World Series 2010: San Francisco Giants Prevail On a Scary, Tense Night

It really is a mesmerizing ballclub, not because the wildest crowd in San Francisco swings orange towels to erupt in a crazed frenzy, and not because the Giants closer Brian Wilson wears a beard to initiate a catchy mantra that has fans chanting “FEAR THE BEARD,” but they are an amazing ballclub because the Giants comprise of all the components to produce an epic classic.

Even in this culture where baseball is seen as an uneventful sport, the Giants captivated our attention with postseason dominance and a glamorous cast. With all the star power in these playoffs, the Giants clinched the National Championship Series, defeating the Philadelphia Phillies 3-2 in a compelling, dramatic masterpiece at Citizens Bank Park.

In the end, as elated as the Giants were, the guys darted into the clubhouse and celebrated a remarkable win. It was a mammoth celebration inside the clubhouse, as the players popped the corks and were drenched with champagne to rejoice in triumph. The storyline eventually emerged as a miracle, and the Giants managed to outweigh the Phillies and accomplished the improbable, one nobody expected this postseason.

Once it all ended, the Giants gathered collectively in the infield, hugging and celebrating wildly over winning the pennant. Instantly, a nerve-racking, horror night turned into a mournful night at the ballpark where an enthusiastic crowd went silent. Never mind the nightmarish scene in the bottom of the third from Jonathan Sanchez. Never mind that the benches emptied and heads exploded when the left-hander had no outs in the third, and unintentionally hit Phillies second baseman Chase Utley on an errant pitch.

From there, the Giants rushed to the mound as well as the Phillies to provoke an altercation in the infield. Even though Sanchez lost composure and yelled at Utley, the Giants somehow avoided a nightmare when manager Bruce Bochy yanked Sanchez only two batters into the third inning as the game rapidly started to unravel. With the score tied 2-2, Jeremy Affeldt was summoned and cleaned up a disastrous episode.

It was the smartest transition to call on the bullpen, successful in rescuing the Giants from a jammed inning when Affeldt fanned two Phillies in two perfect innings of relief. It wasn’t long before Bochy summoned another reliever to keep the contest within scoring distance, and decided to call Madison Bumgarner to the mound, putting tremendous pressure on the 21-year-old left-hander who escaped with two scoreless innings.

Much of the night, Bochy gambled and juggled with his bullpen and even brought in his starter Tim Lincecum. It was a reckless move, given that he had thrown 104 pitches two nights before. In the closing moments, Wilson, the most underrated closer in the game, ended the Phillies season. This time, he viciously stared at Ryan Howard and struck out the Phillies star looking on a fastball. These days, however, Howard’s inability to drive in runs remains obscure.

“I wanted it to be like that,” Wilson said. “I want to face their best hitter and (be) one pitch from possibly losing.”

But either way, the credit still goes to the Giants.

It wasn’t pretty, but they still prevailed. It wasn’t expected, but it was possible. And it happened.

In clarity, the Phillies produced 97 wins in the regular season for the most wins in baseball, and the Giants defeated arguably the best team in baseball. The Phillies won the National League pennant last season, and the Giants delayed a charming moment. In this series, the power vanished, the home runs descended, the vulnerability increased and the Phillies stumbled. It happened instantly in the eighth inning for the Giants, a moment they witnessed glory when Juan Uribe belted a home run to take a 3-2 lead.

“I feel good when I hit the ball,” Uribe said. “I know the ball go [when hit to right field].” 

It wasn’t a chaotic dispute that took place, but a moment of solidarity and no one exchanged punches.

Fairly, the Giants are no longer tortured, but near-invincible after Saturday night. They are now the National League champs, winning their first pennant since 2002. There will be thousands waiting at the beautiful ballpark in San Francisco, to embrace a refreshing moment for a franchise that has channeled emotion and assurance.

Who ever thought the Giants would reach such a climax, after having to play for a playoff berth on the last day of the season. What they have overcome is truly unbelievable, considering that the Giants almost missed out on all the excitement and fun this postseason.

“I can imagine the streets of San Francisco,” Wilson said.

Yes sir, the streets are wild near the shores of the bay.

Amazingly, the Giants are seeking to win their first World Series since 1954.

It’s possible.  

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Roy Halladay’s Triumphant No-Hitter Proves Philadelphia Phillies are Unstoppable

Amid the early months of autumn, baseball keeps getting better and better. The tone is dazzling. The words are beautiful. The unhittable ace accomplished the unthinkable on the mound, and the city of Philly screamed with delight, enough to widen the crack in the Liberty Bell.

Throughout much of an exciting, historic night at Citizen Bank Park on Wednesday night, the Phillies were successful in capping a 4-0 win over the Cincinnati Reds in Game 1 of the NL Division Series. For all the great moments, this was certainly an unprecedented moment in baseball on the night Phillies ace Roy Halladay finally had his first taste of the postseason.

And indeed it was a memorable one that will last eternally. In this postseason, it’s easy to assume that Halladay is Mr. October, throwing the second no-hitter in postseason history.

“It’s surreal, it really is,” Halladay said. “I just wanted to pitch here, to pitch in the postseason. To go out and have a game like that, it’s a dream come true.”

It reminded us of a hallucination we once dreamed about, but then suddenly becomes real. The fans at Citizen Bank Park waved their white towels crazily on a magical night in October. In the stands, a fan wore an operating gown and scrubs, anxious to greet the right-hander the citizens refer to as “Doc” and root on the home team on a bone-chilling, rainy night.

It hasn’t been since Don Larsen’s 1956 World Series perfect game that a pitcher has duplicated such an indelible milestone. The fans and city have something worth celebrating again, still embracing the triumph which materialized in the Phillies’ unthinkable turnaround a few years ago when the team capped a World Series title.

With the exception of legends, back then, Cole Hamels was the savior with his phenomenal throwing mechanics and ideal command on the mound. That year, the left-hander accepted the World Series Most Valuable Player award. And in the meantime, Halladay is worthy of reaching a climax.

“It’s something I wasn’t real worried about achieving,” Halladay said. “I think if you’re not putting too much emphasis on trying to throw a no-hitter, you’re going out and staying aggressive. It makes it a lot easier.”

The Phillies are favorites to win the pennant, and Halladay is obviously the best pitcher and represents mental toughness and courageousness. He dominated the mound and amassed 21 wins this year.

