With Game one shaping up to be one of the best pitching duels of the postseason with Tim Lincecum facing off against Cliff Lee, the Giants came out swinging, roughing up Lee for seven runs (six earned) in 4.2 innings. Reliever Darren O'Day replaced Lee and gave up a BOMB to Juan Uribe that put the Giants up 8-2 before the fifth ended.
The "Friek" came out firing after SF gave him a six run lead, striking out Vlad and Nelson Cruz before walking Kinsler and giving up a RBI double to Molina. Mitch Moreland then proceeded to drill Lincecum in the leg with a line drive, the second time he was hit in the game. David Murphy would make it an 8-4 game with a RBI single into right field. That single knocked Lincecum out of the game after 5.2 innings pitched with two on and two out.
Castilla would strike out Andrus to end the vistor half of the sixth and stop the Texas threat.
Both clubs would go quietly before the Giants tacked on a couple of runs in the eighth to seal the game.
Game two is tomorrow night when Matt Cain will take the hill, opposed by C.J. Wilson. Game time is 7:57.
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Monday, October 25, 2010
World Series
With game one looming, we look to the starters of that game which is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated match-ups of the postseason when Tim Lincecum, behind his home crowd, will take on Ranger's ace Cliff Lee, a battle-tested playoff superstar.
This series has to be looked on past the pitching and into the projected line-ups. Playing in a National League park is going to put the Rangers in a tough situation because they will need to find a place to put Vlad because they will be in need of his bat in the line-up. On the other side of the field, the Giants will be looking to get Jonathan Sanchez back on track after being roughed up by the Phillies in his two appearances in the NLCS.
An interesting side story, for those of you that do not know this yet, Benji Molina, the Rangers catcher, will be rewarded with a ring after the series no matter what team wins. He play for SF earlier in the season before being dealt to the Rangers for Minor Leaguer Michael Main and a reliever. Because of that playing time, he will be presented with a ring if SF wins the World Series or if his Rangers win.
Game one is slated for 7:57 ET on Wednesday night in SF. It will be the Rangers first ever World Series appearance in their storied history as they look to put Texas on the map in the baseball world.
This series has to be looked on past the pitching and into the projected line-ups. Playing in a National League park is going to put the Rangers in a tough situation because they will need to find a place to put Vlad because they will be in need of his bat in the line-up. On the other side of the field, the Giants will be looking to get Jonathan Sanchez back on track after being roughed up by the Phillies in his two appearances in the NLCS.
An interesting side story, for those of you that do not know this yet, Benji Molina, the Rangers catcher, will be rewarded with a ring after the series no matter what team wins. He play for SF earlier in the season before being dealt to the Rangers for Minor Leaguer Michael Main and a reliever. Because of that playing time, he will be presented with a ring if SF wins the World Series or if his Rangers win.
Game one is slated for 7:57 ET on Wednesday night in SF. It will be the Rangers first ever World Series appearance in their storied history as they look to put Texas on the map in the baseball world.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Unfinished Business
"Unfinished Business" - The motto of the 2010 Philadelphia Phillies. After finishing with baseball's best record for the first time in their 128 year history, the Phillies ended their season on a called third strike on Ryan Howard who had a 3-2 count with the tying run on second base.
"We're shocked," said Brad Lidge when asked about the loss. Shock and disappointment seemed to be the theme around the clubhouse following the game. Howard was at a loss for words, simply starring into space with his hands on his head. Shock and disappointment also was the mood around the ballpark and in every Phillies fan's heart after coming so close to another World Series appearance, which would have been their third in three years.
Juan Uribe crushed the hopes of Phils fans with his eighth inning home run off of reliever Ryan Madson into the right field seats, barely clearing the fence. That homer put the Giants up 3-2 after the Phillies scored two runs in the first and looked to be on cruise control until Oswalt got roughed up a bit in the middle of the game.
The Phillies simply did not hit with runners in scoring position in this series and in the playoffs in general. The team seemed to press a lot and looked to fall back into the slump that they fell into in the middle of the season when they were waiting weeks in between games.
As for the Giants, they will make their first World Series appearance since 2002 when they lost to the Angels in seven games. Game one will be on Wednesday night in SF. The pitching match-up is shaping up to be Tim Lincecum vs. Cliff Lee, game time is slated for 7:57.
"We're shocked," said Brad Lidge when asked about the loss. Shock and disappointment seemed to be the theme around the clubhouse following the game. Howard was at a loss for words, simply starring into space with his hands on his head. Shock and disappointment also was the mood around the ballpark and in every Phillies fan's heart after coming so close to another World Series appearance, which would have been their third in three years.
Juan Uribe crushed the hopes of Phils fans with his eighth inning home run off of reliever Ryan Madson into the right field seats, barely clearing the fence. That homer put the Giants up 3-2 after the Phillies scored two runs in the first and looked to be on cruise control until Oswalt got roughed up a bit in the middle of the game.
The Phillies simply did not hit with runners in scoring position in this series and in the playoffs in general. The team seemed to press a lot and looked to fall back into the slump that they fell into in the middle of the season when they were waiting weeks in between games.
