The table is set for the 2010 Fall Classic, with one of the most unlikeliest of matches as neither the Texas Rangers or San Francisco Giants have a World Series title under their resume. While the Rangers are yet to taste Baseball supremacy, the Giants haven't hoisted a World Series title since relocating from New York to the Bay Area in 1958, giving the Giants the third longest current World Series drought behind only the Chicago Cubs (102 years), and Cleveland Indians (62 years). This year's match-up will be only the second World Series in the last 50 years in which both teams had 92 wins or fewer during the regular season, the last being in 1997 between the Florida Marlins and the aforementioned Cleveland Indians.Hoping to finally put an end to their dry spell and bring a title home to the city by the bay, the Giants will face off against a Rangers team they've met 22-times in Interleague history. For what it's worth, the Giants lead the all-time series, 15-7. Two people in particular looking forward to this series for entirely different reasons from one another, are MLB commissioner Bud Selig and Rangers catcher Bengie Molina. Molina because he's guaranteed a World Series ring no matter who wins, having played half the season in San Francisco before being traded to Texas in late June and making the Playoffs. Selig on the other hand, believes a World Series of this magnitude is just what baseball needs and says it's evidence that payroll isn't everything.Everyone not named Bud however, thinks the match-up between San Francisco and Texas doesn't have enough household names in it and isn't big enough to attract high ratings, regardless of both team's World Series droughts. But if that's the case, anything not featuring the New York Yankees or Boston Red Sox isn't going to garner enough attention to catch the average eye. With that being said I ask, what's better for the sport, a dynasty that wins it all every other year, or having a mixture of new teams win it? For once I agree with Selig and think it's time for a change.Game 1, which takes place in San Francisco on Wednesday will feature a battle of Cy Young Award winners both former and reigning as the Rangers' Cliff Lee (2008) squares off against San Francisco's Tim Lincecum (2008-2009). You won't want to miss it!
As for my predictions, I'm going with my heart and saying Giants in six, but I'd settle for a sweep :)
In a do or die Game 6 at Home for the Phillies, Roy Oswalt was called upon as the fate of Philadelphia's Postseason hung by a thread. But with the proud owner of the highest career win percentage after August 1st in the MLB since 1920 on the mound, the odds were in Philly's favor. And with the opposing pitcher Jonathan Sanchez digging a hole for himself in the first inning, the Philadelphia faithful looked like they were in store for a decisive Game 7. Chase Utley managed to drive in his first run of the series with an RBI double before scoring on a sac-fly from fellow teammate Jayson Werth, as Philly took an early 2-0 lead.Though, the Giants would strike back in the third thanks to a lead-off single from the pitcher Sanchez. With Andres Torres at the dish and hitting a ball deep to the warning track, Shane Victorino looked to have made a basket-like catch reminiscent of Willlie Mays' famous grab in the 1954 World Series. Instead, the ball bounced out of Victorino's glove and hit the wall before falling to the ground. Sanchez who was unsure about the hit, was only able to make it to second on the play. After a Freddy Sanchez bunt to move the runners over, Aubrey Huff hit one up the middle to score a run. Torres also tried to score on the play, but was tagged out at home by a throw from Victorino. Buster Posey would tie things up after a softly hit ball fielded by the catcher Ruiz was thrown off the line, with Posey reaching the base safely.
After exchanging runs in the top half of the inning, both teams exchanged words and came close to exchanging blows as the benches cleared in the bottom of the third, started with an 87 MPH pitch that plunked Chase Utley in the back. Upon trotting to first, the ball bounced in front of Utley and into his hands before being tossed back towards Sanchez who stood on the mound. Sanchez didn't take the toss very likely and began staring the All-Star second baseman down before the two jawed back and forth, ensuing the fracas. As the players walked back to their respected positions, dugouts, and bullpens, no ejections were issued. Instead, Giants skipper Bruce Bochy decided to pull the plug on Sanchez and make an early call to the bullpen.With the starting pitcher out and only two innings to show for, the relief corps would be asked to take on a heavy workload. However, Jeremy Affeldt, Madison Bumgarner, Javier Lopez, and Tim Lincecum would all combine to hurl seven scoreless innings before handing the ball over to their closer. With 1-out in the 8th, Juan Uribe broke a 2-2 tie with an opposite-field homer. What appeared to be an innocent fly ball to right-field, ended up drifting deeper and deeper as Jayson Werth ran out of room while the ball barely made it over the fence, landing into the first row of seats. Brian Wilson would then be called upon to protect a 1-run lead and slam the door on a Philly team eying a third straight World Series appearance. With the hard hitting Ryan Howard up to bat with two men on and 2-outs, Wilson made it as nerve-racking as possible, pushing the at-bat to a full-count before striking out the former MVP looking on a slider that caught the outside corner and sending the Giants to the World Series for the first time in eight years, where they will face the AL Champion Texas Rangers.
Noteworthy - As if anyone else on the team put up a worthy enough fight for the award, Cody Ross was named NLCS MVP, hitting .350, with 3 HR's, 3 2B's and 5 RBI's. With yet another save in Game 6, Wilson became the first pitcher with 3 Saves and a Win in a Postseason series.
The Texas Rangers are no longer strangers of the MLB - After defeating the reigning World Champion New York Yankees in 6-games, the Texas Rangers are going to the World Series for the first time in franchise history. Throughout the teams 40+ year existence which saw a name and location change in 1972 from the team formerly known as the Washington Senators, the franchise has never made it to the Fall Classic, let alone won a single Postseason series prior to this year. All that talk can finally be put to rest as Josh Hamilton and company put together a 6-1 beating in Game 6 of the ALCS to defeat the evil empire of the baseball world. Not to mention in the most appropriate way possible, striking out former Ranger Alex Rodriguez for the final out of the ball game. Not only did Texas dethrone the Yankees as the American League Champions, but they've also assured us that a new champion will be crowned this year which is always a positive.