Back in the spring, he threw a perfect game against the Marlins. He is clearly the best pitcher in these playoffs. As the late innings loomed, the Phillies dugout stared nervously, and the frenzied crowd waved the towels and increasingly became louder.

Amazed by his dominance, he was unflappable in his first postseason appearance. Better yet, he attacked the strike zone early and fanned down the team that scored the most runs in the National League.

By the way, he had control of his pitches and never showed signs of weariness. By the way, manager Charlie Manuel wasn’t forced to summon a reliever from his bullpen.

Sure enough, Halladay is this year’s baseball story.

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Amaro Delivers Again With Oswalt Deal: Phillies Advance as Favorites

It must have been agonizing coming to work while taking the mound every fifth day, but this is what happened to a notable ace on a formidable roster in Houston, realizing misery reducing the reliance and excitement. They are a perfect landing spot for the disgruntled Roy Oswalt, a veteran right-hander who needed a change of scenery and a chance to contend for a championship.

The trade was bound to happen as the non-waiver trade deadline loomed ever so closer, but the Philadelphia Phillies weren’t the frontrunners in grabbing a stud pitcher to strengthen a depleted and wobbly rotation.

Philadelphia though is a town that can use a pitching tandem to solidify the starting rotation and take the pressure off Roy Halladay, a dominant strikeout specialist who easily can reach a historic milestone and shatter the 3,000 strikeout plateau.

At the moment, the Phillies benefit at the trade deadline, acquiring the necessary and impressive prize in retooling an essential department during a tight, tense pennant race. As we all know now, Phillies fans are thrilled and fortunate to witness the shrewd skills of Philies general manager Ruben Amaro, Jr., who has a knack for stealing the biggest prizes on the market.

The brand of the Phillies is remodeling in the midsummer, a time when rumors run rampant, but it’s also a time Amaro revitalizes the pitching department. His blockbuster trades have become a habit each summer. He brought in Cliff Lee a year ago but later foolishly traded the former Cy Young winner to Seattle.

Months later, the Phillies were gusty buyers after landing Roy Halladay in the Cliff Lee-to-Seattle exchange. Amaro, Jr., has proven to be the smartest executive in a draining, complex business in positioning the Phillies as the favorite for a third straight World Series appearance in October.

Land an elite hurler and he’s referred as Mr. October, nothing more than an executive erecting prosperity to enrich the Phillies’ capacity and amass postseason supremacy. In the past year, no team has had much success as the Phillies, also in the past year, no team has pulled off the inconceivable moves like the Phillies.

All the busy days were a boon, when the Phillies were aggressive and intrigued an unhappy pitcher after he pleaded for a new home with postseason implications. He carefully weighed options and waived his no-trade clause Thursday to be dealt for left-handed starter J.A. Happ and two prospects, outfielder Anthony Gose and shortstop Jonathan Villar.

“I’m glad it worked out for both of us. I wanted to go to a contender, and Houston gets some good prospects in return who will hopefully allow them to build a winning team,” Oswalt said. “The hardest part about it is cleaning out my locker. I’ve been in the same place for 10 years and having to say goodbye and clean out the locker is the toughest part.”

The acquisition of Oswalt gives the Phillies an additional ace needed for a successful chase for the pennant.

“We’re trying to do what we can to get back to the World Series and win it,” Amaro said whose usual trend as general manager is reforming a much-improved club into World Series champs.      

“He’s pretty excited about coming here,” Amaro said.

In the end, apparently, the Phillies benefit in a convenient deal, collecting sizable cash and a three-time All-Star who has a 143-82 record in nearly 10 seasons with Houston, where he arrived after being selected in the 23rd round of the 1996 amateur draft.

“I’m at a point in my career where I just want a chance to get back to the World Series like I did in ’05 with Houston,” he told ESPN.com. “I’m excited to be going to Philly. I love watching Roy Halladay pitch, and I think with him and (Cole) Hamels, the three of us can feed off each other.”

By trading for Oswalt, the Phillies, who currently trail the Atlanta Braves by 3.5 games, instantly rise into contention and can easily make a run at a third straight World Series appearance.

If the Phillies revitalize and return to championship form with good health and consistency, they could very well be a tough out in the postseason. But right now, the Phillies are anything but cohesive and healthy. They’re missing second baseman Chase Utley and outfielder Shane Victorino, two essential ingredients necessary for their postseason run.

In Halladay, Oswalt, and Hamels, the Phillies now have arguably the best 1-2-3 pitching combo in baseball. That means the expectations are higher than ever, and now they hope to reclaim sole possession of first place in the NL East.

Come on, it seems logical. When a team has an intimidating pitching staff, especially when there are two strikeout experts, that team—in this case, the Phillies—should be favored. Baseball is a game built around sturdy pitching staffs and durable bullpens.

Haven’t you noticed five pitchers have thrown no-hitters this season, including the hard-throwing Halladay? Of course, he’s now relieved with the reinforcement of Hamels and Oswalt. It’s almost surprising but amazing how Amaro has built a winning franchise.

The Phillies get to experience the excitement and jubilation of postseason success almost every fall because of management’s desire and hunger to make the necessary moves to stay in the pennant race. Isn’t that how it’s supposed to be, a team willing to win year after year after year?

In Philly, a franchise residing in the community is suddenly becoming buyers and taking notice of the Yankees traits in purchasing a primary slugger or pitcher at the deadline. That’s exactly how the Phillies are conducting themselves—as a high-marketed franchise with a dauntless psyche in dealing unheard-of prospects for ultimate players to win. In other words, the Phillies have grabbed brilliant ideas from the Yankees.

It’s just a thought.

It’s entirely a no-brainer that Philly is on an earnest pursuit. Still, a significant portion of players are signed to long-term deals, at least through 2011. Maybe that explains why Ryan Howard was given a contract extension, but rather surprisingly, his teammate and longtime shortstop Jimmy Rollins never was offered an extension. Oh, trust me he’ll be given an eventual extension.

By committing a silly blunder for dealing Lee, Amaro learned to appreciate the value and players’ contributions within the franchise. It’s unlikely that he’ll ever make such a clumsy mistake, one that had the Phillies fans gagging each time they’d bite into a Philly cheesesteak sandwich. But really soon, the fans will be enjoying those cheesesteaks while watching three top-tier pitchers dissect the strike zone.