As for the Giants, they will make their first World Series appearance since 2002 when they lost to the Angels in seven games. Game one will be on Wednesday night in SF. The pitching match-up is shaping up to be Tim Lincecum vs. Cliff Lee, game time is slated for 7:57.
Friday, October 22, 2010
Giants vs. Phillies
With their backs against the wall, The Phillies turned to NL CY Young favorite, Roy Halladay, to try and extend the series to a game six and send it back to Philadelphia.
An early double by Shane Victorino gave the Phils a 2-0 lead. The Giants battled back and trimmed the lead to a 3-2 mark before the Phillies bullpen took over, throwing three innings of scoreless relief.
Jayson Werth gave Philly an insurance run in the ninth with a shot down the right field line to give them a 4-2 lead. Brad Lidge then nailed down the save with a clean ninth inning.
The series will shift back to Philadelphia for game six on Saturday afternoon at a 3:30 start time. Phillies will throw Roy Oswalt, who pitched on Wednesday evening in relief, and will be countered by Jonathan Sanchez of the Giants.
It is now a win or go home situation for the Phillies from here on out but a win in game six will result in a toss-up game seven in which anything can happen. I guess that's why we love this game.
An early double by Shane Victorino gave the Phils a 2-0 lead. The Giants battled back and trimmed the lead to a 3-2 mark before the Phillies bullpen took over, throwing three innings of scoreless relief.
Jayson Werth gave Philly an insurance run in the ninth with a shot down the right field line to give them a 4-2 lead. Brad Lidge then nailed down the save with a clean ninth inning.
The series will shift back to Philadelphia for game six on Saturday afternoon at a 3:30 start time. Phillies will throw Roy Oswalt, who pitched on Wednesday evening in relief, and will be countered by Jonathan Sanchez of the Giants.
It is now a win or go home situation for the Phillies from here on out but a win in game six will result in a toss-up game seven in which anything can happen. I guess that's why we love this game.
Giants vs. Phillies
After the Phillies battled their way back to take a lead against the Giants, fighting to tie the series at two games a piece, the Giants tied the game late off a stumbling Phillies bullpen.
With the game tied at five in the bottom of the ninth, Juan Uribe stepped to the plate with runners on first and third and one out. After an extensive battle with Phillies starting pitcher turned reliever, Roy Oswalt, Uribe flied a ball to left field that was caught by Ben Francisco but Aubrey Huff tagged from third and scored the winning run to put the Giants up 3-1 in the series with a 6-5 win.
The Phils will hand the ball to ace, Roy Halladay, on Thursday to try and send the series back to Philly for a game six. He will be opposed by Giant ace, Tim Lincecum, who out dueled Halladay in game one of the series. Game time is set for 7:57 p.m. EST.
With the game tied at five in the bottom of the ninth, Juan Uribe stepped to the plate with runners on first and third and one out. After an extensive battle with Phillies starting pitcher turned reliever, Roy Oswalt, Uribe flied a ball to left field that was caught by Ben Francisco but Aubrey Huff tagged from third and scored the winning run to put the Giants up 3-1 in the series with a 6-5 win.
The Phils will hand the ball to ace, Roy Halladay, on Thursday to try and send the series back to Philly for a game six. He will be opposed by Giant ace, Tim Lincecum, who out dueled Halladay in game one of the series. Game time is set for 7:57 p.m. EST.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Rangers vs. Yankees
The Yankees put one more breath of faith into AJ Burnett in hopes of evening the series at two wins a piece. The starter went five plus innings before the Rangers burst out with three runs in the fifth, two in the sixth, and three more in the ninth putting the Yanks away at a 10-3 clip.
Center fielder Josh Hamilton knocked two out of the park and Vlad got hot, racking up four hits on the night to help give the Rangers a 3-1 series lead.
Starter Tommy Hunter went 3.1 allowing three runs before Manager Ron Washington pulled him and sent youngster Derek Holland in in relief. Holland tossed 3.2 scoreless to pick up the win.
The Yankees now face a do-or-die situation where a loss will end their season. They will turn to ace CC Sabathia to stop the bleeding and prolong their season whereas on the other side Texas will look to punch their ticket to the World Series behind CJ Wilson. Game time is slated for 4:00 pm.
Center fielder Josh Hamilton knocked two out of the park and Vlad got hot, racking up four hits on the night to help give the Rangers a 3-1 series lead.
Starter Tommy Hunter went 3.1 allowing three runs before Manager Ron Washington pulled him and sent youngster Derek Holland in in relief. Holland tossed 3.2 scoreless to pick up the win.
The Yankees now face a do-or-die situation where a loss will end their season. They will turn to ace CC Sabathia to stop the bleeding and prolong their season whereas on the other side Texas will look to punch their ticket to the World Series behind CJ Wilson. Game time is slated for 4:00 pm.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Phillies vs. Giants
With a crucial game three on the line, the Giants sent out Matt Cain to take on a Phillies offense that put up six runs in game two. The Phillies countered with 2008 NLCS and WS MVP Cole Hamels in need of a win to give them a series advantage.
