World Fucking Champions

I love you Chase. I will have full video of the prade passing me right on Broad between Sansom and Walnut.

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Harry with Video

Top Nine of World Series Game Five
by dano609

Thank you, 700 Level!

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....And Many More

Sitting on the edge of my couch I watch as Brad Lidge had a man on second with 2 outs. Up to the plate steps Eric Hinske. First pitch slider was fouled off. The second pitch was also a slider and was swung at. With the slider workinf twice, Lidge decided to go with it one more time. Hinske couldn't touch it and at that moment, a lot happened.

Lidge fell to his knees, Carlos Ruiz rushed him, Ryan Howard completely flattened him, and 50,000 people in attendance at CBP got on their feet and cheered. thousands of others rejoiced around the country as their Phillies did what teams before them couldn't do and that was win the World Series.

I sat there, staring at the TV. My roomate, who doesn't like baseball that much was watching with me and rambling on and on. I turned to him and told him to shut up as a soaked in the glory of finally watching a team and city I followed for 15 years finally win.

But like the Philadelphia fan I am, I am not satisfied. I am hungrier than ever for more success. This team found the right formula to win and this team can only get better. I want more victories. I want more rings. I want Pat Gillick to stay in Philadelphia and get us the players needed to be a dynasty. That's right people. I said that word that we label New York and Boston with. Their time is up. It's our turn and we will not let go.

But it's not just the Phillies. The Flyers found something last year and need one more good blue-liner to go over the top. The Sixers found it too and they are gonna make us proud soon too. The Eagles have an idea but still need some more pieces. Could '08 truly be the same is '80? Will we see three more teams go the distance? It's possible but work needs to be done. The Eagles found that winning formula last week, the Flyers are on a 3 game tear, and the Sixers found a big puzzle piece this off season in Elton Brand.

I want to thank Gillick, Charlie Manuel for being the kind of manager that this team needed to succeed, Ed Wade for the core of players who made this possible, and to Ed Montgomery in some way for being the signer of the checks of everyone who was involved.

So I sit here, satisfied but hungry, waiting for the next guarentee Jimmy Rollins has to offer. In the mean time, I'll have to wait and watch what the Eagles, Flyers, and Sixers have to offer as the follow up act to the Phillies.

This is our team, our city, our dream. Philly is the next Title Town.

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You Just Gotta Believe!

Can you believe it? I will remember October 29th, 2008 for the rest of my life. We have a champion in Philadelphia and it was definitely worth the wait. A little over 25 years and we are finally returning to the top of one of the 4 major sports. Is Philadelphia the new title town? Did the Soul break the "curse"? The last two championships handed out have come by the way of the Arena Bowl and the World Series. The last two titles have found their home in Philadelphia.

How good does it feel? For my generation, those 25 and younger, we have finally felt how good it feels to be coined the best. We as a city finally did it. The players deserve all, or most, of the credit, but we as fans gave the home-field advantage that only increased the intensity for the opposing team. We as a city, finally got over the dirty, rotten hump. Thank you so much Phillies. You conquered your dream and all of ours. Thank you Charlie and Pat. Whenever we doubted you, you stuck by your instincts and got the job done. We're sorry.

The guarantees: Last year, Jimmy Rollins claimed the Phillies to be the team to beat in the NL East. This year, Rollins predicted that the team could win 100 games. Sorry J-Roll, you won 103! There was a guarantee that went under the radar and was rather forgotten. Two years ago, when the Phillies traded Bobby Abreu, Pat Gillick predicted that the Phillies were two years away from contending for a title. Well, his prediction held up. 4 moves that Gillick made this year paid off last night. First, Geoff Jenkins lead off the bottom of the 6th with a pinch-hit double. Later Eric Bruntlett scored his 2nd game-winning run after he pinch-ran for Pat Burrell and was knocked in by a Pedro Feliz single. Lastly, the perfectionist, Brad Lidge, closed out the World Series and sent the city in euphoria. Even if Gillick's additions at some rough times, they stepped up huge when we needed them the most. Signing great talents are always good, but with each talented player, it is character that takes you even farther.

Wow, Pat the Bat! He struggled somewhat this postseason, but when the Phillies truly need him to hit, he came through. He belted 2 home runs in the clinching game aginst the Brewers. Against the Dodgers, he completed the Phillies comeback home run in the Bottom of the 6th. Lastly, to help win our first World Series in 28 years, he lead off the bottom o the 7th with a double that only the wind kept in the park. It was his first hit in the World Series and probably the most memorable hit of his creer. Pat Burrell, you are Philadelphia.

A special thanks goes out to Ed Wade and Mike Arbuckle. Arbuckle is still with us, but Ed Wade also helped put the core of this team together. Outside of Pat Burrell and Jimmy Rollins he was part of the staff that drafted Ryan Howard, Chase Utley, Cole Hamels, and Ryan Madson. He also signed Carlos Ruiz and picked up Shane Victorino in the rule 5 draft. He made plenty of questionable moves during his reign as Phillies GM, but he and Arbuckle did help build the core. Most importantly, we have to thank him for accepting Michael Borun as the main piece of the package for Brad Lidge and Eric Bruntlett.

Speaking of Brad Lidge, he was just spectacular all year long. Including the postseason, he saves 48 games in 48 opportunities. In the first game of the year, Lidge was on the DL, and Tom Gordon blew the Phillies' comeback. Many of us thought we were heading down the same road as the past. A weekend later, Lidge returned to the closer role and shut down every team he faced in the ninth. The Phillies were perfect with a lead after 8 all year. Something that cannot be said about our foes in New York. Something that can be said about the World Champions!

Throughout the coming weeks, I will be profiling each of the Phillies players that made a difference this season.

How sweet it is! We are champions of the World!

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The Greatest Feeling of Our Lives

We've waited 25 years for this. Doesn't it feel great? Of course it does. We have our ups & downs with our sports teams, but this is the pinnacle.

One of the last times I wrote about the Phillies was early September, when I gave my inaugural 'State of the City' address. The Phillies had just lost to the lowly Nationals and were falling behind the Mets. I honestly thought that we would finish behind the Mets. Fortunately, I was wrong. This team showed that it had the heart, unlike our rivals in New York. We all know how the story ends.

I feel lucky right now, I really do. I've suffered through four championships that our teams lost in (plus two others, but I was too young to remember), each team losing once. I got to see this Phillies team eight times this year, through their highs and lows, exciting moments and disappointments. From Tom Gordon blowing opening day, to Brad Lidge saving World Series game 5, we've been through alot this year.

Was there really a curse of William Penn? Maybe. But that's a moot point right now. Your 2008 Philadelphia Phillies are World Champions. As someone who has a tradition of going to Opening Day, this will be one to not miss. Can the Phillies repeat in 2009? Sure. But right now, I'm going to take the time and savor this one, because, well, it might never happen again.

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Update 10/30

Let me just start off with saying: The Phillies have won the World Series! Now that that is out of my system, I can go on with a few updates, tidbits, and whatever comes to mind. Justin will recap the game and all of us will write a column on how we feel about this moment.

Phillies: If you don't know, stop reading. Brad Lidge stayed perfect for the entire season, Jamie Moyer got his first ring after 25 years of service, Cole Hamels was the MVP of the series, and the Phillies broke their 28 year drought and the city's 25 year drought.

And most importantly: PARADE IS HALLOWEEN AT NOON! It starts on 20th & Market Street down past city hall and will end at the stadium with the big celebration!

Sixers: They lost their season opener on a day that they were completely forgotten. The Raptors beat the Sixers 95-84. Lou Williams scored 16 points, Andre Iguodala added 15, Elton Brand had 14 points and 13 rebounds in his Sixers debut and Sammy Dalembert pulled down 17 rebounds. Andre Miller had 13 points.

Flyers: The Flyers will hope to continue their hot streak as they play the Islanders home at 7pm.

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Harry on the Call!

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WORLD SERIES CHAMPIONS

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Flyers Nail the PAT

The Flyers have found the winning way. Last night, they won their 11th straight game over the Atlanta Thrashers, 7-0. It was their third straight win on the season. When the Flyers scored their 7th goal, the Trashers announcers exclaimed, "And the extra point is up and gooood!" Lupul, Gagne, and Knuble each scored 2 goals. The Flyers power play struggled a little bit to start the season, but they're really starting to click now after scoring 3 power play goals last night.

Antero Niittymaki continues his dominance over Kari Lehtonen. Niittymaki has never lost a game to his fellow countryman Lehtonen. The win was the Flyers first shut out this seson. Whenever the defense faltered, Niittymaki made the save look easy. Since his recent hip surgery, Niittymaki has looked incredibly fluid from side to side. Also, his glove has looked better than ever. Sure, his number may not show it, but Niittymaki looks to be in 2006 Olympic form.

Lastly, the Flyers penalty kill unit looked much better. They also scored their 6th shorty of the year. They could hae hd their 7th, nbut Lehtonen stopped a Mike Richards penalty shot.