Mark my words.

The Phillies can win it all this year, I wouldn’t doubt it.

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New York Yankees Rain on Pedro Martinez’s Parade: Who’s Daddy Now?

In case you’re wondering, “Who’s Your Daddy!” chants rained down in a hurry on a villain still wearing Jheri curls and bearing frightening fastballs. His return to New York wasn’t too lenient, including an unbearable crowd that had waited to avenge cruel remarks that dated back to the days when Pedro Martinez faced the New York Yankees as a member of the archrival Red Sox.

 

In Game Two of the 2009 World Series, attention turned immediately to Martinez as rebellious media personnel dwelled on animosity that developed when he derived fame pitching for Boston. More than anything, in a much-maligned rivalry, Martinez articulated antipathy, which initiated buzz entering the second game of a series written in epic proportion.

 

He was definitely anxious to beat the much-scrutinized organization. Trust me, it makes sense, if spectators will remember the abrasive chants that impetuous Yankees’ fans originated, then it’s understandable. Late in the 2004 regular season, repugnant drama intensified a chaotic rivalry as continuous disasters escalated between the Yankees and Pedro.

 

Does that mean last night’s game was more Phillies vs. Yankees or Pedro vs. Yankees? I insist that Game Two, in general, more strictly revolved around Pedro vs. Yankees.

 

He’ll feel bitterness towards the Yankees for the reminder of his career, and whenever he faces the pinstripes in pitching duels. To this day, Martinez hasn’t yet shaken off his resentful emotions, still seeking an epic performance to deprive and send the Yankees into monstrous spending collapse.

 

If Pedro amazingly pitches to the Yankees in a pivotal Game Seven, illusions suddenly become a reality. He’d definitely be empowered, and a valuable arm relied upon to force New York to self-destruct. Just like that, an embattled organization would be considered a failure, literally squandering $432.5 million on three high-profile players.

 

By now, ideas are formulating in Pedro’s mind, wondering if he could have another shot at suffocating the Yankees.

 

Mostly in New York, a large percentage of the populace despises Pedro and holds grudges. From most people’s perspectives he’s a villainous, arrogant jerk, when in fairness, a perturbed crowd provoked additional troubles, fuming Martinez in the aftermath.

 

It’s almost proper to fault Yankees fans as much as Pedro, when, back in 2004, he was on the hook for a distasteful 11-1 loss and a humongous crowd chanted unpleasantly. That prompted the woeful Martinez to emphatically speak out, impetuously pronouncing, “I tip my cap and call the Yankees my Daddy.”

 

Ever since, issues have arisen, despite the fact that he has displayed superb pitching for much of his career, especially in big games where he’s usually flawless and unbeatable. Of course, seeking an advantage over an antagonist doesn’t oftentimes perpetuate as intended.

 

Sometimes a night isn’t an excellent one, but it is a typical night until late in the sixth inning. What occurred was that the Yankees’ star power knocked around Martinez, who gave up three runs.

 

Once Charlie Manuel summoned Martinez’s replacement, a rude and obnoxious chorus sounded as Martinez walked to the dugout and pointed skyward. Near the visitors’ dugout, he wore a sarcastic smirk mocking a bad-mannered crowd and eyed a return later in the series to avenge a 3-1 loss to the hated Yankees.

 

Playing for the Phillies doesn’t renew likability, but overshadows an impressive performance typical of Pedro in critical games. But he gave up a fourth-inning homer to Mark Teixiera, who broke out a slump when his at-bats were desperately needed to avoid a possible 0-2 skid starting the World Series.

 

Another player coming from out of nowhere was Hideki Matsui, depositing a home run and the craftiness that describes the Yankees as Bronx Bombers to rain on Pedro’s show, a widely watched showcase in the second game of the World Series.

 

But we should have turned our attention to A.J. Burnett. The Yankees couldn’t afford two consecutive losses, and were fortunate to tie the series at 1-1. It seems whichever club’s rotation lasts longest will win a title, and by far, the Phillies have an advantage.

 

The night before, Cliff Lee was a famous celebrity, but last night, it was Burnett earning all the glory. Anyone should when earning $82.5 million to revive pinstripes of failures in prior years. His pitching performance avenged memories of a gruesome outing against the Angels, now taking attention away from Pedro’s getting the start.

 

The formidable nights are downplayed. Nobody is dwelling on the foolish on-field melee of the past, which turned repulsive, revealing a sinful side of Martinez. To this day, everyone can explain in detail how badly he pushed 72-year-old Yankees bench coach Don Zimmer to the ground.

 

But now, everyone is talking about today’s issues. Pedro’s start against the Yankees drew publicity for previous episodes.

 

Technically, it only rained on Pedro’s parade. 

 

 

 

 

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To Rule Out Phillies Is an Understatement: Lee Too Extraordinary

His challenge arrived ever so quickly amid an epic duel unimaginably surprising at a time baseball extends to November, reducing our interest as we direct our full attention on football and basketball. 

But in a city, where baseball devotees are warned, courtesy of Doppler reports, the rabid and starved New York crowd couldn’t care less about getting drenched in October madness. When it pertains to the Yankees, especially after a World Series drought delayed mystique and prestige, fans will attend witnessing their boys in pinstripes attempt adding to a gratifying tradition.

Unfortunately, on a night when it seemed the Yankees were fitted naming the next Mr. October, it turned into the Phillies favor. The emergence of Cliff Lee is suddenly startling the entire world, instantly petrifying a confident crowd seated faithfully in the cozy seats inside the colossal Yankees Stadium, where an epic classical is expected to deliver thrills for the ages. It’s happening in a year Philadelphia is on verge of sustaining back-to-back greatness, since the Cincinnati Reds accomplished such a historic sequence.

The former Cy Young Award winner is the centerpiece to the Phillies unforeseen return to the World Series, starved to attain a legitimate appetizer of holding the gleaming prize, like most of his teammates last season when experiencing a joyful moment. 

It’s an understatement to dismiss the Phillies over the Yankees, a world favorite as masses clearly are brainwashed for the total of titles amassed and mystique, which symbolizes America’s team.