Hamilton received MVP honors while hitting .350 (7-for-20) with a double and 4 home runs, scoring 6 runs, totaling 7 RBI's, and drawing 8 walks, 5 of which were intentional, setting an ALCS record. Hamilton's four homers were also good enough to tie an LCS record. Keep in mind, he did all this while playing with banged up ribs. Imagine what type of numbers the 2010 batting champ would've put up if fully healthy. Not only does Hamilton's statistics deserve its own headlines, but so does his story of battling his demons that almost everyone is familiar with by now, which included drug and alcohol abuse. One of the cooler things we seen this Postseason, was the substituted champagne shower Hamilton's teammates gave him after defeating the Tampa Bay Rays in the ALDS.
Instead of the usual beer and champagne that players drench themselves with when advancing to the Playoffs and beyond, the Rangers clubhouse treated Hamilton to a Ginger Ale bath, dousing him with bottles of the sweet substance, before the real party began. Also included in the abnormal yet touching celebration was left-handed pitcher C.J. Wilson, who doesn't drink due to his straight edge beliefs and drug-free lifestyle. Cliff Lee continued to show his brilliance and prove yet again that he's an entirely different life-form when it comes to Postseason pitching, but much credit goes to Colby Lewis, who won two games in the series including the clinching Game 6. And to think a year ago, Lewis was on the brink of calling it quits in terms of the Major Leagues as he found a home in the Japanese Central League, starring as a pitcher for the Hiroshima Carp and leading the league in strikeouts in back-to-back seasons.
While recent stories regarding the Texas Rangers can be talked about for days, including the decision part owner and team president Nolan Ryan decided to make when standing behind his manager Ron Washington despite the cocaine issue that was brought up earlier in the season, or the team that filed for bankruptcy just several months ago and was fought over in a courthouse, the real story lies on the baseball diamond where one of the games most deserving teams will try to win their first ever World Series title. Whether they face the San Francisco Giants or the Philadelphia Phillies is yet to be determined, but it won't matter to the Texas Rangers who are looking to fulfill their dreams and put an exclamation point on the 2010 season that has been somewhat of a Cinderella story for the folks of Arlington.
Before both teams took the field for Game 5 in San Francisco, the champagne was cold and ready to pop in front of the home crowd hoping to see their Giants celebrate a National League pennant. The Philadelphia Phillies on the other hand, had other plans. And with Doc Halliday on the mound seeking redemption for his Game 1 loss against Tim Lincecum in Philly, the Giants offense would have their work cut out for them. Though that didn't appear to be the case in the first inning. The Giants would draw first blood in the opening inning, thanks to one of Game 4's heroes -- Buster Posey hitting into a force out, scoring Andres Torres who led the game off with a walk and advanced to third on a hit from Freddy Sanchez.
Philly would then take the lead in the third, after two costly errors by Pablo Sandoval and Aubrey Huff, allowing men on second and third. Placido Polanco would cap off the wild three-run inning by lining one into left field and over the head of the shortstop, giving Philly a 3-1 lead. An inning later, Cody Ross would continue his brilliance with an RBI double, bringing the Giants within one. Despite threatening Philly's one run lead a number of times, the Giants offense was unable to do any further damage, as Halladay escaped jams in both the 5th and 6th inning. With the game still locked at 3-2, Jayson Werth added an insurance run in the 9th, leading off the inning with a home run. The 2-run cushion would be all the Phillies bullpen needed as Jose Contreras, J.C. Romero, Ryan Madson and Brad Lidge all combined to hurl three scoreless-innings, putting a damper on any chance of the Giants celebrating at home and forcing a Game 6.Game 6 Preview - While both teams get set for another go-around in Philly, Jonathan Sanchez will once again face off against Roy Oswalt. With a win in Oswalt's last start in Game 2, the Phillies are hoping he'll be the one to get them right back in the thick of things and even the series at three-games a piece, stretching the series to a Game 7. Find out if that's the case on Saturday with a scheduled first-pitch @ 4:30 p.m.
Coming into Week 5, the 49ers were still on standby for their first win of the season. And with a game against their bay area rivals -- the Oakland Raiders, both bragging rights and San Francisco's Playoff hopes were on the line. While the 49ers were coming off of a 3-point loss at home to the Vick-less Philadelphia Eagles, the Raiders were fresh off their first defeat of the division rival San Diego Chargers in over seven years. But a different Oakland team would show up on the road, not far from home.Out of the gates, the Raiders showed an early sense of aggressiveness and trickery by utilizing a flea-flicker on the very first play from scrimmage and a reverse only a drive later. All of this would come while outplaying the 49ers on offense, 14-minutes to 3. Fortunately for the San Francisco defense, they were able to hold the Raider offense to a minimum of two field-goals. As the rain began to fall, so did the players as the game turned into a sloppy penalty-filled affair. OLB Manny Lawson then intercepted a pass from Raiders QB Jason Campbell, as Alex Smith began to do his normal race against the clock. After leading the offense all the way down the field before running out of time, the 49ers would have to settle for a field-goal as the first half concluded with a score of 6-3, Oakland.
After half-time, the 49er offense would begin to show some signs of life. Although it wasn't pretty having compiled over 143 yards worth of penalties, Smith managed to connect for two touchdown passes in the second half, despite letting a lot of opportunities slip past him. Michael Crabtree would be the recipient of the first grab, by hauling in a go-ahead 32-yard TD reception before the end of the 3rd quarter. Then came Smith's favorite target Vernon Davis who sealed the deal on a late 4th quarter touchdown set up by running-back Frank Gore who finished the game with 149 rushing yards. While the 49ers put to rest any thought of going win-less all year long, they also put to rest any hope of Raider fans eying their first back-to-back wins since 2008, by keeping Jason Campbell under 100 yards passing.Week 7 Preview - One of the biggest factors in the 49ers finally getting a win is the fact that Alex Smith had his first turnover-free game of the season. If Alex Smith and the 49er offense can avoid any confrontation with error for a second straight week in Carolina next Sunday, they should be in line for consecutive wins that will make 49ers owner Jed York's comments of, "We will win the division" look a little more believable.