It was an all-around dominant peformance by the Flyers. Each line played well in their own zone for the first time all year. Luca Sbisa continued to impress and notches 2 assists last night. He's been great for us, but I hope his development doesn't stall.

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Sixers Open 2008-2009 Season

Tonight, well the Sixers game is already underway (21-18 us after 1), but they are opening the season at home against the Raptors. There are a lot of expectations for the club. With Elton Brand, this is the first time that Sixers will have a dominant power forward since Charles Barkley. Elton Brand will also help defend the paint with Samuel Dalembert.

The addition of Brand is great, but I'm not sure that alone is what will carry the Sixers farther in the postseason. Bench depth! The Sixers will have a very good rotation this season, which will allow for Iguodala, Miller, and Brand to get more rest to last for a good playoff run. Currently, their bench looks like this: Lou Williams, Willie Green, Theo Ratliff, Donyell Marshall, Kareem Rush, Reggie Evans, and the rookie Marreese Speights. The Sixers look to be 12 deep! Williams and Green could start for a number of teams. Ratliff, Marshall, and Evans all started in their younger days. Rush can come off the bench and shoot. Speights has looked good in the preseason and could find himself sliding up the depth chart. All of this without second-year forward Jason Smith.

Expect a big year from Thaddeus Young. So far, Young looks like a mid-round steal and he played out of position. Now, he can return back to the "3" position and defending guys smaller than him. He has also improved his jump shot which should help the Sixers shooting woes at time tremendously.

Lastly, the big question is if Iguodala's game will improve even more. Iguodala earned a huge deal this offseason. Will the pressure of his new deal affect his game? I doubt it ad I'd expect his game to improve even more with the addition of Elton Brand. Brand should be able to open up better looks for Miller, Iguodala, and Young.

Go out and watch the Sixers. They're coming off a playoff berth for the first time in a few years. They have done everything to improve this offseason Run with them!

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The News Room: 10/28

Lidge named Delivery Man of the YearYesterday, before the madness, Brad Lidge was named the DHL Delivery man of the year. The award is given to who MLB feels is the most outstanding relief pitcher in the regular season. Lidge finished the regular season with a 2-0 record, 1.95 ERA, and he saved 41 games in 41 chances. He was phenomenal for us all season long and he exceeded the expecations of everyone, except himself. He knew he could get back to his former self and that is just what he did. Earlier this season, the Phillies rewarded him with a contract extension.

Rookie Sbisa to stay with the Flyers
If you don't know about the NHL rules, any player who is signed to an entry-level contract can play up to 9 games before they count against the salary for the entire season. At some point, Sbisa could still be sent back down to Juniors, but he will count as one of the Flyers' 50 contracts.

Anyway, Paul Holmgren announced today that Luca Sbisa will remain with the Flyers for the foreseeable future. Sbisa has been one of the Flyers better defenseman during the young season. [Daily News]

Sixers Season Opener Pushed to 6PM
The Sixers have pushed their 2008-2009 season opener to 6pm to allow fans to be able to watch the ending to game 5 of the World Series (if it happens). Also, all fans going to the game will receive Sixers rally towels upon entering the game. Also, when you leave, don't forget to pick up your schedule magnet. Go Sixers.

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Game 5 Postponed Until Wednesday

ESPN is reporting that World Series Game 5 is now postponed until Wednesday night at the earliest. Let me reiterate, everyone outside of Major League Baseball knew that it would rain and be freezing last night. WHY NOT PUSH THE GAME UP?

I'm really just speechless right now.

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More on MLB's Failure

During the entire top half of the 6th, we had to hear Joe Buck gargle Rays semen when he was mentioning how the rain effects their running game. However, he failed to meantion how terrible it is for Cole to pitch out there and how tough it is for the defense. Oh wait, the PHILLIES run a lot too. In fact, they're the most effective base-stealing team in baseball.

The biggest problem that I have is why the game was not suspended after 5. No one in Philadelphia wants to win cheap. The game should have been resumed in the the top of the 6th, so both teams had a fair opportunity OFFENSIVELY and DEFENSIVELY to complete the game. Since the top of the sixth was played, the Phillies should have been able to bat in the bottom of the sixth while the Rays had to play in that shit.

I really don't know how Bud Selig could say it was fair. Also, I don't think the Rays scoring truly lead to the suspension because it looked like there were plans to call it before that inning was even completed. However, if that was the case, why not suspend it at 5? Cole Hamels was forced to throw all fastball because his curveball and change-up were completely ineffective with the wind and rain.

I'm not mad about the suspension at all. Shit happens, it's mother nature. I'm just upset at when the umpires that the game should be suspended as if the weather drastically changed going from the 5th to the 6th and after a half inning.

Major League Baseball continues to try and improve ratings after the strike, but Bud Selig continues to proove that he is a failure at his job and he needs to leave as soon as possible.

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Game 5 Suspended

Game 5 has been suspended, nicely after the Rays tied the game up @ 2. The game is suspended until 8 pm tomorrow at the earliest. We'll see what happens. Hold on to your tickets if you have them because you'll need them to return to the stadium whenever the game continues.

If Pena had not tied it, Selig said he would not have let the Phillies win with a game that was called after six innings.

''It's not a way to end a World Series,'' he said. ''I would not have allowed a World Series to end this way.''

Ugh, so why not suspend it after 5? Why make one team go out and pitch in that mess? Bud Selig is such an epic failure. MLB is continually an epic fail.

They knew the rain was coming. MLB should have moved the game up earlier in the night. This is why you don't start games @ 8:35 in the Northeast. MLB does not need to rely on TV ratings that much. A 7pm start would not lower the ratings by much. 5:35 is still part of rush hour on the west coast.

Either way, you still gotta believe!

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You Gotta Believe!

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Monday Morning Quarterback

The Eagles looked sharp coming out of the bye on Sunday, beating the Atlanta Falcons 27-14 in Philadelphia. On a weekend filled with Philadelphia dominance (the Flyers home and home sweep of NJ, the Phillies Saturday/Sunday WS wins, and Penn State kicking OSU's ass), the Eagles let the city know that, "Hey! We exist too!"

Offense:
Brian Westbrook was amazing in this game. He showed that he is completely healthy now and just as dangerous as he has ever been. He couldn't be touched most of the game. Westbrook finished the day with 167 yards rushing on only 22 carries with 2 TDs. He also added 6 catches for 42 yards.

Donovan McNabb was solid as well, completing 19/34 for 253 yards and no TDs. He also ran the ball 6 times for 25 yards, including a 12 yard scamper and a 3 yard QB draw for a TD.

Kevin Curtis made his season debut with 3 catches for 45 yards. He is slowly starting to get up to speed with play and soon will make this receiving corps very dangerous for McNabb. DeSean Jackson continued his good play as he 3 passes for 72 yards.

Grade: B+

Defense:
The unit was good again. They held Michael Turner to 58 yards on 17 carries. One of those runs was 22 yards, their only mistake. The held the Falcons to 77 total yards on the ground. They didn't allow Matt Ryan to get into a rhythm at all as they sacked him twice, hit him hard some more, and forced him to throw 2 bad interceptions to Asante Samuel and then Lido Sheppard late in the 4th.

Stewart Bradley played another amazing game as he stuffed Turner on a lot of his runs. Chris Gocong and Darren Howard got the sacks for Philly.

Grade: A

Special Teams:
They played excellent. The return game wasn't that great but Akers kicked 2 field goals and the unit forced Adam Jennings to make a key mistake in the 4th. Details of that will follow. The held the Atlanta returners to an average of 17 yards per KO. and help Jennings to 20 yards on 4 tries. Sav Rocca also pinned Atlanta deep on their 2 with a punt that bounced straight up in the air on the 1.

Grade: A

Eagles best number: 209 (number of yards by Westbrook from scrimmage)

Eagles worst number: 55 (yards of the TD pass from Ryan to Roddy White in the 1st)

Eagles best play: Matt Ryan threw a fade in the end zone to White and Sheppard got in front of White and out jumped him for the interception and touch back.

Eagles worst play: The 55 yard pass to White in the first.

Turning point: After coach Mike Smith called his last time out with 2:30 left to save time, the Eagles punted. Returner Jennings decided at he last second to not catch the ball and it looked like he muffed the punt. The refs ruled it a muff and the Eagles recovered. After replays showed that Jennings did not touch the ball, Smith could not challenge because he spent his last timeout to save 30 seconds. The play did not occur under the 2 minute warning and therefor a bad call gave the game to the Eagles.

3 stars:
Offense: Westbrook
Defense: Sheppard
Special Teams: the coverage unit and Rocca

Eagles play next week 4:15 @ Seattle

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College Football Update 10-27

Penn State Wins in Columbus!
Penn State came from behind late in the fourth to beat Ohio State 13-6. I missed the game (downloading the broadcast now) because I was at Game 3 of the World Series. From everything I've seen, it looked like a great defensive battle. Pat Devlin scored the go-ahead touchdown with a little over 6 minutes left and Kevin Kelly later added a field goal to give the Nittany Lions a 7 point lead. With 30 seconds left, Terrell Pryor threw into triple coverage and Lydell Sergeant made a great interception, staying in bounds to secure the win.

