What an exciting season all around for baseball.

Sooner or later your legs give way, you hit the ground
Save it for later don't run away and let me down.
Sooner or later you hit the deck you get found out
Save it for later don't run away and let me down, you let me down.

Great to see our potential competition clawing for their playoff lives, hopefully it will come down to the wire for all 3 and they'll be drained.

15

honorable mention:

Chan ho Park

W 4 L 3
IP'd 94
BB 35
Dingers 12
K's 78
ERA 3.06
ERA+ 145

I totally forgot to mention Chan Ho Park on my "stand outs for 2008" another thing I noticed while checking out his numbers on B-R.Com is that he totally rocked as a Dodger & not so much with Tex, Mets & Pads.

2 Don't make me bore everybody with my English Beat stories again. Thanks for that, though.

3 True, true, but the Dodgers still don't have any guaranteed downtime themselves.

I'm really torn on the remaining races. I probably like the Brewers best, in a vacuum, but I'd rather the wild card come out of the east, so that the Dodgers don't play the Cubs in round 1.

5

I understand that, but I would ask for nothing at Christmas if the Dodgers swept the Cubs in three games.

3 well that wouldnt exactly help us if we draw the cubs who have been at ease for a while now..

2 for those of you unfamiliar with the English Beat...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0bM0wVjU2-k

Go Cards

I don't want the Cubs in the LDS either but if they did have to play a game on Monday (and/or doubleheaders this weekend), that wouldn't exactly help them right on the heels of a playoff series. Still, would rather face Phils or Mets, so... go Mets!

7 - It could if they have to play makeup games. Longshot, of course.

I mentioned this last night, but it bears repeating: these two months of Manny have been two of the most enjoyable months of baseball I've ever experienced.

Now, if I may, here is Who I Am Rooting For, In Order, From Here On Out, Among the Teams That Are Still Alive:

1. Dodgers.
2. Rays.
3. Twins.
4. Brewers.

Big Gap.

5. Red Sox, I guess. Old habits die hard.
6. Cubs.
7. Astros, for lack of a better choice.
8. Mets.
9. Angels.
10. Phillies, why not.
11. White Sox.
12. Diamondbacks.

I really, really dislike the White Sox.

The "ESPN Best-Case Scenario," a Red Sox-Cubs World Series, is not what I'm rooting for, but would be acceptable.

A White Sox-Phillies World Series would be an anathema.

11 - That's pretty much how I'd rank 'em, too, at least the first 4. I'd have Red Sox, Cubs, Mets, Angels and White Sox all tied for last. :-)

12 The first four are easy. Ranking the last eight is very tough. I don't really care about any of them.

But until the D-Backs are eliminated, they have to be last.

Arizona
SS Drew
CF Young
LF Jackson
1B Dunn
RF Upton
3B Reynolds
C Snyder
2B Ojeda
P Davis

StL
LF Barton
2B Lopez
1B Pujols
CF Ludwick
3B Glaus
C LaRue
RF Ryan
P Pinero
SS Izturis

11 You still hold a grudge because of 1919?

Bleeder's fall classic wish list:

Dodgers versus Halos
Dodgers versus Red Sox
Dodgers versus Rays
Dodgers Versus White Sox

Rays (150:1 to win W.S.) can clinch today with a win. They are 1-1 with Detroit in the 2nd inning (Detroit threatening to score). If I had to list who I am rooting for in order, the list would only be three teams long. I am leaving for China for three weeks on saturday, so I will miss the first two rounds of the playoffs. Please do your best to get the Dodgers and Rays into the W.S. for me. Thanks! If they don't, I want Bob to take names for me!! :)

1A. Rays (based on monetary reasons).
1B. Dodgers
3. Angels
.
.
.
X-1. Cubs
X. Red Sox
vr, Xei

What?!? Nobody wants an Angels-Dodgers "freeway" series? ;-)

15 I hold a grudge because of 2005. "Smart Ball," indeed. I hate Ozzie Guillen.

Fun fact about Ozzie Guillen: he is one of only a very small number* of men to be caught by the Hidden Ball Trick three times.

*That number might be one. I got bored as I tried to confirm that. Let's call it one. Why not? It's more fun to say that Ozzie Guillen is the only man to be caught by the Hidden Ball Trick three times, whether or not it's true.

Keith Law made me smile this morning. His opening lines before today's ESPN.com chat.

So here's my campaign for the moment: if the Dodgers reach the World Series, Fox needs to take one game at Dodger Stadium, lock its regular broadcasters in their hotel rooms (give them the minibar keys if they must), and let Vin Scully call one game, solo. I would be glued to the TV for that.

This is barely funny, but I thought I'd pass it along. SFW.

http://www.funnyordie.com/videos/2ebdbf7133

18 I don't, but I think I'm in the minority. I would guess that 75% or so of DT would prefer Dodgers-Angels, 20% Dodgers-Rays, and 5% Dodgers-Other.

Heres's a puzzle for Bob, if the Cubs v. Mets game gets rained out and then the Mets and Astros tie for the wild card, who would the Cubs play first?

17.
Did you happen to put any $ on the Dodgers at 40-1?

17 The Rays need someone to throw out the ceremonial first pitch for their first ever playoff game. There are no notable Rays of the past who are really worthy to do it. You should fly to Tampa Bay to do it. You believed in them since the beginning of the season.

20 - I'm willing to make that a cause.

My rooting interests among teams still eligible for the playoffs:

1) Dodgers
2) Cubs
3) Rays
4) Angels

5) Astros
6) Brewers
7) Twins
8) Phillies
9) Diamondbacks
10) White Sox
11) Red Sox
12) Mets

22 Actually, I have never been really excited about a Dodger v. Angel World Series. Personally, I would prefer the Red Sox only because I always wanted to see the Dodgers play at Fenway. (And this year, Manny going back to Fenway would be awesome).

25 How about Ned Colletti? (ducks)

Today's lineups at Busch.

1. S. Drew, SS
2. C. Young, CF
3. C. Jackson, LF
4. A. Dunn, 1B
5. J. Upton, RF
6. M. Reynolds, 3B
7. C. Snyder, C
8. A. Ojeda, 2B
9. D. Davis, P

1. B. Barton, LF
2. F. Lopez, 2B
3. A. Pujols, 1B
4. R. Ludwick, CF
5. T. Glaus, 3B
6. J. LaRue, C
7. B. Ryan, RF
8. J. Pineiro, P
9. C. Izturis, SS

26 With regard to your last two teams, I do have to say: a Red Sox-Mets World Series would not be any fun at all.

24 I did in May when they were 11-1 to win the NL.

Betting on baseball? Now you guys can't get into the Hall of Fame!

32.
But I wasn't managing the team so it should be ok in a few years, right?

Paul Philadelphia: I know this is a touchy subject and won't get picked, but do you find anything disturbing/odd about how few of the "scraptacular" players out there are of non-white descent?

Keith Law: (1:17 PM ET ) There is no question in my mind that "scrappy" is a term used to elevate white players who are not that athletic. You almost never hear about unathletic black players who play hard. There's still a lot of latent racism in baseball.

Jeez Keith, sometimes it maybe best to just bite your tounge.

19 Ah. Like the old intra-Kremlin fights: no cult of personality here, comrade!

I'm a sentimentalist in the AL; I want the 150:1s to win until they meet the Dodgers (if Our Boys get that far).

27

another reason (for me at least) is that the Dodgers have a poor record against the Halos. other than that, for entertainment purposes, I'm all for it.

34 This is nothing new, it is something that has been talked about for about 30 years, particularly in baseball and basketball.

Jon said Now, Houston has a makeup game to play against the Cubs on Monday if necessary. So potentially, we might not know until the p.m. of that day whether a three-way tie exists.

If that was to happen however improbable it would be, that would really screw the Cubs as instead of an off day they would have to play. For the integrity of the game since it would decide a playoff partner how would Lou play. Screw integrity and rest his team and best pitchers, or try to win with his starting lineup and his 3rd/4th pitcher? I'd hate to be in that situation but I'm hoping for it just because I'd be interested in seeing how it plays out.