NLCS Game 4 - Heading into Game 4, a lot was on the line for both teams. For the Phillies, it meant keeping their hopes of playing another game at home alive. As for the Giants, Game 4 meant a chance to end the series at home instead of having to fly back to Philly for a game 6. That of coarse being if they were to win Game 5 in San Francisco as well. On the bump aiming to fulfill those dreams of inching the Giants closer to the 2010 Fall Classic, was the 21 year old southpaw Madison Bumgarner. In only his rookie year, Bumgarner became the youngest Giants pitcher to ever start and win a Postseason game, less than a week ago when he held the Braves offense to only 2-runs in 6 innings pitched, punching SF's ticket to the NLCS.Sharing the mound with Bumgarner was Phillies pitcher Joe Blaton. Pitching for the first time since September 29th, Blanton was erratic to open the game surrendering a single to Freddy Sanchez who moved over to third on two wild pitches. Those early miscues would cost Blanton, as Buster Posey who had a phenomenal night, laced a 2-out RBI single, putting the Giants up with an early 1-0 lead. For what it's worth, Blanton's two wild pitches in the first inning, matched his regular season total of two wild pitches. With back-to-back 2-out hits by Aubrey Huff and Buster Posey who combined to hit 7-for-10 on the night, the Giants would take a 2-0 lead. As the game wore on, Bumgarner would run into a few jams, including one he would get out of in the 4th, with two on and two outs.
However, an inning later, he wouldn't be so lucky. With one out and runners on second and third, Shane Victorino connected for an RBI single up the middle, scoring Utley. Thanks to a tremendous effort by the Giants defense, a second run would fail to score, as a throw home from Aaron Rowand beat the sliding Carlos Ruiz to the plate. Posey would also get kudos on the play for executing an excellent tag, all while holding onto the ball. Although the run was prevented, the inning would continue, as Bochy decided to hook his rookie pitcher in favor of Santiago Casilla. A decision that would take a turn for the worst, as Bumgarner soon found himself in line for a loss after being credited with two more runs. Placido Polanco did most of the damage, hitting one into the gap, good enough for a double and giving Philly their first lead of the night. The nightmare would continue, as Casilla walked Howard and hit Werth in consecutive at-bats to load the bases. Then came a wild pitch, scoring Polanco and putting Philly on top 4-2.The inning that saw 9-hitters come up to bat and combine to scratch four runs across the board would last 25 minutes and would prove to be too long of a rest for Blanton who waited patiently in the dugout. After walking Torres to lead off the inning, Huff would bring him home with another clutch 2-out RBI single. And before you knew it, the game would turn into a battle of the bullpens, as the Phils pen began to have its own struggles in the sixth. Philadelphia reliever Chad Durbin would then do his best Casilla impersonation. Making his first start of the series, Pablo Sandoval would come through with a big 2-out double, as San Francisco stole back the lead. Once again, Philly would fight back two innings later to tie it, capped off by a lead off double from Ryan Howard. With both teams locked up 5-5 heading into the 9th, Posey would continue to shine, moving Huff over to third on a double, giving Juan Uribe a chance for some late game heroics.
Uribe would do just that, hitting a sac fly to left field, as Huff trotted to home as the winning run, 6-5. Uribe connected for only the 8th walk-off via the sacrifice fly in Postseason history. As for the Phillies, the walk-off loss was their first since the '93 World Series in which they lost to the Toronto Blue Jays. Speaking of firsts, Posey became only the second rookie catcher in Postseason history to compile 4-hits.Game 5 Preview - With a Game 1 rematch of Roy Halladay and Tim Lincecum, the Giants have only one thing on mind, winning a trip to the World Series. Philly on the other hand hopes to survive to live another day. All making this match-up one for the ages.
NLCS Game 3 - With games 1 and 2 being played in Philadelphia and featuring a good set of pitching match-ups, San Francisco would also get to see an appealing pitching match-up in Game 3 between Cole Hamels and Matt Cain. Stepping away from pitching for a moment, the main story offensively for the Giants has been Cody Ross. Having propelled the Giants offense for the first two games via the home run, it would be interesting to see if Ross could utilize his power at San Francisco's AT&T Park, an unfriendly yard to those who seek home runs. Opposed to Philadelphia's Citizens Bank Ballpark where Ross has seen a lot of action as a member of the Marlins, having hit 8 HR's in 20 games there, Ross has only hit a fraction of that while playing at home in a Giants uniform.In his second at-bat with a runner in scoring position, Ross would bring in a run on a single instead of a home run, scoring Edgar Renteria who led the inning off with a single. Aubrey Huff would follow on an RBI single of his own. A third and final run would come around to score in the fifth when Aaron Rowand led off the inning with a double and scored on a 2-out RBI single by Freddy Sanchez that was first ruled an error after taking a tricky hop and corralling off the arm of Chase Utley. One of the bigger pick-ups for the Giants at the trade deadline, was that of left-handed reliever Javier Lopez. Relieving for Cain in the eighth, Lopez retired the side, including a big strikeout of Ryan Howard to end it. Closer Brian Wilson would then showcase his beard in the ninth, by inducing a double play ball off the bat of Raul Ibanez to end it. 
