Dilip Vishwanat - Getty Images
David Freese and the St. Louis Cardinals celebrate at home plate after hitting a walk off solo home run in the 11th inning to win Game Six of the MLB World Series against the Texas Rangers at Busch Stadium on October 27, 2011 in St Louis, Missouri. The Cardinals won 10-9. (Photo by Dilip Vishwanat/Getty Images)
Now it is done. Now the story ends. And there is no way to tell it. The art of fiction is dead. Reality has strangled invention. Only the utterly impossible, the inexpressibly fantastic, can ever be plausible again.
Those words were written by Red Smith, a great sportswriter of the last century, sixty years ago after the Giants beat the Dodgers in Game 3 of their tiebreaker series on Bobby Thomson's three-run walkoff home run.
Those words apply this morning as well. As Cubs fans, virtually all of us are unhappy that the Cardinals won Game 6 of the 2011 World Series. But as a baseball fan, I hope you recognize the greatness you saw Thursday night. If you are too young to remember Game 6 in 1991, or Game 6 in 1986, or Game 6 in 1975, all World Series games that are often held up as models of "greatest postseason game ever", this one was better. Twice, the Rangers were within one strike of being World Series champions, once in the ninth, once in the 10th, and failed both times. That's never happened before.
And I'm no fan of Joe Buck, but his "we'll see you tomorrow night" after David Freese's home run was a touching tribute to his dad's identical call, which happened 20 years and one day ago when Kirby Puckett hit his walkoff for the Twins in that famous Game 6 in 1991. Nicely done, Joe. For one night, you rose above.
Now ... go Rangers. Best World Series since 2001. This is why I love this game so much.
0 recs | 286 comments
Damn
I sure hope the Rangers win tonight. As for Joe Buck, he’s still a hack. Tim McCarver can join him in that category as well. One nugget of wisdom from McCarver last night, a no double’s defense is similar to a prevent defense in football. Thanks Timmy, how long did it take to figure that one out? Go Rangers.
Cubbinstrongsince86 - October 28, 2011
I hope the Rangers win, too
But it’s hard not to feel like they have no chance. I’m sure it’s just a matter of mental gymnastics, but it feels like teams never win the next day after suffering that kind of insane, exasperating loss.
Brett Taylor - October 28, 2011
The Cardinals will win-bank on it.
After last night’s game, the Rangers are like a beaten dog, psychologically and physically. The Cardinals, on the other hand, are riding a wave of momentum that makes them very close to unbeatable right now.
As much as it makes me sick to say it, the Cardinals will, yet again, be world champs.
bluekoolaide - October 28, 2011
Just like the 1975 Red Sox, right?
Same type of momentum after Game 6. Boston even had the lead in Game 7, and still lost.
Al Yellon - October 28, 2011
That is what I want
Boston won the epic game 6 but lost the series
Doggie Stalker - October 28, 2011
IMO...
…it is going against the grain, but I am going with the Rangers tonight. I just have a feeling, they will bounce back and the Cards will actually feel the pressure as the game goes on. I also think, Carpenter may get hit around a little bit.
MPH73 - October 28, 2011
The Cardinals
are not the Red Sox, though. I still think the Cardinals will win game 7. Let them have their WS.
DebT - October 28, 2011
They had one five years ago.
Time for the Rangers to have theirs.
Al Yellon - October 28, 2011
As much as I would like the Rangers to win...
I just can’t see it happening. I hope and pray that I’m wrong.
DebT - October 28, 2011
Hey, don't get me wrong...I LOATHE and DESPISE the Cardinals...
…I want to see them win another WS only marginally more than I would the White Sox. Still, the Rangers were whipped and beaten last night…the first time in WS history that a team had THREE blown saves in one game. I think they’re done.
bluekoolaide - October 28, 2011
Any Cubs fan who has seen
that team in a playoff series, just about to clinch (1984/2003) and cannot when they should have….there is no tomorrow. Sadly, the Cardinals are a dead lock cinch to win.
San Diego Smooth Jazz Man - October 28, 2011
Speaking of 1975...
I was watching MLB Network’s “20 Greatest Games” coverage on OnDemand last night before the game. There are some eerie parallels between this Series and that one. Both were 7 game World Series. Both had a rain delay before Game 6. Lots of All-Stars and some potential future Hall of Famers. And definitely both shaping up to become two of the greatest World Series of all-time.
On that note, I just want to say that I keep hearing people praise Joe Buck for paying homage to his father, Jack, last night. Joe Buck did the same thing in the 2004 ALCS during Game 4 when he said, “And we’ll see you later…tomorrow night.” So, while it was a nice nod to the old man, it’s not like Joe Buck hasn’t done this before.
jeffmills1972 - October 28, 2011
McCarver is so far past his prime...
…he needs the Rosetta Stone to translate his resume. Earlier this year, Buck mentioned the Beatles on a telecast and McCarver’s response was "Goo Goo G’Joob " .
BAMACOLONEL - October 28, 2011
What's wrong with that reply?
I Am The Walrus rocks. Should he have replied to Joe Buck with I Want To Hold Your Hand?
sanshokubento - October 28, 2011
Just look at the win probability chart.
Even if you don’t understand what’s going on, you’ll understand the craziness.
dtpollitt - October 28, 2011
Reminds me a lot of this craziness
Which I still haven’t recovered from:
http://www.fangraphs.com/wins.aspx?date=2003-10-14&team=Cubs&dh=0&season=2003
DCCubsFan - October 28, 2011
Game 6 last night wasn't that special...
Not enough drama…
DKT - October 28, 2011
Damn, I feel bad I missed this one
I’d woken up very early to hit the road and meet with a client so I was pretty tired last night. I fell asleep when this one was 4-3 in favor of the Rangers and didn’t know what I missed until I heard it on the radio this morning.
wallrock - October 28, 2011
Great Series!
This is truly a baseball fan’s series. I have enjoyed it immensely and dread the thought of tomorrow with no baseball.
Luigi - October 28, 2011
Only baseball gives you that. That's why we love it.
Rick B - October 28, 2011
I'm not a basketball fan much
but the Bulls v. Celtics series from a few years ago came as close to that type of drama that I can remember.
jerry morales rules - October 28, 2011
I started watching after work
when it was 7-4. WOW. I was on the edge of my seat. For us cub fans that talk about the “5 outs” away, imagine being 1 strike away, in two consecutive innings!
imacubman - October 28, 2011
While I'm not a Card's fan by any means
I’m more of a national league guy than a Card’s hater. It may go against the grain but I’m rooting for the Card’s
carolinacub - October 28, 2011
while I cant bring myself
to root for them, I will no longer be bothered if they win it all. You have to respect a team that fights like that.
imacubman - October 28, 2011
Ryan Theriot is on that team though.
epsilon - October 28, 2011
It felt good when he struck out in the 9th
mikeschieve - October 28, 2011
He is on the right side of the rivalry, remember....And he is correct.
