Former Phillies Make Big Splash in MLB Playoffs
James Dugan
Marianne O'LearyWhat a great night for Phillies! At least for former Phillies who are still in the MLB Playoffs. While the Phillies are watching the post-season for the first time in 7 years, some veterans of the red pinstripes are still burning with desire to win it all. Two former Phillies hit walk off homeruns sending Phillies fans into fits and National and Yankee fans wild with delight.
Jason Werth came up big with his homerun. He helped the Nationals even the series and send it to a deciding fifth game. In another Phillies' line, the dastardly Kyle Lohse pitched a great game and came up short. Werth has been missing down in the Capital since his huge deal, but he was worth his weight in gold this October night.
Raul Ibanez would not be outdone. Rauuuul hit another walk off homerun. The Phillies organization was betting he was spent and that age had finally caught up with him. He was often a great Spring and early summer player, but he faded in each of the last two years as the weather grew more brisk. Though I have no love for the Yankees, it is great to see Ibanez continue to be successful. Now his team is one win away from the ALCS. He was the constant professional in Philadelphia and though he never won it with us, he deserved it.
What other former Phillie could give us local fans something to smile about? Jim Thome and Randy Wolf are playing in Baltimore. It would be great if Jim Thome ends the Yankees for the season. Hunter Pence is still swinging wild in San Francisco as they ended the Reds run this afternoon. Pence had two hits and now is drinking champagne. The only other Phillie I know of is Freddy Garcia with the Yankees, but that connection is a stretch.
October is exciting. It is tough getting used to no Red October after being spoiled for so many years, but it is much more relaxing. The Phillies will be back next year. At least that is what I keep promising. If not, I am sure a released player from the winter moves will make us regret it.
Reader Comments (1)
Wait. What did I just say? Sorry, I must've been possessed with someone who actually cares about ex-Phillies players. Thanks for reminding me of the fact that the Phils aren't in the playoffs though. I really appreciate it.
By the way, those last two lines were meant to be sarcastic.