It was a huge win for the Nittany Lions who now improved to 9-0 (5-0 Big 10). With the win, Penn State also inched closer to both Texas and Alabama in the BCS standings. After next weeks bye, Penn State will travel to Iowa before hosting Indiana and Michigan State at home. They have a very good opportunity to run the table and if that happens, they might be playing for a National title. They ended the streak against Michigan. They ended the streak in Columbus. Is this their year?
Here is a good article on the Penn State defense by ESPN's Ivan Maisel.

Temple making a bid for the MAC title game.
Sure, they 3-5 overall, but 2-3 in the Mac Standings. Luckily for them, the MAC East division is terrible. Currently, Akron sits on top, 2-2 in the conference. On Tuesday night, Temple scored 14 4th quarter points to knock off Ohio 14-10.

Temple has been the victim of late comeback wins this year, but they finally notched one of their own. Temple has 3 MAC games left and a very good chance to overtake the East Divison. After traveling to Navy, they will travel to Kent State (2-6), and return home for Eastern Michigan (2-7) and Akron (4-4). After all the tough losses, it'll be huge for Temple to finish the season on a roll. With 4 games left, it'll take at least a 3-1 record to be eligible for a bowl (unless they make the MAC title game with a worse record. Akron's schedule is also easy, so it'll be up to whomever can take care of their own business.

A bowl berth for the Owls will be huge for a University lookin to right the ship.

Don't worry Villanova, your league has playoffs!
Villanova suffered a heart-breaking loss on homecoming. #1 ranked James Madison scored on a 35 yard pass with no time left to defeat the Wildcats at home. Villanova had the opportunity to pin James Madison deep in their own zone, but Joe Marcoux's punt went only 14 yards. With the decent field position, James Madison drove down for the game-winning score.

Don't worry Villanova fans, the chance of a national title are not over. Unless the FBS, your league actually has a playoff system. Villanova may drop in the pools, but it won't be mouch. They gave the top team in the country a good fight and were seconds away from winning.

Keep your head up.

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Big Game Joe!

Joe Blanton, you are my hero. Joe Blanton came out and was dealing. He had great stuff and was able to get ahead in the count more times than not. What may overshadow his great pitching performance was his one swing of the bat. After allowing a solo home run to Eric Hinske, Blanton returned the favor in the bottom of the inning. He blasted a solo home run of his own into the left field seats. It was the first time that a pitcher hit a home run in the World Series since 1974. It was also Blanton's first home run ever. He'll remember this forever.

Back to his pitching, he threw 6+ innings and struck out 7. The only runs he allowed came off 2 solo home runs. Blanton was very efficient and did a great job of getting ground outs when the wind was blowing out. Joe Blanton has stepped up in all 3 of his starts this postseason, giving the Phillies offense an opportunity to win games. The Phillies improved to 12-4 in his starts. Much of improvement since coming over the Phillies has been the increase in his strike-out rate, which was a problem earlier this season in Oakland. His slider was nasty last night.

Uh oh, the sleeping beast has been awoken. Last night, Ryan Howard exploded for 2 home runs and 5 RBIs. In September, Howard showed that he could carry this team. Hopefully, he can carry this team for just one more win. Jimmy Rollins also continued his breakout party going 3-5 with 3 runs scored. When Rollins does score, the Phillies have impressive win-loss record. I have a feeling he'll set the tempo once again tonight.

Last night before the game I was talking with someone and I mentioned with the likes of Blanton and Sonnanstine, I'd expect a high-scoring game. Not necessarily because of their stuff, but because they were both relatively fly ball pitchers this postseason and the wind was blowing out in Citizen's Bank Park. Sonnanstine, lacking overpowering stuff, left his pitches up and the Phillies made him pay. Though it wasn't the best of the Rays bullpen, the Phillies scored 5 runs in 4 innings. All of the runs came because of the long ball.

There's one guy left that needs to join the party and that is Pat Burrell. The longest tenured Phillie is due and I'd expect something big from him tonight. He will not go down without a fight. He has come up with big hits this postseason and I'd expect something great from him during this series.

We're one game away! We're one game away from getting this monkey off our back. We're one game away from being declared the World Champions. This team needs to focus and do the same job they did all year.

We're on the doorstep of history. Make it happen Phils! You Gotta Believe!

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Phillies win Game 4!

The Phillies have just beat Tampa 10-2 in Game 4 of the World Series. Ryan Howard's 2 home run, 5 RBI night was just a sign of the sleeping giant being awoken. Can you fucking feel it right now? We're one win away from being crowned the best team in baseball!

Philly is going to be a mess tomorrow. Check in tomorrow for a full recap of the game! Right now, I need to go out an enjoy this! And here is the rest of it.

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Oh, What a Night!

The first game ever played at Citizen's Bank Park was an epic one. It was a little before 2AM when Carlos Ruiz knocked in the winning run with the bases loaded. Ruiz's swinging bunt went just enough to allow Eric Bruntlett to beat the throw home. The Fightin' Phils won 5-4 and we're now up 2-1 in the World Series. See the excitement in the video I was able to capture below.

Yesterday was such an emotional day for myself and my friends. We were down along the field during the pre-game shows and interviews and we were overcame with a bunch of emotions. As youngsters, we've all drempt about being a professional baseball player playing on the World Series. Our Phillies are living the dream right now and they're making the best of it.

Jamie Moyer was at the parade at 1980. The Phillies were his hometown team. He was a local youngster just like the rest of us. The Phillies are now the team he plays for and there was nothing stopping him from helping the Phillies move closer to a World Series trophy. Jamie was phenomenal last night throwing 6 1/3 innings allowing 3 ER and striking out 5. He likely would have finished the 7th if it had not been for an awful call by the first base umpire. Moyer's performance was just amazing though and everyone knew how bad he felt after his first two starts this postseason. Jamie has had many memorable wins during his tenure here and though he didn't get the win last night, it will probably be the game he will be remembered for the most as a Phillie. He stepped up for us and it was huge. Everyone pegged game 3 as a huge pitching advantage for the Rays. Well, advantage us.


Offensively, it was only due time before Rollins broke out of his slump and he did so early when he started off the game with a single. After a wild pitch that moved Rollins and Werth up a base, Utley grounded out to second to get the run home. The Phillies have an exceptional record when Rollins is on base and scores. Nothing stopped that last night. The Rays would later tie it with an RBI ground-out of their own, but Carlos Ruiz put the Phillies back on top immediately with a solo home run in the bottom of the 2nd. We ragged on Carlos' offense all year, but he's stepping up for us right now. Before every at-bat he was getting a loud ovation last night. Times have changed.

In the bottom of the 6th, the Phillies big combo of Utley and Howard hit back-to-back home runs. It was only due time before Howard joined in on the fun, and here it is from behind section 114.

The Rays later tied it at 4 after some things didn't go our way, but it only set up the epic 9th inning for the Phillies. This is Philly. It will never be easy. JC Romero pitched 1.1 innings and got the win. Often-mouthy Grant Balfour got the loss for the Rays.

Oh...we're back at it tonight!

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Flyers Sweep Home & Home with NJ

The Flyers took game two of their home & home with the New Jersey Devils yesterday, 3-2 in overtime. They had beaten the Devils Friday night in Newark. The Flyers have now won two straight after starting the season 0-3-3. Saturday's game included some fireworks, literally, as a smoke bomb was thrown onto the ice as the Flyers had a goal disallowed in overtime. This after a game full of hitting, and fighting.
Scott Hartnell lead the way with three goals this weekend (two Friday, one Saturday) as Jeff Carter scored two goals (one Friday, one Saturday), including the Game Winner Saturday. Mike Knuble also had a goal in each game and Simon Gagne & Joffrey Lupul chipped in a goal apiece on Friday.

The Flyers clearly played their best games so far this season, and the results show. They next head to Atlanta to play the 2-4-2 Thrashers on a Versus nationally televised game.

Jeff Carter is now tied for 5th in the NHL with six goals. Mike Richards is among the top 15 in points with ten. Danny Briere missed his second game after undergoing abdominal surgery. Simon Gagne returned to the lineup Friday after missing Wednesday's game with the Sharks with the flu.

Riley Cote got into two scraps yesterday, which brings his season total to six in eight games. Arron Asham took on the Devils' Mike Rupp in the second period, at the same time Cote was fighting Devils toughguy Pierre-Luc Letorneau-Leblond. Asham and Rupp were subsequently ejected.

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Well, you do have to score too.

Last night, the Phillies bats were alive to reach base, but died epicly as soon as the lead-off man was on base. Their struggles with RISP continued last night as they're now 1-28 in the series. Their only RBIs came after an error (though it should have been scored a shit) and a ground out. The Phillies reached base 14 times last night, but only 2 guys could cross the plate, one by an Eric Bruntlett home run.