The Giants took advantage of runners in scoring position with two two-out hits that put them up 2-0 early in the game. They would then take advantage of a Chase Utley error to give them a 3-0 lead and that would be all taht Matt Cain would need.
Cain tossed seven scoreless innings as the Giants used two more relievers to stifle a potent Phillies offense and hold them to only three hits in a 3-0 victory.
Game three was a crucial game that gives home field advantage to the Giants who can now clinch the series at home with victories in games four and five. The Phillies will look to Joe Blanton in game four who will be opposed by rookie Madison Bumgarner. Game time is set for 8:00 pm on Wednesday night.
The Giants took advantage of runners in scoring position with two two-out hits that put them up 2-0 early in the game. They would then take advantage of a Chase Utley error to give them a 3-0 lead and that would be all taht Matt Cain would need.
Cain tossed seven scoreless innings as the Giants used two more relievers to stifle a potent Phillies offense and hold them to only three hits in a 3-0 victory.
Game three was a crucial game that gives home field advantage to the Giants who can now clinch the series at home with victories in games four and five. The Phillies will look to Joe Blanton in game four who will be opposed by rookie Madison Bumgarner. Game time is set for 8:00 pm on Wednesday night.
Monday, October 18, 2010
Giants vs. Phillies
After the Giants stunned the city of Philadelphia in game one by beating the ace of the Phillie staff, Roy Halladay, in a thrilling 4-3 game the Phils brought their bats to the park in game two as the put up six runs on SF winning the game 6-1.
Game one featured an outstanding performance from Giants outfielder Cody Ross who lit Roy Halladay up for two home runs and three RBI by himself. The Phillies offense fought back with home runs from Carlos Ruiz (solo) and Jayson Werth (two-run) but were unable to complete the rally and left multiple chances on the base paths as they did not have a hit with runners in scoring position.
Game two had a different feel as the Phils were able to push across a first inning run when Jonathan Sanchez issued a bases loaded walk to Jimmy Rollins. The Phils were then unable to score any more runs and the game remained 1-0 until Cody Ross stepped to the plate in the fifth inning when he lifted another home run into the left field seats to tie the game at one.
Jimmy Rollins broke the game open in the seventh when he doubled with the bases loaded, clearing the bases and giving the Phillies a 6-1 lead.
Roy Oswalt was masterful, only allowing three hits on the night while racking up nine strikeouts. Madson was a little dicey in the ninth but was able to nail down the win and send the series to SF tied 1-1.
The Giants will throw righty Matt Cain at the Phils and they will counter with lefty Cole Hamels, who pitched a complete game shut out in game three of the NLDS.
Game one featured an outstanding performance from Giants outfielder Cody Ross who lit Roy Halladay up for two home runs and three RBI by himself. The Phillies offense fought back with home runs from Carlos Ruiz (solo) and Jayson Werth (two-run) but were unable to complete the rally and left multiple chances on the base paths as they did not have a hit with runners in scoring position.
Game two had a different feel as the Phils were able to push across a first inning run when Jonathan Sanchez issued a bases loaded walk to Jimmy Rollins. The Phils were then unable to score any more runs and the game remained 1-0 until Cody Ross stepped to the plate in the fifth inning when he lifted another home run into the left field seats to tie the game at one.
Jimmy Rollins broke the game open in the seventh when he doubled with the bases loaded, clearing the bases and giving the Phillies a 6-1 lead.
Roy Oswalt was masterful, only allowing three hits on the night while racking up nine strikeouts. Madson was a little dicey in the ninth but was able to nail down the win and send the series to SF tied 1-1.
The Giants will throw righty Matt Cain at the Phils and they will counter with lefty Cole Hamels, who pitched a complete game shut out in game three of the NLDS.
Friday, October 15, 2010
ALCS Yankees @ Rangers
The opening round for the final two started tonight as the Yankees traveled to Texas to take on the Rangers in a battle for a World Series appearance on the line.
Texas came out swinging putting up three runs in the first off of Yanks ace C.C. Sabathia when Josh Hamilton knocked a line drive homer over the right field fence. The Rangers would go on to score two more runs but a base running blunder in the 1st cost Texas more scoring opportunities as Nelson Cruz was thrown out at home after the ball went to the backstop and bounced right back to Posada who flipped to a diving C.C.
The Yankees roared back in the 8th, as if they flipped the switch and decided to hit the ball, chasing starter C.J. Wilson after seven plus innings of work, after allowing the second run to score. In a 5-2 game, the Texas bullpen imploded giving up four more runs in that eighth inning making it a 6-5 Yankee lead. RBI's from A-Rod (2), Cano, Jeter, and Thames gave the Yanks a one run lead.
After getting a lead-off base runner on in the bottom half of the eighth and ninth, Texas was unable to push the tying run across the plate, who was stranded in scoring position in the ninth, as closer Mariano Rivera added another postseason save to his Hall of Fame resume.
Game two will take place tomorrow at 4:00 p.m. when Phil Hughes will take on Colby Lewis.
New York leads the best-of-seven series 1-0.
