Tonight is the night. Watch out for flying champagne corks, stay off the freeways, and tivo the game. They are going to win tonight and who more fitting to bring them the win? Kershaw. That's right. Sure he hasnt won in his last 10 starts, but that doesn't take away the fact that he's still one of the best in the league and the last time he pitched to the Rockies he went 5 scoreless innings. Tonight the pressure is on for Kershaw as he needs to solidify his likely number 2 spot in the playoffs.
Sure we can go on and on about how embarrassing the Dodgers are playing these last several games (nope, I refuse to attach a number there) OR we can look at the victory we DID have last night. Let's not forget that Ethier came out of his horrible road trip slump, Casey Blake looked good defensively, and we were able to cut the lead to one each time. Furcal is continuing to dominate, Wolf shook off his horrible 1st inning high pitch count and took better control of the ball, Sherrill and Broxton revealed once again why they're the best relievers in the league, and the boys got some confidence that they can take the rockies bullpen. Sure that doesn't make the cork fly off the champagne bottle or ensure a date for my playoff tickets BUT its something.
Let's flashback to 2006 shall we? Those darn red birds the 2006 Cardinals, they were 3-6 or something awful at the end of the season and they went on to win the World Series. Sure they played the Astros and the Padres (I think) but it doesnt much matter. The Rockies (stats wise) are playing better baseball than any other playoff ready team lately. If the Rockies end up playing the Cardinals, the Cardinals can't assume that they have it in the bag and I'd love to see the Rockies take them out.
What we need to do tonight (besides flipping win) is to walk a fine line between pressing and having some fun. These boys have talent, but it's obvious they're not playing to play and have fun and showcase their talent. Even Manny was showing he wasn't patient at the plate last night. He left some men stranded, but he'll be back "on" tonight I'm sure. I believe, and I wont stop. If there's something I know about my boys is that they're not done till they're done and there's still a lot of baseball to be played in October.
So take out those champagne bottles, look to the future, and watch them work their Magic. Torre is never one to shy away from a challenge.........
