore Orioles are stuck in watching it from home and face the prospect of a long, hard winter.

That being said, now is the time to sign Nick Markakis to a long term deal. I have said over and over, I have full faith in Andy MacPhail and I more or less said last year that the right fielder not being signed to a long term contract isn’t an issue — however, if it’s not done this off-season it will be.

After seeing his peers like Ryan Braun, Evan Longoria, and Troy Tulowitzki signed to healthy contracts, after the progress Markakis has shown, he deserves the same.

At this point, if they go through arbitration process, Markakis will get a huge pay day indeed; however, the longer the team waits to sign him to a deal, the higher his price will go and the greater the likelihood that he’ll bolt.

Considering the Orioles are rebuilding, and it may be a while before they start to win, now is the time to sign Nick.

Let’s avoid Pandora’s Box from opening when it does not need to be the case.

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America, The Rays Are In The ALCS; Boston Finishes off the Angels...

Yes, America -- the Rays are in the ALCS. After a decade losing and just plain awful teams, they are one step closer to the World Series; however, they've got to get through the Evil Empire 1A, the Red Sox.

Tampa clinched a ticket to the playoffs as they beat the White Sox, 6-2, thanks a strong performance from Andy Sonnanstine and two home runs from B.J. Upton. Gavin Floyd, who had a strong past couple of weeks got lit up, and the bullpen could not save them.

Meanwhile, the Rays sailed through game four in Chicago, and in the end, Grant Balfour -- yes him -- closed out the game.

Congrats to the Rays as they've given all small market and bad teams hope that there's light at the end of the tunnel if you stick with a plan to rebuild, luck, and extremely good management from top to bottom.

Chicago had a nice little run and clutch performances to get into the playoffs; however, their luck ran out as they went head to head with a complete Tampa team.

***
The Red Sox finally punched their ticket to the ALCS as they downed the Angels 3-2, thanks to a Jed Lowrie walk-off single that played Jason Bay -- who slid head first -- in the bottom of the ninth.

In what has to be a deflating loss for the Angels, it was an action packed game filled with lost opportunities. They've lost 12 out 13 to the Red Sox, and in each game, they could not seem to land the knockout punch.

The Angels scored in the eighth plating two with Torii Hunter's single in the eighth to tie the score, but they could not chop off the head of the Sox.

Boston got two runs in the fifth, one thanks a botched groundball that could have been a double play would have ended the frame, but allowed Mark Kotsay to score.

For the second year in a row, Boston find itself closer to the World Series thanks on the part of the Angels being unable to score when needed and finishing off their opponents.

The Rays and Red Sox meet again in 2008, this time for all the marbles. This should be "The Series" to watch and both have teams have a compelling storyline that has built up over the season.

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