Game 2 recap
In Game 1, # 34 for the Phillies silenced the Yankees offense. Last night, # 34 for the Yankees did it to the Phillies.  Got to give A.J. credit, he was sharp, especially that sharp-breaking curve ball.

Pedro gave us a chance to win the game.  He put on another clinic of how to pitch.

Check out these numbers: Pedro, 107 pitches, 72 strikes; Burnett, 108/68.

As usual, the Phillies battled to the end.  Mariano has been nearly perfect in his brilliant postseason career and we had our chances against him.  He threw 39 pitches in two innings, the most in his postseason career.

Winning the first game and losing the second is a pattern the Phillies have followed in their last four postseason series.

Today
Phillies' AMTRAK charter train pulled into 30th Street Station at 2:45 this morning.  A couple of TV crews and a couple dozen fans were still awake and there.

Both teams will work out at Citizens Bank Park, the Phillies in mid-afternoon with the Yankees to follow.  The media interview room will feature Charlie, Cole, Girardi and Pettitte. 

Elsewhere
MLB has approved 1,571 credentials for Games 3, 4 and 5.   That number includes the radio and TV rightsholders . . . Hall of Fame third baseman Mike Schmidt will throw out the ceremonial first ball tomorrow night.  Assisting Boys and Girls Club members in placing the game ball on the mound will be Greg Luzsinki . . . "We feel good" says Scott Eyre in his blog.

Postseason Memories
Von Hayes played with the Phillies from 1983 to 1991.  He's just one of five players in Phillies history that played regularly at three different positions, right, center and first base.  His postseason career with the Phillies was 1983, the NLCS vs. LA and WS vs. Baltimore.  The 51-year-old resides in Florida.

What is your favorite memory of October baseball as a child?
"Growing up a Red Sox fan my best memory of the post season was when Carlton Fisk hit his home run down the left field line to beat the Reds in the 1975 World Series."

As a player, what was the biggest change between the regular season and postseason?
"The biggest change was the media crush around the batting cage during batting practice. It made it difficult at times to stay in your daily routine."

What is your fondest personal postseason memory?
"Celebrating after beating the Dodgers for the 1983 NL Pennant and earning a chance to play in the World Series."

Where were you when the Phillies won the World Series last October?
"I was in Iowa hunting for white tail deer and enjoyed watching the game from our hunt camp. I'm looking forward to the same scenario this fall."
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Phillies Insider is on twitter as barons63.

C&C took it to CC in the first World Series game last night

Chase gave the Phillies a lead in Game 1 for the second straight year with a home run.  Last year it was off Kazmir, a lefty, this time CC Sabathia, another lefty.  He followed with another solo blast in his next at bat. Oh, he also walked in the first inning.  Both the walk and two homers put Chase in the record book.

Cliff was brilliant in tossing the first WS complete game since 2003:  one unearned run, six hits, no walks, 10 strikeouts; 122 pitches, 80 strikes. He's the third pitcher in WS history to have no walks and 10 punch outs.  Oh, he also excelled on defense, including a Web Gem, back-the-back snare of a ground ball.

Lee's been brilliant the entire postseason: four starts, 3-0, 0.54 ERA. 

One more note: Lee won the last All-Star Game played in old Yankee Stadium, the first game in the new Yankee Stadium while pitching for Cleveland back in April, the first WS game in the new park where the Yankees were 5-0 this postseason. 

OK, one more note: Last night was the first postseason game the Phillies have ever started beyond October 27.  It ranks as one of the greatest games in their postseason history.

OK, OK, one more note: Highest TV ratings in Philly for a Phils game since Game 5 and 6 last year.

Postseason Memories

Dave Hollins was a third baseman with the Phillies, 1990-95 and again in 2002.  He also played with the Red Sox, Twins, Mariners, Angels, Blue Jays and Indians during his 12-year-career.  His postseason experience came with the Phillies in 1993, the NLCS and World Series.  The 42-year-old still resides in the Buffalo, NY, area. He returned to the Phillies as a special assignment scout earlier this month.

What is your favorite memory of October baseball as a child?
"Growing up in a hockey and football town, I wasn't much of a baseball fan as a kid.  I do remember watching the Yankees on TV."

As a player, what was the biggest change between the regular season and postseason?
"Obviously the intensity was turned up, the massive media coverage, fans being into every pitch of every game, families traveling with us, friends in the stands....it was a big event."