Let’s not fail realizing that Lee out performed his old partner and longtime teammate CC Sabathia, indications of how evenly match the Phillies rotation might be. This series can potentially last seven games, meaning the entire nation will probably witness one of the greatest pitching duels in the World Series. Without taking a guess, the two clubs will start each of their aces in a pivotal Game Seven.

For much of the postseason, Sabathia and Lee have thrown effectively, pitching like no other, proficient enough to dominate in critical situation. First, the Yankees must strike in Game Two for legitimate hopes to contend with the defending champs whose impeccable pitching heroics continue to aid Philadelphia, thriving and overcoming adversity in the regular-season.

At Yankee Stadium, the newly palace, where fans wear ponchos keeping dry, was silent enough hearing the velocity of Lee’s deadly changeup or his deliverance of the breaking ball. These days, of course, paying attention to Lee is easier unlike before when he spent ample of seasons, throwing unhittable curveballs for the dreadful Cleveland Indians.

So, the opportunity to showcase his pitching prowess on a superior club merits notability, intimidating the hottest hitter in baseball, Alex Rodriguez on his invincible changeup and Mark Teixeira was hitless as well, failing to catch up to an indomitable changeup.

Lee contained the hottest team in baseball, with an unbelievable performance this postseason, if not the most memorable postseason outing. The monster statistics are staggering, maintaining an all-time low ERA of 0.54. Is that invincible enough?

Let’s mention his 3-0 start, quickly emerging to stardom in a city where the cheese steaks exist, and where Lee throws heaters scorching greater than a Philly cheese steak on the grill. His impressive performance disappointed the Yankees in their first ever World Series game played at their new stadium.

That’s anything but exciting, when fans could debate that Sabathia had a stellar postseason. Don’t forget he shut down the Los Angeles Angels with his ferocious fastball, putting a freeze on the hottest offense in the regular-season. Throughout, his postseason experience, he kept fans wearing pinstripes warm by throwing flame-throwers, and stopped the Angels for showcasing their aggressive base running.

Even though, the Yankees might have a bit more star power, Lee’s outstanding mechanics demonstrates different features. It’s a bit similar to last season, when the Phillies were led by the sound left-hander who emerged into a legendary icon and earned MVP honors.

Cole Hamels was unhittable, ridiculously nailing pitches inside, located near the corners of home plate. Well, this year, the surprising hero is Lee. He’s pitching wonderfully, named your new Mr. October.

Fittingly, is to know what is at stake. That being said, Lee’s complete-game, 10-strikeout, six-hit spectacle is for all the reason manager Charlie Manuel should consider starting the strikeout expert on three-day rest if necessary.

After slowing down A-Rod, who overnight earned his nickname back, overcame a hideous scandal and finally flourished and rejuvenated tradition in the postseason, it’s probable to happen suggesting Lee returns to the mound on short rest.

It’s not a simple task, stifling evidently a steroid-free slugger. In the postseason alone, A-Rod numbers were more terrifying than Freddy and Jason, hitting a staggering .438 with five homers and 12 RBI, but not when there’s a gifted ace as perilous as Lee.

Knowingly, the Phillies were in desperate need of a top-notch ace to solidify a feeble rotation. The front office had good sense, pulling off the surprising blockbuster deal and stole Lee from Cleveland.

Bravo!!!!!

Yes, the Phillies were smarter than any organization before the non-waiver trade deadline came to an official close. Their initiative plans was to obtain Toronto’s ace Roy Halladay, but the deal was withdrawn when embattled and then-general manager J.P. Ricciardi’s prices were too steep for getting a deal done. There are certainly no regrets, finding out that Lee is the centerpiece to their dominant postseason.

In two seasons, the Phillies are 17-4. That’s the greatest streak in NL history, mainly because of their ability to retire opposing hitters. But the offense compiles hits whenever necessary, sort of like last night when Chase Utley drilled two solo homers off Sabathia, which changed morale of the game.

And later to break opening a nice lead, Raul Ibanez redeemed himself of a bases-loaded situation that could have created damage earlier in the contest by lacing a two-run single. It extended the lead and finalized a 6-1 victory, stunning the entire state of New York.

Currently, Philly cheese steaks are much tastier than a New York steak. Seems on this night, Lee got the best of CC concerning and disappointing an entire city. So, belittling the Phillies is a mistake, and ignoring the unthinkable arm of the invincible lefty.

Clearly, as things appear now, he’s a better ace throwing like a legend and World Series MVP. Just think, if the Phillies win the next three games, he’ll be named the Most Valuable Player.

There’s no need to start conversations. Just watch, Lee.

He’s extraordinary.

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Statement: Phillies Confirm How to Play Like Champs

You practically can feel the loving wealth, spreading around the streets of Philly. At a point when Philly cheese steaks aren’t as tasty or lovable as the Philadelphia Phillies, the rabid town has again gone nuts, not over the Eagles or Michael Vick’s craze, not over the Sixers season-opener next week, and definitely not over the Flyers.

For now, a fervid and rambunctious crowd is crazy for the Phillies on a raucous Broad Street, where the uncontrollable fanatics are wilder than the Philly Phanatic, celebrating back-to-back appearances in the World Series.

No wonder there’s a crack in the Liberty Bell, when loud echoes are heard in an entire community that gives its heart to the luckiest franchise in Philly this century. No wonder why boos have turned into cheers the last few seasons.

So, on another frigid night at Citizens Bank Park, the large capacity crowd erupted on nearly each homer crushed out of the hitters-friendly park. Much of the night, fans erupted with spirit and sounded off with “Beat L.A.!” chants.  

That’s technically all you need to know, describing a well-experienced and mettlesome core predicating the factual character of champs. After all, entering the season, the Phillies knew what it took.

Despite struggling and overcoming adversity, Philadelphia never quit and raised intensity a notch when producing wins suddenly became meaningful. Similar to last year, the Phillies informed the entire world where the champion banners belong.

Similar to last year, they overmatched the Dodgers, having fun and precisely romping Los Angeles in five games to clinch the NLCS with a four-games-to-one differential.

Greater than clinching the National League Title, the Phillies are in good position to become the first back-to-back world champion from the NL in 33 years.

If the Phillies happen to fulfill that agenda and write a new chapter in the history books, they will be the first franchise to complete such an unforeseen achievement since the Cincinnati Reds defined tenacity, longevity, and unity in the 1970’s. 