Tossing 7 scoreless innings of 2-hit ball, Matt Cain and the Giants bullpen combined to do something that hasn't been done against Philadelphia in the Postseason since Game 5 of the 1993 World Series (a span of 49 Playoff games), and that's shutout the Phillies offense. Meanwhile for the Giants, the shutout was their second of this Postseason, and 5th since 1958. Game 4 Preview - Game 4 will take a much different approach as the young rookie southpaw Madison Bumgarner will take on Phillies' Joe Blaton who hasn't started since September 29th. Whether or not that it will show, we will soon find out.
NLCS Game 2 - Heading into Game 2, both offenses would have their hands full, as both Roy Oswalt and Jonathan Sanchez came into the game on fire. In his last 8 starts, Sanchez owns a record of 4-1, finishing with an ERA of 1.06 in that span. Meanwhile, Oswalt boasts a record of 4-0 in 8 career Postseason starts and is 10-0 all-time at Philadelphia's Citizens Bank Ballpark. As if that wasn't enough bad news for the Giants, their offense would be without one of its power threats, as utility infielder Juan Uribe sat out with a contusion in his wrist, an injury he suffered late in game 1 when sliding into second base. With Uribe sidelined, Edgar Renteria filled the void.
Unlike game 1, Philly would draw first blood in the first inning, making the Giants pay early for two walks and an error. Sanchez dug a hole of his own by giving up a bases loaded walk to Jimmy Rollins, capping off a 35-pitch inning and giving Philly a 1-0 lead. The early trouble Sanchez ran into caused the Giants bullpen to move around after only the first inning. Though Sanchez would eventually settle down.
Continuing his candidacy to become this year's Mr. October, Cody Ross hit yet another home run, tying the game in the fifth, 1-1. For Ross, the homer was his third this series and fourth in his last three games. With the trio of dingers this series, Ross has already matched the three HR's he hit during the regular season as a member of the Giants. Phillies speed demon Shane Victorino led off the bottom half of the inning with a double, and scored after being moved over on two consecutive sacrifice fly's. Jonathan Sanchez would be pulled in the seventh after surrendering a single to the opposing pitcher -- Oswalt on the 100th pitch of the night. With the bullpen making an appearance, Oswalt would run threw a stop sign put up by the Phillies third base coach and came around to score on an RBI single by Placido Polanco, keeping the inning alive before loading the bases. Those bases would eventually clear on a double hit by J-Roll.
With a final score of 6-1, the Giants starting pitching staff was out dueled for the first time this Postseason, as Oswalt hurled 8 solid innings of 3-hit ball, walking 3 and striking out 9. The only two hitters in the Giants line-up able to solve the 3-time All-Star Oswalt, were Cody Ross who homered and Freddy Sanchez who finished the game with two singles. Jonathan Sanchez on the other hand, surrendered 3 runs (2 earned) on 5 hits, walking 3 and striking out 7 in 6 innings. In spite of the loss, Sanchez still managed to have a decent outing.Game 3 Preview - Next on tap for Game 3 of the NLCS, Cole Hamels and Matt Cain look to battle it out in the first game of the series in San Francisco. First pitch at 1:30 p.m., Go Giants!
October 26th marks the start of a new season, as the Los Angeles Lakers hope to recapture NBA supremacy with a third straight championship. But with another NBA season around the corner, comes another set of rules. However, the newest rules also might make the list of the dumbest. Similar to the NFL which has become known by many as the 'No Fun League' for its excessive rules, the NBA is beginning to crack down on its players. NFL commissioner Roger Goodell took some heat from his players this past season after putting a touchdown celebration rule into effect and has been touched up as recent as this year. The rules outlaw any sort of excessive celebration that comes after scoring a Touchdown as well as any other play.
Meanwhile in the NBA, commissioner David Stern is doing his best Roger Goodell impersonation by making his stamp on the game and showing his low tolerance for those who complain a foul or any other call for that matter. A new set of rules is understandable, but when something as small as raising your hands or even looking at an official a certain way can get you a technical foul or worse -- ejected, you've gotta believe the league is over doing it. Sure the fans in the stands don't pay to see grown men whining and protesting every other call, but they don't pay to see their marquee players get ejected either. These calls have only been seen in the Preseason thus far, but what everyone wants to know is if they'll make their way to the Regular season, and if so, how long will they last until they take their tole on fans.
Now coming into the equation is the Players Union which is protesting that the new strict technical foul policy is excessive and was made without consulting them. It'll be interesting to see how this thing plays out, but I do know one thing, if I was paying top dollar to watch my favorite team and or player, I'd be pissed if he were to be ejected for something as dumb as raising his arms after a ticky-tack foul. And while we're on the subject of absurd rules in today's sports, who came up with this new NFL rule that bans celebrating a tackle, when one's knee is on the ground? To me, it's starting to sound like they're nitpicking in certain areas and towards specific players. Need an example? See Vikings defensive end Jared Allen for instance who has done his same old calf roping celebration that has become as symbolic as his mullet. Unless he modifies his signature celebration, it looks like those days are dead. Unless he plans to pay a fine and cause his team a few yards every other drive...
NLCS Game 1 - If the Giants wanted to take an early 1-game lead on the road against a Philadelphia team that has become quite familiar with the Postseason, having reached the NLCS for a third consecutive year, they'd have to face a pitcher coming off of one of the best Postseason outings in Major League history -- Roy Halladay. Philly wouldn't have it easy either, as San Francisco countered with their ace and 2-time defending NL Cy Young award winner -- Tim Lincecum, who also had an impressive outing in his first ever Postseason start. Although the battle between the two Goliath's would be a match-up of epic proportions and the headline coming into the game, there offense would get its time to shine as well.During the regular season in late August, the Giants acquired Marlins outfielder Cody Ross on waivers primarily to prevent the division rival San Diego Padres from acquiring him down the stretch in the heat of their pennant race. His offensive production thus far in the Postseason however, would make one think he was picked up purposely as an everyday outfielder. Although that's not the case, Ross has fit in just well. Proving that on Saturday, Ross put an end to Halladay's hopes of throwing another no-hitter by hitting a solo home run in the third inning. Trailing by a run, Philly answered back with a solo shot of their own, off the bat of Carlos Ruiz just an inning later to tie the game at 1-run a piece.