There is no question in my mind that "scrappy" is a term used to elevate white players who are not that athletic. You almost never hear about unathletic black players who play hard. There's still a lot of latent racism in baseball.

Keith Law, meet Juan Pierre.

Maybe Keith thought Juan was latino & didnt qualify.

Last night was an experience I literally don't have words to describe. Through my work I got invited to go to the game in some really nice "company" seats that were given to us. I knew they were Dugout Club so I was incredibly excited. But they were not just Dugout Club. They were perfect. They were as close to that dreaming point of view (where you are the players, or sitting next to the players) as one could possible get. I realize the expression "like a kid on Christmas" is clichéd, but it's also entirely accurate. My senses were so heightened the entire night, straining to take everything in.
With the Dodgers winning, it would have been an amazing evening no matter what. But to get to hear: the sound of Andre's bat as he took practice swings; an inconsequential but touching greeting of Tommy Lasorda by Matt Kemp as he entered the on-deck circle; the sound of a Clayton Kershaw fastball hitting Russell's glove (like the sound it makes in little league only infinitely more crisp and wonderful); Frank McCourt thanking his guests for giving him the chance to go eat dinner with his kids for a few innings once the Dodgers had pulled ahead.
For one night, there was no front office tumult. No fears about playoff matchups or even magic numbers. I was able to experience everything I love about baseball totally viscerally. I kept my glove on my hand for most of the game. Amazing plays, like Casey Blake's snag of a hard hit ball down the line, were all the more amazing getting to see them from almost a catcher's perspective. I know it's been said before, but I'll say it again. These guys are amazing physical specimens. I always thought Blake looked like kind of a bean poll. But he is far from thin. His baggy pants barely hide thighs so strong and explosive they could eat my face. And everything everyone has said about Matt Kemp as an athlete is true. Even among other professional ball players his strength and speed are astounding to see up close.
A lot of the unfortunate stereotypes about the Dugout Club are true. With my LA hat, Dodgers jacket, and baseball glove I felt deeply out of place. Until I remember that I was at a baseball game. The section (perhaps because it was by the owner's box) where I sat was eerily quiet in the first few innings. I found myself feeling a little insecure, and unsatisfied in that way that being around a lot of power and privilege tends to make one (or at least me). But luckily I was able to let it all go. To let it be completely about the experience. To take as much in as possible. And it was magic.
I debated whether or not to post pictures here, but decided—what the hell! Why not try to share the experience:

http://tinyurl.com/3zr44h

i'm all for a freeway series. since the only world series game i've been to was at angel stadium, i'd like to see one at dodger stadium.

actually, i'd like to see games at both stadiums.

39 Juan Pierre generally isn't called scrappy though.

if the Dodgers take things for granted and stumble in the next two days, and Arizona ekes out two wins, well, that won't mean the Dodgers are blowing it, but I guarantee it'll be enough for panic to set in

Of course.
Sat/Sun the Dodgers face Cain/Lincecum.
Today is Peavy.

The game the Dodgers should clinch is Friday's game.

42--I've heard Pierre called scrappy many times.

Scrappy is another word for players with no power.

I dont beleive it has a racial connotation.

39 - Or, maybe that's why he explicitly used the word "almost."

I'm wondering if my head will explode: getting married in Cabo (will be there from 10/4 to 10/18) on 10/9/08..which is when the NLCS starts.

Does anybody know if they get TBS down there? I'm assuming the nicer hotels have cable, but..

34 Keith Law, meet Juan Pierre. Juan Pierre, meet Keith Law.

39 - Meet Maury Wills. For that matter meet Jr. Gilliam and Mr. Robinson. Always considered them to be scrappy, so I guess I didn't know what it meant.

Gameday link above is fixed.

And they are underway with a Stephen Drew flyout to left.

46 Congratulations!

News flash! Mets suspend season!

http://tinyurl.com/4jzhvg

Pineiro vs. Davis in St Louis could = quite a few runs today. No runs for AZ in top of 1st though.

Josh Chicago: Alexei Ramirez is pretty damn scrappy and he isn't white.

Keith Law: (1:57 PM ET ) Your "s" key is stuck.

This made me laugh, boy does he hate Alexi.

D'Backs go 1-2-3. Cardinals coming up in the 1st, No score.

46 - Or, you could enjoy Candy and Sr. No-nono-no, on the Latin feed.

52 Hey! I made that joke here yesterday (with AZ instead of NY); I want partial credit from Slacktivist.

I'm with BHsportsguy this year. Normally I'd be rooting for a Angel/Dodger World Series but with the whole Manny angle I think a Dodger/RedSox World Series would be the biggest world series in years. Fox would be giddy. Almost as giddy as a Cub/RedSox matchup. They must be dreading a Dodger Ray/Phillie match up or Dodger Ray/Brewer match up.

How can he not like Ramirez?
He's a 2nd basemen thats hit 20hrs, and has an OPS of .801. I probably wouldnt desribe him as scrappy though.

That joke now falls under rule 5 and rule 8 ...

One on, one out for Pujols.

Here we go Cardinals, here we go! Clap. Clap.

60 Party pooper... ;-)

Now 2 one with 1 out for the Cards bottom of the 1st.

1st and 3rd for Ludwick.

Rooting for Pujols is fun because he's good.

Ludwick pops out. 2 out.

57 Oh, sorry. In a thousand comments I must have missed it. Fred certainly took it to logical extremes, though, you gotta admit.

48
Your actually going to bring up players from 50 years ago who were all all-stars for racial discussion in the 21st century related to fringe ballplayers? Peruse the rosters and find the 24th/25th guys who are black. They are hard to find, even the Lenny Harris/Sharperson combo of time past is not very evident anymore.

Is it racism or do fringe black players quit while the gazillions of Hispanic fringe players continue to play? I don't know and I don't agree with Law's use of the word "scrappy" in defining racism but I think studies have shown that if you are not a above average black player the odds of making the major leagues are longer then the odds for other races. Reggie Abercombie excepted.

Full count to Glaus.

And he walked him. Bases loaded for LaRue.

65 Jason LaRue, on the other hand . . .

in play, runs

w00t!

Line drive...BASE HIT!

2-0 Cardinals Bot 1!

Yay! LaRue comes thrue!

71 He mocks you.

Frenchy LaRue with the two-run single!

Dodgers may not need any more wins to clinch.

75 Hey, that's the Kreuter Phenomenon (in which I rip a player right before he comes through)! Note - cannot be intentionally invoked.

2-0 Cardinals Top 2.

Crud.

Adam Dunn solo HR 2-1 Cardinals.

Stupid Dunn halves the lead.

Like I said, this one could be high-scoring, predict about a 7-5 final. Hopefully with Dbacks on the losing end.

i'm not liking adam dunn.

#200 for Reynolds.

Dunn was all over that 1st pitch

2-1 Cardinals Bot 2.

51.
thanks..! Should be the best week of my life I figure. Golf/Marlin fishing/Dodger playoff baseball..Oh, ya, and wedding..

Joe Maddon from the Rays looks just like my pastor

85 At least he's in the record books now

jennnifer chicago: compare the potential of kershaw, schrezer and lincecum and there stuff and numbers please

Keith Law: (2:36 PM ET ) Changing your user name doesn't make me more likely to answer, jeff/jennnifer/whoever. Scherzer's slightly behind the other two, and I've said before I see him as a reliever. Kershaw could be as good as Lincecum is now, but from the L side, three-pitch power pitchers with + curveballs. Lincecum's control improved in his early 20s, and I expect Kershaw's to do the same.

Drool

2-1 Cardinals Top 3.

I thought the current Cardinals would have great numbers against lefties since they're mostly right-handed, but it didn't quite turn out that way. Pujols and Ludwick have raked lefties and righties fairly equally this year, but Glaus is actually much better against righties (.881 OPS vs. 740). Yadier Molina was the only one with favorable splits and he's hurt.