Texas came out swinging putting up three runs in the first off of Yanks ace C.C. Sabathia when Josh Hamilton knocked a line drive homer over the right field fence. The Rangers would go on to score two more runs but a base running blunder in the 1st cost Texas more scoring opportunities as Nelson Cruz was thrown out at home after the ball went to the backstop and bounced right back to Posada who flipped to a diving C.C.
The Yankees roared back in the 8th, as if they flipped the switch and decided to hit the ball, chasing starter C.J. Wilson after seven plus innings of work, after allowing the second run to score. In a 5-2 game, the Texas bullpen imploded giving up four more runs in that eighth inning making it a 6-5 Yankee lead. RBI's from A-Rod (2), Cano, Jeter, and Thames gave the Yanks a one run lead.
After getting a lead-off base runner on in the bottom half of the eighth and ninth, Texas was unable to push the tying run across the plate, who was stranded in scoring position in the ninth, as closer Mariano Rivera added another postseason save to his Hall of Fame resume.
Game two will take place tomorrow at 4:00 p.m. when Phil Hughes will take on Colby Lewis.
New York leads the best-of-seven series 1-0.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
There's a First Time for Everything
Texas won their first playoff series last night as Cliff Lee hurled nine strong innings of one-run baseball in a complete game effort to push the Rangers past the Rays 5-1.
Lee recorded 11 strikeouts over the nine innings while base running and small ball propelled Texas to the ALCS where they will face the Yankees on Friday.
The most touching moment of the night was when the Rangers celebrated with ginger ale with teammates Josh Hamilton and CJ Wilson. Hamilton, who is unable to be around alcohol because of his past encounters with drugs and alcohol. Starting pitcher CJ Wilson, who also does not drink alcohol, was incorporated in the celebration.
This idea originated with the Ranger's equipment manager, who noticed after the division clinching celebration that Hamilton and Wilson did not participate. The team agreed that both were such intricate parts of the team that they should be able to be a part of the celebration.
Game one will take place in Texas at 8:00pm on Friday. The pitching match-up will be C.C. Sabathia vs. C.J. Wilson.
Lee recorded 11 strikeouts over the nine innings while base running and small ball propelled Texas to the ALCS where they will face the Yankees on Friday.
The most touching moment of the night was when the Rangers celebrated with ginger ale with teammates Josh Hamilton and CJ Wilson. Hamilton, who is unable to be around alcohol because of his past encounters with drugs and alcohol. Starting pitcher CJ Wilson, who also does not drink alcohol, was incorporated in the celebration.
This idea originated with the Ranger's equipment manager, who noticed after the division clinching celebration that Hamilton and Wilson did not participate. The team agreed that both were such intricate parts of the team that they should be able to be a part of the celebration.
Game one will take place in Texas at 8:00pm on Friday. The pitching match-up will be C.C. Sabathia vs. C.J. Wilson.
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
SF vs. Atlanta
Bobby Cox's sterling career has come to an end after his Braves fell to the SF Giants by a score of 3-2 after Cody Ross came through in the clutch to knock in Buster Posey for the second run of the seventh inning.
Ross cut Atlanta's lead in half in the sixth inning with a solo home run to make the game 2-1. Bumgarner threw six innings, giving up only two runs while striking out five. Derek Lowe pitched equally as good as he threw 6.1 innings, allowing only two earned runs and striking out eight.
SF's clutch hitting is what pushed them through this series by scoring late inning runs in the last two games in Atlanta.
It was a touching moment after the game as both teams gave a standing ovation for soon to be hall of fame manager Bobby Cox.
The Giants will travel to Philly for game one of the NLCS on Saturday. The Phillies will start CY Young favorite Roy Halladay while the Giants will throw two-time CY Young award winner Tim Lincecum. Game time is set for 7:30pm.
Ross cut Atlanta's lead in half in the sixth inning with a solo home run to make the game 2-1. Bumgarner threw six innings, giving up only two runs while striking out five. Derek Lowe pitched equally as good as he threw 6.1 innings, allowing only two earned runs and striking out eight.
SF's clutch hitting is what pushed them through this series by scoring late inning runs in the last two games in Atlanta.
It was a touching moment after the game as both teams gave a standing ovation for soon to be hall of fame manager Bobby Cox.
The Giants will travel to Philly for game one of the NLCS on Saturday. The Phillies will start CY Young favorite Roy Halladay while the Giants will throw two-time CY Young award winner Tim Lincecum. Game time is set for 7:30pm.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Sorry for the Lack of Posts
Sorry for not updating the site over the weekend. I had tried to post but blogger kept giving me the service error screen.
For those of you that still don't know, the Giants rallied in the nineth, capitalizing on a Brooks Conrad error and defeated the Braves 3-2 to take a 2-1 series lead.
The Phillies kept on rolling with H2O when Hollywood took the hill on Sunday, pitching a complete game shut out to push the Phils to the NLCS where they will await the winner of the Braves & Giants series that could wrap up tonight.
The Braves will put their season on the line tonight when they face off against the Giants in game 4. Braves starter Derek Lowe will look to rebound on his game 1 loss as he will go up against standout rookie Madison Bumgarner who will get his first taste of playoff baseball.