He is in game 7 of the World Series.
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
Exactly
I don’t understand the Theriot hatred here now. He is a limited skill player who was limited in skill here when many were praising the “The Riot”. As for his rivalry comment, which team is consistently competitive and which team usually isn’t. Which side of that is the “right” side.
rlpete - October 28, 2011
Some people are offended by ANYTHING anti-Cub....even if its true.
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
honestly I'll admit100% its irrational for me.
if it had been someone with serious talent going to the cardinals from the Cubs and they made that remark i could accept it. but some no name Vance Law legacy equivalent shortstop just drives me nuts.
epsilon - October 28, 2011
As annoying as it is.....He is correct.
When the Cubs reach the World Series…..Then there is an argument…But not yet.
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
It doesn't matter if you think he's right or wrong.
I do know he showed no class saying it. Hopefully Larussa will let him play tonight. He could still be on the right side of it from our perspective if he pulls a “Theriot” in the WS.
Rick B - October 28, 2011
I don't always agree with TJ but
he is right that a lot of people look to get offended by anything even slightly anti-Cub.
I just can’t get worked up about something Theriot said after he left the Cubs. I never was as excited about him as others when he was on the Cubs. He is a marginal player who is potentially on his only WS team so good for him. It is what every player wants and he has his shot even if he is just a bench player.
rlpete - October 28, 2011
agreed
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
Fontenot did it last year
But Mike never talked sh^t about his old club as far as I heard.
Tat14 - October 28, 2011
Go Cards
More of a case of wanting Texas to lose than St. Louis to win. Nothing good ever came out of Texas. Exhibit A – Cut shots of Ryan and Bush.
Ozzzy3z - October 28, 2011 via mobile
I'm sure you're a real winner yourself
LT - October 28, 2011
Nolan Ryan? Not good?
jpeters407 - October 28, 2011
Guess not
ask Ventura lol
LT - October 28, 2011
Kerry Wood
Kerry Wood came out of Texas. Ernie Banks came from Texas. So many great players have come out of Texas, especially HOF pitchers. Your comment is so ignorant.
gofer - October 28, 2011
Same here.
Plus last night you had to be cheering for the Cardinals to win – I didn’t want this series to end yet, it’s been too good.
I’m just cheering for a fun dramatic finish, I don’t really care who wins.
Wreckard - October 28, 2011
Same here
I would rather the Cards win for the NL. The NL won the ASG to give them the home field advantage, seems silly to root against that.
BigJohnAZ - October 28, 2011
Will never ever root for Tony Larussa.
And the fact that Pujols is never accused of steroids by the media because he’s a favorite of them.
puckishcubsfan - October 28, 2011
you lost me at "fact"...
ballhawk - October 28, 2011
Wait, what?
So…. in the absence of any evidence to the contrary… the writers should be accusing Pujols of steroids out of what, a sense of fairness to the other people they’ve baselessly accused?
How about this: we don’t accuse anyone of steroid use if there’s no evidence. Seems like a much better system!
Wreckard - October 28, 2011
I don't get it either.
Let’s accuse everyone.
rlpete - October 28, 2011
But...but...witch hunts are fun!
daver - October 28, 2011
...
Al Yellon - October 28, 2011
Why do witches burn?
… ’cause they’re made of wood.
…wood floats on water and so does a duck.
So, logically if she weighs the same as a duck then she’s made of wood…
…a witch, a witch.
mrtobby - October 28, 2011
Out of fairness to Bagwell?
I don’t remember Bags having any problems with the media as a player, yet he was still shamelessly smeared with the worst kind of innuendo leading up to the HOF vote. There has never been ANY evidence that Bagwell used steroids either.
There seems to be some sort of double standard at work here, but I am not sure I even want to know what it is.
RushToGalt - October 28, 2011
After Palmeiro I just assume everyone did it. That way I won't be disppointed again.
Rick B - October 28, 2011
They talk about everyone else but never mention Pujols because they like him,
puckishcubsfan - October 28, 2011
I think you need to stop this type of posting.
Al Yellon - October 28, 2011
Who is "they"
Who is “everyone else”
Stop lazily waving your hands around and be specific.
Wreckard - October 28, 2011
Fascinating theory.
shoemile - October 28, 2011
There has never
been any proof anywhere in reports, media, etc. about Pujols. Where is YOUR proof that such a statement exists. I’m sure you don’t have any proof.
Let’s not accuse him of anything when it doesn’t exist. Maybe you should look up the definition of fact.
Swoosie - October 28, 2011
There has never been proof about most of the people they accuse.
puckishcubsfan - October 28, 2011
Stop now.
These are baseless accusations and I do not want any more such posts here.
Al Yellon - October 28, 2011
Then they should stop accusing people
The solution isn’t to accuse more people. Steroid McCarthyism is a problematic, stupid thing, but the way to solve it isn’t to paint everyone with the same brush.
Wreckard - October 28, 2011
I can't root for the Cards
Even though I’m a NL fan. I hate Tony LaRussa. If they had any other manager, I could maybe root for them.
DebT - October 28, 2011
Easy there, big fella...
5 errors? One SP only goes 3 innings, the other gives up 4 runs in 5.1 innings?
Exciting? Sure, especially at the end… and then the end after that… and then the end after that… and finally that last end.
But greatness and greatest? Nah….
ballhawk - October 28, 2011
semantics?
so Don Larson’s no hit is the “greatest” game because they excelled in the physical side of the game?
epsilon - October 28, 2011
It was amusing to read the thread from the Cubs fan perspective this morning about the game.....So jaded...
The Cardinals play with heart…..something we are not used to seeing.
The game was awesome.
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
TJ....
shut up. this has nothing to do with the Cubs. Has nothing to do with Chicago baseball….
Shut up…with all due respect.
epsilon - October 28, 2011
Seriously...
… I hope you’re joking here.
Al Yellon - October 28, 2011
Somewhat....But the Cubs were a dead team last year...This is more fun to watch.
An awesome game.
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
Its like the Cubs lost last night.....Hilarious!!!
Go Cardinals tonight!
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
I was on that thread
and to me the Cubs did lose last night. If your rival wins, you lose. You lose future fans, they make revenue off t-shirts, hats and such that they can use to make themselves better, you lose possible players who want to play for a winner. So I will not cheer for the Cardinals to win.
jpeters407 - October 28, 2011
Semantics? Yeah, probably
Had Al called this the greatest ending ever, I’d probably be nodding in agreement. Or at least not posting to the contrary.
I was just trying to take a step back and look at the whole game. Also probably over-reacting to the media’s penchant to label everything an “instant classic” these days.
ballhawk - October 28, 2011
This was an instant classic.....or as close as you are going to get.
If it was a Cub game you would think otherwise.