That YouTube vid on The Juice Blog is wild.

2-1 Cardinals Bot 3.

This is a strange story - according a clubhouse insider for the Mariners, a lot of players on the team hate Ichiro so much that there was talk of beating him up earlier in the year.

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/mariners/2008201525_maribuild250.html

96 - if we don't resign Manny, I'm down for an Ichiro trade.

68 - I just brought up those players in regards to how I understood the term "scrappy", all the rest of this discussion seems like something you needed to get off your chest. Go for it.

How did the Diamondbacks lead the NL West all summer long without Adam Dunn?

I'm gonna do most of my traveling during my golden years.

2 on, nobody out for Cards after Pujols walks.

99 The same way the Dodgers stayed right behind them: no team in the NL West was good. The two best were both mediocre.

Lopez and Pujols reach. Two on, nobody out for Ludwick.

96 Maybe a trade to Cleveland?

Ludwick K.

larue can be a hero

Bases loaded again for LaRue.

In two hours, we will be champions of the West.

GIDP 2-1 Cardinals Top 4.

106 and he keeps the dbacks season alive

knock on wood

Awesome DP, Cards.

111 Knuckles bloodied and crushed by now?

2nd and 3rd with two outs. Reynolds up.

uh oh...reynolds with a chance to take the lead

113 I knock softly. Otherwise people at work will get mad at me.

Base hit 3-2 Arizona.

Confarnit! I knew Pineiro was due to stink.

Things I didn't know (Wikipedia on Tony La Russa): La Russa was signed by the Kansas City Athletics as a middle infielder prior to the start of the 1962 season. He came up to the A's the next season, making his debut on May 10, 1963. In the following off-season he suffered a shoulder injury while playing softball with friends, and the shoulder continued to bother him during the remainder of his playing career.
La Russa has Hispanic ancestry and speaks fluent Spanish

I knew of the shoulder injury but didn't know it was caused by playing softball. I use to think Tony La Russa was Italian & Torre was hispanic, seriously.

well shoot

you know what, I don't even care if the Diamondbacks win today. The way the Dodgers have been crushing the ball lately, I want them to have something to play for in the last home game of the season.

And please don't remind me that it's Dodger Killer Jake Peavy taking the mound tonight.

Oh well, the Cards won two for us, can't ask for much more than that.

3-2 D'Backs Bot 4.

I was about to contribute to the fake, old-timey profanity with a "goldaggumit" or something like that, but it seems like you guys have got it covered.

kind of like Piazza (Wikipedia) Ludwick Ryan Ludwick played for the UNLV Rebels for three seasons before being drafted in 1999 by the Oakland Athletics in the second round, 60th overall.

man, Oakland sure knows how to pick-them.

Um, if anyone cares about the songs baseball players use when they come up to bat, here:

http://sports.espn.go.com/espnmag/atbat

The player lets you select the songs and listen.

I worked on this project for a very, very long time.

122

I agree. Let's not get greedy people.

121 - It's Dodger Killer Jake Peavy taking the mound tonight.

What you said is a leading contender for "famous last words." :)

125 Wasn't Piazza picked in the 67th round or something ridiculous? And mostly because he was Lasorda's godson. Talk about picking a nugget. Ludwick in the 2nd round is a little different. :)

Leadoff walk for the Cards.

I wouldn't give up on this game just yet anyway, it is Doug Davis pitching after all.

Runner at 2nd and one out for Izzy.

126 I actually was looking for that the other day, thanks Molly.

ohnoarizonaswinningpeavyispitching thedodgersaregonnablowittheyhavenoheart

...just warming up.

Hail Cesar! He comes through!

Triple for Izzy.

3-3!

131

They should let me pinch hit.

Why did we ever trade the best double-play shortstop in history!

126 Happy belated birthday Molly, if you were here, I would bring you red velvet cupcakes.

Wow, Brian Barton is just awful.

I know he's a rule 5 guy, but was it really worth keeping Brian Barton on the roster all year. He is simply terrible.

126 - I'm impressed.

Molly, that at bat music tracker thing is really cool. Kudos! Fun to sample the Dodgers tracks via iTunes.

--

Every time I see him, Barton just does not impress me in his at bats at all. I'm sure I'm just seeing him at his worst, but not impressed.

126 Very impressive! It sure lets me know how vastly out of touch I am with current pop music...

3-3 Top 5.

126 yes this is awesome! I never recognize any of those rap songs, and finally I know what James Loney's song too, nice job.

I think I might have to make a good mojo playlist if we make the playoffs

143 - they're one of the three teams in my market with the 2 chicago teams, so I watch the Cards a bunch. He never impresses.

I think you have to be a Manny-level hitter to have hair like Barton's work for you, too. Otherwise you're just Royce Clayton.

Thanks, guys. I literally pestered every MLB team for months. And in the article in this issue of the Magazine I did a chart comparing a team's winning percentage to their average Billboard chart ranks.

Yes, I am a dork.

Also, see the Lil Wayne interview. It spawned him becoming a blogger for espn, which has blown up bigger than I could have imagined.

126 That's awesome Molly. Actually, paying attention to a player's theme music is one of the fun things my friends and I do at the game. We then get into what would be our personal theme songs.

Funny thing, during Manny's first game with the Dodgers, his theme music was "Sent from Heaven" by Keisha Cole.

Oh and it was your birthday? Red velvet cakes, double fudge cupcakes, may you get whatever you wish for!

149 - Did I miss your Top Chef story?

Far be it from me to judge the Dodgers musical tastes. I've never heard of the vast majority of songs/artists. I do think its at least marginally cool that Joe Beimel likes the White Stripes, and marginally hilarious that Mark Sweeney's song is "Dr. Feelgood."

Could someone fill me in on what occurred for AZ's third out in the fourth? Snyder's at-bat just vanished into the ether on Yahoo gameday...

153 I believe he struck out.

153 He struck out.

151-No, it got combined into the "102 Things About Chicago Baseball" feature:

http://tinyurl.com/3p8df9

I did the Dempster and Soto interviews, too.

126 - Beyond excellent. ace, banner, blue-ribbon, brag, capital, champion, fine, first-class, first-rate, prime, quality, splendid, superb, superior, terrific, tiptop, top.

The boys' songs are one of the things I think about during the course of a game. So, thank you.

3-3 Bot 5.

Thanks so much guys. They hyped the stuffing out of the Lil Wayne stuff I did but I don't think this has been added to espn.com's main page yet. I worry people aren't going to see it, and I think they would like it!

7-5 Bot 8.
vr, Xei

The random button is also fun, I love Diamond Trax.

149 Lil' Wayne pulls for the Dodgers? That's great. And the Rays, because of David Price? That's cool because he said that even before Price got called up.

Maybe the Dodgers' crack PR team should hook him up with some free tickets so he could go to his first MLB game.

Pujols leads off with a double.

163

Number 43 on the old season.

Come on Redbirds, you owe us.

If the Dbacks lose this one, I think they should repress the score from Dodger players and not show it on the scoreboard. Then if the Dodgers win, they celebrate. And if they lose, they reveal the score and they celebrate. IF.

Ludwick walks. 1st and 2nd for Glaus.

Doug Davis' regular season is over.

166 - Ah, if only it were 1908.

166

On the other hand, if things work out, the Dodger regulars could get some valuable rest.

That reminds me...

The Angels, unless they're still fighting for Home Field, have played nearly a month of meaningless games. Not saying it affects them per se, but I still think they'll be the first to be bounced in the playoffs.

Maybe I'm biased...

---

2 on, nobody out. LETS DO THIS THING St. Louis!!!!

A walk! The bases are loaded!!

Bases loaded for LaRue, AGAIN.

Leo Rosales comes in and throws 4 balls.

Hey, the bases are loaded. Guess who's up?

Jason LaRue.

166 - but what if the guys are checking DT as we speak.

166

has anyone one like this? it must be a little weird for the Dodgers I would think.