The Phillies constitute greatly the same features, staying together as a unified core and illustrating the significance of having chemistry.

Meanwhile, Joe Torre’s squad is still growing. The Dodgers have good chemistry inside the clubhouse, but a feeble rotation was a vital factor in a horrid letdown.

Missing out at the non-waiver trade deadline badly blemished the Dodgers, like watching Rocky Balboa in a one-sided heavyweight fight, or similar to watching Vick single-handedly thrash defenders in the” Wildcat” formation and rush for all-purpose yards.

No need to take a guess. Our country was earnestly awaiting a Broadway vs. Hollywood, New York vs. Los Angeles, Steinbrenner vs. Torre, Yankees-Dodgers World Series. A newborn rivalry was waiting to produce fresh blood, but now it has the makings of an East Coast clash among two top-profile clubs with large influences on the market.

When it consists of two teams with dangerous sluggers, a pair of strikeout aces, an epic classic is bound to happen.

For instance, take Ryan Howard, a legitimate big man who beautifully makes contact with a hard-throwing pitch to crush a massive shot, which normally goes the distance.

He’s the high-profile hitter who emerged as a slugging machine, depositing nearly all baseballs into the stands. Believed to be one of the purest hitters in the game, $5 foot-longs at Subway are a factor, lifting his performance level. That’s one way to enhance your performance level, right?

Not much of a factor in Game Five, Howard was greatly appreciated at the end of the night. He was honored with the series Most Valuable Player award, and absorbed more chants and cheers, rather than boos. As the Phillies still believe with enough zest to win it all, Howard said excitedly, “We have one more step: then we got action.” 

The cleverest general manager, Ruben Amaro Jr., also stood before the crowd thanking all the loyal fans for their support, when credit goes to him for assembling and bringing in proper necessities to contend for back-to-back jubilance.

He was very successful in fortifying the rotation, realizing how shaky the bullpen was for much of the year. All his savvy arrangements paid off, and now Philadelphia advances to the World Series again.

The Dodgers were hammered for the second straight year against a franchise that made smarter decisions and aggressively pursued the acquisition of depth, improving in the second half of the season. 

Heavily, the front L.A. office put too much effort in retaining Manny Ramirez. In the offseason Ned Colletti overacted, centered on continuous negotiations with baseball agent and manipulator Scott Boras, just to hold on to the Mannywood marketing product that has abruptly deteriorated.

There’s not much left to see from a so-called slugging wannabe who damn near contaminated an entire era as the masses never considered the Great Manny a bust. 

But his numbers have plunged since the league banned the most despised hitter in the game for a 50-game suspension. In just 32 at-bats the wannabe or Manny Being a Dope Idiot had disappointing results, finishing with a homer, four RBI and six strikeouts. Just from staring at the stat sheet, I noticed he had more strikeouts than RBI.

If you ask me, I just can’t see a player who falsified the game returning in a blue uniform.

Hopeful days are approaching for the Dodgers. In a 10-4 rout, Los Angeles lost swagger, but refused to leave without a fight. Despite losing, positive signs were presented when outfielder Andre Ethier and first baseman James Loney each belted solo shots.

The youth of the Dodgers are developing an identity, but they have yet risen to a premier level, needing to consolidate the pitching rotation.

In a series summarized by dominant pitching, despite a substandard bullpen, the Phillies relied on the brilliant heroics of Cliff Lee, a left-handed ace who throws, by far, the greatest breaking ball in the game.

Pedro Martinez was a stud and kept the Dodgers’ bats quiet. Martinez was a midseason acquisition that was very productive in timely situations.

After all, the Phillies aren’t a fluke. Other players shined in critical roles, burning the Dodger Dogs, mostly on hits soaring through the chilled skies of Philly. There was outfielder Jayson Werth, collecting five homers this postseason, and likely the biggest one of his career in the seventh inning when he lofted a solo shot.

There was center fielder Shane Victorino, the Flyin’ Hawaiian and pest in center, rarely dropping shots traveling his direction. But offensively, he came up big, nailing a two-run homer off the sensational Clayton Kershaw in the sixth inning to give the Phillies a commanding 8-3 lead.

That led to a Philly-tastic celebration, when players jived on the mound like big children. When Victorino caught a fly ball to record the final out, fireworks brightened the skies, just as the Phillies energized the crowd, igniting a towel-swinging party.

The champagne was chilled, and when they made their way to the clubhouse the party started as teammates were drenched.  

But on the other side, in the dugout, sat the helpless Dodgers upset at how it all ended somberly and stared at the celebration reflecting from a disappointing letdown.

Overcoming the heartbreaking defeat when the young Jonathan Broxton blew the save in Game Four, they came into the game with a ready mindset, but they were no match for the Phillies, who had all the weapons to overpower faith.

Theory is, the Phillies weren’t only smarter, but overlooked and overmatched, confirming to the world that they still are the experts to beat.  

In the City of Brotherly Love, champs reside and believe.    

 

 

 

 

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Love or Hate, Boo or Kiss: Titletown Rules In Philly

Welcome to Philly, the city of Brotherly Love.

Wait, the city of Brotherly Love, not after the year of 1968 when they booed Santa Claus, becoming notorious for their infamous boos among four major pro sports teams. Fans booed merely anyone who underachieves or criticizes their city and even their own teams.

At halftime of the Philadelphia Eagles game, Philly fans’ booed and hurled snowballs at St. Nick on a snowy day at Franklin Field and watched the last-place Philadelphia Eagles finish the season 2-12, losing to Minnesota. In today’s era, Philly fans’ continues to lack some class. When dislikable athletes remains healthy, they’ll shout out disgruntled boos.

For example, former Eagles quarterback Jeff Garcia absorbed a couple of hits that made him daze and confuse, when fans were apparently upset after not getting injured badly. For maintaining good health, it drew booes, as ungenerous Philly devotees badly wished Garcia suffered severe injuries to be replaced by their backup quarterback A.J. Feely.

There have been a number of athletes who have faced scrutiny and criticism, obviously Donovan McNabb’s name is mentioned as a primary target of criticism, getting booed for inconsistency. As a response, he sorely ripped Philly fans, and referred to them as ungrateful supporters when he brought much to the Philly organization.