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
i think you're right TJ
on the instant classic thing….i think this one is replayed and remembered for years to come.
epsilon - October 28, 2011
Agreed
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
so... in your opinion what is the greatest game?
epsilon - October 28, 2011
As I mention below
Game 7 in 1991.
rlpete - October 28, 2011
off the top of my head, I'd probably go with 1991 Game 7 (Jack Morris, 10 inning CG)
at least of the World Series games I’ve watched.
My inner Pirate would say something from 1960, 71 or 79 but while exciting to me, they weren’t in the greatest category.
Larson’s no-hitter was before my time so hard for me to say.
ballhawk - October 28, 2011
I think the 1960 WS Game 7 was the greatest ever.
I’m busy working on a top 10 WS game feature for Baseball Nation. I will fanshot it here when I’m done.
You may disagree with my choices — feel free to make comments.
Al Yellon - October 28, 2011
Game 6 of 2002 was a good game too
… remember how the Angels came back from like 6 runs and beat the giants. I think that was the game when ADam Kenedy hit 3 home runs too. I think last night was better tho, somebody who hates baseball woulda enjoyed last nights game lol
chit0wn - October 28, 2011
he didnt hit three...
only albert, the babe, and reggie hit three in a game.
epsilon - October 28, 2011
Adam Kennedy hit three HR in an ALCS game, IIRC.
Al Yellon - October 28, 2011
He did
Game 5 (the clincher) of the 2002 ALCS.
http://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/ANA/ANA200210130.shtml
Jody Jody Davis - October 28, 2011
ALCS maybe but not WS.
it wasnt clarified above.
epsilon - October 28, 2011
my bad, i thought that was the world series.
… wasnt game 6 of the 02 world series the one where the Angels scored like 6 runs over 2 innings and Jeff Kent says he never got over it. I seem to remember something like that
chit0wn - October 28, 2011
Don't forget 1986 ALCS Game 5.
Many do, but the intensity and drama of those last few innings was the equivalent of 1975 WS Game 6.
ernaga - October 28, 2011
Same for 1986 NLCS Game 6.
Al Yellon - October 28, 2011
Also 1986 WS Game 6 - three top 10 classics from a single year.
ernaga - October 28, 2011
Best game ever?
It really isn’t possible to definitely say which is the best game ever. I was watching game 7 in 1991 but was not as big of a baseball fan then. So…even though that was an incredible game it did not stir nearly as much as excitement as this one did for me.
Those who think there were other games that top this one must have a reason for it. Maybe they are a little too jaded by the Cardinals or something else going on in life. Maybe there was something else going on that specific point in time that caused them to enjoy another game more.
All I know is that in the 8th inning I was elated that the Rangers were about to win their first World Series but when Freese came to bat in the eleventh I was on my feet rooting for my most despised opposition. Nothing has ever caused me to do that before. Amazing!!
CubFanInChina - October 28, 2011
I agree with that. Where will it stand in history if the Cards lose tonight?
Rick B - October 28, 2011
Yeah, I thought it was one of the sloppiest played games in recent memory
but it was exciting to watch.
LT - October 28, 2011
I disagree
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
No exclamation points? Who are you and what have you done with TJ?
btw – we’re not paying the ransom….
ballhawk - October 28, 2011
I wouldnt either
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
Actually, the errors...
… and some of the other plays (Beltre’s at 3B, for example) all contribute to the game’s “greatness”.
It doesn’t have to be all magnificent playing to be a great game.
Al Yellon - October 28, 2011
Exactly Al...The unpredictableness of it all made it great.
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
I'll still take Game 7 in 1991 as the greatest.
If nothing else because it was Game 7 but last night’s ranks up there.
rlpete - October 28, 2011
I disagree
Short of the pick-off, it generally wasn’t a well played game prior to around the 8th inning.
Great drama for sure, but great game? Not for the majority of it.
jerry morales rules - October 28, 2011
The Cards double play on the bunt was also a good play but
otherwise you are right.
rlpete - October 28, 2011
IMO, the great drama MAKES it a great game.
Al Yellon - October 28, 2011
For me, well played baseball makes it a great game
A 1 – 0 with two pitchers dueling it out supported by top notch defense would have been a much better game.
jerry morales rules - October 28, 2011
To each his or her own.
Al Yellon - October 28, 2011
Correct. But I prefer a game like last night with all the action.
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
"Greatness" is subjective
So, of course, there will be disagreement about whether it was a “great” game or not. For me personally, it was great because of all of the drama and the fact that it was such a back and forth game with a spectacular ending. Baseball is often unpredictable and it isn’t over until the last out is made, which is what made this a great game (and a great series, IMHO). Those who define “great” by whether or not the play was pristine will probably disagree, given the number of errors. These are the kind of games I and many baseball fans love to watch, so it will always be a great game in my book.
DCCubsFan - October 28, 2011
Classic?
Well, maybe a classic for a casual fan. I only saw the game from the 9th inning on and only tuned in to see LaRussa wear a beaten look. So what happens? LaRussa backs himself into a corner by using all of his position players before his final AB. What set up as the final out at the plate in the form of a pitcher, was trumped by Washington’s colossal decision to start Darren Oliver in the 10th. Yes, that Darren Oliver. My goodness…wasn’t Jesse Orosco available?
So it then shapes up that LaRussa can now bunt his pitcher…always happens that way…which leads to Beltre way overcommitting at 3B and a horrendous bunt that could have been a bunt DP, ends up putting the tying run at 2B. Again, always happens that way.
What I saw was two managers either overmanaging by a wide margin in LaRussa, or a manager that made so many errors that he should have been fired from the top step in Washington. I guess the offense in the final couple of innings could be considered classic…..but the major failings by the managers and the relievers leaving balls out over the plate in the late innings were hardly classic.
krummy12 - October 28, 2011
This is you.
Do you like ANYTHING?
Al Yellon - October 28, 2011
his name is Krummy
So, signs point to no
Nunyabidness - October 28, 2011
That was good...
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
That was good...
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
Unreal
Let’s see Al, you offer this board presumably for opinions; personally rebuke the name calling and that sort of thing which is never part of any of my opinions and then you pull this out because I rarely agree with your rudimentary knowledge of the game of baseball as well as your often pollyanna approach to one of the worse franchises in professional sports history. Now this? Typical. Laughable yes but also predictable. Perhaps I’ll play sheep from now on and agree with everything you say. You’re always right….even if its an opinion….just ask yourself.
krummy12 - October 28, 2011
Worst not worse
But perhaps that self correction is too negative too. My mistake.
krummy12 - October 28, 2011
A joke.
And you respond with an ad hominem attack. Real nice.
Al Yellon - October 28, 2011
Save it Al
Not a joke, a personal attack. I’m cool with it and all but you passing it off as a joke is BS…and you know it.
krummy12 - October 28, 2011
Are you looking for perfection?
Baseball is an unpredictable game…and that is what makes it so great!