Bases llenos. No hay outs.

Hopefully Kennedy demanded a trade again today. That seems to work for him.

Prediction: Lineup if Arizona loses:
C Ardoin
1B Sweeney
2B DeWitt
SS Furcal
3B Ozuna
OF Repko, Pierre, Young
P Maddux

LaRue 3 pitches 3 strikes. Adam Kennedy pinch hitting for Ryan.

LaRue coming through twice would have been too much to ask.

larue could become a dback legend

Even with the bases loaded and nobody out, given the sorry lot of hitters due up for the Cards I don't have much faith they do much here.

And there's LaRue, alas not proving me wrong.

If the D-backs do lose this, let's hope the Dodgers save the champagne until after the game.
No need to play like that drunk Russian high-jumper.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vTkxnqgCG6E

Wow... just wow, Kennedy.

170- I am rooting for the angels to be bounced. I work in the OC and their fanbase is arguably the most ignorant fans in sports. They don't have a clue as to what they are talking about.

A weak little pop up to third.

The cards should be burying the Snakes today, yet it's tied.

If this is true, I want no part of the Mets this postseason:

http://tinyurl.com/3vr5hm

166 Was not meant to be too serious - I don't think it's possible to repress the score from the players, yet alone the fans.

This is what it sounds like... when doves cry.

Wow, he pinch hits for Ryan, but not Piniero. Thanks for the help, Tony.

Tampa Bay 150:1 Rays will have to wait atleast a few more hours to clinch the AL East. Lost 7-5.
vr, Xei

2 and 1 to Joel Pineiro

Yeah, can't believe Pineiro hits here.
vr, Xei

wonderful

And he strikes out.

3-3 Top 6.

ARGH.

At least the Cards will now have 2 crummy leadoff men to start the 6th.

Bleh. That was pretty sad.

I would guess the Dodgers will start pretty much their regular lineup tonight, with the possible exception of Martin, no matter what - for the benefit of the sold-out crowd and for the good vibes they would get. But they could get subbed out early if the division is already won.

Wonder what game LaRussa is saving his bullpen for?
vr, Xei

201. I know, I know... what bullpen!
vr, Xei

200. Good point, plus they probably want to help Maddux get his 391st win.
vr, Xei

adam being adam

3-3 Bot 6.

I'm feeling a little better about Pineiro staying in.

I have no idea if this has been said but J.T Snow will be the Giants starting first baseman tonight. Sort of.

http://cbs5.com/local/jt.snow.giants.2.824986.html

206. I am a little bit too, especially after I reminded myself how bad the Cardinals bullpen is.
vr, Xei

Not a lazy day at the ballpark for us, Cards announcers.

Izzy with a leadoff walk.

I seriously want Russell to rest man.

Wait, is GameDay right? Did they just IBB Izturis to start the inning? I guess they think Barton is that terrible, too.

207 - For Saturday's game against us.

14 baserunners for St. Louis so far.

I really want this game. I want our regulars to rest, I want to see McDonald start a game, and I really would like to see Furcal, a lot, over the next 4 days.

188

that was really cool, I sent it to my cubicle neighbor, he's all cracking up right now.

207

...only the Giants

Izzy steals second.

If La Russa is gonna hit for regulars I wish he would have sent Schumaker up here.

Sideshow Barton with the bunt hit!

I'd say I stand corrected, but that was a terrible bunt by Barton. Better to be lucky then good I guess.

Bunt hit for Barton. 1st and 3rd for Lopez.

That JT Snow thing just makes me shrug my shoulders but it's kinda hard to believe they had open spots on their 40 man. I know they're not in a playoff race but also points to their lack of depth in organization right now. Whatever, Snow gets to take the field then take a seat. I just pray that game is totally meaningless separate from that.

Awesome little bunt.

Pena in, Rosales out. Upton out, Salazar in.

Barton shows some scrappiness, bunts and makes it safely, 1st and 3rd no outs.

The Cardinals are driving me insane today. Break this game open, already.

224 Has Auburn recovered from last Saturday?

Upton out?!

For some of us that game could have some meaning. Who was it (besides me) that had a bet on whether the Giants could win 73 games?

jennnifer chicago: compare the potential of kershaw, schrezer and lincecum and there stuff and numbers please

SportsNation Keith Law: Changing your user name doesn't make me more likely to answer, jeff/jennnifer/whoever. Scherzer's slightly behind the other two, and I've said before I see him as a reliever. Kershaw could be as good as Lincecum is now, but from the L side, three-pitch power pitchers with + curveballs. Lincecum's control improved in his early 20s, and I expect Kershaw's to do the same.

Lopez pops to left. Pujols up.

Walk Pujols here?

228 Pretty much with the Vols arriving soon, but it was plenty glum first of the week. Not just the loss, mind you, but losing to rival LSU. Three Bayou Bengals tried to start fights with me walking to our stadium, and as you now know bh, I'm not a kid anymore. Worst fans in college football.

They will pitch to Pujols.

come on Albert show us why you deserve the MVP

234 - u guys are gonna roll the Vols on Saturday.

so I guess it's still tide up right? you guys are my window to the score, don't wanna open up to many windows on the computer.

Sac fly to center.

4-3 Cardinals!

Izzy!!!

Three innings to go.

234 Nick Saban isn't helping matters.

mvp

Whew, that was pretty close at the plate but Izzy's hustle gets it done!

Oh yea!

Sac fly for Albert. Close play at the plate but Izzy is SAFE!

4-3 Cards.

Ludwick will hit it out.

237 Hope so; the offense is still way out of synch.

230 Hah hah. Oh noes! Forgot about that.

Regardless of what it means, I would like to see the Dodgers span the Giants, even if carried out by their backups.

How about 9 more outs, a division title, the Trojans roll by 40 tonight, we play our bench players but beat Peavy anyway, and celebrate. That is what I'm hoping for.

Full count to Ludwick.

Yeah, D-Backs bullpen!

Base hit!

5-3 Cardinals!

Spank, not span.

Yes! Ludwick comes through!

cha-ching!

Excellent.

I've heard cooked snake tastes just like chicken. :-)

Dunn fields first base like I did--can't get the glove on the ground. Course he hits better.

Glaus singles up the middle. 1st and 2nd for who? LaRue that's who.

alright Larue has got one good at bat, and two bad ones..lets see if he can do it.

242 Parole Tide Parole.

i'm glad the D-Backs bullpen is bad this year man.

248 - I'd like to see Burns play a bit more. I just think you run the best athlete out there when running the spread, unless the other guys is light years ahead in running the offense and throwing the ball. I liked what I saw from Tate on Saturday. Running on LSU is nearly impossible, but he ran hard.

Auburn and UGA are the only good teams in the SEC that I can stand. I hope you guys win big. We all went out there for the 2003 game, we were treated amazingly by the Auburn fans, even after our big win.

Molly, love the work, especially the interview with Wayne. Send that interview to the Rays and maybe they'll get Wayne to throw out the first pitch!

LaRue flies to left.

5-3 Cardinals Top 7.

PU, LaRue. But we'll take the two runs. Given the Cards' bullpen I would hope for one more.

Jason LaRue has left 8 men on base. Collectively, the Cards have left 25 runners on.

I'm going to the Cubs/Mets game tonight. What should I be cheering for?

25 LOB for Cards today, this could be a lot worse (or better I guess)..

201!

8

268 Mets. We want them in the first round, not the Cubs.

Eight outs to go.

Reynolds has the record and is piling it on.

268 I'd say Mets. They have to make the postseason for us to play them.

Mark Reynolds is a bad player.

268 Cheer for Carlos Voltron from 188

268 - A long grueling great game.

7

7 outs

The only prediction I'll make for this game is 2 more DBacks will strike out before it's over.

--

Molly, root for the Mets, as noted above, we'd rather see them or Phils than the Cubs.

Okay, I'll let Alex do it.