Notice, you are described as the City of Ungratefully Love and the City that Booed Santa. But, at the same time, fans who craves back-to-back triumph with another championship banner. It’s well-deserving for a town, embracing and explicating true sporting passion. And lately the feverish crowd has been lovely and loyal to the Philadelphia Phillies.

A town filled with pride and dignity, is known for the Liberty Bell, known for Rocky climbing the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Arts, and known for Philly cheesesteak eateries at nearly every corner.

Last year, it was a town known for its reprehensible championship droughts. For the first time since the 76ers won the NBA championship in 1983, a major franchise in Philadelphia won a title.

Teams in all four major sporting leagues had at least a championship appearance in this century, but failed winning a championship in 100 consecutive seasons. That was suddenly snapped when the Phillies dominated and shocked the world, ending an atrocious drought. Once again, the frenzied citizens have something worth celebrating after the Phillies are en route to make its second World Series appearance.

Unstoppable dominance absolutely has removed memories of a 15-year relapse. As usual, the Phillies are the closet major pro sports team to maintain poise and uplift humanity. Just a year ago, clinching a title restored joy back in a town, where fans supported its major sporting teams through fragile times.

But now, the hangover is over, as a double dose of glory reappears in what is considered to be the greatest championship appearance in history. The 76ers and Eagles were the last two teams to come close at winning it all.

First, the Sixers advanced to the 2001 NBA finals, a sensational playoff run, led by Allen Iverson. But the run ended in five games against the dominant Los Angeles Lakers. Then, McNabb led the underdog Eagles to the Super Bowl in 2004 against New England, losing a heartbreaker on the grandest stage. Following a downfall, they came close to making a Super Bowl appearance in 2002, when they played Tampa Bay in the NFC Championship.

But unfortunately, the Buccaneers’ defense played superb and shocked the Eagles for the win. Before that, the Philadelphia Flyers loss to New Jersey in 2000 after having a commanding 3-1 lead in the series. The Devils won the game late in Game 7, breaking the hearts of a championship-starved town.

Although booing all four of their major pro sports teams, still the loyal crowd deeply falls in love with all four of their major pro sports teams. They aren’t booing now, but are cheering, eager to witness another championship before the century comes to a closure.

Yet again, the Phillies gives a die-hard community opportunities to hold a long-awaited parade down Broad Street, where fans will show aggressively cheer proudly without needing boos as a message to mend its performance level. Yes, a rowdy bunch booed teams before at games and after games.

Usually, when fans boo teams, it’s true signs of love. After all, it’s the City of Brotherly Love.

The best sports fans in America, I might add.

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Amaro, Phillies Smart Handling Business, But Dodgers’ Bungles Prove Costly

On another bone-chilling night, in the last of the ninth inning, the Phillies still preserved the biggest hit. A shot on a night that dictated the Dodgers‘ season.

If there’s a veteran the Phillies can depend on, Jimmy Rollins is the name to single out.

The unexpected heroics turned a tense moment into another celebration in the stands, with only a game remaining before the Phillies make their second consecutive appearance to the biggest stage.

The late heroics Monday night smeared the Dodgers’ favorable outcome. It seemed to be a sure victory for Los Angeles until momentum shifted, confidence plunged, and body language appeared sluggish. But it was mostly momentum and the well-experienced veterans handling desperation and crucial moments in the game.

It is important to have a clutch hitter in the lineup, especially a veteran stepping up in moments when a critical shot into the gap is needed. Jimmy Rollins laced a two-run, scoring double off hard-throwing closer Jonathan Broxton, to put a stranglehold on the Dodgers.  

Meanwhile, Rollins gave the Phillies cushion, and secured belief in a team aiming for their second straight title. A dramatic 5-4 victory over the lowly Dodgers describes fortitude of defending champions.

Besides characterizing champs, it identifies the shrewdest club in baseball. Last night illustrated and unleashed the true colors of the Dodgers’ postseason failures, just as it delivered facts about the Phillies.

I’m not saying the Dodgers are unintelligent, but it is moderate admitting that general manager Ned Colletti has failed the organization in his fourth season serving as team executive. Although he was unsuccessful during the trade deadline, owner Frank McCourt is loyal to the so-called genius when he desperately acquired Manny Ramirez.

Of course, it made Colletti seem as if he was the cleverest general manager in baseball. Back then, Ramirez was portrayed as the purist slugger in the game, before getting humiliated for shamefully storing a fertility drug that produced artificial testosterones, which banned the inglorious juicer for 50 games.

Perhaps the Mannywood campaign is a great marketing product, but the bad thing is, the Dodgers have a no-good fraud that hasn’t done much.

Fans are too naïve to garner the truth and take advantage of the discount seating in the Mannywood section.

But instead of the long negotiating that took forever during the offseason, McCourt and Colletti should’ve tried adding veteran pitching to strengthen the paltry rotation. In the midst of their offseason shopping, the Dodgers were more comfortable appeasing and compromising with the manipulator Scott Boras and his deceptive client Ramirez.

Granted, Colletti made relevant transitions and upgrades, with his midseason acquisitions in the past two seasons, which included Casey Blake, Greg Maddux, George Sherrill, Jon Garland, Vicente Padilla, and Jim Thome. From the list, he had sense enough to acquire four pitchers, but, still, none are strikeout pitchers.

So that’s why the Phillies are lasting longer in the postseason, and could incredibly win it back-to-back. Between the Yankees and Philadelphia, they won the offseason or midseason sweepstakes, overwhelming us with their assertive pursuits to build a noteworthy franchise leading into October.

Right now, it seems the rookie leads. Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro is the smartest in baseball, outsmarting other executives who’re afraid to spend valuable profit.

He doesn’t mind granting enormous investments to players, and expects a lot from the well-experienced club.

Before the trade deadline, Los Angeles had ample chance to acquire the best pitcher in the postseason, Cliff Lee. Imagine if he was available to shut down the Phillies with a wicked breaking ball, or if he had a 0.72 ERA with more hard-throwing strikeouts than any pitcher, currently.

Simply, the Dodgers missed out during the deadline, when they were listening to offers and considering acquiring the greatest pitcher in the game today, Roy Halladay, but allowed the offer to vanish without attempting to negotiate and deal some of their young prospects to reinforce unreliable pitching.