CubFanSince1970 - October 28, 2011
I actually agree with Krummy
High drama, offensive display that’s been dramatized during the steroid era, but lots of mistakes. It depends what you’re looking for, bing bang boom fireworks or sharp, smart baseball that actually gets the victory it deserves. Baseball is one sport that doesn’t always happen in.
This is not to be a debbie downer, but more to illustrate another perspective, which Krummy is displaying. As all things, the ideal is a combination and last night certainly was one form of combination.
For me personally, it was interesting, but the negatives included the Cards, lots of errors, lots of hanging mistakes, La Russa involved, mismanagement, that horrible horrible heartbreaking soriano-esque play by Cruz in the 9th that lost the chance at a world series winning catch (had that been the Cubs and Soriano in that position, Chicago would have burned down again), etc
The plusses were Hamilton’s HR, Hometown boy made good (freese), a public display of LaRussa making glaring mistakes, seeing a hometown crowd happy (but dampened by the fact that it was the cards), knowing that this series was good for baseball in general, etc etc.
TL:DR – it was interesting and dramatic, but not my personal ideal.
monkeybiz - October 28, 2011
Yup
Cubbiegoon - October 28, 2011
Oh, and how in the name of Brant Brown, did nobody catch that HR ball on the fly?
The greatest baseball fans in the world, extra innings of an elimination game, nice open grassy area, a no-doubter nice-n-high can of corn, and nobody gets underneath that ball? Sheesh… :-)
ballhawk - October 28, 2011
Only you ballhawk...
LT - October 28, 2011
That was the best game I have ever seen.!!!!!
Yes there was errors and weird plays but there was also excellence.
Baseball, especially with the Cubs can be predictable, But last night is why I watch. To see possible history. And we got it.
I hope the Cardinals win tonight. Good for them. Its refreshing to see a team that doesnt quit.
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
This
Except the Cardinals winning part. Haha. I’m just too emotionally programmed to dislike the Cards to bring myself to root for them TJ, but I appreciate your more detached perspective. Go Rangers!
DCCubsFan - October 28, 2011
I've got to agree
I live in St. Louis. I get to experience all of the “great franchise” and “best fans” crap all the time, but even I had to smile a little BOTH times a local boy came up big.
AND my hometown gets to experience the economic benefit of a World Series one more night, which is great.
That said, I hope Washington can get one of his bullpen guys to actually get someone out tonight and the Rangers can send everyone home quietly.
STLCubFan - October 28, 2011
No way Cards win tonight
Carpenter on 3 days rest against that offense? No way
Rangers wil also have more available in bullpen
Rey Sanchez - October 28, 2011
No way did I think they would come back twice yesterday either.
rlpete - October 28, 2011
True
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
I hope the Cards win....But you are correct. This is not a done deal for the Cardinals at all.
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
I have to think last night might have killed the Rangers mentally
I hope not, but to have your closer, who’s been lights out all postseason, blow it in the 9th and then still not be able to close it out in the 10th has to give the Rangers the psychological edge. Plus, it’s game 7 so if Carpenter isn’t sharp he’ll be pulled early.
timmyfan - October 28, 2011
The momentum just swung St. Louis' way (big time) with that win.
When your team comes back from 2-run deficits with two outs and two strikes on the batter TWICE, in late innings I have to believe that St. Louis is a team of destiny right now.
CubFanSince1970 - October 28, 2011
This.
I’d love to be wrong but the Cardinals seem pretty close to unbeatable at this point.
bluekoolaide - October 28, 2011
While I'm not into the destiny thing
I have to admit that I was thinking that after they won. If there is such a thing as a team of destiny, I have to say the Cardinals this year might be it.
rlpete - October 28, 2011
There is an old saying in baseball. Momentum starts with the next days pitcher.
Rick B - October 28, 2011
shut down St.Louis
if they do win tonight. We all know how people in the Cards organization like to drink and drive
Rey Sanchez - October 28, 2011
You think this is appropriate?
sue369 - October 28, 2011
There's no way the Rangers will win tonight
Just like a lot of people “knew” the Cubs wouldn’t win Game 7 in 2003, I think the same thing applies here. I absolutely hate to say it, but the Cardinals are going to win this thing.
Not Bruce Froemming - October 28, 2011
I hope you are right
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
I hope you're wrong but I'm pretty much certain that you're not.
bluekoolaide - October 28, 2011
I hope I"m wrong, too,
but I fear I’m right.
Not Bruce Froemming - October 28, 2011
Buck's call was SO weak
When is that dude ever going to step out of the shadow of his father? He’s never going to be Jack Buck.
It might have been a nice tribute, but his monotone call is exactly what this World Series has missed. Make it memorable… jeez.
IowaCubs- - October 28, 2011
yeah...this.
I understand showing professional objectivity…but come on man, we all know you’re a cardinals fan…show SOME home town enthusiasm.
epsilon - October 28, 2011
but....
i would also call him out for being a cardinals homer too…
epsilon - October 28, 2011
He and McCarver need to be put out of their misery as a national team.
He’s okay on football but that’s because of Aikman.
puckishcubsfan - October 28, 2011
It's hard to be excited over a sport that you don't care for
such as the case for Mr. Joe Buck.
troutfishin - October 28, 2011
Joe Buck owes everything to his father
because without that last name he is a nobody.
And I wouldn’t be giving him too much credit for some “tribute” as that phrase was plastered all over Busch stadium.
Awesome finish last night. I’m entirely ambivalent to who wins or loses, so I found it tremendously exciting.
Gibbon Jockey - October 28, 2011
Cards fan gives Freese his HR ball....
Look at the shirt the guy on the right is wearing:
http://wfgr.com/super-fan-gives-the-home-run-ball-back/
ronsanto10 - October 28, 2011
I think that is hilarious!
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
In the Yahoo story, they quote the Cardinal fan
Awesome! Such a fun game, and such a fun atmosphere.
KennardHusker - October 28, 2011
See? TJ is right!!!!
Last night’s game was all about the Cubs!!!!!
daver - October 28, 2011
i tried telling you
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
sorry TJ
I stand corrected.
epsilon - October 28, 2011
Literally LOL!!!!
daily2b - October 28, 2011 via mobile
I loved that picture!
But I am somewhat surprised that he got into the stadium with a Cubs t-shirt on!
DebT - October 28, 2011
The guy who got the ball
is from Des Moines. Channel 13 in Des Moines today showed the picture of the three of them and loved the guy in the Cub shirt.
sue369 - October 28, 2011
They just talked about this
on the news again and said Dave Huyette (the guy who got the ball) is a huge Cubs fan.
sue369 - October 28, 2011
So he was masquerading as a Cardinals fan at the game?
daver - October 28, 2011
Don't know.
sue369 - October 28, 2011
I felt it was over when the Cardinals came back in the 10th
It was late and I went to sleep. My faith in the Rangers was lost and while I hope they win tonight, I don’t think it’s going to happen.
timmyfan - October 28, 2011
Great game
As much as it pains me, the Cards really showed character that can’t be explained.