Cody Ross would strike again in the fifth inning with another home run off Halladay, regaining the lead 2-1. Veteran outfielder Pat Burrell who played 8-years with the Phillies from 2000-2008, came up to bat in the sixth inning, hitting a ball to deep left field, coming a few feet short of a homer. As the ball bounced off the glove of Phillies left fielder Raul Ibanez, catcher Buster Posey came in to score. Giants manager Bruce Bochy then decided to yank Burrell in place of a pinch-runner. A move that proved to be costly for the Giants in Game 2 of the ALDS. The pinch-running Nate Schierholtz would eventually come in to score on a single up the middle from Juan Uribe.Trailing by a score of 4-1 heading into the bottom of the sixth inning, the Phillies would manage to scratch across a few more runs off Lincecum, thanks to a 2-run shot by Jason Werth, bringing Philly within a run. Lincecum would be lights out from there on out, finishing the game with 8 strikeout's and 3 walks, while surrendering 3-runs on 8-hits in 7-innings. The ball was then given to the bullpen who managed to shut the Phillies down for the final two innings, with closer Brian Wilson striking out Shane Victorino with a man left on base to end it. While Lincecum improves to 2-0 this Postseason, Halladay falls to 1-1. The Giants and Phillies may only be prepping for Game 2 of this series, but the momentum has to be on San Francisco's side, as they put an end to Philadelphia's Postseason streak of 7-straight wins during Game 1's. The win for the Giants also inches them 3-wins closer to their first World Series since 2002.Game 2 Preview - Hoping to bring the Giants a game closer to the Fall Classic, is Jonathan Sanchez who looks to face Philly's Roy Oswalt who remains unbeaten on home turf. Game time scheduled at 4:30 p.m., Go Giants!
After failing to make it into the win column in the first four weeks, the 49ers were hoping a return to their home field of Candlestick Park would solve their problems. Since losing to the New Orleans Saints in Week 2, the 49ers haven't played at home. And for a team that thrives a lot more at home like they do, the handful of games away from their home turf to start the season could easily sum up their 0-4 record. But when being praised as a Playoff team heading into the season, you've got to win regardless of where you're playing.Similar to week 4 in Atlanta, the 49er offense put together a successful opening drive which was set up by Ted Ginn who returned the opening kick-off to mid-field. After hording the ball for 7-minutes, QB Alex Smith connected with WR Michael Crabtree for a touchdown giving San Francisco an early lead. It wouldn't be long though, before Philadelphia responded with a touchdown of their own. With a 17-10 lead heading into the half, Philly forced several turnovers that would come back to bite the 49ers when it was all said and done. After an interception and three fumbles, the boo-birds of Candlestick Park began letting the 49er offense hear it. Alex Smith got the brunt of it, as chants of 'We want Carr' roared throughout the stadium. Referring to back-up QB David Carr of coarse, the 49er faithful were almost given their wish.
Before going to a commercial break, coach Singletary and Smith were seen arguing with one another while Carr began to loosen up. Smith returned to the game in what I was guessing was a last chance given by Singletary. Just when you thought the game was over, Smith came firing back by throwing touchdown passes in consecutive drives, bringing San Francisco within three. It seems like all Smith needed was a little fire under his ass. And with a coach like Singletary who has a lack of tolerance, who better to have in that type of scenario? Despite his late resurgence, Smith decided to play ball a little late, similar to the loss to New Orleans in Week 2, as the game turned into a race against the clock. With possession of the ball just under a minute left and a chance to win it, Smith was hit upon releasing the ball, resulting in an interception to seal the game for the Eagles who won 27-24.What I'd like to know is what Singletary said to Smith to get him so fired up. If you were to ask me, I'd say the two need to have that exact conversation before every game from here on out. With zero wins to show for heading into week 6, it would usually be a smart time to hit the panic button. But in the weak NFC Western division which is still far from being decided, the 49ers Playoff hopes are still alive. If the 49ers were to somehow win their very winnable division, they would make the history books as the first team in NFL history to make the Playoffs after an 0-5 start. While we're on the subject of firsts, the 49ers 0-5 start to the season is their worst start since losing seven in a row in 1979. Ironically '79 was Hall of Fame coach Bill Walsh's first year with the team. And only two seasons later, the 49ers would go on to win their first of three Super Bowl's under Walsh's regime.
Noteworthy - While 49er running-back Frank Gore struggled on the ground with 2-fumbles and only 52-rushing yards, wide-receiver Michael Crabree and tight-end Vernon Davis both helped Alex Smith throw for over 300 yards, by each compiling over 100-yards receiving.Week 6 Preview - Not only are the 49ers playing at home again, but their playing against their bay area rivals -- the Oakland Raiders. After finally decided to utilize the young talent of Michael Crabtree on offense, it'll be interesting to see if he continues to turn it up against the team that passed on him in last year's NFL Draft.