What is your fondest personal postseason memory?
"Beating the Braves in the NLCS and the homer run I hit off Greg Maddux in the decisive game.  The fan reaction that night I something I will never forget."

Where were you when the Phillies won the World Series last October?
"I just got home from scouting the instructional league for the Orioles and was able to watch the clinching game on TV with my 13-year-old son, David."

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Phillies Insider is on twitter as barons63.

Hoopla, headlines, talk, counter-talk......all is about to take a back seat as the word game shifts to the game on the field of Yankee Stadium.

When Citizens Bank Park opened, it got a quick label as being a band box.  Well, the new Yankee Stadium topped everything in its debut this year.

Consider 2009:
Yankee Stadium: 237 homers, 136 by home team, 101 by the enemy.
Citizens Bank Park: 207 total, 108 by Phillies, 99 by those other guys.

ESPN.com has a ballpark factor section.  Among the home run factors, Yankee Stadium is #1, 1.261.  Citizens Bank Park, #16, 1,005.

Phillies and Yankees met in May in the new place with the Phils winning two of three.  The three games produced 12 homers (6 by each), 9 doubles, 1 triple and 11 stolen bases (6-5 Phils edge).

Both parks may produce a lot of home runs. Both teams are packed with power hitters.  Yet, pitching wins games.  Time to Play Ball!

Postseason Memories
Darren Daulton was a 25th round selection by the Phillies in 1980 who became a three-time All-Star catcher.  He played with the Phillies from 1983; 1985-97 when he was traded to the Florida Marlins.  His postseason career included 1993 with the Phillies and 1997 with the Marlins.  The 47-year-old resides in Clearwater, FL.

What is your favorite memory of October baseball as a child?
"Watching the Yankees and Royals. Being a Kansas native, I was a big Royals fan.  George Brett, Amos Otis, Hal McRae, big John Mayberry stick out in my mind.  Obviously, Reggie Jackson was Mr. October."

As a player, what was the biggest change between the regular season and postseason?
"The regular season was more of a long grind.  There is a different atmosphere in postseason....more emphasis on every pitch therefore magnifying every aspect of the game.  Everything connected to postseason is electrified."

What is your fondest personal postseason memory?
"Obviously winning the World Championship with the Marlins in 1997 so I could retire.  With the Phillies, I was exhausted when we clinched the division in 1993 but really proud when we won the pennant. It was sort of a relief knowing we were going to the World Series against Toronto."

Where were you when the Phillies won the World Series last October?
"In Florida right in the middle of a bunch of Rays fans.  It was really funny because they were all walking up to me and congratulating me!!  Almost felt like I was still in a Phillies uniform."

Media Tour
Robin Roberts, a member of the 1950 Whiz Kids, was on the Today Show this morning, continuing a media tour for the Hall of Fame right-hander.

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Phillies Insider is on twitter as barons63.

Nice, relaxing AMTRAK train ride to NYC last evening.  Arrived during rush hour and it took a while for the four buses to get to the hotel.  When we climbed out of Penn Station/Madison Square Garden, there was a pretty large gathering of cheering Phillies fans.  That was neat.

Woke up to rain this morning.  Charlie has scheduled a workout at Yankee Stadium for 4:30, following an hour-long media session for the players.

Part of the day at the hotel involved meetings with Ruben and his staff, Charlie and his staff.... reviewing scouting reports and deciding on the 25-man WS roster.  Yankees and Phillies have until 10 a.m. tomorrow to e-mail their rosters to MLB.

Postseason Memories
Marty Bystrom was a right-handed pitcher with the Phillies from 1980 through 1984.  He also pitched for the Yankees (1984-85).  Bystrom came to the majors on Sept. 1, 1980, and went 5-0 with a 1.50 ERA that month to earn NL Pitcher of the Month.  He started Game 5 of the NLCS and WS that fall; Phillies won both although he didn't get a decision.  Now, 51, Marty resides in central Pennsylvania.

What is your favorite memory of October baseball as a child?
"My favorite memory would be watching Catfish Hunter pitch with the Oakland A's."

As a player, what was the biggest change between the regular season and postseason?
"The biggest change between regular season and postseason is you know you are in a do or die situation and it really makes you concentrate that much more. As a player I loved the feeling of performing on a grander stage and wanting to excel for my teammates."

What is your fondest personal postseason memory?
"Having the opportunity to start Game 5 of the 1980 World Series in Kansas City.  Then, a couple of days later, we won the World Championship.  The parade down Broad Street is yet another tremendous memory."

Where were you when the Phillies won the World Series last October?
"I was watching the final game at home."