Hopefully, some home cooking, the Philly crowd, and Citizen's Bank Park will wake the bats up or the Phillies are in for a rude awakening. There were some bright spots. Carlos Ruiz played great last night and is playing the best he's played all year during the postseason. Even on his outs, he's been hitting the ball hard. His at-bats would have proved even better if Rollins, Werth, and Utley could knock him in.

In regards to pitching, Myers did a great job. Some breaks didn't go his way whether it be because of the umpire or just hits that found a hole. What can you do, right? Going into the game, many experts felt that Myers would be completely outmatched, but that was not the case. Yes, he gave up 3 earned runs, but he pitched 7 strong innings, only needing 85 innings to do so. If the Phillies were leding, there was a possibility that he could go 8 or 9 innings without a problem. I was extremely impressed with his performance last night and that makes me feel much better about the series, the deeper it goes.

J.C. Romero also came in and pitched well in his inning of relief. It's been a long lay off for him and these bullpen guys needed the rest at the end of the year. I'd expect to see Durbin, Romero, and Madson to remain sharp throughout the series.

Check in tomorrow to read about what I think the Phillies might need to do to fix their lineup problems.

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The Flyers' Slow Start

The Flyers have struggled this young season and there have been a few different explanations thrown around. I went with the dangerous cocktail of injuries, poor preparation and lack of execution.

Our defense looks shoddy without Jones and Parent, and it will be a while before we get them back. Alberts was expected to fill in but has been mediocre thus far, and was benched in favor of Lasse Kukkonen last night. Injuries are noone's fault, they just happen.

Poor preparation on part of the coaches. This team doesn't seem to be prepared to play, and at certain times looks lost. They show flashes of brilliance which are eventually squelched. The team has yet to play a full 60 minute game and that is a reflection of the coaches.

Poor execution on behalf of the players. They are the ones on the ice, and they should be held mostly responsible. Yes, there have been factors which lead to not the best players or line combinations on the ice, but they have to deal with it. One specific example would be Biron's two easy wraparound goals allowed. No one is at fault except him. (Note: Not signaling out Biron, merely an example)

With that said, I don't think anyone on the team can admit they have played "great" so far. Sure, some players seem to be playing well but they too have areas of improvement.

Luckily, there are still 76 games left, and the last time the Flyers were winless after six games was 1999-00. That year, they finished with 105 points, first in the Eastern Conference and made a trip to the Eastern Finals.

Continuing reading...

One Down, Three to Go!

Throughout the 2008 regular and postseason, we have been able to watch the Phillies win 100 of their games. Their 100th win came last night on the biggest stage as the Phillies stole homefield advantage with a 3-2 victory in game 1 of the World Series.

King Cole took the mound and continued his postseason masterpiece. He is in the midst of putting together one of the best postseason performances in Major League history. In 4 starts, he is 4-0 with a 1.55 ERA.

Last night, Cole threw 7 strong innings and before some middle inning trouble, he was on pace for an easy complete game. He did a great job of keeping the Rays' hitters off balance and his only real mistake on the night was a hanging curveball that Carl Crawford hit into the right field seats.

Thank you Chase Utley. His 2-run home run in the first inning shut those fucking cow bells up. Seriously, I felt like last night's game was being played in Japan. Is it that necessary to have noisemakers to create a loud atmosphere? Are their fans really that lame and boring? Carlos Ruiz later pushed the lead to 3-0 with a RBI ground out. The offense did have their problems. They struggled mightily with RISP hitting 0-15 with only 1 RBI. Things will have to change if the Phillies are going to win 3 more games this series. Ryan Howard and Jimmy Rollins, specifically, really need to get it going.

Lastly, how good of a combo have Madson and Lidge become? They both pitched perfect 8th and 9th innings to get te job done. Madson struck out Upton to end te 8th with a beautiful change-up. Lidge got both Pena and Longoria to chase sliders before getting Carl Crawford to pop up in foul territory. It was a great win to answer all the questions about the long lay-off. This is our year! We're three wins away from our destiny!

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Philly Thursday Update

First things first, I am sorry for my lack of posts. College is a pain in the ass when it's midterm season. Anyway, very busy week in sports. I will start with the Phillies. They won game 1 yesterday 3-2. Chase Utley hit a 2 run homer in the first, Cole Hamels pitched 7 strong innings, and Brad Lidge got the save. Justin will go into more detail with the recap. Game 2 is tonight in Tampa at 8:00 pm with Brett Myers facing James Shields.

In Eagles news: Shawn Andrews is going to be shelved at least 6 games after having back surgery. Max Jean-Gilles will replace him at RG. Also Kevin Curtis, Reggie Brown, and Brian Weatbrook are expected to back for Sunday's game against Atlanta.

In Flyers news: They are still winless after losing today 7-6 to the Sharks in a shoot out. Joffrey Lupul had 2 goals while Jeff Carter, Mike Richards, Scottie Upshall, and Danny Briere added a goal apiece in the loss. The Flyers are now 0-3-3 to start their season, earning them last place in the NHL.

In Sixers news: Elton Brand got 1 of 6 covers for the Sports Illustrated NBA preview. The Sixers were ranked 5th in the East and predicted to do some damage. Like Justin says, let's be patient but this team is not going to disappoint in the end.

And in Penn State news: Your #3 Nitney Lions will face #9 Ohio State this Saturday at 8:00 pm.

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The News Room: 10/21

A day after the JR Reed wore Tampa Bay Rays attire in the locker room, he has been cut. No, that was not the reason. The Eagles had to make room for newly signed fullback, Kyle Eckel. Eckel is a local boy who grew up rooting for the Eagles.

Despite bouncing around training camps with the Patriots and Dolphins since leaving the military in October of 2006, Eckel saw his first game action in 2007. In 12 career regular season games, all with the Patriots, Eckel ran the ball 33 times for 90 yards and two touchdowns, while also registering 12 special-teams tackles. The special teams experience is something the Eagles not only value from the fullback spot, but require. [Philadelphia Eagles]

Hey, Eckel may become a feel good story, but I think it should be a requirement that the Eagles draft a fullback in next year's draft. They've overlooked this position far too much.

There's Flyers news too! Today, they called up RW Andreas Nodl. Nodl will play along side Jeff Carter and Scottie Upshall. The 21-year old had an impressive camp and it was expected that either he or Claude Giroux would be the first forward called up.

Also, Antero Niittymaki will make his second straight start because he has been far more impressive this season than Biron. He has lost 2 starts in overtime and hopefully he and the Flyers can knock off the Sharks for their first win of this young season. [Philadelphia Flyers]

Lastly, ESPN previewed the 76ers and they feel they'll likely finish 2nd in the Atlantic division. Most experts also see them finishing anywhere between the 3rd-5th seed in the Eastern Conference. There are a lot of expectations for this team, but they'll need time to gel and develop chemistry. [ESPN Preview]

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A Preview of World Series Proportion

This is it. We are one day away. We're a little more than 24 hours away from watching the Phillies play their first World Series game in 15 years. 80-08 seems to be what the Philly faithful hopes reverses the Philadelphia-Tampa trend. Will the simple reversal of dates reverse the past?

For those who don't know, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Tampa Bay Lightning beat the Eagles and Flyers on route to their first ever World Championships. However, both the Eagles and Flyers won the first ever postseason meetings between the respected Tampa teams. Which trend will hold?

The Phillies have the opportunity to stop the city's 25 year drought without a championship. Instead of the "It has to end at some point" mentality, I'd like to use the "It will end in 2008."

Now, it is time to evaluate the teams playing in this Fall Classic. Also, mark my word, this World Series will play out better than anything the Red Sox and Dodgers could have offered. Thank the Phillies and the Rays outsiders. They're the reason that you may be able to tolerate Joe Buck for entire World Series.

Offensively, during the regular season, the Phillies scored more runs in the NL than Rays scored with a DH in the AL. They did all of this without using a DH. As a whole, I like the Phillies better than the Rays. Both teams lacked a player hitting over .300 in the season, but they did hit a lot of home run (214-180 Phillies edge).

During the postseason, the Rays averaged 5.8 runs per game compared to 4.44 for the Phillies. Both teams relied heavily on the long ball to move to continue their postseason run. Hey, when you have power in the lineup, why is that a bad thing? Both teams strike out a lot and both teams have a tremendous amount of speed on the basepaths. The Phillies are also the best in terms of stealing bases effectively at an 84% rate.

In terms of experience, the edge still goes to the Phillies. The Rays are a young team and a veteran guy like Jamie Moyer might be able to use that to his advantage. However, it is the World Series and it is hard to judge how the hitting will be when both teams have barely, if at all, faced the opposing pitchers.