Giants win ALDS! - Coming into Game 4, a lot was in stake for both teams. Whether it was the Giants vying for their first first Postseason series win since the Barry Bonds era and their first trip to the NLCS since 2002, or the Braves hoping to keep Bobby Cox's managerial career alive for another day. But with only three quarters of the stadium filled, you kinda had a sense that the Braves faithful would be seeing both their hopes of a World Series tittle and Cox's career come to an end. The least they could have done was pay their respects to the man that managed their team for 20+ years. But before the world of Baseball bid Cox a farewell, a game was to be played.And similar to the previous three games of the series, starting pitching would steal the show. Coming into the game, Giants starters combined for 11 hits, 4 BB's, 0 ER's, and 31 K's in 23 IP. Wins proving to be the only thing hard to come by as Cain and Sanchez had to settle for no-decisions, the only win coming from Lincecum. With yet another gem thrown by the Giants starting pitching staff, this time behind the arm of Madison Bumgarner, little offense was needed. As the tomahawk chop in full effect throughout Turner Field, the Braves would scratch across a run in the third. Giants outfielder Cody Ross tied it in the sixth with a solo shot, only to have the tie erased in the bottom half of the inning. Braves catcher Brian McCann sent the first pitch he saw into the bleachers, giving Atlanta the lead once again.San Francisco answered back an inning later thanks to two RBI singles from Juan Uribe and Cody Ross, regaining the lead, 3-2. It was then time for some relief work. For several years now, the bullpen has been a major strong point for the Giants. However, the same exact bullpen that ranked second best in the NL this year, has been anything but impressive so far this Postseason. Tonight would be a different story though. After reaching base again, Braves skipper Bobby Cox decided to pinch-run for the power hitting McCann. A similar move Giants manager Bruce Bochy made in Game 2 when pulling the home run threat of Pat Burrell, which proved to be a costly mistake. With limited power remaining in the Braves line-up, Giants relievers Santiago Casilla, Javier Lopez and Brian Wilson all combined for three shutout innings to seal the ball game, sending the Giants to their first Championship Series in eight years.
Before the bottle popping began in the clubhouse, the Giants players and coaching staff withheld their celebration and walked onto the field to give the retiring Cox a round of applause of their own. The 69 year old Cox was given a curtain call and saluted the Atlanta crowd before tipping his hat and giving the Giants personnel a thumbs up. With a banged up roster without a number of key players such as Chipper Jones, Martin Prado and Billy Wagner, you've gotta wonder what the series would've been like if Atlanta was in full strength. I'm not one to complain though, and I couldn't be any happier to see my Giants move on to the NLCS. Game 1 which takes place at 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, sets up for a match-up of epic proportions as Roy Halladay faces Tim Lincecum. Get your popcorn ready!
With the highlight of game 1 being dominant pitching and late game heroics in game 2, game 3 would be a mixture of both. After the Giants failed to capitalize in the first inning with the bases loaded, they made sure they wouldn't make the same mistake when given another chance. Third baseman Mike Fontenot who was acquired from the Cubs as late as mid-August, led the second inning off with a triple before scoring on Cody Ross' routine pop-up in shallow right field that was dropped for an error by the Braves second baseman Books Conrad. For the Giants, drawing first blood would be important against Atlanta's Tim Hudson who went on to win 17 games this year and owned an ERA south of 3.00.Heading into the eighth inning, it looked like another 1-0 finish in favor of the Giants. Then came in reliever Sergio Romo who blew the lead for the second straight game. With a man on and 1 out, Eric Hinske hit a pinch-hit 2-run homer that hit the foul pole and gave Atlanta their first lead of the game. With another questionable pitching change by manager Bruce Bochy, the call to the 'pen proved to come back to bite him in the ass for a second time in three days. Although the go-ahead dinger would be costly, the Giants would still have life thanks to their new favorite opposing second baseman -- Brooks Conrad. After already committing three errors in the game, Conrad showed shades of the '86 World Series by doing his best Bill Buckner impersonation and letting a ground ball hit by Buster Posey sneak between his legs and underneath his glove. Freddy Sanchez scored on the mishap, which gave Conrad three errors on the night, setting a new Division Series record for most in a series (4).
And just like that, the Giants rallied to steal a game, similar to Atlanta's triumphant game 2 comeback. Despite his stellar 7.1 innings of 2-hit, 11-strikeout outing, Sanchez was given a no-decision as the Giants won, 3-2. One decision that has been made however, is the decision to sit ace Tim Lincecum for tomorrow's game 4. Instead, Giants skipper Bruce Bochy will give the ball to the young rookie southpaw -- Madison Bumgarner. Meanwhile, Atlanta decides to go with game 1 starter -- Derek Lowe. Heading into tomorrow's game, the one thing running through the minds of Giants players and fans alike is how sweet it would be to celebrate on enemy turf, instead of having to play a deciding game 5 in San Fran.
Heading into Game 2 with a 1-game lead over the Atlanta Braves, the atmosphere in AT&T Park was like that of no other. After Tim Lincecum's dominant outing on Wednesday, the Giants faithful would be spoiled if they were to see another outstanding pitching performance. Matt Cain didn't quite equal Lincecum's 2-hit, 14 K performance, but he threw exceptionally well by striking out 6 and allowing only 1 run (unearned) in 6 2/3 innings. The Giants offense would then steal the show in the early going by scoring 4 runs in the first two innings. Pat Burrell ignited the fireworks after hitting a 3-run homer in the first inning, driving in Freddy Sanchez and Buster Posey. Matt Cain followed in the second by helping his own cause with an rbi-single putting the Giants up 4-0.The Braves offense would finally make its Postseason debut, by scoring a run in the 6th inning after being held scoreless for nearly 15 innings. Also making it's first Postseason appearance this year, was the Giants bullpen. With a 4-1 lead heading into the 8th, the Giants looked like they were going to head into Atlanta with a 2-game lead. But that was until Giants skipper Bruce Bochy over-managed the game. After a stellar 6 2/3 innings registered by Cain, southpaw Javier Lopez was given the ball for the final out of the 7th. Sergio Romo then came in to start the 8th, and the wheels fell off from there. After inheriting two runners on base without recording an out (both on walks), it was up to closer Brian Wilson. Despite leading the Majors with 48 saves during the regular season, Wilson was rarely called upon to get any more than than 3-outs in a game. So a 6-out save during a pivotal Postseason game would be something new for the fire baller. The move would also prove to be very dangerous.During the regular season, come from behind wins were routine for the Atlanta Braves who were second in the Major Leagues with 46. So when third baseman Pablo Sandoval committed an error on a dribbler he threw awkwardly to first, pulling Aubrey Huff off the bag, the Braves were in route to adding yet another come from behind win to the list. With two men on and only one out, Alex Gonzalez hit a 2-run double to tie the game and eventually leading to extra innings. What looked to be a friendly division series between two of Georgia's very own -- Buster Posey and Jason Heyward, turned into a rivalry thanks to the Giants home crowd. Coincidentally both are in the hunt for this years NL Rookie of the Year Award. During his at-bats, Heyward got an earful as chants of 'Posey's better' roared throughout the stadium.With the bases loaded and one out in the 10th inning, Posey would get a chance to prove just that. But instead hit into an inning ending double play to end the threat. Then heading into the 11th, it happened. Former pitcher and one of Atlanta's latest acquisitions -- Rick Ankiel hit a booming shot to right field, clearing the fence and landing in McCovey's cove. The solo shot that was a no brainer would make Barry Bonds cringe given how hard it was hit and how deep it went. With the home run by Ankiel, the Braves had their first lead of the series and made sure the score stayed that way as Atlanta would take the game, 5-4 and even the series at one game apiece. As the Giants visit Atlanta's Turner Field for Game 3 on Sunday, Jonathan Sanchez will face Tim Hudson as both teams aim to take a 2-1 lead over one another.