Postseason  History
Only once have we played on this date....well sort of.  World Series Game 5 a year ago began on this date but was suspended, 2-2, after 5.5 innings.  The game resumed on October 29 after a 111-hour rain/cold weather delay.  Everyone remembers the outcome...a 4-3 win that produced a World Championship. 

Suspended games are officially recorded on the date the game was first played or started.  In this particular case, that was October 27, which was the last date for any Phillies postseason game until the 2009 WS begins tomorrow night.

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Phillies Insider is on twitter as barons63. 

Well, we're now down to a seven-game season and it all starts Wednesday night in Yankee Stadium.  Weather forecast is a little iffy but we'll worry about that later.

59 years ago, the Yankees swept the Phillies' "Whiz Kids" bunch in the World Series.  Time for revenge.  Hall of Famer Robin Roberts is one of six Phillies from that WS roster who is still living.  He's going to do the interview room today before the Phillies 1 p.m. workout.  Robbie is also scheduled for the Today Show on Wednesday morning in NY.

After the workout, the Phillies will bus to 30th Street Station to board an AMTRAK charter train for the trip north.  A workout in Yankees Stadium is on the schedule for Tuesday.  Phillies played there back in May, winning two of three.

Tuesday also means meeting day for Ruben Amaro Jr., his staff and Charlie and his staff.  Chuck LaMar, Charley Kerfeld, Gordon Lakey, Howie Freiling and Tim Kissner have been scouting the Yankees-Angels series and they'll provide feedback.  The 25-man World Series roster has to be filed with MLB by 10 a.m. on Wednesday which will be part of the meeting.

Postseason Memories
Bob Boone caught for the Phillies from 1972 through 1981.  During his 19-year big league career he also played for the Angels and Royals.  He was a four-time All-Star and winner of seven Gold Gloves.  With the Phillies he played in four NLCS and the 1980 WS (.412 average).  Now, 61, Bob is the Assistant GM, VP of Player Development for the Washington Nationals.

What is your favorite memory of October baseball as a child?
"Being a bat boy for the Milwaukee Braves at the Coliseum in 1959 vs. the LA Dodgers in the playoff game that determined the team that would play the White Sox in the World Series. The Dodgers won the game as I kneeled with my dad in the on deck circle as he was to be the next hitter as the game ended.  The irony of the situation is that my dad had started that season with the White Sox and was traded to Milwaukee mid year."

As a player, what was the biggest change between the regular season and postseason?
"I always felt that the playing was the same. The difference was the idea that every pitch was a 'do or die' situation. This certainly upped the adrenalin and focus level."

What is your fondest personal postseason memory?
"Definitely the parade in 1980. To be able to share that with my family was a career highlight."

Where were you when the Phillies won the World Series last October?
"Saw it on TV as I was in Phoenix scouting the Arizona Fall league games".

Postseason History
Phillies have played only once on this date and it was a year ago at Citizens Bank Park.  Ryan Howard homered twice as the Phillies crushed the Rays, 10-2, in Game 4 of the World Series to take a commanding 3-1 lead.

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Phillies Insider is on twitter as barons63.

Not a cloud in the sky as the Phillies worked out at Citizens Bank Park this afternoon.  They know where they've been, but don't know exactly where they are going.

Oh, it is either one end the country or the other.  Angels and Yankees could decide that tonight.  If that series goes to Game 7, the answer won't come until tomorrow night.

Charlie appeared in the interview room prior to the 1 o'clock workout.  Said Cliff Lee will start game 1 on Wednesday night.  He wouldn't go beyond the Game 1 starter.  Chase and Raul were in the interview room after the workout.

Meanwhile, Frank Coppenbarger who handles all phases of the team's travel, is ready.  An AMTRAK charter train is on hold for a NY departure on both Monday and Tuesday afternoons. Should the Angels win, a Delta charter flight is scheduled to leave for Anaheim on Tuesday.

Phillies are taking their full-time front office staff to Games 1 and 2.  Transportation-wise, another airplane for Anaheim and buses for NY.

All members of the player development staff--scouts, minor league managers, instructors, coaches, athletic trainers--will be brought to Philadelphia for Games 3, 4 and 5.

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Phillies Insider is on twitter as barons63.

Today
Players are back at the park and will work out in the afternoon.  Rest of weekend is uncertain as of the time of this posting.