268.
For Pedro to revert to Pedro circa 1999.

268

Mets. First, they could use all the help they can get. Second, they still have the slim chance to grab the east, which would mean, assuming the brewers fall off, that we'd get to feast on that bullpen.

6 outs to go, amigos y amigas.

5-3 Cardinals Bot 7.

6

6 to go. Pretty solid effort from Pineiro, who I assume is headed to the shower.

I would leave the starter out there with StL bullpen.

Gotta pull for the Mets.

6 outs

Six

279

Love the rhyme job.

We can all count it down!

If it's still this score in the 9th I may have to listen to the DBacks broadcast, just to hear Sutton's very sad panda voice.

263 Thanks. Burns is supposedly still banged up, but the new OC likes Todd irregardless. That 2003 game was fun just to hear your band in person.

6 outs

290 Hah. Thanks. That was not planned, but it comes close to poetry.

I forget to stay in character sometimes, and don't often bust out with the rhymes.

288 - LOL. didn't see that.

W0oOo~!

292 - Yes! Taste the sad, Sutton!

Kennedy leads off with a double plus a SCY bobble and ends up at third.

Adam Kennedy still demands a trade.

A-K with the trey!

Can you smell it?!!

It smells like victory.

Woo hoo! "Trade Me" with a triple!

300 - Hey, if he keeps this up, someone might actually want him.

Base hit Miles!

6-3 Cardinals!

268. A rainout.
vr, Xei

A slow agonizing death for the Diamondbacks.

In my weaker moments, I pity them.

Insurance run brought to you by AFLAC.

:-)

156 Awesome article! Unfortunately I don't have iTunes so I can't hear any of the songs. Anywho, here are some of my favorites:

Cherub Rock (Jacoby Ellsbury)
Danger Zone (Nick Swisher) - for comedy's sake
Elevation (Scott Podsednik) - because it's fitting in Colorado
Poison (Curtis Granderson) - kickin' it old school!
Unsung (Geoff Blum)
Rhythm and Police (Kaz Matsui) - because the artist is Dance Dance Revolution
Want Your Body (Mark Teahen) - because it's sung by Jose Lima; did he lose a bet or something?
No Leaf Clover (Casey Blake) - his Killers songs are good choices too!
We've Had Enough (Chan Ho Park) - Chan Ho is an Alkaline Trio fan?!?
Joe Mauer Theme Song (Joe Mauer) - I love that it has explicit lyrics
Seek & Destroy (John Maine)
You're the Best Around (Andy LaRoche)
Moby Dick (Michael Barrett)
15 Step (Barry Zito)
Walk (Eric Hinske) - this one would be a finalist for my own at-bat song
Hanging Tough (AJ Burnett) - never thought I'd see NKOTB on this list

Seems that baseball players are big into hip-hop, country, and hard rock. I also realized that I've never heard of Rick Ross but he seems to be very popular.

Cardinals win expectancy is 96.3%.
vr, Xei

Izzy bunts Miles to 2nd. Schumaker pinch hitting for Barton. Thank you.

I've got chills, there multiplying...

If the Dbacks do lose this game, personally I think having a lot of K's, lack of clutch hitting and bad pitching from the bullpen will be an appropriate way for them to go out. Not to pour salts on their wounds.

With this win I've kind of lost all interest in going to the game tonight. I knew we'd win the division but I did think we'd have to at least win tonight or one game in SF. This is all so anti-climatic to win because Arizona lost.

311 Assuming the 1 game play-off is 50/50 our chances of winning the divison are now 99.98961%

Er, salt. Didn't mean to make it weirdly plural.

This game is keeping me from having lunch til really late...

315 It's the NL West. If the D-Backs lost, would could be a more appropriate way to clinch?

(knock on wood)

268 Hope both teams get into a benches clearing brawl. Numerous players from both teams ejected/suspended from post season play.

314.
Pour away Morton girl. Pour away...

Given all current parameters, the Dodgers chances of winning the NL West are 99.51%.
vr, Xei

315 - Nothing beats a good wrap party.

Hi everybody,

I've been a lurker all season on "Dodger Thoughts" but thought I'd join the happy anticipation.
The D-backs' defense this inning looks like the defense of players who've given up.
I still want the Dodgers to win tonight, for pride's sake if nothing else.

Schumaker infield single. 1st and 3rd for Lopez.

The AJ Burnett song I was guilty of liking as well. I grew up with 6 sisters o.k....

what*

156

I also like Andy LaRoche's song - "You're the Best Around" (aka the theme of The Karate Kid). I always got a chuckle out of that song choice when he would come to bat for the Dodgers.

St. Louis gets its 20th baserunner.

314 It would best if the last out was Mark Reynold's 200th K.

It becomes increasingly likely that the second best seats I've ever had may be in a useless game.

And I'm ok with that. Seis!

330

Hate to burst your bubble, but I think he's already at 201 K's for the year.

330 Reynold already has 200 strike outs.

330 You mean his 202nd.

The Angels won their game to reduce their number to 1 and then later on, Texas lost so they clinched it while in the clubhouse.

Chicago Cubs, Tampa Bay and Boston clinched their playoff spots by winning their game.

Looking pretty good here.

Lopez pops it up. Pujols up.

Petit is pitching.

Man, seeing that shot of Bob Melvin makes me feel for them. This could easily be us, and I feel for any Diamondbacks fan right now.

Oh, so Reynolds has the record then. He better keep up the K-ing though. Howard and Cust are nipping at his heels.

Pop the cork, baby!

I wish Russell Martin would use the theme from the old TV show "Martin" as his at bat music. It just goes "Martin, Martin... You So Crazy". Will someone please suggest this to him.

Can we pop the champagne yet?

340 And there it is.

Thank you, Albert....MVP

ALBERT = MVP!!!!

Are the Dodger players in the clubhouse yet? Hope someone has some video of them, if indeed the Cardinals win.
vr, Xei

Yellow alert for Albert Pujols in St. Louis. This is a yellow alert.

YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!

ALBERT PUJOLS THREE RUN SHOT!!!

9-3 Cardinals

Oh my.

Hooray! Hooray!

Thar' she blows!

Time for "unbridled enthusiasm," Jon?

OK, I'm sold. Pujols for MVP.

The Redbirds are more like the Raven in this series:
Not the least obeisance made he; not a minute stopped or stayed he;
But, with mien of lord or lady, perched above my chamber door -
Perched upon a bust of Pallas just above my chamber door -
Perched, and sat, and nothing more.

Put 'em in a body bag!

Que the Queen song baby!!

And with that, St. Louis presents its case for Pujols as MVP.

You knew it. Its done. That shoulting you hear is from the Dodger Stadium.

Also some type of alert for Pujols.

This is going to be one strange celebration tonight.

Guys, I just opened my victory beer.

Good gravy, I'm 50 years old and I'm sitting here wearing my LA cap with tears in my eyes. Can it be real?

I wonder if Pujols home run there was when Fanerman officially decided he could stop knocking on wood.

I doubt any of the players are at Dodger Stadium.

Back-Back

10-3.

the case for Ryan Ludwick for MVP

And one more!

I think Torre is revising the line up card as we speak.

Feels pretty close. We may get to see an odd line-up tonight.

That'll do, Pujols. That'll do.

HAHAH!!!

LUDWICK!

363
Juan Pierre might be at the stadium already.

Oh no..! Salt salty salt!!

Ludwick GONE!

10-3 Cardinals.

If this was 8 and Under baseball, they could call it off.

Speaking of gravy...

99.7% win expectancy for Cards now. Dodgers playoff probability is now at 99.9986%. I'd say we got a good shot at it. :)
vr, Xei

Mike Shannon on Cards radio: "They're dancing in the streets in L.A."

Say goodbye to Madame George!

back to back Ludwig

My goodness, Ludwick has more homers than Pujols?

Yes!

Ay caramba, Cards are just piling it on now. I'd almost feel sorry for... Nah.

Mmmmmmmmm....barbecued rattlesnake... ooooooooohhh.... {drool}

Three postseason appearances in the last five years.
I'll take it, in a heartbeat.