But the big-name ace they can utilize right now is Lee or Pedro Martinez. Fact is, the Dodgers need a strikeout pitcher to stay alive with opponents, all having indomitable aces who control momentum. Truth is, Amaro accomplished good results in his first year, a savviest sequence that average general managers cannot master as a rookie.

At 44, Amaro imprinted a stout legacy, bringing aboard unfamiliar faces but enough talent to keep the Phillies crisp.

Immediately, it was good to overhaul and keep potentiality of winning multiple titles intact, signing free agent pitcher Chan Ho Park, who has thrown effectively against the Dodgers, and left fielder Raul Ibanez, who started off the season by seeing the ball well.

Above all, Amaro ensured emphasis of building a future around the growing legend Cole Hamels and streaky hitter Ryan Howard, whose home runs are hotter than a Philly cheese steak, giving each of them multi-year contracts. I must say, $5 foot-longs at Subway are worth eating as long as it is legal for enhancing the performance level.

Aside from Howard’s enhanced diet, Amaro assembled depth when he pulled off the blockbuster deal of the year, which should earn him Manager of the Year. Somehow prices weren’t steep, keeping all pitching prospects at home, while stealing and landing left-hander Lee, who was acquired for nothing from Cleveland.  

The upgrading has proved worthy. When the Phillies spent 141 days in first place, including 126 consecutive days since late May. And now has extended their dominant postseason streak, topping each opponent without facing legitimate challenges for unhittable pitching, as the Dodgers aren’t perennial contenders.

It’s hard not having a dependable ace to bail you out. But for the Phillies it’s a fairly easier task, only because management was smarter.

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Cliff Lee Amazingly Unhittable, Dodgers No Match For Phillies

The population in Philly is thinking “Brotherly Lee”, rather than Brotherly Love, according to a sign a fan held up proudly. On a bone-chilling night, fans welcomed home the Philadelphia Phillies, believing for a second consecutive season that they can sustain back-to-back glory. It’s a town that doesn’t quit believing, and currently a town louder than people wearing blue in Mannywood.

For decades, the Phillies were humiliated, but was the first major franchise to celebrate, relieving dismay with a thrilling victory last season. In a hapless town, where winning titles never happened, the franchise accomplished a delightful deed. 

But other franchises in Philly haven’t been very successful reaching a pinnacle like the Phillies, who were the fortunate ones, capable of ending horrid droughts in an infatuated sports town.

It refreshes memories of the surreal finish a year ago, when the gifted left-hander Cole Hamels promptly emerged as a legend and was named Most Valuable Player for sensational effort on the mound. But more importantly, he led the Phillies to the most fascinating victory in franchise history, seesawing to their first championship since 1980.

So far, in the postseason, the pitching has what it takes to pummel the Dodgers for the second consecutive season, dismantling rapturous dreams of a Yankees-Dodgers World Series, Torre-Steinbrenner showdown.

Instead the world is possibly awaiting a Yankees-Phillies showdown, two franchises showcasing brilliant pitching mechanics. No doubt, most weren’t highly favoring the Phillies, and overlooked the powerful-arm and superb breaking ball thrower.

You ignored the reigning Cy Young winner Cliff Lee, who menacingly threw at the man in blue, gradually forestalling the Dodgers of advancing to the biggest stage. The Phillies are no match against the hitless team, now struggling to produce runs. A frenzied crowd will continuous erupt in Philly, if the sterling rotation tramples the fragile Dodgers’ lineup.

Problem is the Dodgers aren’t getting enough out of their paltry rotation. Blame it on skipper Joe Torre, whose choices are anything but wise. Leaving Clayton Kershaw in the Game One for a long time, allowed the sensational ace to surrender runs. It might have been preventable if Torre summoned for a steady reliever.

It takes a blunder in one game to change the complexion of the series, and one game was enough to improvise momentum. Perhaps, Torre sacrificed a befitting rotation, juggling around pitchers, such as Hiroki Kuroda, who surrendered hits as the game turned into a horrific nightmare.

What is Torre thinking?

Sorry, but the intelligent team here appears to be the Phillies, knowing what type of pitches to throw at the Dodgers. It’s indeed a privilege to have a dominant ace, backing up Hamels and veteran Pedro Martinez. An experienced ace, with a wicked breaking ball, is an essential offering to the Phillies shaky bullpen. You never know where closer Brad Lidge’s state of mind is, and J.A Happ has a history of walking batters.

But Lee, a starter all of us slept on lasted eight innings, without allowing runs and walks. For the time being, refer to him as “Mr. October”, after becoming the first pitcher lasting eight innings without giving up runs and walks, while striking out 10.

It’s greatly impossible compiling hits against Lee, who merely has surrendered two runs in 24 1/3 postseason innings. It’s no better way to describe it, as his remarkable pitching, by far, is the best seen this postseason.  

Before the trade deadline, rumors surfaced that the Phillies were set to make a trade with Toronto for ace Roy Halladay, but failed to agree on a deal. After all, the Phillies were smart enough to fortify their weaknesses, and surprisingly acquired Lee.

If they’d failed to acquire the ace, where would they be now? This season alone, he has boosted up their assurance and solidified the rotation. For much of the season, Lee has done exactly what he brought to our attention last night, dominating in the postseason with an unthinkable O.74 ERA. With brilliant command and location, it’s hard to envision anyone compiling hits on Lee, who continues smashing the strike zone.

He’s unhittable, he’s unstoppable, and he’s undeniable.

He highlighted a Phillies 11-0 rout, as well as slugger Ryan Howard, who became the first player to drive in a run in seven straight games in a single postseason, producing a two-run, triple in the first-inning. And former Dodger, Jayson Werth evoked damage by lacing a two-run shot over the center-field wall. From there, the Dodgers never looked back, amid Lee’s wonderful outing that dictated the Dodgers season.

Instead of Thinking Blue, Thinking Red is logical.

 

 

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Jays Shopping Ace: Phillies Should Consider Roy Halladay Sweepstakes

Good citizens in Canada might utter OH NO Canada of the latest mind-blowing news. Earlier in the season Toronto Blue Jays were filled with elation, controlling its own destiny. Of course, injuries suddenly hampered prevalence of mounting above the Yankees and Boston.

And now the latest news that arguably the game’s best pitcher, Roy Halladay is getting shopped around.