The Run Down - After three consecutive losses in as many weeks for the San Francisco 49ers, Mike Singletary and company had a lot to prove if they wanted to finally get into the win column. And what better way get that first win than to defeat one of the NFC's better teams? However, with a number of weapons on offense for the Falcons, it wouldn't be easy. But after a dominant first quarter for San Francisco on both sides of the ball, scoring 14-points in a matter of minutes, it looked like the win-less 49ers were finally on their way to win number one. Alex Smith attacked the end-zone early by completing a 12-yard pass to tight-end Vernon Davis, who spun upon being tackled and extended his arm as the ball made it over the goal-line.The defense would then do its part when USC alum Taylor Mays who made his first career NFL start, made a huge play in the end-zone by recovering a blocked punt for a touchdown, all while showing some spectacular footwork and keeping both feet in bounds. But just like every other week, the positives would be limited as the 49er scoring spree would stop there due to Alex Smith throwing two interceptions. Falcons wide receiver Roddy White who torched the 49er defense for over 200 receiving yards and 2 touchdowns last year was of no avail and played a limited role in Atlanta's passing game. That was until the game's final minutes. After scoring 13 unanswered points to bring the Falcons within 1, White made a handful of circus grabs late in the 4th quarter before finishing with 104 yards. White's biggest contribution however, would come while defending.
San Francisco just about had the game won when cornerback Nate Clements intercepted what looked to be the dagger and the game winning play had he purposely went down after intercepting the ball with a minute thirty left on the clock. Instead, Clements turned it into a selfish, boneheaded move on his behalf as Roddy White chased him from behind and knocked the ball out, forcing a fumble. White's heads-up play showed shades of the 2009 season and was reminiscent of a similar play he made against the 49ers last year when he stripped the ball out of San Francisco's other cornerback -- Dre Bly. Bly showboated his way down the field thinking he had an easy touchdown, only to have the ball knocked out of his hand. Falcons Quarterback Matt Ryan would then get another chance at leading the offense down field. But with the clock against them, getting into field-goal range was all Atlanta needed.
With less than 10 seconds left, Matt Bryant kicked the ball 42-yards deep and through the uprights to win it. The game-winning field-goal was also Bryant's second in as many weeks, as he kicked one a week earlier against Drew Brees and the division rival New Orleans Saints. Niners head coach Mike Singletary didn't personally blame the loss on his cornerback (Clements), but we all know why the 49ers didn't pull this one out when they should have. One day after the heart-wrenching loss, the 49ers front-office stood by their head coach and expressed their support of coach Singletary, assuring him that his job is safe despite the teams 0-4 start. As well as it should be, given two of the four losses were not his fault.
Week 5 Preview - While it's hard to point out the good during this rough time for us 49er fans, there is some good news in the bay area regarding the next match-up on the 49ers schedule. With Michael Vick out with an injured rib, the Eagles will start Kevin Kolb at the quarterback position. Kolb, who began the season as Philadelphia's starting quarterback, has been anything but what the Eagles were expecting from the QB they invested in after trading away Donovan McNabb. Vick on the other hand has been great since filling the void as the starter when Kolb went down with a concussion in week 1. But as the Vick injury serves as good news for us 9er fans as well as dog lovers across the globe, it can't be good for the Eagles considering he's been among the highest praised for the MVP award thus far. With Vick out and the 49ers at home, I think this is the week we finally get a W.
He Came, He Saw, He Conquered - After the masterful no-hit performance Roy Halladay had put on the night before, it was unlikely another pitcher would steal the spotlight unless they were to throw a perfect game. San Francisco Giants ace Tim Lincecum didn't surpass Doc's no-hit bid with a perfecto of his own, but he came awfully close from being flawless in the Giants first Postseason appearance in 7 years. Similar to Halladay, Lincecum also made his much anticipated Postseason debut. Continuing the ongoing trend that has been 'the year of the pitcher', Lincecum went on to throw a complete-game shutout, in route to San Francisco's 1-0 victory over the Atlanta Braves.With Braves starting pitcher Derek Lowe on the mound, who's been lights out coming into this Postseason, the Giants were limited to only 1-run in his 5.1 innings pitched. But with Lincecum on his a-game, hardly any offense was needed for what the 2-time reigning NL Cy Young Award winner had in store for the fans that filled up the sold-out AT&T Park. Lincecum used his weapon of choice to his advantage -- the strikeout. Having led the National League in punch-outs for the third consecutive season this year, Timmy put on a dazzling 14 K performance, setting a Giants record for most strikeouts in a Postseason game. Ironically, 14K means gold, and Lincecum was nothing short of golden as he battled off the Postseason jitters with a 2-hit, 1-walk masterpiece that would make Leonardo Da Vinci proud.