What are the odds Petit is not a D-back next year?

Redbird Romp... Huzzah!

363
I doubt any of the players are at Dodger Stadium.

I doubt any of the players aren't at DS.

363 I bet Hu, DeWitt, Furcal, and Pierre are there already.

376 No dancing until the Diamondbacks lose or the Dodgers win. No dancing!!!!

Looks like Johnny swept the leg.

YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Dodgers is going to win the division!!!! So happy!!!!

Troy Glaus just misses a homer.

363 Andre Ethier is late because he's busy volunteering at the local animal shelter right now. What a good guy.

Casey Blake said they'd celebrate before the game and play "buzzed" if they have to.

It's going to be one big party tonight. I say start the regulars and pull them out one by one.

376
You don't really have Champagne there do you?

389 Don't tempt fate!!!!!

390 Are you at the ballpark?

Juan Pierre is absolutely there, rolling balls down the chalk line. He's getting a start tonight!

387 Allright, Smog.

Meanwhile, Bob scours Google Image Search for "light."

6 more outs people!!!! 6 MORE OUTS.

Out of 1 million trial runs the DBacks win the division 4 times. I think Juan Pierre leads off in 3 of those 4. :)
vr, Xei

When I showed up at the ballpark this afternoon, my colleagues asked if I was there to celebrate the Dodgers reaching the playoffs.

399
They're actually all done ahead of time.

Okay, I take it back, fanerman is still worried. At ease everyone. Hold your fire.

2nd best thing about this is that I can watch the SC game and switch over to see the celebration after it's over. Thank you Stl!

402
Remember the words of Jerome Holtzman.

Most of the time I lurk. I only rarely comment. But the season wouldn't have been the same without hanging out on Dodger Thoughts and reading the banter, switching back and forth to MLB.TV or GameDay. With the Pujols, and now Ludwick, homeruns in the bank, allow me to say that you have collectively added much to my enjoyment of the season. It wouldn't have been the same without Dodger Thoughts. Thanks. Onward to the playoffs!

Dodger Clubhouse Attendants-
Please be sure Mr. Beimel has a plastic champagne glass. Thank You

See you all in the playoffs.....Woo Hoo!!!!

402 - An old friend in the press box! Nice to see your roots on display.

http://tinyurl.com/3pth7o

Joining the victory party. Now I can enjoy the USC game without channel surfing back to Prime tonight. I imagine there won't be a lot of regulars in the lineup tonight. Maybe Raffy can get in a few innings. It would be nice to have him for the postseason. Thanks St. Louis

WOOOO~~~

403 - Something special planned for the Snakes?

I love how Gameday continually shows the base loaded for the Cards.

A Tom Timmermann appearance!

412 The party hasn't started yet. There may not even be a party today. Or ever! Please cease any party-related movements until the Diamondbacks lose or the Dodgers win.

The Cardinals award the Dodgers with 4 tune-up games!

Russell Martin could really use the rest.

408 - LOL

416 Bob's relative?

Jason La Rue looks like Lawrence from Office Space.

It is comforting when the team you want to win and give up a run for an out in order to win.

417 The D-backs won't comeback. They can't face their own bullpen.

I still think an image from Poltergeist should be used for the Snakes entry on the Griddle.

The 7th inning finally ends.

10-3 Cardinals Top 8.

Ground control to Major Tom: Commencing countdown engine's on!

When the magic No. became 5,I never imagined it might only take five games to accomplish it. For a long time things haven't gone that way for the Dodgers.

Fate, superstition, I mock thee.

And yes, I am typing this while wearing a catcher's mask, a green sweater and doing the can can.

Oh wait, someone is knocking at the door.

Sorry - can give up a run for an out...

425 Major Tom knows to not commence countdowns until the "launch" is definite.

One should bear in mind that the Cards' bullpen stinks. Seven runs would seem safe, and Jason Isringhausen isn't in the pen. But still ...

The NL playoff picture is still fuzzy, but I believe we have now qualified for a bowl game. I am thinking if we don't get selected to play in the Orange Bowl, it will be the Rose Bowl. I think the Cubs will probably get the Orange Bowl invite along with the fairly local Tampa Bay team.
vr, Xei

424

They will now be known as the Arizona Carol-Annes.

The Office season premiere is tonight!

So much for the concerns about Jake Peavy tonight.

I'm as superstitious as they come and even I am celebrating. But out of respect for fanerman I will not officially celebrate just yet.

Jason LaRue has not had a good game today.

427 Who can it be now?

433. Crap, I have class. I'll miss the Premiere. Oh well I just watch it online, but Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia is also air tonight at 10:00!

I haven't been able to follow the game much due to a hellish day at work (migrating email servers = not fun), but I was happy when I saw it was 6-3. I was about to load the audio when my brother (less famous than Bob's brother) called to tell me Pujols homered.

What a glorious day!

I have a can of Fresca at my desk that I will pop in celebration as soon as the last out is recorded in St. Louis. My co-workers may be upset to get drenched in Fresca, but I don't care.

Back to work so I won't be able to count down with you all (my toy has figured out how to easily read DT on the iPhone, but not post), so I will talk to you folks after I get home from the game tonight, hopefully with Hu, Furcal, and Sweeney scouting reports. I do hope Joe lets Manny swing at least once, though, being as close as I'll be.

Ah, nothing like the leadoff walk issued with a seven-run lead.

Hi All,

I haven't posted for a while, but y'all kept me from dire depression throughout the 8-loss slide, and from irrational exuberance as we climbed back, step by step. And now, this. Wow.

I was at the game last night, and it was pure pleasure, from the early need to fight back, to Nomar's HR, the kids coming through in the clutch and then some, Manny's smokin' homer, seeing Grouchy-pants back in to get a hit and SMILE, Raffy almost double, and even Juan for Four, socks pulled up, getting juan for juan!

I'm happy. I love these guys, and look forward to (hopefully, with still-crossed fingers) watching them and reading DT in the days to come.

We said we'd have another DT meet up when we made the playoffs.

We need to make this happen.

The Dodgers should play tonights game like a beer league game, a keg at each base. On second thought that might not be such a good idea.

Vegas odds just changed heavily on our game. I guess smart money says the Dodger regulars won't see much action with the DBacks losing today. vr, Xei

442 fanerman shakes his fist at us all.

440

I have a can of Fresca some drunk girl left in my fridge a month ago.

444 IF!!!

5

5

441 Permission to root against Sweeney tonight?

5

I would argue against claims of my fame. Though I was on the radio with Roger Twibell the other day!

444
We should meet right before the championship parade in downtown LA.

Sorry, fanerman. :)

448
Are you sure that's Fresca?

4

454 If it was Al Trautwig, then that would be something.

What is the over/under on Rams wins this year, 2?

454
My brother has never conversed with anyone from the movie Cool Runnings.

Oh wait, that was Al Trautwig. "Go Jam!"

I have designated Alex as the official countdowner. I was impressed by his use of bold.

445 I used to play in a fraternity intramural league at Cal State L.A. We took our positions with a can of beer every inning. If you were an infielder and the batter knocked your beer over with a ground ball it was an automatic out.

4

Count me among those mildly disappointed holding tickets for tonight's game. On Tuesday morning the magic # was 5. I am stunned that 5 in a row have gone the Dodgers way. After 8 of 11 had gone AZ's way. Nuts.

There are still Game 4 seats avail on Ticketmaster btw. Just bought some nice blue levels.

$ echo OUTS_UNTL_DIV_CHAMPION
4
$

448 Bring that, or her, tomorrow.

Did the Dodgers clinch the division any earlier than this any time prior to, say, 1988? It feels like a lot of the more recent playoff appearances weren't assured until the last game or two...

It will be very nice for the Dodgers to be able to set up their rotation, try out Furcal, and otherwise not push the regulars too hard for the next four games in readying themselves for the playoffs. Of course, anything can happen, but FanGraphs shows there to be a 99.8% chance of the Cards winning this game right now...