It is now time to see if the Braves are contenders or pretenders when everything is on the line. Game time is 7:30 at Turner Field.
For those of you that still don't know, the Giants rallied in the nineth, capitalizing on a Brooks Conrad error and defeated the Braves 3-2 to take a 2-1 series lead.
The Phillies kept on rolling with H2O when Hollywood took the hill on Sunday, pitching a complete game shut out to push the Phils to the NLCS where they will await the winner of the Braves & Giants series that could wrap up tonight.
The Braves will put their season on the line tonight when they face off against the Giants in game 4. Braves starter Derek Lowe will look to rebound on his game 1 loss as he will go up against standout rookie Madison Bumgarner who will get his first taste of playoff baseball.
It is now time to see if the Braves are contenders or pretenders when everything is on the line. Game time is 7:30 at Turner Field.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Atlanta vs. SF
In an 11 inning thriller, the Braves will send the series back to Atlanta tied 1-1 after Rick Ankiel's blast lifted them to a 5-4 win.
Matt Cain was strong in his playoff debut but it wouldn't be enough as Atlanta knotted the series at one a piece with the series shifting to the East.
After a three run first inning, the Giants looked to have the Braves dead in the water but Atlanta was able to battle back and tie the game at four with a three run 8th inning before Rick Ankiel untied the game in the 11th inning that quited the crowd in SF.
With the series heading back to Atlanta, the Braves will have plenty of momentum and the help of the hometown crowd behind them. In what is shaping up to be the best Divisional Series, SF will hand the baseball to Jonathan Sanchez while the Braves will start comeback player of the year Tim Hudson in what will be the pivitol game in the series as the loser will have their back against the wall.
Matt Cain was strong in his playoff debut but it wouldn't be enough as Atlanta knotted the series at one a piece with the series shifting to the East.
After a three run first inning, the Giants looked to have the Braves dead in the water but Atlanta was able to battle back and tie the game at four with a three run 8th inning before Rick Ankiel untied the game in the 11th inning that quited the crowd in SF.
With the series heading back to Atlanta, the Braves will have plenty of momentum and the help of the hometown crowd behind them. In what is shaping up to be the best Divisional Series, SF will hand the baseball to Jonathan Sanchez while the Braves will start comeback player of the year Tim Hudson in what will be the pivitol game in the series as the loser will have their back against the wall.
Friday, October 8, 2010
Friday Night in Philly
Brandon Phillips got the Reds' offense off to a good start, belting a home run deep into the left field bleachers, the first hit in the postseason for the Reds since 1995.
The Phillies defense let them down early as a double play seemed to be the way out of the second for Oswalt but a wide throw by Utley bounced by Howard and allowed another run to score.
Joey Votto led off the fourth inning with an upper deck blast to give the Reds a 3-0 lead.
After a sac fly that scored Brandon Phillips, the Phillies roared back, capitalizing on two Reds' errors in the 5th inning cut the lead to 4-2. Then in the 6th, the Phils loaded the bases and made it a 4-3 game after a bases loaded walk to Shane Victorino.
In the 7th, momentum shifted as the Phils got to fireballer Aroldis Chapman, scoring 2 runs on a ball that was lost in the lights by RF Jay Bruce and then a FC RBI groundout by Carlos Ruiz making the score 6-4 Phillies.
It was puzzling why Chapman waited for one out in the bottom of the 6th to start throwing as he did not have his A+ fastball, only hitting about 97-100 mph consistantly (normally 102-104 mph). As the inning unfolded, he found himself in the middle of a fire with the Phillies offense finally kicking it into gear.
The series shifts to Cincy as the Reds go home with their tale between their legs down 2-0 in the series when they were primed to even it at 1-1.
The Reds will throw Johnny Cueto out on the mound with their season on the line as Hollywood will take the hill when the Phils hand the ball to Cole Hamels on Sunday.
The Phillies defense let them down early as a double play seemed to be the way out of the second for Oswalt but a wide throw by Utley bounced by Howard and allowed another run to score.
Joey Votto led off the fourth inning with an upper deck blast to give the Reds a 3-0 lead.
After a sac fly that scored Brandon Phillips, the Phillies roared back, capitalizing on two Reds' errors in the 5th inning cut the lead to 4-2. Then in the 6th, the Phils loaded the bases and made it a 4-3 game after a bases loaded walk to Shane Victorino.
In the 7th, momentum shifted as the Phils got to fireballer Aroldis Chapman, scoring 2 runs on a ball that was lost in the lights by RF Jay Bruce and then a FC RBI groundout by Carlos Ruiz making the score 6-4 Phillies.
It was puzzling why Chapman waited for one out in the bottom of the 6th to start throwing as he did not have his A+ fastball, only hitting about 97-100 mph consistantly (normally 102-104 mph). As the inning unfolded, he found himself in the middle of a fire with the Phillies offense finally kicking it into gear.
The series shifts to Cincy as the Reds go home with their tale between their legs down 2-0 in the series when they were primed to even it at 1-1.