When it comes to the rotation, the Rays have the better staff. While Hamels is easily the best pitcher in the World Series, Shields, Garza, and Sonnanstine are better than the rest of our staff. Brett Myers can be good, but you never know what he'll give you. He can throw 8 quality innings or three innings of bad pitching. He is one guy that will show you what he has in the first or second inning to give you an idea on how the night will fair. James Shields is a far more consistent pitcher and has practically become the Rays "ace."

The game 3 match-up is probably the most lopsided match-up of the series. Matt Garza, the ALCS MVP, will face off against a struggling Jamie Moyer. Garza has been great this postseason, but he will walk a few guys here and there. The Phillies will have to try and do what the White Sox did and be patient with him. Make him pitch to them. Jamie Moyer has a good career track record against Tampa Bay and pitching against young Florida teams in general, but that doesn't mean shit right now. Moyer will have to step it up in game 3. He could be the difference maker in the series.

In game 4, we'll likely see Andy Sonnanstine against Joe Blanton. They're both virtually the same style of pitcher. They're flyball pitchers who rely more on their defense than striking guys out. They've both pitched well this postseason for being at the backend of the rotation. With the game being in Philly, the wind and cold could expect how the game plays out.

If the series does extend past 5 games, the Rays will have a significant advantage in games 6 & 7, especially in Tampa. Pitching in the NL, the Phillies allowed 3.2 runs per game. The Rays allowed 3.72.

Both teams have a good bullpen, but I'll give the back end of the bullpen advantage to the Phillies. It is really hard to compete with Ryan Madson and Brad Lidge right now. They've been a great 1-2 punch to close out game for the Phillies. The Rays will likely rely on J.P Howell and David Price to close out games, and it'll be hard to score late on them. It'll be interesting to see if the whole "pitching in Philly" mirage gets in the head of their youngsters.

In the postseason, the Phillies entire staff allowed 3.2 runs per game. The Rays allowed 3.72. We're dealing with two good lineups and two good pitching staffs. So, we're without the Sox. We're without Mannywood. We're without Torre vs. Francona. In this series, it is set up to see some very good games that will keep the attention of even the casual fan.

So, I will leave you with this Philadelphia fans. This team will either be the start of a new era or just another story shelved in the library of disappointments. Whatever happens, keep your head up with this team. I know, it sounds very hypocritical coming from me, but keep your head up. Take it all in stride. Everyone is picking against us. No one outside of the "City of Brotherly Love" understands how much we need this. My gut instincts say we'll finally get the final prize.

This song was created by Philadelphia's own Canadian Invasion. The vocalist could use some work, but I like the tune.

...and we'll sing come on Phils, come on Phils, come on Phils, come on Phils, fight.

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Bring on the Rays!

Well, we're headed to Tampa, sorry, St. Petersburg, folks. The Tampa Bay Rays defeated the Boston Red Sox in game 7 of the ALCS. In two days, the World Series will begin in Tampa. In two days, our destiny continues. This is OUR year. We're due. We couldn't beat CC. We couldn't be the Dodgers. We couldn't beat the AL. It's going to happen. We will overcome the odds.

This is the most excited I've ever been in a long time. For me, as much as I love the Eagles, it will always be the Phillies that I hold closest. Baseball has always been my love and there is no other way around it. To witness a Phillies World Series championship will mean the world to me. It'll mean a lot to a lot of people, but it'll mean the most to us who have followed this team for along time through thick and thin. We're the frustrated group that no one understands. Now is the time to be relieved. Now is the time to be the best. The final step to become champions. Wow, champions has such a nice ring to it.

What Jimmy Rollins really meant to say was 103 wins. 103 wins in 2008 will give us a World Series trophy.

For a full preview, check in tomorrow.

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What the fuck is going on?

I'm really starting to get to my tipping point with the Flyers. Disclaimer, if you really hate a rant about one of your teams, please do not read any further.

Stop losing, dickbags. Stop sitting there taking dumb penalties (though last night's game was the worst officiated game I've ever seen)! Stop playing one-dimensional hockey! It seems like that on every line, we have one or two guys playing their heart out, but then we have the other linemate being lazy and getting caught with their thumb up their ass while their man skates in easy to score.

Yesterday, it was Simon Gagne who got caught out of position on San Jose's winning goal allowing Dan Boyle to skate in and get the easy goal. It's really upsetting with the number of goals we've allowed to defenseman this year, let alone the number of goals they've scored within 10 feet of the net. They're hitting slam dunks, not just slap shots through screens.

The Flyers are winless in their first 5 games for only the second time in franchise history. Yes, even in our 56 point season, we got a win in the first three games. We're the last winless team in hockey. This is just pathetic. Last night, we were out-shot 45-17. Often, the Flyers try to be too cute in the opponent's zone and instead of putting the puck on the net, they're putting the puck around the boards and often turning it over.

The Sharks had 18 giveaways yesterday. 18...and we still could not win! We were out hit, out shot, and lost the face-off battle 36-26. Mike Richards has been everything you could ask for in a captain, but now it is time for him to do something he rarely does. Speak up and get loud with the team. Wake them up. John Stevens is a pathetic motivator and this team needs to police themselves.

We do have one positive. Yes, he gave up 5 goals last night, but I have been impressed with Antero Niittymaki thus far this season. He's made plenty of impressive saves and when the opposing team is constantly shooting the puck, they're bound to go in.

Man up boys, man up!

If you want to see the highlights, you can click after the jump.

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A Streak of Their Own

AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar

Finally, Michigan's 9 game winning streak over Penn State has been snapped. For much of the first half, it looked like the winning streak would continue as the Nittany Lions came out flat fumbling the football and failing to tackle defensively. Michigan built a 17-7 point lead early in to the second quarter, but that was all she wrote for Michigan.

Penn State forced a 17-14 game at half and then exploded for 32 second half points including a safety that gave them their first lead of the game at 19-17. Evan Royster ran all over the Michigan defenses gaining 174 yards on 18 carries and a touchdown. The 46-17 win was their first win over Michigan since 1996. Penn State's 29 point margin of victory was their largest ever over Michigan.

Now the team will turn their focus to Ohio State, a team that they have been looking forward to during the beginning of the game against Michigan. Ohio State is coming off an impressive win in East Lansing and it looked like their offense finally clicked. It will definitely be a battle in Columbus and it'll be on at prime-time. Sadly, during the same time of game 3 of the World Series. Going to be an awful lot of switching back and forth in Philly. I suggest you goto a bar.

Continuing reading...

Earth to the Flyers

Who knew that a 4-2 defeat to their on AHL franchise would start the downward spiral we are watching with the Flyers? After 4 games, the Flyers are sitting at 0-3-1. Not exactly what we expected as fans, especially after their Eastern Conference final berth last year.

The team has had a big problem with playing a complete game. They're continuously having a bad period that just puts the game out of reach. Also, for now, I would let Biron get his focus back. He is letting in at least one weak goal a game. He's far from the #1 caliber goaltender that he was in the playoffs.

Dan took the time to find some numbers that can clearly describe how bad the team has looked to start the season.

One point in four games (29th in the NHL)
2.50 Goals/game (t-24th NHL)
4.25 Goals Against/game (t-27th NHL)
Faceoff win 44.0% (29th NHL)
A #1 Goalie with a 5.74 GAA and an .824 save percentage
Our top line has 7 of the team's 10 goals
Everyone is a minus except Coburn, Gagne (both +1) and Metropolit (+0)
Half of our goals are on special teams (3 PP, 2 SH)
5 Power play goals allowed in 27 opportunities (81.5%)

So what can we do? One suggestion is to break up the Gagne-Richards-Briere line. While it has been a great line, it's really putting all the main playmakers on one line instead of spreading them out. Outside of only scoring 10 goals in 4 games, that line has literally scored 7 of those goals (Gagne 4 and Richards 3). Jeff Carter has 2 and Scott Hartnell has the only other one. Our scoring in 4 games has come from only 4 different players. Far off from the team last year where 8 players had at least 10 goals.

How about special teams? We're 3-26 on the PP. A whopping 11.5%, which is good or bad enough for 26th in the NHL. The PK isn't great either right now. Most of the goals allowed have come while the second PK unit was on the ice. I think we need to change some things up there.

What else do they need to improve? The backchecking by the forwards hasn't been great, which is the opposing team controls the puck more than not. Their poor rate of face off wins also gives the team pucks more often, especially in their own zone. Lastly, when they do force turnovers in their own zone, their break out is scrambled and often causes them to give the puck right back.

The season is still young, so don't get down on the team yet. They were dealt heavy blows with the losses of Jones and Parent after already being without Derian Hatcher. The defense has played poised for who they are, but there are certain guys who need to improve.

Lastly, the team needs to cut down on the penalties. Yes, they're often penalties that need to be taken, but that is only because odd man rushes break out to poor puck control. The Flyers are talented. They will make the playoffs. Just do not expect them to be in the running for the division or a top seed.

Just give them a few more games, though Saturday is going to be tough against a 4-0 San Jose team. No better time than to set the team straight.