I am not comfortable with Feliz throwing ( pulling for the Rangers). He has a tad of Marmol in him. But when Hamilton went deep, I thought is was done. Cards have the bottom of lineup coming up and they still pull it out.
There is no way the Rangers pull this thing out. It is going to have to be a complete melt down by Carpenter for the Rangers to win tonight.
Grockcubs - October 28, 2011
At least Feliz had the good sense to throw a high fastball to Theriot with two strikes.
Jody Jody Davis - October 28, 2011
That was nasty, wasn't it?
Watching the slow-mo replay, I thought Riot was going to blow his knee out from twisting so hard
ballhawk - October 28, 2011
Ha, I thought the exact same thing last night.
daver - October 28, 2011
As odd as this sounds, they should have pitched to Pujols
instead of walking him. Letting a redhot Berkman hit lefty in that situation, IMHO, was a mistake. After the 3 HR game, Pujols put up an 0-fer until the double on the preceding at bat.
jerry morales rules - October 28, 2011
Pujols is the best hitter in baseball.......And he had just snapped the 0-fer.......You can't pitch to him.
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
Agreed
You don’t want Pujols in that situation. Take your chances with Berkman.
Not Bruce Froemming - October 28, 2011
Neither option is a good option
but I stand by opinion. I wasn’t thinking that at the time, but Pujols was struggling except for that one hit in the AB before. If he hit an HR, the game would have been over, but that would have been the only way. If Berkman hit a double, the game may have been over too.
jerry morales rules - October 28, 2011
I can understand that
It’s like, do you want to get stabbed or do you want to get shot? Albert was struggling, but he can go from that to hero in one at-bat better than anybody in the game.
Not Bruce Froemming - October 28, 2011
For sure
this is not going down as some bone head decision. I understand why Washington made the choice he made and I agreed with him at that time. Certainly, I’m only going back now and thining about it because it didn’t work out, but the more I thought of it, I’d rather take my odds with Pujols having to hit an HR than Berkman allowed to hit lefty and only needing an extra base hit.
jerry morales rules - October 28, 2011
My thought as well.
I question pulling Feliz for Oliver. I know the lefty matchup but Feliz is their best reliever. Just let him throw fastballs to Descalso and Jay. Couldn’t he go a second inning?
rlpete - October 28, 2011
While I see the LHP thing.....Feliz needed to stay in there.....Just like Motte needed to stay in the game in game two.
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
Agreed
Feliz is your stud closer. How can Washington not send him back out there for the 10th with another 2 run lead? Feliz might have overmatched the two slap-hitting lefties leading off the inning. Darren Oliver isn’t going to overmatch anyone at this point in his career. Do you think Torre or Girardi would have pulled Mariano Rivera in that situation? With a World Series championship on the line?
toppsmike - October 28, 2011
Feliz had thrown 22 pitches in the 9th.
So maybe Washington didn’t think he had enough left for the 10th? I would have left him in rather than going to Oliver.
Washington made just as big a blunder in the 8th by leaving Holland out there against a string of RH hitters (including Craig, who homered) when he had said before the game that he wanted to use Adams in the 8th inning. If he puts Adams in to face Craig, the Cardinals probably don’t get that run in the 8th, plus they don’t get back to the middle of the order in the 9th against Feliz.
Jody Jody Davis - October 28, 2011
Good point on Holland too.
rlpete - October 28, 2011
You're right
Feldman gets hammered by lefties too. He has to pitch to Pujols instead of Berkman.
Josh Timmers - October 28, 2011
Admit it friends, even when the Cards were down 7-4, you knew this would happen.
A team with the 85-year tradition of the Cards just doesn’t roll over for the Texas F. Rangers. That sense of inevitability was present in the restrained and good humored seventh-inning observations of Mike Shannon and John Rooney on KMOX, as it was in that sweet and easy batting practice swing Lance Berkman took in the ninth to tie the game.
Earlier, at the start of the Cards’ short-lived eighth inning rally, Shannon made the obvious prediction for this evening’s game. “I tell ya,” he said, “With a three-run lead in the eighth Texas better win tonight, because if the Cardinals come back, there’s no way we lose Game Seven.” During the postgame interviews Berkman was asked what he was thinking in that spot. “Nothing,” he said. “That’s what you’ve got to do in that situation…Clear your head and look for a pitch to hit.”
Meanwhile, it certainly was a great game, maybe in the top 10 all-time, but I can’t put it up there with ’08 Cubs-Giants, ’51 Giants-Dodgers, or ’60 Pirates-Yankees, or several lesser-known contests, for the simple reason that the Selig-Era playoffs, however enjoyable, are strictly non-organic, manufactured drama. Also, this was a lousy game for the first five innings, well on its way to resembling the 15-14 Toronto-Phillies debacle of ’93.
ernaga - October 28, 2011
"clear the Mechanism"
epsilon - October 28, 2011
I followed the first seven innings or so on my phone...
…and then watched the rest of the game on TV. I guess I’ll leave it up to the baseball historians to decide whether this was one of the greatest World Series games of all time — but it had to be one of the most entertaining. I’ve been rooting for the Rangers all the way — not just because of the Cardinals thing, but also because they’ve turned their franchise around in a way I hope the Cubs will in the next few years. I really do sympathize with Rangers fans and, yeah, I’ve got to give huge props to the Cardinals for what they did. It looks like David Freese is going to be a thorn in our side for years to come.
daver - October 28, 2011
If he stays healthy.
That seems to be Freese’s biggest problem.
rlpete - October 28, 2011
He does remind me a bit of David Wright...
…who’s run into injury problems (not that I’m wishing for that, cuz dat’s not how I roll).
daver - October 28, 2011
Freese is the bottom line of value in a classic Cardinals deal thread...
Adam Kennedy for six years of Hall of Fame-caliber play from Jim Edmonds, then Edmonds to the Pads for Freese. Through a half-dozen GM’s, the Cards have made bad deals only when Gussie Busch got involved, e.g., Steve Carlton for Rick Wise, Jerry Reuss for Scipio Spinks. Even when Whitey Herzog dumped stars in their prime like Hernandez, Simmons, and Templeton, the net result was a better team.
ernaga - October 28, 2011
Yeah, I was disappointed that the Cardinals snatched victory from the jaws of defeat...
But as a fan of the game…that had to be the most exciting World Series game ever!
A few observations.
1. The Cardinals really know how to take pitches and walks!
2. Guys like Freese and Berkman must have ice-water in their veins.
3. I think “Wash” mishandled his bullpen in the last 4 innings.
4. After playing it straight most of the game, McCarver and Buck went into a total Cardinal love-fest the last 4 innings!