The Reds will throw Johnny Cueto out on the mound with their season on the line as Hollywood will take the hill when the Phils hand the ball to Cole Hamels on Sunday.
Day 3
The Reds will look for their first hit today as they play game two at Citizens Bank Park. Little Roy will take the bump for the Phils looking to stifle Cincinnati's offense in hopes of taking a 2-0 lead in the series.
The Reds will turn to Bronson Arroyo to try and even the series in Philly and take a 1-1 tie back home. Dusty Baker will need to try and strike life into the high powered offense that carried them throughout the season. MVP candidate Joey Votto will look to lead the young Reds to their first playoff win in 15 years.
The Phillies will need to break out with their offense after being shut-out for seven innings by the Reds' bullpen. They will need to get Howard and Werth into October mode after they went a combined 0-8 with 4 K's between them in game one.
Also playing game two tonight will be Atlanta and SF. With the Giants leading 1-0 in the series, they will give the ball to Matt Cain to get a two game lead in the series. The Braves will turn to youngster Tommy Hanson to stop the bleeding and also hope to generate a spark into an offense that was shut-out for nine innings the night before.
The rally towels will be waving in the City of Brotherly Love but their will be no love for those dressed in grey tonight.
Atlanta's slogan has been "this one's for Bobby" but in order to extend their season they will need to push some runs across the plate against a strong pitching staff of SF.
Reds @ Phillies (Bronson Arroyo vs. Roy Oswalt) 6:00pm (Philadelphia leads 1-0)
Braves @ Giants (Tommy Hanson vs. Matt Cain) 9:30pm (SF leads 1-0)
The Reds will turn to Bronson Arroyo to try and even the series in Philly and take a 1-1 tie back home. Dusty Baker will need to try and strike life into the high powered offense that carried them throughout the season. MVP candidate Joey Votto will look to lead the young Reds to their first playoff win in 15 years.
The Phillies will need to break out with their offense after being shut-out for seven innings by the Reds' bullpen. They will need to get Howard and Werth into October mode after they went a combined 0-8 with 4 K's between them in game one.
Also playing game two tonight will be Atlanta and SF. With the Giants leading 1-0 in the series, they will give the ball to Matt Cain to get a two game lead in the series. The Braves will turn to youngster Tommy Hanson to stop the bleeding and also hope to generate a spark into an offense that was shut-out for nine innings the night before.
The rally towels will be waving in the City of Brotherly Love but their will be no love for those dressed in grey tonight.
Atlanta's slogan has been "this one's for Bobby" but in order to extend their season they will need to push some runs across the plate against a strong pitching staff of SF.
Reds @ Phillies (Bronson Arroyo vs. Roy Oswalt) 6:00pm (Philadelphia leads 1-0)
Braves @ Giants (Tommy Hanson vs. Matt Cain) 9:30pm (SF leads 1-0)
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Braves vs. Giants
Just as SF expected, Tim Lincecum showed that he is the ace of the staff as he hurled 9 innings of shut-out ball as the Giants took a 1-0 lead in the series with a 1-0 win in the game.
Derek Lowe looked equally strong and the only blemish on his night was a blown call at second base when Buster Posey was called safe on an attempted steal that when reviewed was shown that he was indeed out. He would then be knocked in to give SF a 1-0 lead and that would be all the "Freak" would need.
Blown calls seem to be a running a theme in this year's postseason as calls were blown in the Rangers/Rays series on a check swing that cost the Rays three runs on the very next pitch, Yankees/Twins series when it look as though Lance Berkman was struck out on a 1-2 fastball that would later cost the Twins a run when he doubled later in the at bat, and now in the Braves/Giants series when Atlanta came out on the short end of the stick on a call at second base that would cost them the lead and ultimately the game.
Derek Lowe looked equally strong and the only blemish on his night was a blown call at second base when Buster Posey was called safe on an attempted steal that when reviewed was shown that he was indeed out. He would then be knocked in to give SF a 1-0 lead and that would be all the "Freak" would need.
Blown calls seem to be a running a theme in this year's postseason as calls were blown in the Rangers/Rays series on a check swing that cost the Rays three runs on the very next pitch, Yankees/Twins series when it look as though Lance Berkman was struck out on a 1-2 fastball that would later cost the Twins a run when he doubled later in the at bat, and now in the Braves/Giants series when Atlanta came out on the short end of the stick on a call at second base that would cost them the lead and ultimately the game.
Yankees vs. Twins Game 2
After allowing hits to the first three out-of-five Twins hitters, veteran southpaw Andy Pettitte settled down to allow only two runs over 7 innings.
Lance Berkman, who won a ring with Houston in 2005, touched up Carl Pavano for a solo shot in the 5th inning to give the Yanks a 2-1 advantage.
O-Dog Orlando Hudson sent a shot off of Andy Pettitte into the left field seats to even the game at 2 in the bottom of the 6th. In that same inning, Delmon Young tripled off the outstretched arm of Curtis Granderson in the right centerfield gap only to be stranded on third by Jim Thome.