I have my mlb.com gift card ready to buy my NL West champions tshirt.

3

456

Maybe he has the drunk girl in the freezer! :-P

(waving to all the DT celebrants)

damn... missed a '$'

10-3 Cardinals Bot 8.

3

454

I'd rank you a step above Bernie Miklasz.

So, Manny for MVP? He's been about a four win improvement over Pierre, and it looks like we're going to take the division by that much.

I wonder what fanerman is keeping in his hip pocket to pay this off at the end of the game. That should be one hell of a comment.

Two seems a reasonable number. Really, you should be happy they're not in Los Angeles anymore.

The coach will be fired on Monday. Tuesday at the latest.

472
Bernie Miklasz holds St. Louis in the palm of his hand.

My brother, you can strain him through a sieve.

Where's Steve?

What a glorious lunch break!

Finish them, Cards!

After what I saw in parts of July and mid August, I can't believe this is happening.

3 outs to go!! Ho baby!

The drunk girl actually lives in LA County and is an Angels fan. She's also some other guy's drunk girl, which is fine with me.

458 ,459
Great minds think alike. Idle minds, think of Al Trautwig! :)

477 Steve? Of FJT fame? Or are you talking about another Steve?

IF we clinch, we playing the Cubbies for sure?

476 If and your brother were standing side by side, which one would we pick as the librarian?

477 - I think he posts as "I Love LA" now. :)

I can't believe first-round playoff seats are still available. Come on, Dodger fans, even the Rays were able to sell out those games.

482 No. It could be the Cubs, Mets, or maybe even the Phillies.

483 Only if the Brewers take the Wild Card.

483 No, nothing is settled yet.

Well, at least Arizona fans won't be saying "coulda, shoulda, woulda." Three hits against mediocre pitching wasn't going to get anything done.

475

Linehan? Good, only a year too late.

486 Its Game 4, if I gets there, it will be sold out.

You know who I don't feel sory for? Darren Sutton.

C'mon Cards, speed this up, I have work to do!

491 Are you coming down for the playoffs?

486

Maybe it is because of the ridiculous "convenience" fees charged by TicketMaster. I mean I think each seat for the NLCS was an extra $15 in fees.

494 Seriously. They should just swing at everything even if it's an IBB attempt.

492 - Its Game 4, if I gets there, it will be sold out.

How many tickets are you planning on buying?

My guess at tonight's lineup:

Furcal, SS
Pierre, CF
Manny, LF*
Kent, 2B#
Sweeney, 1B
PeeWee, RF
DeWitt, 3B
Ardoin, C
Maddux, P

*Repko enters after 1-2 ABs
#Hu/Ozuna enters after five innings

444 Name the time and place and I'll be there!

Unless I can't, of course

482
That's the one.

Cards broadcaster John Rooney just thanked Darren Sutton for encouraging listeners to vote for Mike Shannon for the Hall of Fame.

499 I bet you you're pretty close to spot on with that one. And I hope they all do well, especially Furcal. Except Sweeney.

Cesar Izturis went 3-for-3 to help his old team clinch. What a guy.

495

I hadn't planned on it, but I will be in LA on the nights of 9/30 and 10/1 for a work conference.

502 Does he get extra credit for his restaurant?

499 - Doesn't sound like Kent is healthy enough.

{Waving arms} {dressed as General from Monty Python skits} Right! Director! Stop that. Stop that. This game has gotten silly. It started out as a perfectly reasonable game and now it's just gotten silly. You will end this game immediately {harumph}

503 Haha. But Sweeney is a professional hitter. How can you root against him? =)

So do the Dodgers jump around after the final out tonight? Even if they lose?

i don't see there being any way kent starts tonight with that hobbled appendage of his, but what do i know. However, w/ Raffy, i say yes.

504 He is a free agent....

502
What's the specialty at Mike Shannon's restaurant? Besides liquor.

My guess is they start the regulars then pull them after 1 AB like on senior day at Pauley.

This game can't end until Albert resolves his Condition Yellow.

Thief River Falls must be satisfied!

Oh yeah, and i agree about Kent, I don't see any way he starts in the field tonight. That will surprise me. It'll be Hu or Ozuna at 2nd, or maybe DeWitt to start and then a switch.

Icing tastes good!

12-3 Cardinals Bot 8.

Torture.

As a (way) aside, tonight may just be Pedro Martinez's last start ever.

Yellow alert, yellow alert.

This is insult to injury, 12-3, and I am happily asking for more salt.

Has there been any talk of how the Dodgers might want to set up their playoff rotation? I've been too busy to be here much so I might have missed it. I'm thinking Lowe/Bills/Kuroda in that order. Who's 4 - Maddux or Minotaur?

510
I plan on doing that alone at my desk at work!

Well, it is starting to look good. Starting to.

G-d is a Dodgers fan. :-)

513 Sizzling steak and seafood.
http://www.shannonsteak.com/

Jeezus, the game that would not end. The Dbacks bullpen is waving the white flag but no one's looking.

If they clinch i say they show character and determination and move on to sweep the lowly Giants to make a statement going into these playoffs that they are a team to be reckon with!

510 No. We won't get the dogpile scene, but hopefully we'll get shots of them celebrating in the clubhouse. I really wonder if they're going to have champagne BEFORE a game.

I also wonder if they're gonna let Clayton have some bubbly.

519 - I mentioned earlier that it could be Maddux's last start too.

I think Torre will one, respect Maddux and try to win tonight for him, two, will want to keep his players focused and three, he will want at home for the fans.

This weekend in San Francisco is a whole other story.

Remember where we were on
https://dodgerthoughts.baseballtoaster.com/archives/1114259.html#comments

now think of where we are now.

Maybe the greatest turn around I've ever witnessed as a 42 year Dodger fan that resulted in a Division Championship.

If I recall correctly, the Cards got in a few years ago when the team chasing them lost a game that ended in the middle of the Cards' game. La Russa took a lot of guys out, and the Cards lost, but still went nuts in the clubhouse. Since you shouldn't drink and play baseball, I'm guessing the Dodgers will do the same.

And, alas, Pujols is pinch hit for, so no cycle for him.

Cycle alert canceled. Stand down.

528 Thank you for using the word "if."

519 Which makes me feel a bit sad, or at least wistful, if that ends up the case. I'm certainly rooting for him tonight!

Seriously, throw strikes, Ledezma. This is just torturous.

522 While there's nothing for certain, I would be highly surprised if Joe Torre asked Greg Maddux to pitch out of the pen so that Kershaw could start.

Kershaw would be better, I agree, but I think it would almost certainly be Maddux who got the ball.

9th inning in St. Louis. Time to gather around the campfire.

Let the countdown resume.

ok.... 3 baby!

541 - Sigh, I can't wait to see Mark Sweeney's 3-4 at bats tomorrow night. (The only downside of it all.) I wonder if we'll see Eric Stults at last though.

Looks like the D'Backs have chosen to stave of elimination by never getting out of this inning.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZkllM8znx4

Just when I say it . . .

Manny certainly made the difference.
Looks like Ned's gamble paid off.

At the very least, even if Joe Crede's playing 3b & Manny's playing for the Yanks next year ~ the 2008 season was enjoyable.

523.
I work in a bank, and am getting Randy Newman ready on my ipod to play thru our musak system.

clinch or not, i really hope Maddux doesn't give up 7 runs in three innings tonight.

Dunn needs exactly one more home run to finish with 40 for the fourth consecutive year.

543

quite possibly the WORST rock/metal song ever ...

544 Long time no see.

545
Going to frame that.

542 Stop it. I am at work and cannot afford laughing out loud...

(Just letting you know you made me laugh!)

537 - Seems to me you gots to have kershaw in the discussion as he's our lefty... recall Quo Game 1 against the Mets in '06... just need situational starting pitching in the playoffs... maddux potentially getting shelled in early innings against a left heavy lineup scares the be-Jesus out of me.

545 - Flags fly forever.