5. Cardinals bullpen is built on guys who can ALL bring the 90+ heat.
6. Very few, if any, poor at-bats for either team (in contrast to Cub at-bats this past year).
7. Texas really needs to develop a bench (their lack of scrappy players is hurting them).
CubFanSince1970 - October 28, 2011
The series has been tainted since the cancellation of Wednesday's game
which should have been played. You simply don’t cancel a game if there is less than a 25% chance of rain 1 hour after its scheduled time unless there were problems with the field. Sure, it would have been wet, but I heard of no such issues.
jerry morales rules - October 28, 2011
Really?
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
Oh, please.
FWIW, many of the greatest WS games (1975 game 6, 1962 game 7) were played after rainouts.
What’s the big deal? The teams had to wait one freaking day and you call it “tainted”? Nonsense.
Al Yellon - October 28, 2011
It's tainted because it introduced the Cardinals best pitcher
back into the fold. He should have been done after game 5 with the exception of an inning or two last night. But now he gets another start.
I wouldn’t have this opinion if the chances for rain were 50% or better. But they weren’t and I highly suspect that MLB’s real motivation was to try to get Thursday/Friday night ratings instead of Wednesday/Thursday.
jerry morales rules - October 28, 2011
You are reading a bit much into it there....
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
Friday night ratings?
There basically are no friday night ratings. It’s the spot television shows go to die because generally, people don’t watch tv on Fridays. Especially the coveted 18-40 advertisers demographic.
I don’t think ratings concerns had much of anything to do with the decision.
Gibbon Jockey - October 28, 2011
For sure that's correct in regards to weekly network programming
but I’m not sure that’s accurate for one-time ad-hoc programming of this nature. On Wednesday, MLB is going up against some solid programming and on Friday, as you wrote, it isn’t.
MLB has little to compete with tonite. i suspect the ratings will be outstanding.
jerry morales rules - October 28, 2011
But that could be because of Game 7 not because it is now Friday.
rlpete - October 28, 2011
I think both factors help
It’s not an either/or.
jerry morales rules - October 28, 2011
yabbut, Carp's already pitched once on short-rest this postseason...
…and got lit up pretty well, IIRC.
Now if Bud had delayed it twice (thus getting Carp on full rest for G7), then you might not be needing the tin-foil so much.
ballhawk - October 28, 2011
My point wasn't that MLB did it to improve StL chances
Regardless of who it benefited (and I think that may be determined tonite if Carp gets lit up or if he has a great game), it did change the dynamics of the series. And for no good reason. There was a better than 3 – 1 chance that the game would be played without interruption after a short (less than an hour) delay. That information was available mid-afternoon when they made the decision to cancel.
jerry morales rules - October 28, 2011
With a one-hour delay, last night's game would have been over at 2AM EST
I know it went into extras, but I’m just saying – any delay upsets their fragile prime time viewing window for all 4 time zones.
Wreckard - October 28, 2011
That's true
But you play the game when it’s scheduled. The expectation of TV ratings should not be a determining factor once the schedule had been set.
jerry morales rules - October 28, 2011
It wasn't.
They postponed it because of the possibility of delays and the thought the game might have to be suspended. No one wanted to do that.
Al Yellon - October 28, 2011
It was an unlikely possibility
with less than a 25% chance of occurring. Quite simply, that’s not enough of a probability to cancel a game.
If it was 50% or better, yes, the game should have been cancelled. Had it been between 25 and 50 I would have strongly considered it. But less than 25% is not a good reason to cancel a game.
jerry morales rules - October 28, 2011
I give the Rangers about a 10% chance of winning...
IMO…they have to take the mindset that everybody expects us to lose, might as well prove them wrong. The stros were able to overcome the Pujols homer 2005 but they also have Oswalt going that night.
IMO…the plays of the game…1st and 3rd and nobody out in the top of the 1st with a struggling pitcher and your 4 and 5 hitters strike out. Putting the ball in play probably plates that run and this “greatest” game talk never happens.
TheRiot Police - October 28, 2011
I think 10% is low
but the Cardinals certainly have the upper hand thankds in much part to Carpenter being able to start because of the cancellation of a game that shouldn’t have been cancelled.
I’d give it more 70 – 30 in favor of StL.
jerry morales rules - October 28, 2011
Buck's father booted
from CBS baseball because the idiot columnist Rudy Martzke kept writing he gave a radio call…he was one of the best. I don’t love Joe B. but he has knack for picking up small, important details in a game. Go Cards; I think this is one of their best teams (excluding starting pitching and they’d be unbeatable with Wainwright).
QuincyCub - October 28, 2011
Jack was great, even in the way he'd call an out on an easy popup before the catch was made.
It was the announcer’s equivalent of Willie or Rickey showboating on an easy fly ball. I don’t know if any of them ever were guilty of a missed catch or call – only our own Fonzi would be so inept or unlucky.
ernaga - October 28, 2011
I think there's an important lesson about the value of managers here
…specifically that they are massively overrated, and you obviously don’t need a great tactician to get to the world series.
The sheer number of hilariously bad decisions and overmanaging should make it clear that a great manager isn’t needed to get here, it’s all about having great players. It’s almost like each manager is trying to do whatever they can to make their teams lose, and it’s only their players that are keeping them from doing so.
And just to be clear: I’m not saying that they’re bad managers. Like I’ve said a million times before, most of what a manager does is off the field. Because if you were judging them by the thing that we do see – their on-field decisions – they’ve both been objectively terrible.
Wreckard - October 28, 2011
I agree with you.
There’s been a TON of overmanaging in this series — as well as UNDERmanaging; making decisions when none were needed, and also making wrong ones when the right ones were obvious.
Al Yellon - October 28, 2011
I hate to admit this
But I was actually starting to root for the Cardinals by the 8th inning. Any team that can come from behind like they did last night and provide such a memorable game I’ll rally with.
Plus hey, I was always in the minority of being a Theriot fan…I guess part of me would be happy for him to get a World Series ring…I know that was the only reason I rooted for the Yankees last year (Wood pitching).
ak123 - October 28, 2011
The only thing I liked about Theriot is the sports fan in me appreciated what he said when he said the coolest thing of being a sports star and the money was taking hid dad and grandpa to see their Saints in the Super Bowl.
puckishcubsfan - October 28, 2011
I still far prefer 1975
which is still my favorite game ever. From Fred Lynn crashing into the wall and not moving to
Fisk’s incredible walk offf, it was like nothing else. last night was great, but too sloppy to be anywhere near as great as 1975. I do hope they have the same final outcome though
Doggie Stalker - October 28, 2011
And if memory serves...
The Reds came back to win a squeaker Game 7 one night after having their hearts ripped out.
Gibbon Jockey - October 28, 2011
Yep
Supposedly after Game 6, Sparky is walking back to clubhouse, muttering, cursing, mumbling in disbelief, head down, depressed, crestfallen, devastated, etc. etc. when Pete Rose comes up, throws an arm around Sparky’s shoulder and says (and I’m paraphrasing all this)…
Say what you want about Pete – just not here ;-) – but the guy did enjoy playing the game, no matter what.
ballhawk - October 28, 2011
You left out the part where Rose had $100K on the Reds.