On offense for the Giants, the lone run came in the 4th inning when right-fielder Cody Ross drove in the potential Rookie of the Year candidate Buster Posey. Posey led the inning off with a single and stole second on a controversial call that looked like an out. Neither the Braves infielders nor manager Bobby Cox who's had his fair share of arguments and ejections, bothered to debate the call. And thankfully second base umpire Paul Emmel called Posey safe, or else the game could very well still be going on. It could be debated whether or not Giants skipper Bruce Bochy should have yanked Lincecum in the ninth to bring in closer Brian Wilson who tied a franchise record for most saves in a single season (48) this year. But given Wilson likes to flirt around by allowing men on base, I think Bochy made the right decision. Bochy often tends to over-manage, so I was very surprised when he left Lincecum in to finish the game after 119 pitches.The only way we'll find out if Bochy made a mistake by leaving Lincecum in too long, is if he's needed on short rest. And while I cross my fingers, let's all pray that won't happen. As the Giants plan to take a commanding 2-game lead to Atlanta, Game 2 on Friday will see Giants pitcher Matt Cain in action, as the Braves hope to even the series by giving Tommy Hanson the nod. Game time @ 6:30, Go Giants!
Doctober - In spite of being arguably the best pitcher in all of baseball for several years now, Roy Halladay has never made a single Postseason appearance in his illustrious career, due to being stuck in the powerhouse that is the AL East. Although the Toronto Blue Jays put together a few decent teams, none were ever able to surpass the Yankees and Red Sox in the standings during Halladay's tenure. So when it came time, Halladay burst onto the Playoff scene like the future Hall of Famer that he is. Leading up to the fourth straight division tittle for the Philadelphia Phillies, Halladay made his transition to the National League in a huge way by throwing a perfect game against the Florida Marlins in late May. The rest of Halladay's 2010 campaign would be nothing short of magical as he went on to set career highs in wins (21), strikeouts (219), and tied carer highs in complete games (9), and shutouts (4). 
However, none of the following would be the highlight of Doc's outstanding season. What would be though, is what Halladay put together in his first ever Postseason outing. With every baseball enthusiast expecting a slight bit of Postseason jitters even from one of the games greats, the 7-time All-Star and former AL Cy Young Award winner proved there would be none of that. The moment he had been awaiting some 12 years in the making, Halladay went on to throw only the second no-hitter in Postseason history. The first of coarse would come some 54 years earlier when New York Yankees pitcher Don Larsen threw a perfect game in the 1956 World Series against the Brooklyn Dodgers. Not only does Halladay's gem stick out because it was his first ever Postseason outing, but also because it was thrown against the best hitting team in the entire National League. Halladay's only fault during the 4-0 victory, would come with 2-outs in the fifth inning, when he surrendered a walk to the potential NL MVP -- Joey Votto.
When being asked in the clubhouse about Hallday's dominant outing, Votto gave the Doc his props by saying, "It was like swinging at nothing." Votto's teammate and Reds shortstop Orlando Cabrera on the other hand, showed some bitterness and believes Halladay benefited from a generous strike-zone and said, "Another umpire and Halladay wouldn't have thrown a game like that." Whether or not the ump played a role in helping Doc make history, Halladay pounded the strike-zone all night long as some 85% of his pitches were for strikes. Game 2, which takes place at Philadelphia's Citizens Bank Park on Friday, will feature another Roy, as Roy Oswalt is slated to take the mound with Cincy aiming to counter with Bronson Arroyo in what looks to be a battle of righties.
And unless someone throws a perfect-game this Postseason, I think it's clear Doc's no-no will be the talk of the season. Now, the only thing missing on Halladay's track record is a World Series ring. And as much as I'd like to see him hoist one before his career is over, I just hope it won't be in a Phillies uniform.
For the third year in a row, attendance numbers in Major League Baseball have dropped. Much of this problem could be blamed on the economy, but that hasn't prevented fans from supporting their team during a pennant race. That is unless you're a fan of the Tampa Bay Rays. Upon finishing the season atop the AL East division with a 96-66 record and outlasting the New York Yankees by 1-game in the standings, Rays pitcher David Price called out Rays fans for not showing up to the ballpark during a game in which they could have clinched a playoff spot down the stretch. The game's official attendance? A whooping 12,446 fans showed up to the ballpark. All-Star third-baseman Evan Longoria also expressed his opinion, calling it an embarrassment.
However, fans of baseball have seen a similar lack of support from the fans of Tampa Bay's southern neighbor and inter-league rival -- Florida Marlins. Despite winning two World Series tittles in seven years (1997 and 2003), the Marlins fan base has been notorious for not showing up for games, including those in the Postseason. Even during their championship runs, the Marlins have had a hard time selling tickets, which has me wondering, maybe it's a Florida thing? Sure neither the Rays' Tropicana Field or Miami's Sun Life Stadium are no baseball paradise, but fans have flocked to see their team play in cathedrals and stadiums in poorer conditions than those in the Sunshine State.To their credit, the Rays have never really had a big fan base to begin with since being introduced to the league as an expansion team in 1998, but that could simply result to their last place finishes year in and year out. But now that Tampa Bay has some of the best young talent in the league, Rays fans ought to watch their team play now before their key free-agents sign elsewhere after this year...At least that's what's expected. With one of the better records in the league when playing at home, filling up the seats would be huge for the Rays' tittle run. And with Texas in town for the first two games of the American League Division Series, I expect Rays fans to be at the yard in full strength, rooting their team on with their noisy cowbells and other annoying miscellaneous rally tools not named 'vuvuzela'.