543 Now I can go to the UCLA football game and not have to worry about anything.

Except if we can score.

2

2

... and, as predicted, I don't hear anyone bemoaning the loss of LaRoche and Santana.

Funny how things work out.

546 tell me where the branch is! I'm making playoff ticket deposits!!!

Going to tonight's game, I really wonder what it will be like. I think it will be a really fun atmosphere but very different than it would have been. Seems like yesterday was the game to attend!

Shannon's restaurant was one of Josh Hancock's last stops before his drunk driving fatality. His parents sued Shannon's for not cutting him off, but a state investigation found them not responsible. Then they sued the driver of the tow truck that Hancock plowed into the back of. They dropped that suit too.

I didn't want to bring this up but the Diamondbacks just didn't want these last 3 games in St. Louis enough.

522 My preference would be, especially if we play the Phillies, Lowe and Kuroda on the road and Billz and Kershaw at home.

I would let Billz go 4 innings/70 pitches on Sunday and then pitch in Game 3 on Saturday.

555
Maybe you will get see a Prince.

549 5 million YouTube views can't be wrong!

The Dodgers went on this huge run (18-5) after Jeff Kent got hurt.

Coincidence?

561 I remember that, if that case was successful it would have changed tort law.

Everyone please remain calm until the game is officially over. Unless the Diamondbacks make a comeback. Then everyone can panic.

537
Torre is not oblivious to how much more effective Kershaw has been then Maddux since Maddux was traded for. He wants to win a World Series and could care less about any feelings that get hurt.

Alright boys, lets roll em up..

A walk sets up a potential double play ball.

558 Wait till November.

568 .001% chance. Though that walk ought to bump it up by about .00004%

562 I watched all games and the D-Backs really did seem dead the whole time. Without Byrnesy they're not the most energetic bunch anyway, but they seemed extra lackadaisical in this series.

D'Backs not going away quietly. Two on. Down nine.

The AZ announcer:
"They are thinking good thoughts in Southern California right now"

C'mon now...stop fighting..you're getting verrry sleeepy..

OH NO THEY'RE RALLYING

558
I'll bemoan Santana if that will make you feel better. We can certainly enjoy the moment without losing perspective about the future.

Melvin throwing in towel taking new single season strikeout king Mark Reynolds... or is he?

566 I think so because Kent has no affect on the pitching which was equally as good if not better than the hitting. Now, you could say that DeWitt's defense helped there too.

The Dodgers were fortunate to play well against some bad teams and really fortunate to beat the D-Backs 5 times, if the Diamondbacks just split those, its a different September.

Fangraph doesn't show enough decimal places to display the probability of the DBacks coming back with one out, two on, and 9 runs down. Even after the single, it shows 100.0% chance of the Cards winning.

One more baby!

1 more

1!!!!!!!!!

558 While browsing various players at-bat music, I wondered what Carlos Santana would have played when he became an all-star catcher for the Cleveland Indians.

2 outs!!!!

Strike one to Ojeda.

Getting nothing out of Byrnes & Upton, & Chris Young not improving were the keys to the Dbax being a .500 team.

Plus, they lost the relief lottery this year.

They need to re-sign Hudson/Dunn in the off-season. And hope Upton turns into a superstar like he looked in April.

579

This wouldn't be Dodger Thoughts if someone didn't. I'm glad you're taking up the cause.

Time to pour my celebratory Newcastle into my souvenir Dodgers pilsner!

One is the loneliest number...

574
When teams are losing they appear lackadaisical. Didn't we also appear the same from Aug 20 - Aug 29th even though I'm sure they were playing with the same energy from Aug 29th - Sept 25th.

1 and 2 to Ojeda.

WE WIN!

Breath

558 I think you can do both but it goes down easier when you win.

Throw your sombreros to the sky!

I LOVE LA!!!!!

And for the 25th time - we're going to the playoffs!!

OVERRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!!!!!!!!!!

FLY BALL!

ZERO

AND THE DODGERS HAVE WON THE WEST!!!

THAT'S IT!!!!!!!!!!

Aggle Flaggle Klabble!!!

If you have a sombrero, throw it to the sky!!!!!!!!

in play (out)s!!!!

Happy days are here again! The sun is out and clear again! We'll cross the offseason when we come to that, right now let's savor one of the best Septembers in recent memory, once that certainly washes the bad taste of last September out of our mouths. Congratulations Dodgers! It's been a bumpy ride but we are in the dance!! Anything can happen, especially when you have Manny's presence in the lineup. The 88 team won with a lot less talent!! Can't wait for next week to start!

Yippie!!!

Magic Number: 0
Dodgers playoff chances: 100%
vr, Xei

NL WEST CHAMPS!!!

Congratulations everybody!

If the Rockies couldn't win the division (and, boy, they couldn't!), I'm glad Dodger's will do it.

Congratulations!

Wooooooooooooooooooooooo! Hoooooooooooooooooooo!!!!!!!!!

Is there a big nasty readhead at your side as well, fellas?

Is there a big nasty readhead at your side as well, fellas?

Go Crazy, Folks, Go Crazy!

(Take that, Jack Buck!)

Yay!

Yessssssssssssssss

Woo-hoo!

I just drenched one of the partners in celebratory Fresca. That might've been a bad move.

593 I was tempting the sarcasm gods there. Also bringing up some Rick Monday cliches.

PLAYOFFS!!!

Now can you celebrate Fanerman? ;-) (At least for a day)

598
No way.

Congratulations, everybody!

WE WIN! YAY, DODGERS!

NPUT!!!!!

GO DODGERS!!!! Bring on the playoffs

Woo hoo!

... and, as predicted, I don't hear anyone bemoaning the loss of LaRoche and Santana.

If Manny's resigned, I dont think there will be.

If he isnt, well it wont be pretty UNLESS the Dodgers win the World Series.

If the Dodgers win it all, the after glow of that World Series win will carry all thru 2009.

When was the last time the Dodgers had won a playoff berth with >3 games left to play?

The Cards have pulled even with Houston in the win column. Let's keep focused on the big things.

Millions of elated Dodger fans....one pissed off Steinbrenner.

Lets go Mets!!

The Little Blue Bicycle rolls again.

We Win!

I would have been more excited if this happened last night at the game but hey, it will make not being able to watch tonight's game a lot more easier.

Flags Fly Forever

//Clenched until we clinched!

611 Oh, man, beat me by 26 seconds.

612 Cheers, and thanks for being a classy fan, woden. :-) I'd root for the Rockies if the places were switched (the only team in the didvision I'd say that about).

I'm going to celebrate by... finally eating my freakin lunch! And getting work done.

I'll celebrate with y'all again later tonight after my soccer game, back in time to watch Repko's 3rd at bat.

Folks, this is why you play 162 games.
A 6.5-game lead four weeks into the season means nothing.

633 : ew.
everyone else: hooray!

Arizona has walked into the light!!

From May 16 onward, Arizona played at a 90-loss pace.

WOOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!! LETS GO DODGERS!! LETS GO!

619 Give him the drunk Angels fan girl.

It just hit me...we are this year's Rockies.

Party tomorrow night at the Hotel Nikko!

645 I'd accept a few playoff losses in exchange for four World Series game wins, though.

Celebrate tonight and then lets start figuring out a way to win a playoff series. Mets are beatable as are the Phillies, rather see the Mets in the first round.....DT's in Norcal going to the game tomorrow night, can we drink good wine in front of the Willie Mays statute?

638 Thank you, and thanks to the rest of the Dodger Thoughts family. I've had a lot of fun and learned quite a bit hanging around in here.

let's party it up tonight and into the weekend and then it's back to work.

Gurnick on Dodgers.com

Despite the late date in the season, the Dodgers still have three possible opponents for the Division Series scheduled to start on Wednesday. If the Milwaukee Brewers win the Wild Card, the Dodgers will play the East winner, either New York or Philadelphia. If Milwaukee doesn't win the Wild Card, the Dodgers will play the Cubs.

{Buzz}

False.