Staff is busy prepping for the World Series.  New WS banners will soon be mounted on the light poles around Citizens Bank Park.  The players will wear new uniforms starting Wednesday, complete with a World Series logo. People seeking WS tickets are coming from every direction.

Keeping time
For those of you who like to keep track of time time, we won the World Championship in 1980 at Veterans Stadium at 11:29 p.m.  29 years later on the same date (Oct. 21), we won the NL Pennant at Citizens Bank Park at 11:47 p.m.

Repeat winners
Over the last 100 years, only three NL teams have won a World Series one year and made it back the following year, New York Giants (1921-22), Cincinnati Reds (1976-77) and the Phillies.

Since division play went into effect in 1969, the Reds, Atlanta Braves (1995-96) and Phillies are the only back-to-back pennant winners.

Get the facts straight
Media keeps writing we've only won two World Series in our 127 years of existence.  That is  somewhat inaccurate since the World Series didn't start un1il 1903 and our first season was 1883.  So, for 20 years we couldn't have won a World Series!

The 2009 World Series will be number 105 (WS was not played in 1904 and 1994).

Roberts in demand
Media inquiries have been coming in for Robin Roberts, one of six living Whiz Kids who played the Yankees in the 1950 World Series.  Robbie prefers to wait until the Yankees have clinched and I agree.

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Phillies Insider is on twitter as barons63.

Power+pen+people=pennant.

That's the formula the Phillies followed last night in winning the NL pennant and advancing to the World Series for the second straight year, something that's never happened in the history of the franchise. 

Last time a Philadelphia baseball team was in back-to-back WS was 1929-30-31 when the Athletics dominated the American League.

When the Dodgers scored last night, the Phillies retaliated with their power bats.  Cole struggled with his command but the bullpen, a weakness according to experts, did the job, big time. 

Then, the fans.  Once again their boisterous enthusiasm was so powerful.  Citizens Bank Park was rocking.  Of their last 12 postseason games at home, the Phillies have won 11.  Fan passion is one of the reasons.

A loss last night would have been followed by a charter flight this afternoon to LA.  That Delta charter aircraft was grounded in Atlanta.  Phillies fans aren't grounded, they're flying high!

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Phillies Insider is on twitter as barons63.

Game 5
Weather couldn't be better for an October postseason game.  There's excitement in the air and game time is a long way away.

Prior to the game, the interview room will be in session.  Charlie and Joe and one player from each team.  Sometimes MLB gets a little carried away.  Both Charlie and Joe were in the interview room yesterday afternoon.  Nothing has changed since then.  What can they say today that they didn't say yesterday?

29 years ago tonight, the Phillies won their first World Championship.  It is only fitting that Dallas Green, who managed that club, throws out the ceremonial first ball tonight.  Charlie will be Dallas' catcher.

Dallas' Postseason Memories
What is your favorite memory of October baseball as a child?
"We didn't have a TV so I listened to the games on the radio.  I remember keeping score while I listened."

As a manager, what was the biggest change between the regular season and postseason?
"All the hullabaloo that comes with the postseason.....media, big wig requests, ticket requests.  It can be a distraction to the players.  It seems as if 50 different people all want a piece of the pie."

What is your fondest personal postseason memory?
"Obviously, winning the World Series in 1980 and the mind-boggling parade that followed.  I remember standing in the corner of the dugout, arms folded and taking a deep breath before Tug threw the last pitch.  I was never worried that we were going to lose the Series, but I wasn't so sure during the gut-wrenching playoffs against Houston.

Where were you when the Phillies won the World Series last October?
"I was in the GM Box with Pat Gillick and Ruben Amaro.  We hugged each other and Pat was overcome with joy.  I was so happy for him, the organization and the fans."

Postseason History
Phillies are 2-0 on this date.  They won the World Championship in 1980 when Tug McGraw fanned Willie Wilson for the final out.  In 1993, Curt Schilling threw a 5-hit shutout against the Blue Jays to keep the Phillies alive in the World Series. 

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Phillies Insider is on twitter as barons63.

J-Roll's dramatic double turned Philly into giddy city last night. It has to be the biggest and most dramatic two-base hit in Phillies history.  Hollywood couldn't have written a better script.

Broxton throws heat, plenty of it.  He came in the eight to face Werth and got a fly ball to end that threat.  Broxton's last three pitches to Jayson: 100 mph fast ball, 93 mph slider and 99 mph fast ball.

Four Dodgers relievers had thrown 57 pitches and not allowed a hit until J-Roll doubled in the right-center field alley.  He couldn't have hit it in a better location.  Ruiz, no speed merchant, scored easily from first base and the celebration was on.