Rick B - October 28, 2011
I thought he had it on the Sawks
LT - October 28, 2011
That's one reason why the '75-'76 Reds may be the greatest NL team of all-time.
ernaga - October 28, 2011
Agreed
DebT - October 28, 2011
'75 Game 6 certainly is top 5 all time...
For those who watched, almost every play of the last five innings remains memorable, from Carbo to Doyle, Foster, Morgan, Evans and Fisk. It truly was the last great contest before free agency, multi-level playoffs, and interleague play changed baseball forever.
What made it even better was the presence of two great, evenly-matched teams representing baseball towns and classic franchises that had not won for decades. It had all the ingredients for greatness, including memorable WS games immediately before and after Game 6.
ernaga - October 28, 2011
Doyle I remember
He thought they were yelling “go go” when he was third and they were yelling “no no” before he was caught out at the plate. I also remember that Carbo was so nuts he bought a separate seat for his stuffed teddy bear on flights.
Doggie Stalker - October 28, 2011
I agree.
I thought last night was a very sloppy game overall.
Game 6 – 1975 is my favorite also. Even though I was rooting for the Reds in the series, the Red Sox showed attitude.
DebT - October 28, 2011
Well said, Al. Great game.
Mapanator - October 28, 2011
Book it. The Cardinals will win tonight.
The same thing that happened to the 1985 Cardinals, 1986 Angels, 1986 Red Sox, 2002 Giants, and 2003 Cubs – so close to winning a series, then having it ripped away in spectacular fashion – it’s going to happen to the Rangers tonight. The Cardinals are going to win the World Series.
Oh – and you read it on BCB first, a month ago:
http://www.bleedcubbieblue.com/2011/9/27/2443211/first-pitch-thread-cubs-vs-padres-tuesday-9-27-9-05-ct#78647571
Jody Jody Davis - October 28, 2011
Well it's about time historians can say
1 out away instead of 5 outs away from winning. And for that I thank the Texas Rangers.
ak123 - October 28, 2011
Rec'd
San Diego Smooth Jazz Man - October 28, 2011
Some Card fan friend I have on facebook
Cubbiegoon - October 28, 2011
Was he wrong?
Did you see that heart in 2007 or 2008 or even 2003?
ak123 - October 28, 2011
I am so sick of hearing people questioning a players or teams heart because they did or didn’t perform.
It’s the same crock that people say the Bears won the super bowl because Ditka had fire and passion.
I’ve seen a lot of lousy teams with “heart”
They simply scored runs.
puckishcubsfan - October 28, 2011
You have to admit
that after Demps gives up the slam in Game 1 in 2008, the Cubs looked like a different team. No swagger, just squeezing their bats into sawdust. Don’t know if “heart” is teh correct term, but maybe confidence is?
BigJohnAZ - October 28, 2011
That shows you how quickly things can change in a playoff game.
Dempster came very close to striking Loney out. If he does, it goes to the sixth with the Cubs leading 2-0 and probably a reliever in the game. Maybe the Cubs win it and it’s a different series.
Instead, all the air gets sucked out of the park and it became “oh no, here we go again”.
Al Yellon - October 28, 2011
I do think there is something to it.
The Cardinals could have easily lost that game. They just never gave up. Call it heart, composure under fire or whatever you want, the Cardinals had it.
rlpete - October 28, 2011
I don't know if this has anything to do with "heart"
But twice last night, the Cardinals did overcame two-run deficits when down to their last out to win. Just for kicks, I did some research and it looks like the last time the Cubs won a postseason game in which they trailed by two runs at any point in the game, Three-Finger Brown was the winning pitcher and Chief Bender was the losing pitcher:
http://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/CHN/CHN191010220.shtml
Jody Jody Davis - October 28, 2011
You are implying than
that the Rangers gave up. Or that the Cardinals gave up in Game 2, 4, and 5. I like to think of it as the Cardinals executed on every opportunity last night and the Rangers did not. The Rangers did not try to fail…they just happened to do it.
TheRiot Police - October 28, 2011
Neither team gave up last night
Cardinals just outplayed the Rangers. It was a great game.
ak123 - October 28, 2011
That isn't what I'm implying.
rlpete - October 28, 2011
The Rangers didn't give up
their bullpen imploded.
San Diego Smooth Jazz Man - October 28, 2011
No I did not....The Cubs do not have the same drive....Maybe that will change with a new direction and staff.
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
lol OK ...
lexmarklover - October 28, 2011
I fell asleep at 1000 last night because I had to get up early this morning.
Woke up expecting to see my Rangers fan friends in an internet group posting in our Let’s Celebrate board. But saw it was the Cardinals fans posting. Couldn’t believe it.
GO Rangers tonight! But I feel they are doomed.
puckishcubsfan - October 28, 2011
T
The last few days of the regular season and a big part of the postseason have been great.
puckishcubsfan - October 28, 2011
This season shows that
once you knock the “big boys” out (Yankees/Red Sox/Phillies) it’s anybody’s to win. I was predicting a Red Sox/Phillies WS in June. As they say, that’s why they play the games!
BigJohnAZ - October 28, 2011
I think the Cards will win the deciding 7th game tonight.
Carpenter will look like Cy Young on short rest, going all the way. The ‘big boys’ (Pujols, Holliday and Berkman) will come out swinging and the Cards will destroy the Rangers in a lop-sided game before the home crowd.
DebT - October 28, 2011
I sure hope you're wrong.
BTW, if anyone wants to watch the game again, it’s on MLB Network at noon Central time.
Al Yellon - October 28, 2011
Well...
I hope I’m wrong too, but it’s hard to stop momentum and the home-town crowd.
And seeing the game once was enough for me, thank you.
DebT - October 28, 2011
I listened to the game
on the radio last night. ESPN, Orel hershiser, Bobby V and the other guy lol anyway I thougt thier calling of the game was great and it was definitely one for the ages. Now just hope the Rangers can come back from this but I got my doubts.
iowacubfan69 - October 28, 2011
I like Hershiser as an analyst.
rlpete - October 28, 2011
rest assured
i’ll find a way to blame theriot for this
jesus christos - October 28, 2011
You did have that poopy swing in the 9th.
lexmarklover - October 28, 2011
Don't forget Theriot's gritty RBI groundout in the 10th.
Jody Jody Davis - October 28, 2011
Soriano would have come through
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
Judas likes this
ballhawk - October 28, 2011
The Baseball Gods seem intent...
…on perpetrating the classic prank of having Mike Fontenot and Ryan Theriot both face nontender status wearing World Series rings.
daver - October 28, 2011
Fontenot got his without even playing in a game.