The Twins were in desperate need of a shut-down inning from Pavano but he proceeded to give the lead back to the Yankees on another shot from Lance Berkman, who hit a RBI double over the head of Denard Span after a blown call by the home plate umpire on a 1-2 count that should have given the Twins the first out of the inning.
The Yankees seem to have turned the October switch ON ever since the four run 6th inning in game 1. Their veteran play and leadership seem to keep them from hitting the panic button too early.
Game 3 will head back to the City as the Yanks will try to wipe out the Twins for a second consecutive year.
Lance Berkman, who won a ring with Houston in 2005, touched up Carl Pavano for a solo shot in the 5th inning to give the Yanks a 2-1 advantage.
O-Dog Orlando Hudson sent a shot off of Andy Pettitte into the left field seats to even the game at 2 in the bottom of the 6th. In that same inning, Delmon Young tripled off the outstretched arm of Curtis Granderson in the right centerfield gap only to be stranded on third by Jim Thome.
The Twins were in desperate need of a shut-down inning from Pavano but he proceeded to give the lead back to the Yankees on another shot from Lance Berkman, who hit a RBI double over the head of Denard Span after a blown call by the home plate umpire on a 1-2 count that should have given the Twins the first out of the inning.
The Yankees seem to have turned the October switch ON ever since the four run 6th inning in game 1. Their veteran play and leadership seem to keep them from hitting the panic button too early.
Game 3 will head back to the City as the Yanks will try to wipe out the Twins for a second consecutive year.
Rangers vs. Rays Game 2
The Rangers used the long ball to jump out to a 6-0 lead over the Rays with home runs from Ian Kinsler and Michael Young while youngster CJ Wilson threw like a postseason veteran, allowing only two hits and zero runs in 6 1/3 innings including a string of five innings without any hits.
James Shields was chased in the fifth inning after allowing four runs in 4 1/3 innings. "Big Game" James Shields did not live up to his name when the Rays needed it the most, already down 1-0 in a best-of-five series.
Manager Joe Madden was ejected in the fifth inning after arguing a controversial call on a check swing by Michael Young that kept his at bat alive in which he would go on to hit a three-run home run on the next pitch.
Tampa Bay had a rally in the seventh that fell short after Jason Bartlett flied out to centerfield with two outs and the bases loaded. This key moment could have been a turning point for the Rays but instead gave momentum back to the Rangers.
With the Rays now down 0-2 in the best-of-five series the mountain that they need to climb is larger than ever. Every game from now on will be a game 7 that they need to win which is not the position that Manager John Madden or any other player thought they would be in after finishing with the best record in the American League.
Game 3 will take place at the Ballpark in Arlington as the Rangers will send out Colby Lewis to try and finish the job against Rays starter Matt Garza.
James Shields was chased in the fifth inning after allowing four runs in 4 1/3 innings. "Big Game" James Shields did not live up to his name when the Rays needed it the most, already down 1-0 in a best-of-five series.
Manager Joe Madden was ejected in the fifth inning after arguing a controversial call on a check swing by Michael Young that kept his at bat alive in which he would go on to hit a three-run home run on the next pitch.
Tampa Bay had a rally in the seventh that fell short after Jason Bartlett flied out to centerfield with two outs and the bases loaded. This key moment could have been a turning point for the Rays but instead gave momentum back to the Rangers.
With the Rays now down 0-2 in the best-of-five series the mountain that they need to climb is larger than ever. Every game from now on will be a game 7 that they need to win which is not the position that Manager John Madden or any other player thought they would be in after finishing with the best record in the American League.
Game 3 will take place at the Ballpark in Arlington as the Rangers will send out Colby Lewis to try and finish the job against Rays starter Matt Garza.
ROUND 2
Today's slate offers up a match-up of two teams that were in a dog fight for much of September to make the playoffs in what should be a pitching dominated series between the Braves and Giants.
Tim Lincecum takes the hill for SF looking to rebound off of a somewhat struggling year compared to his standards. The reigning CY Young award winner, who compiled a 16-10 record with a 3.43 era, looks to power his way past Atlanta in front of his home crowd in his playoff debut.
The Braves will throw out veteran Derek Lowe (16-12). Atlanta is hoping that experience will pay dividens as the seasoned righty will take the ball for Atlanta and look to give them an early and important win in game 1 of their NLDS.
Also in today's line-ups are game 2's of Texas vs. Tampa Bay & New York vs. Minnesota. Game 2 is such a pivitol game that can make or break a series for a team in the 5 game NLDS. Tampa and Minnesota need to dig deep and scrape together a win to put themselves back into postion for a World Series run after dropping game 1.
With the biggest spotlight on, will the stars shine or shy away? Pressure can motivate or destroy.
Game 2: Rangers @ Rays (CJ Wilson vs. James Shields) 2:30pm (Rangers lead 1-0)
Game 2: Yankees @ Twins (Andy Pettitte vs. Carl Pavano) 6:00pm (Yankees lead 1-0)
Game 1: Braves @ Giants (Derek Lowe vs. Tim Lincecum) 9:30pm
Tim Lincecum takes the hill for SF looking to rebound off of a somewhat struggling year compared to his standards. The reigning CY Young award winner, who compiled a 16-10 record with a 3.43 era, looks to power his way past Atlanta in front of his home crowd in his playoff debut.