Continuing reading...

The Phillies win the NL via Youtube

For those of you who no longer in Philadelphia. Here is some of excitement you missed out on in the city.

There are more videos after the jump.


Not fond of them cursing off the cops though.

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The Wait is Over

When you're five, you don't know much about your surroundings. You feel like your purpose in life is to wake up, eat your Trix, watch Bugs Bunny cartoons all morning, and do whatever your mom tells you. Sure that was the case for me, but I also was aware of something else in my life: baseball.

I knew who the Phillies were and that's about it. I knew the names of those players inside and out: Inky, Dutch, Dude and Kruker. Micky Morandini and Mariano Duncan and Kevin Stocker. I knew who that big green fur ball was. I loved the Phillies.

The one thing I did not know though was how magical that team really was. They were a team of cast offs and nobodies. I did not know that they not only won their division but beat the Braves and went to the World Series, losing to Joe Carter and the Blue Jays in game 6. I didn't quite understand or grasp the heartbreak. That little kid in Atlantic City just loved his Phillies.


14 years later and an enormous trend of heartbreak and even questioning of faith (I considered being a Cardinals fan after they traded Scott Rolen, my favorite player), the Phillies were out of the division race as the Mets held onto an insurmountable lead in the East. It was looking like another heartbreaking season for the Phillies. But the heartbreak went to New York fans as they watched their Mets crumble and the hated Phillies sneak in. I was at that last game of the season and I will never forget seeing them break a 14 year post season drought.

After they got swept by Colarado, I was hurt again. The high of making the playoffs wasn't good enough. I immediatley felt like this team was going to be a competitor. Then Jimmy Rollins spoke up: "We are going to win 100 games this year." Hearing those words come from the same guy saying the Phillies were the team to beat the year prior, I knew this season was going to be magical.

All year my faith was tested. Rollins was awful, Ryan Howard was worse, and the Phillies were struggling to score. They were lucky that the rest of the division was weak, keeping them in it. The race truly started in August as the Phils and Mets traded the division lead. It wasn't until they swept the Brewers in that 4 game series that the feeling I had for this team arose.

They had a fire in them. I also started to get this strange feeling in the pit of my stomach. Is wasn't anything big, but it was there. After I watched Rollins make the diving stop, the flip to Chase Utley, and the throw to Howard to clinch the division, that feeling rose back up.

When the Phillies handled the Brewers in 4 games, it grew stronger, and as soon as they took a 3-1 lead on the Dodgers, I started to notice it and pay attention to it. When Brad Lidge forced Nomar Garciaparra to hit a pop up to Carlos Ruiz, that feeling hit me hard. Emotions I have never felt exploded through me as I sat on the couch in my apartment. A few tears were squeezed out and I knew right there that no matter if it's Boston or Tampa Bay (likely the latter), that this team that Pat Gillick assembled will win the World Series.

I sit here, wearing my Cole Hamels tee shirt, looking at my Phillies hat and newly bought NL Championship shirt, I begin to count the days until game 1. Bring on the American League! Let's Go Phillies!

TEAM
TO
BEAT!

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1 year in the Making

Amongst all of the Phillies excitement, I completely forgot about our one year anniversary on Monday.

So, I just want to say thank you to Mike, John, and Dan for posting here with me.

Also, I'd like to say thank you to all over our visiters to the site. Without you guys, there would be no point in continuing to write. We really appreciate it.

Thank you!

Justin

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Painting it a Red October

Photo courtesy of Comcast Sportsnet
We're going to the World Series! We're going to the World Series! I know some of you are older and were able to clearly remember 1980, 1983, and 1993, but I was only 9 in 93'. I remember trying to stay up all night to watch the Phillies celebration going to the World Series, but I just couldn't do it. This moment means so much to me. I'm not going to lie, I was a little teary-eyed last night. This is the moment that will probably wipe my past Philadelphia pessimist slate clean. I've come to realize that with this team, the phrase "You have to believe" clearly describes them. You just have to believe. We are National League Champions!

I still can't believe it. I'd love for everyone to comment with where they were or whatever they were doing during the bottom of the ninth. Through much of the game, I locked myself in my bedroom. I wanted no distractions. I laid in bed and watched it all take place. I would have loved to be out, but I knew I just needed to be alone for this one. This would be my first World Series clinching moment that I know I'll remember for the rest of my life.

Once we got to the ninth, I muted the television and turned on Harry. Because of the tv delay, I went to my computer, counted down the outs with my friends via AIM, and listened to Harry tell the story. Yes, I'd turn around after Harry made the call, but I just could not have it any other way. That same call that you see in the youtube video above.

"Lidge stretches, the 3-2 pitch, swing and a pop up. This game is going to be over. Carlos Ruiz squeezes it and the Phillies are the National League Champions. The Phils move on to the World Series!"

Such a great moment. I would really love to go on and on, but I'm still speechless over 8 hours later. I wish I was close enough to drive to Frankford and Cottman last night. The scene just looked amazing. Hopefully no one was injured and everyone just had a good time.

Also, I want to make a quick note. I don't know much about Mayor Nutter politically, but you always see him out there with the fans or attending games. Last night, he was just another fan celebrating at Chickie's and Pete's.

For actual recap on the game, click after the jump.

Jimmy Rollins started the clinching game off the same way he did in game 4 against the Brewers. His lead off home run set the tone. It gave the nail-biters, a sigh of relief.

1, well 2 runs is all King Cole would need. Though he seemed to leave a few pitches up early, he only allowed one run on a Manny Ramirez home run. The NLCS MVP just put his name into history with another lefty we'll never forget. Young Cole Hamels, a southern California native, used a dominating performance to take us to the next step. For the second time in this series, he threw 7 strong innings. He was 2-0 with a 1.93 ERA in 14 innings of work. Compare him to Lefty. He's been that good for us.

Something that did go unnoticed among all the hoopla was Ryan Howard's great night. He reached base 4 out 5 times, with 3 hits. Knocking in what proved to be the game-winning 2nd run. Immediately after, Pat Burrell knocked in a run to make it 3-0 and everything about this team seemed back to normal. EVERYONE was contributing. Howard rose his NLCS average to .300 putting all of those struggling remarks behind him. He's due for a big home run and it'll come on the biggest state possible.

Shane Victorino, what can you say? He was in the middle of everything. When's the last time he was intentionally walked once, let alone twice in a game. Everything seemed to revolve around him. His defense in center field last night was just amazing. The only stopping him from getting to any ball was the outfield wall. He turned on the after burners. The end of the road is near. Let it all hang out!

Lastly, we have the "bridge to Lidge." Ryan Madson has been absolutely phenomenal this post season. Just flat out ridiculous. Last night, he hit 97 MPH. He has completely developed into a great set-up man. For awhile now, I've been saying that we need that fire-baller in the bullpen. Well, we have it. He says the finish line, so he's going all out. He and Lidge both pitched scoreless innings of relief to clinch our first World Series berth in 15 years.

We're going to the fucking World Series!

editor's note: I wrote this early this morning because I could not sleep with excitement. Anyway, I forgot to post it before I rushed out to get the NL Champions t-shirts. Oh and finally my new high definition box.

There will be more posts about this historic event later, so check back in all day.

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Eagles Release Hunt, Sign LB Tracy White

The Eagles have released RB Tony Hunt. They tried to turn Hunt into a FB, but he did not fair too well. He was so poor that they turned Dan Klecko back into a fullback. They then tried to use him as a short yardage back, but he could not do much then either. I'll miss him because he's a Penn State alum, but he just didn't cut it here.

Why did they release him? They had to make room on the roster for a strong Special Teams player in Tracy White. He was released by the Green Bay Packers last week. White should be able to help a coverage unit that has given up some long returns in the past few weeks. [Philadelphia Eagles]

In other NFC news, the Cowboys and Redskins were involved in the headlines. First, the Redskins signed RB Shaun Alexander to spell Clinton Portis as Ladell Betts is out for three weeks.

The Cowboys acquired a guy everyone in Philly wanted by the name of Roy Williams from Detroit. The Cowboys sent a first, third, and sixth round draft pick in 2009, so I can understand why the Eagles didn't exactly sell the ship for a guy who has not been the most consistent.

In other news, Dallas cornerback Pacman Jones has been suspended indefinitely by the league for violating the terms of his reinstatement. It will be for at least 4 games.

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Roller Coaster of a Night

Wow, what a night. Ladies and gentlemen, our beloved Phillies are one win away from clinching a berth in the World fucking Series! Are you kidding me!?

Just Enough
I've never been such a huge spiritual person, but didn't it seem like Victorino's shot was carried over the fence. Playing in the "City of Angels," was the ball assisted somehow, someway by the spirits of Victorino's late grandmother or Charlie Manuel's late mother? No matter the source, luck was on our side.

They always say that to get to the World Series, you need to be good, but luck will play a huge part. Skill or luck, Victorino came through yet again. Victorino has been in the middle of everything in this series.