Al Yellon - October 28, 2011
Speaking of getting a ring without playing in a game
Corey Patterson’s going to get one too.
Jody Jody Davis - October 28, 2011
Yet Ernie Banks and Andre Dawson do not....
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
I'll guarantee...
…if Joe Buck was from Chicago, everyone would think he is the greatest thing since sliced bread.
IMO, he is a very good professional announcer, regardless of whether he comes from St. Louis.
MPH73 - October 28, 2011
a little arrogant sure
but people are reading way too much into his loyalties
Mapmaker - October 28, 2011
Wrong. Chip Caray was a Cubs announcer and most Cubs fans would tell you that he wasn't very good.
jeffmills1972 - October 28, 2011
I think Tim McCarver brings Joe Buck WAY down
I’d like to hear Buck n Brenly do the Series.
Easy Ed - October 28, 2011
I don't have a huge problem with Buck.
I’ve heard worse, and better. Just don’t ever let Fox replace him with Thom Brennaman.
Al Yellon - October 28, 2011
I couldn’t agree more Al. Replacing Thom with Pat Hughes is the biggest Cubs upgrade of all time even more so maybe than Theo over Hendry!
puckishcubsfan - October 28, 2011
I agree in some ways. Hes better at football but that could be Aikman over McCarver as well.
puckishcubsfan - October 28, 2011
If we could some how dub Vin Scully's voice into this game...
…I’d rate it:
1a) Game 6 2011
1b) Game 6 1991
Easy Ed - October 28, 2011
Game 6 in 1991 over Game 7?
Both were great but a 1-0 10 inning game in the deciding game can’t be beat IMO.
rlpete - October 28, 2011
I'm just now watching game 6 - I am so ••••ing jealous!
eths - October 28, 2011 via iPhone app
The last 8 game sevens were won by the home team. Take it for what it is worth.
Rick B - October 28, 2011
And from 1952-68
… visiting teams won 9 of 11 game 7’s.
Total anomaly for the last eight.
Al Yellon - October 28, 2011
Silly argument
During that stretch (1952-68), four of the times the visiting team won Game 7, it was the Yankees, when they dominated baseball.
Three other times, the visiting team had either Gibson (twice) or Koufax pitching in Game 7.
So that’s 7 of the 9 times that the visiting team had an undeniable advantage going into Game 7.
azjazzman - October 28, 2011
I haven't looked
… but maybe those eight who won in the last 30 years had some “undeniable advantage”, too.
These two teams are pretty evenly matched. Either team could win.
Al Yellon - October 28, 2011
They are not evenly matched
when you factor in who each team has pitching tonight. The Rangers having to use Derek Holland last night means advantage Cardinals.
azjazzman - October 28, 2011
I'm sure Holland is available tonight.
Every pitcher on both staffs should be.
Al Yellon - October 28, 2011
Did anyone else think that the ball Freese hit in the 9th to tie it...
…coulda been caught by a decent right fielder? Cruz looked really slow on that.
Easy Ed - October 28, 2011
Yes.
Cruz may have been hurt. He left the game later with an injury.
Al Yellon - October 28, 2011
If the Rangers lose tonight...
…I wonder whether their fans will turn Cruz into their Bill Buckner. I hope not.
daver - October 28, 2011
I doubt it.
That play didn’t lose the game.
Al Yellon - October 28, 2011
No but it would have won the game
Wreckard - October 28, 2011
True.
Still a bit different than the Buckner play.
Al Yellon - October 28, 2011
That was a much harder play for Cruz.........Buckners was a simple groundball..
They are not really comparable.
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
Even if it did, like in 1986 the Red Sox had game 7 to win the Rangers do too.
puckishcubsfan - October 28, 2011
Cruz was injured during his at bat in the 11th inning
As Harold Reynolds pointed out on MLB Network, the triple by Freese was a line shot that was over Cruz’ head. It was not a fly ball. I doubt anybody outside of Chris Young gets to that ball, let alone catches it.
azjazzman - October 28, 2011
I thought so.
He seemed to get a bad jump on it and, IIRC, the ball didn’t land in an out-of-reach spot on the wall. Imagine if he’d made a spectacular catch to end the game and win the championship.
daver - October 28, 2011
Yep
He drifted back instead of running all out and then jumped way too soon. He still had several feet before the wall. Which makes me wonder…
Is the warning track width (or depth depending on your perspective) uniform throughout MLB? Seems like it ought to be but with so many different outfield wall configurations, I don’t know that it is.
ballhawk - October 28, 2011
Yes
Three mistakes on that play. One, he didn’t take a good angle on the ball. Two, he didn’t seem to be going with 100% hustle towards the spot where the ball would come down. Three, he got too close to the wall when it did hit. Had he played it off the wall without it getting by him, he may have held Berkman at 3B or got him at home.
jerry morales rules - October 28, 2011
Theriot leading off playin 2b tonight
Hammer - October 28, 2011
Excellent!
The only thing better than watching a Cardinals win in Game 7 of the World Series?
Watching Ryan Theriot playing a key role in a Cardinals win in Game 7 of the World Series.
Jody Jody Davis - October 28, 2011
Fixed that for you.
Al Yellon - October 28, 2011
Disagree....I hope the Cardinals win
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
Part of me says you get your opinion
part of me says go to the Viva El Birdos and hang out with all the other Cardinal fans. And While I have no hatred for Theriot, I do hope he helps them lose.
jpeters407 - October 28, 2011
I like the way the Cardinals play....I can enjoy watching the World Series....Is it a problem that it is a Cub rival?
Its not like The Cubs have played in a month….
I hope tonights game is thrilling like last night.
If the cardinals win I hope the Cubs players are watching.
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
If the Rangers win, the Cubs players should watch that, too.
Al Yellon - October 28, 2011
Either way....Thats what the goal should be.....It was not last year.
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
You are blowing your cover
It all makes sense now. You are a Cards fan here trolling us all this time. Amazing!!
LT - October 28, 2011
Yeah...you have figured me out.....
For what its worth the only team i cant root for at ALL is the White Sox….I just cant handle that….
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
I would pull for the White Sox over the Cardinals
but I don’t know if I could actually watch that series.
LT - October 28, 2011
I can't pull for either
I’ve lived downstate long enough to dislike the Cardinals more, but the White Sox drive me crazy too — mostly because of their fans. Cards fans drive me crazy, too, but for a different reason.
Not Bruce Froemming - October 28, 2011
--
“What does this post have to do with the Sox!!”
Crawdad
Hammer - October 28, 2011
But what if they played like the Cardinals?
Would you then root for the White Sox. I suppose to each their own.
jpeters407 - October 28, 2011
Nah, there is a limit
TJ11 - October 28, 2011
Does anyone else want to punch Chris Rose in the nose??
that guy is a giant idiot
Hammer - October 28, 2011
You must Login with your SB Nation account and be a member of Bleed Cubbie Blue to post a comment.