The Braves will throw out veteran Derek Lowe (16-12). Atlanta is hoping that experience will pay dividens as the seasoned righty will take the ball for Atlanta and look to give them an early and important win in game 1 of their NLDS.
Also in today's line-ups are game 2's of Texas vs. Tampa Bay & New York vs. Minnesota. Game 2 is such a pivitol game that can make or break a series for a team in the 5 game NLDS. Tampa and Minnesota need to dig deep and scrape together a win to put themselves back into postion for a World Series run after dropping game 1.
With the biggest spotlight on, will the stars shine or shy away? Pressure can motivate or destroy.
Game 2: Rangers @ Rays (CJ Wilson vs. James Shields) 2:30pm (Rangers lead 1-0)
Game 2: Yankees @ Twins (Andy Pettitte vs. Carl Pavano) 6:00pm (Yankees lead 1-0)
Game 1: Braves @ Giants (Derek Lowe vs. Tim Lincecum) 9:30pm
Yankees vs. Twins
The Twins came out with the lumber early vs. C.C. Sabathia, scoring three runs in the first three innings. But after settling down, C.C. turned it up and so did the Yankees offense, continuing their string of scoring late in games.
The Yanks scored four runs in the sixth and two more in the seventh on a Mark Texiera blast that needed every ounce of body english to stay fair to take a 6-4 lead.
The Yankee bullpen kept the Twins at bay and Mo nailed down his 40th postseason save as the Yankees took a 1-0 series lead with a 6-4 win late Wednesday night.
The Twins will look to Carl Pavano to outduel lefty great Andy Pettitte in game 2 and try to earn their first postseason win vs. the Yankees who are 6-0 at Minnesota in playoff baseball.
The Yanks scored four runs in the sixth and two more in the seventh on a Mark Texiera blast that needed every ounce of body english to stay fair to take a 6-4 lead.
The Yankee bullpen kept the Twins at bay and Mo nailed down his 40th postseason save as the Yankees took a 1-0 series lead with a 6-4 win late Wednesday night.
The Twins will look to Carl Pavano to outduel lefty great Andy Pettitte in game 2 and try to earn their first postseason win vs. the Yankees who are 6-0 at Minnesota in playoff baseball.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Reds vs. Phillies
Complete. Dominance. Doctober.
Lets see how Oswalt follows up Halladay's no-hitter in game 2. Phils need to keep their heads in the game and focus on Arroyo's off-speed.
Cincy's bullpen blanked the phils for the rest of the game after Volquez was chased in the 2nd inning and Philly didn't even see Chapman.
Phils have the momentum now but lets see how they adjust to being shut out for 7 innings.
Lets see how Oswalt follows up Halladay's no-hitter in game 2. Phils need to keep their heads in the game and focus on Arroyo's off-speed.
Cincy's bullpen blanked the phils for the rest of the game after Volquez was chased in the 2nd inning and Philly didn't even see Chapman.
Phils have the momentum now but lets see how they adjust to being shut out for 7 innings.
Rangers vs. Rays
Texas looked real strong vs. David Price. The Rays are in a lot of trouble if "Big Game" James Shields can't step up in the clutch.
Though Feliz looked a little rattled in his playoff debut, he settled down to rack up a couple of K's. He will be a crucial part of Texas' postseason run when they will rely on the young gun to nail down some important games.
Some more things to look out for will be the returns of Josh Hamilton and Evan Longoria from injuries in this series and also the young starting pitching that the Rangers will throw at the seasoned Rays with CJ Wilson and Colby Lewis taking games 2 & 3.
Though Feliz looked a little rattled in his playoff debut, he settled down to rack up a couple of K's. He will be a crucial part of Texas' postseason run when they will rely on the young gun to nail down some important games.
Some more things to look out for will be the returns of Josh Hamilton and Evan Longoria from injuries in this series and also the young starting pitching that the Rangers will throw at the seasoned Rays with CJ Wilson and Colby Lewis taking games 2 & 3.
GAMEDAY
With the chill of October in the air, baseball begins its second season today, October 6th. This is the time of the year when legends are born, superstars are made, and men are transformed into heroes.
Who will be this year's postseason shocker? From Aaron Boone to Carlos Beltran, dreams can turn into reality when everything is on the line.
Todays Game Line-up
Rangers @ Rays (Cliff Lee vs. David Price) 1:30pm
Reds @ Phillies (Edison Volquez vs. Roy Halladay) 5:00pm
Yankees @ Twins (CC Sabathia vs. Francisco Liriano) 8:30pm
Who will be this year's postseason shocker? From Aaron Boone to Carlos Beltran, dreams can turn into reality when everything is on the line.
Todays Game Line-up
Rangers @ Rays (Cliff Lee vs. David Price) 1:30pm
Reds @ Phillies (Edison Volquez vs. Roy Halladay) 5:00pm
Yankees @ Twins (CC Sabathia vs. Francisco Liriano) 8:30pm
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