The Moon Shot
Carlos Ruiz, who has played surprisingly well got a single to stretch the inning. Only, he didn't know he stretched an inning into a dramatic Hollywood ending. Matt Stairs followed him up by blasting a 3-1 fastball deep into the right field pavillion seats. That 3-1 fastball sent the Phillies back into the driver's seat of the NLCS.

Matt Stairs, a late season addition, has proved to be just another notch on Pat Gillick's belt in terms of waiver wire steals.

Patience
People that know me can account for this: I can be very impatient fan of all of our teams. I get frustrated quickly and easily, usually just caught in the moment, rather than waiting for everything to play out. Maybe it is the fact that I follow game 1 of the regular season as closely as game 4 of the NLCS, but I'm not sure.

During this postseason, I've decided to take it all in stride and enjoy it for what it is. Even with game 3 losses in both series, I didn't completely panic. There was more of a sense of urgency in the NLCS because we didn't exactly play great in the first two games of the series and it being only a 5 game series meant things could change quickly.

Someone is always stepping up for this team. Everyone has contributed in this postseason, except for Jamie Moyer. Poor Jamie. You don't want to get down on him becuse was so good for us all season. Is it fatigue or is the long lay off making him look shaky. We can't forget, he's still 45 years old. With all of this, my gut feeling says tht he has at least one good start left in him this postseason. You have to believe, right? A World Series title would be the most fitting way for him to go out. Especially for the team he grew up rooting for. You have to believe, right?

Just one win away!

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The Flyers Phailed.

Yesterday, I attended my first Flyers game of the year. Well, I did go to the Flyers-Canes Spectrum game, so I guess it was the second time. It's amazing what a pennant race can do to a city. The Flyers felt some effects as their one plenty of open seats in the arena.

Anyway, the Flyers seemed to control the tempo through most of the first two period. The tem was playing well, killing penalities, and even scored a power play goal.

However, things changed in the third period. Montreal completely dominated and used their great speed to get the puck through the neutral zone exploding for four 3rd period goals. A 2-1 Flyers lead quickly chnged to 3-2 Montreal in the opening minutes and later to a 5-3 defeat for the Flyers.

There are some people that I could sit here nd rant about, but I'll bite my tongue for now. Their names are Biron, Briere, Knuble, Kukkonen, and Eminger. 4 of those 5 names may be playing their last season as a Flyer. Too bad Eminger cost us a first round pick, but hey, he is still young.

The losses of Ryan Parent and Randy Jones are clearly hurting this team badly right now. Though he's been good, the Flyers have been forced to rush the development of Luca Sbisa. Who knows if they can rely on him once seasonal fatigue sets in.

Tonight, the Flyers will face off against the Pittsburgh Penguins. It'll be their first road test of the season and hopefully the change of scenery will do them good. This weekend they travel out west to play Colorado and San Jose.

For two straight games, the Flyers have played well for 40 minutes. The problem? The game lasts 60 minutes. If the Flyers want to be successful this season, they'll have to play more of a complete game. Continuing to allow multiple goal periods is going to put the Flyers in a boatload of trouble.

Continuing reading...

Flyers Acquire D Andrew Alberts

The Flyers have traded Ned Lukacevic and a 4th round pick for Boston defenseman Andrew Alberts. If you don't remember correctly, Alberts is the guy from Boston that Scotty Hartnell laid out against the boards. Yes, Alberts is the guy that was trying to skate on his knees.

For more on that trade, click here, courtesy of the Flyers' website.

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Inside the Eagles - Week 6

While Andy Reid has a miraculous record after a bye week, he's been pitiful heading into one. Sitting at 2-7 before the bye in his career, Andy has never been faced with this big of a must-win, this early in the season. A loss against the 49ers would put them at 2-4 overall and 0-4 against the NFC.

Then, things magnified. The Washington Redskins lost to the St. Louis Rams at home, to give the opportunity for the Eagles to sneak closer. While the Eagles were playing, Dallas was in trouble in Arizona and they eventually lost. The Eagles were in the prime situation to gain on the toughest division in football. Well, after 3 quarters, it didn't look like it'd happen.

The Eagles looked to be cruising through the first half. Up 17-6, they allowed the 49ers to drive down the field and kick a field goal. With little time left, the Eagles drove into field goal range (for Akers 4 years ago), but the kick was blocked. In a dramatic change of events, the Eagles were only up 17-16 at half.

In the third, the 49ers took the lead after a Frank Gore touchdown and they later added a field goal. All the momentum was on their side, our offense couldn't do anything, and we were down 26-17 heading into the fourth.

Finally, the defense who allowed 5 scoring drives to the 49ers stepped up. In the fourth quarter alone, they forced 3 turnovers, including Juqua Parker's game-clinching interception to put the Eagles up 40-26 with little time left.

Time to dig a little deeper.

Offense
Well I don't want to sit here and knock the offense again, but they really need to improve in the red zone. Yes, they scored 3 red zone touchdowns, but they also kicked 3 field goals and McNabb threw a pick. We scored touchdowns on only 3 of 7 red zone possessions and also kicked a FG when we were at the 21. So, virtually, it was 3 of 8 possessions from inside the 25.

The Eagles had no problem driving the ball all game. They were 50% on 3rd down, but they started strong. The short-yardage game and red zone efficiency is still what drives me nuts. I understand McNabb is fragile, but if he cannot run a QB sneak, get him the fuck out of there, regardless of his talent. He's our best short yardage option right now and we're still afraid to use him.

Buckhalter had his best game ever as an Eagle. On 18 carries, he rushed for 93 yards and a touchdown. He was also a big factor in the passing game as he and the Eagles worked the screen pass to perfection. He caught 7 balls for 85 yards.

Rookie DeSean Jackson had another big game offensively with 6 receptions for 98 yards, nearly getting his 3rd 100 yard game of the season. If he continues at this pace, he's projected to catch 77 balls for 1155 yards, which by my quick research, would eclipse every Eagles receiving record for a rookie.

Hank Baskett made some great catches as well, but I was most definitely shocked when the Eagles finally ran a fade route to him in the end zone. It only took them forever to call that play.

While the offense struggled at times, they still put up 33 points on the board.

Defense
I'm going to be blunt with you. The defense played bend, but don't break defense for 3 quarters. They allowed 4 field goals and only one offensive touchdown all game. For the second straight week, they allowed a 100-yard rusher and 49ers TE Vernon Davis find himself wide open often and usually for a big gain.

But then there was the fourth quarter were the defense got plenty of pressure, forced 3 turnovers, 3 and outs, and got a defensive touchdown to seal the game. Why does every Eagles game seem like it just has to be close. While we dominated both Pittsburgh and St. Louis for all 4 quarters, we've really struggled to have the complete game for most of the year.

However, they bailed out the sluggish 2nd half offense again and gave them plenty of opportunities in San Francisco's zone to put points on the board.

Special Teams
Desean Jackson = Good.
Our Punt coverage team = Bad.

Also, Quinton Demps had a very good kick return they almost broke for a touchdown. This is the best return game I've seen from the Eagles in a long time.

Players of the Week
Offense - Buckhalter
Defense - Parker
ST - Demps

Conclusion
The Eagles got the must-win they needed heading into the bye. It was an ugly win, but they got the win and gained ground on both Dallas and Washington. It would perfect weekend if somehow the Giants fell to the Cleveland Browns. Sadly, it was our first win in four tries against the NFC, but sitting at 1-3 is much safer than 0-4.

Next week we have the bye, so I'll see you in two weeks!

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Don't Panic!

Fans, don't panic! You had to expect that the Dodgers would win game 3. LA is a tough place to play and we have not been able to get a win out here all season. That doesn't mean we've been dominated in every game either.

We were winning 2 games out there before the bullpen collapsed in the 8th and 9th. The bullpen was in a cold streak and it happens. Not much that you can do.

Yes, they lost 7-2, but there is not much you can do. We can try to look at the positives. Howard got some hits and maybe he is about to break out again. I don't exactly remember the pitches he got hits off of, but if they were offspeed, that's a good sign. I'd expect him to get another steady does of offspeed junk on the outside corner. He really needs to just try and pop it over the short stops head.

Okay, there wasn't much else to see as a positive, except for the fact that the bullpen only allowed 1 run in 6 innings of work. More importantly, due to great pitching by Happ, Eyre, Durbin, and Romero (pending his ankle) will likely be able to pitch tonight.

So, just don't panic fans. Even if we lose tonight, it is not over. We have our best pitcher going in game 5 and if we win one of these 2, we're in the driver's seat heading back to Philly. We lost game 3 in Milwaukee, but look at how the team responded in game 4.

We all figured that it would be a long series. We're probably going to get it. I still like the Phillies in this one.

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An entry on the City of Brotherly Love

So, wow, it's been quite the busy weekend for me. I've been stuck moving furniture, a cast iron tub, and knocking out a wall for most of my free time (when sports was not on). I wish I could have been able to write my thoughts on the Flyers this year, but I was just not able. I think Mike will be writing a post at some point.

