The run by Utley in 9th off the Cub's error was special.
http://m.mlb.com/video/v1278988683/?game_pk=490221
All we need is the Benny Hill theme superimposed on that video.
But, so many things happening in so little time:
1. Big ups to Toleys for running that out. Most Primadonnas would head back into the dugout yelling obscenities, but the moment he knew the ball hit the dirt, he was off and running.
2. Big ups to Utley for the hustle, although this was not unexpected nor surprising if you've been a fan of Major League Baseball for the past 15 years. People with kids who are trying to get them to play baseball the right way should show them old Chase Utley videos.....
3. What the HELL is Rizzo doing BEHIND the bag taking the throw from Contreras, when Contreras is clearly 5 feet away from the foul line inside fair territory? In this instance, Rizzo should've positioned himself on the second base side of the bag so that Contreras has a clear throw. (In the case where the ball is being thrown from foul territory, then you position yourself on the foul side of the bag) But behind it?!
Even with the Contreraras' less than stellar throw, Rizzo should've been able to dig it out if he had been where he was supposed to be, or at the very least keep it in front of him, thus preventing Utley from scoring the insurance run.
Rizzo's offensive prowess often overshadows the fact that he may have a below average glove. Of course, in this day an age, you'll take a few defensive miscues like the one yesterday for the amount of offense that he should produce.
4. And the Cub's pitcher who spiked himself at the plate? This the first time wearing metal spikes, son?
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Let's hope Ryu shuts them down today and we get the
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any bets on what the extravaganza at today's game will be? Shooting a ring to Harry Caray on a giant rocket? The entire "Chicago" musical for the 7th inning stretch? Slaughtering 108 billy goats in center field?
nothing like understatement.
Our catchers and 1st basemen got taught this when we were 10. Even 2nd basemen get into the mix, when they have to cover 1st on a bunt, when the 1B is crashing.
When I saw the play develop, I honestly thought to myself that Rizzo was being lazy, and assuming Contreras was going to lob the ball over Toles' head. Rizzo didn't realize that:
1. Toles' ran outta the box.
2. The ball jumped out further out of Contrera's reach, than Rizzo had thought.
So by the time he realized it was going to be a close play, it was too late for him to fight to get into position to take the throw on the inside part of the bag, and was left stranded behind the bag as the errant throw went past.
Of course, they'll still beat us in the NLCS, so it doesn't really matter.