He’s a high-profiled pitcher who is mostly targeted by high-market teams, such as Los Angeles Angels, Dodgers, Chicago Cubs, Boston, and New York Yankees as the fans in Toronto nervously wait, understanding there might just be a painful sweepstakes giveaway.

The front-runners in desperate need of pitching, if they are seeking to defend their title, are the Philadelphia Phillies. When reports surfaced that Halladay was on the trading block, the baseball world literally jumped into shock, elation and determination of potentially adding depth to their starting rotation.

The Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro Jr. must take a stance, by selling a few players and maybe a few prospects in the form system to acquire a second ace in their fragile rotation.

It’s one concept to uplift confidence in a rotation that has suffered with frustration and mortifications, and are not measuring up to championship caliber and look dissimilar from the team they were a year ago.

Remember, the Phillies emerging ace, Cole Hamels, whose heroics delivered unhittable threws in the World Series and helped the Phillies overcome a drought of failures. Remember when he hoisted the Most Valuable Player award, and transcended into a legend before our very eyes.

Similar heroics haven’t being the Phillies typical mentality, and rather than maintaining poise and optimism, Hamels had an unordinary outing a few weeks ago, frustrated after getting dismantled by Toronto’s surging offense.

Manager Charlie Manuel removed him from the game, after a poor outing turned into the favor of the Blue Jays, who controlled a 4-0 lead. As Hamels walked off disfigured and irritated of his pitching flaws, he exchanged a few words with home-plate umpire Mark Carlson that provoked an ejection.

That pretty much summarizes the type of season it has being for the Phillies, the same team that awed us in the World Series, the same lefthander who fans became inspired by and attached to, referring to him as Mr. October and the next legend to vault in the big-leagues.

What difference a year makes, in a juncture when the Phillies should be endorsed and pleading for another ace to uproot pitching woes.  

As it stands, the Phillies have the worst ERA among starting staff in the National League. Meaning the Washington Nationals can use remodeling in the starting rotation. Even their bullpen at the nation’s capital, a locale President Barrack Obama wouldn’t relish tossing the traditional first pitch.

Maybe he’ll toss a few at Wrigley Field in Chicago, where he formally resided and once already tossed a pitch at the White Sox game.

Oh none of it matters, the Phillies are what matters, and acquiring Halladay in a blockbuster deal before the non-waiver trade deadline, which looms closer, will be an automatic retool to subsidize another remarkable World Series run.

In addition, it relieves much pressure and burdens off Hamels, having to throw off the mound brilliantly in each start, just to mollify his team of drilling deeper problems late in the season.

By reaching a deal in acquiring Holladay’s mechanics, will make the Phillies arguably the National League’s most dangerous pitching staff and a team not to be reckon with down the stretch.

Half of the players on the team have been there a year ago, experiencing elation and glory as the first sporting team in Philly to win a major championship in 25 years, since the Sixers captured a title in 1983 in a town that has painfully suffered and became the first town to reach 10,000-plus loses.

The championship-starved city will be generous, welcoming a top-notched pitcher to cure blemishes and banish struggles that have Philly fans speechless. At Citizens Bank Park, a pitcher-friendly ballpark, the volume is not nearly as loud as it was.

A year ago, average fans and even the players could have employed earplugs to minimize the volume of the rabid fans that loud echoes were heard in the entire town.

Now days, buzzing noise is echoing about Halladay in the crazy sports town, where Brotherly Love converts into Sports Love, especially adding the best pitcher in baseball. He was the face of Toronto, luring in a large crowd and now will attract a town of devoted and lovable fans.

Sometimes, Philly fans are a real pain and obnoxious, booing their teams whenever any underachieve.

Remember, it’s the City That Booed Santa Claus.

Isn’t that naughty?

Amaro acknowledged that the Phillies were contemplative in pursuing Halladay. A year ago, they rode a 7-0 postseason surge and if seeking to repeat a successive run, it starts with consistent pitching on a regular.

Thus far, conducive pitching has being anything, but consistent Adam Eaton was opted to pitch in the minors and was considered as an expensive blunder, spending time in the bullpen, finally releasing him in spring Brett Myers is the one starter who struggles mightily in the first-half of the season and then picks up productivity in the second-half.

Setting a record was the 46-year old veteran Jamie Moyer with a skyrocketing 8.15 ERA earlier this season for the worst in his career.  

These are good examples to snatch Halladay away from the neighbors north of the border. As Jays’ general manager J.P. Ricciardi says he’s willing to listen to offers and will deal a large portion of his team that’s willing to part ways in giving up good value, the 2003 AL Cy Young winner might be a steep expense.

Halladay is owed about $7 million and $14.25 million salary this season, including $15.75 million next season. Taking on his contract shouldn’t be much of a problem or hinder his arrival.

The Phillies have a payroll of $133 million, and obviously they can spent $7 million on a high-profile pitcher who might emerge into the next 300-game winner at the rate he continues to threw strikes and walk off the mound victorious.

And when the season concludes, the Phillies are expected to clear up $29 million in salary cap space with Myers, Eaton and Geoff Jenkins.

In the final year of Halladay’s three-year, $40 million contract, the Phillies could be getting him as a rental player, if he decides to leave when his contract runs out in 2010. Certainly, Halladay, who has a no-trade clause, would accept playing with a postseason contender and a team like the Phillies.

There have being speculations that Halladay will finish out the reminder of his contract with the Jays, and then become a free-agent, if the Jays remain in playoff contention.

Basically, the Jays are dumping their stellar ace to keep payroll intact for next season, according to Fox Sports and have suggested that signing Halladay to a long-term deal could be a hassle.

But the Phillies could be getting an ace to mend struggles. This season, Halladay is 10-2 with a 2.79 earned-run average and only one of six major-league pitchers to reach the double-digit mark in wins.

Not at all are the Phillies done shopping, Amaro also have his eyes on Pedro Martinez and will explore his options. Amaro watched Martinez threw a stimulated game in the Dominican Republic on Tuesday afternoon.

Personally, I prefer Halladay shopping, over gambling. By acquiring Martinez, it could be a huge risk. He’s injury-prone and vulnerable for spending an ample of time on the disabled list, bad idea for the Phillies.

By bringing in Halladay, they have a legitimate shot at repeating. And he’s worth the addition.

They must go Halladay shopping.