Currently, the Phillies are getting hit around and losing 7-1 in the bottom of the 5th. It doesn't seem like much of a game for us, so I figured I might as well write an actul blog post on a few things.

First, I'll talk about the Flyers-Rags game. Even after having such a terrible first period, the Flyers came back strong and we're the better team over the final two periods, nearly making the 4 goal comeback, but a Richards shot clinged off the post. I was really impressed with Luca Sbisa. He was all over the place and made a lot of plays for being in his first ever NHL game, only a few months after being drafted.

Also, I love everything about Mike Richards being captain. He dropped the gloves to try to rally the team behind him and then he later scored a goal to make it 4-3. The Gagne-Richards-Briere line had 2 goals and 2 assits (both Briere). I was impressed with Simon Gagne as well. It's nice to have him back there scoring again and he was also trying to get in the middle of everything.


Now, we must talk about the most impressive football team in the state of Pennsylvania: The Penn State Nittany Lions. Penn State went into Madison, Wisconsin on Saturday and absolutely destroyed Wisco 48-7. If you could say a team dominated the game more than a 41 margin a victory, you could. They are clicking on all cylinders right now in every facet of the game. Next week, they will try to beat Michigan at home for the first time in a long time. This season could be something special for the Nittany Lions.

I wasn't all about Daryll Clark when the season started, but the Daryll Clark from last year and the Daryll Clark from this year are two different people; I swear. He's been everything Michael Robinson was, but even better.

Phillies Update - we're still losing 7-1 going into the 7th. Just not our night. You had to expect we'd lose one or two out here. I think if we can win tomorrow, we win in 5. If we win on Wednesday, the series goes 7.

Anyway, now it's time to talk bout the 76ers for a little. Brand has made his debut in Philly, but he's not the guy that's going to be getting all the talk. The most impressive player thus far has been Thaddeus Young. Playing at the 3-spot will be a better position for him. With Iguodala and Brand on the court, Young will often find himself set up for the open look. The Sixers should be primed for a good season, but like I was telling John: Be patient with them. They're probably not going to rip off a bunch of wins real early with the high expectations. They still will need time to completely gel together with the new guys.

Finally, we have the Eagles. I will go more into depth about the Birds tomorrow, bt they battled back for a must-win game today, especially with the Skins and Cowboys losing. They scored 23 4th quarter points to come back and beat the Niners 40-26. Juqua Parker who had a phenomenal game including the pick-6 that sealed it.

The defense really stepped up the intensity in the fourth to help an offense that struggled to score in the red zone again. 3 of Akers 4 field goals made were from less than 30 yards.

So now they're 3-3 going into the bye, gaining a game on Dallas and Washington. With Atlanta and Seattle next up after the bye week, the Eagles have a very good chance of facing the Giants at a 5-3 record. Hopefully it becomes that.

Last Phillies Update for the night: The Phillies are still down, but they made it 7-2 heading into the bottom of the 7th. Good news? Howard has 2 hits tonight, but he might be gettin more pitches to hit with the Dodgers up so much.

Have a good night. I'll recap the Phillies and Eagles' games tomorrow.

Also, I'll be @ the Flyers game tomorrow and then possibly @ Chickie's and Pete's after to watch game 4.

Oh, lastly, I got a 50 inch Plasma for my room.

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Eagles Niners Preview

I am just gonna do a quick preview because my energy is all focused on the Phillies. And you can't blame me for that either.

It has become a theme as every week is a must win week for the Eagles who are behind their division rivals by over a game at least. Donvan McNabb called out his team, and himself. He said he was embarrassed on how he and the team played and they should not lose a game to a team he knows the Eagles are better than. I hope he fires up this offense because he didn't do that at all last week.

Preview after the jump:

Records: Eagles (2-3); Niners (2-3)
Last time met: Sept. 24, 2006. Eagles won 38-24. Mike Patterson returned a fumble 98 yards for the score.

Offense: They are without Brian Westbrook. Correll Buckhalter will get his second start of the season. McNabb wasn't good again either. I honestly can not say much about this offense because they didn't even utilize DeSean Jackson at all. The red zone offense hasn't been good but there is no way they can be terrible against San Fran. They still have good players and the ability to make big plays.

The Niners are just bad. They are led by JT O'Sullivan who at times shows he's not another QB that could die before his career starts in San Fran. But Tim Rattay showed promise too so you can't rely on that just yet. Frank Gore is solid but nothing like he was his rookie year.

Advantage: Eagles

Defense: They looked awful. In all three losses they got beat by a TE. Vernon Davis is good and he is gonna be tough to cover. They were finally exploited on the ground which isn't a worry to me. Clinton Portis knows how to run versus Philly. Frank Gore doesn't and he will be stuffed. The Niners will have to rely on Gore, especially after they Eagles can rattle Sullivan.

The Niners defense is just bad. The Eagles should be able to score on them. This game should not be close.

Advantage: Eagles

Injury Report:
Eagles: Probable: McNabb, LJ Smith; Questionable: Kevin Curtis; Out: Westbrook, Reggie Brown
Rams: Probable: Will Witherspoon; Out: Drew Bennett

Prediction: Eagles 24-6

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3 Wins from 100.

So far, a few guarantees have held true. First, Rollins restated that the Phillies were the team to beat and he predicted 100 wins. Well, the Phillies are 3 wins away from at least 100 wins in 2008. They were the champions in the NL East and now they're 2 wins away from winning the National League pennant.

Next, you have the guarantees made by Brett Myers. Myers guaranteed there would be no 3 and out this year if he had anything to do with it. Myers has been part of the turning point of each game he's pitched in. First, he worked that memorable 10 pitch walk against C.C. Sabathia prior to Shane Victorino's grand slam in game 2 of the NLDS. Then you have last night. Just wow. It's not very often that a pitcher's offensive performance outweighs his pitching numbers, but Myers was just ridiculous last night. 3-3 with 3 RBIs and 2 runs scored. Just unreal.

Shane Victorino is without a doubt the leading candidate to win the NLCS MVP. He has been in the middle of just about everything for the Phillies this October. Last night he knocked in 4 runs and he leads all players with 9 RBIs this postseason.

2 wins away and we can smell it, but it's just not close enough to be a guarantee. We're so close Philly. I went into this series saying whatever happens, happens. We've gone so far to even consider to be disappointed. Now, my feelings have changed a little because I will be disappointed if we don't clinch a berth in the World Series, but I'll still be proud.

Go Fightin' Phils!

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Game, Phillies!

One down, three to go. Another big inning, another huge win. After the Phillies offense looked down and out 4 2/3 innings, Derek Lowe began showing some signs that he was leaving his sinker ball up. Both Carlos Ruiz and Cole Hamels hit back to back singles before Rollins ended the inning with a deep fly out to left. It was this inning that turned the game. It was this inning that seemed to have installed confidence in a lineup that was hitting ground out after ground out.

In the 6th, Shane Victorino busted out of the box and forced a quick throw from Rafael Furcal that sailed over the head of James Loney allowing Victorino to reach second. The next pitch may be one of the historic home runs we talk about for years to come. The very next pitch was an elevated slider that Chase Utley hit into the right field seats to tie the game at 2. Two batter later, Pat Burrell, "Pat the Bat", the most tenured player on this team, gave the Phillies a 3-2 when he hit a line drive into the left field seats. The Phillies were back in it, the crowd was back in it, all behind Hamels and the pitching staff that was in it all along.

Hamels was phenomenal. 7 innings, 2 ER, 6 hits, 8 strike-outs. He allowed early back to bck doubles to Andre Ethier and Manny Ramirez, but he stymed the rest of the lineup only allowing them to get 2 hits all game. Hamels has had an amazing postseason run thus far and it may just line him up for the big pay day that he deserves. In 15 innings of work, he's allowed only the 2 runs he gave up tonight, 8 hits, and has had 17 strike outs. A Whip of 0.73! That is just absolutely filthy.

The bridge to Lidge was completed perfectly by Ryan Madson who is slowly developing into a great set-up man. He has found more velocity in his fastball and he is using it to help set up his change-up, which has looked beautiful since August. Then, Lights Out Lidge closed the door with a 1-2-3 inning to end game 1 of the NLCS.

Chase Utley was due. Hopefully tonight's 2-4 night has really set his head back on the prize. Utley's game-tying home run was his first in 8 career playoff games and it was the biggest home run of his career. For the second straight game, Pat Burrell had the hit that sealed the deal for the Phillies. He told Jimmy Rollins before game 4 against the Brewers that he re-discovered his swing. Hard to disagree with that notion given his performance over the last two games.

Could this be the year? They've battled back from adversity all year. They're a very good team. They're 4 wins away from winning at least 100 games in 2008. I think they can get it done. Still plenty of series, so lets sit back, wear our red, and watch it all develop in front of us.




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