Reality check: time to put the win on the back burner and focus on tomorrow night.  There's more work to be done.

Today
Day off....from playing a game, that is.
The Phillies will work out from 1 to 1:30 this afternoon and the Dodgers, 3-4:30. Interview room will feature: Charlie (12:45 p.m.), Cole (2 p.m.), LA Game 5 starter (2:30 p.m.) and Torre (2:45 p.m.).

Postseason Memories
Tom McCarthy has completed his second season in his second tour of duty as a Phillies broadcaster.  After being a member of the Phillies broadcasting crew from 2001-05, McCarthy joined the Mets crew for two seasons, before returning to Philadelphia.  The 41-year-old is a native of New Jersey.

What is your favorite memory of October baseball as a child?
"One of my first memories of the postseason was Bucky Dent's home run vs. Boston's Mike Torrez.  It made me realize than anything is possible."

Where were you when the Phillies won the World Series last October?
"I was watching the last out from our radio booth, standing behind Harry and Wheels.  Seeing their reaction is a memory I'll cherish forever."

Postseason History
Phillies have played only once on this date and it was a painful one......leading 14-9 after
seven innings in the 1993 World Series, the Blue Jays rallied to win, 15-14, and take a commanding 3-1 lead.

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Phillies Insider is on twitter as barons63.

Game 3 recap
Brad Lidge entered the hotel elevator after Friday's Game 1 nail-biter in LA, "When are we going to have a laugher?" 

Well, Brad, it happened last night.  Aerial fireworks greeted the Phillies as they took the field for the start of the game.  In their first at-bat, fireworks continued on the field as they scored four times and then tacked on two more in their second AB.  End result: a brilliant pitching clinic once again by Cliff and the biggest romp in Phillies postseason history.

Heck, we out-scored the Eagles!

The Big Piece continues to pepper the postseason record book.  He's an RBI machine.  Cliff tied the club postseason record with 10 strikeouts (Steve Carlton and Curt Schilling).  Teammate Scott Eyre called him amazing.

Quietly Chase has also entered the team's postseason record book.  After going hitless in his first postseason game in 2007, he's now hit in 23 consecutive games.   Then, there's Chooch.  Ruiz is a certified hot hitter.

Then, there's Jayson.  Werth now has the most extra-base hits in team postseason history, 14 in 76 ABs.  Schmidt had 13 in 140 ABs. 

Postseason Memories
Mickey Morandini, a second baseman with the Phillies (1990-7; 2000) is throwing out the ceremonial first ball tonight.  His postseason career with the Phillies came in 1993.  During the NLCS, he hit .250.  In the World Series, .200, in 3 games.  His big league career also included the Chicago Cubs (1998-1999) and Toronto Blue Jays (2000).  Now 43, Mickey resides in his native Indiana.

What was the biggest change when you played in the postseason?
"Biggest change since I was in the postseason has been the addition of the wildcard team.  We only had two rounds, the NLCS and Series, which made for a shorter postseason."

What is your fondest personal postseason memory?
"Beating the Braves in the NLCS was something I'll never forget.  As far as my foundest personal memory, hitting a triple off Greg Maddux to clinch Game 6 at Veterans Stadium.   Standing on third base and hearing the Phillies fans make all that noise was quite a thrill."

Where were you when the Phillies won the World Series last October?
"I was watching the game on TV with my family in our home.  We had to have the loudest cheer in Indiana after the last out."

Postseason history
Phillies are 1-1 on this date.  They took a 3-2 lead in the 1980 World Series with a 3-2 win in Kansas City on Manny Trillo's game-winning single.   13 years later, they fell behind the Blue Jays in the WS, 2-1, after losing 10-3 at the Vet.

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Phillies Insider is on twitter as barons63.

Weather is looking OK for Game 3 tonight.  Field is longer covered by the tarp.  Wind is helping dry everything.  Couple of ground crew members are touching up (painting) the logos on the field.  Logos were diluted by the rain.

Usual pre-game interview room will have Manuel and then Blanton starting at 4:30 p.m.; Torre at 5:30 p.m., followed by Wolf.  Clubhouses are closed to the media pre-game.

With the volume of media, the normal press box isn't large enough.  An auxiliary press box has been set up in Sections 236 and 237 of the Hall of Fame Club, which is the same level as the Press Box.  In LA, the auxiliary press box was in the upper deck of Dodger Stadium.

Postseason Memories
Chris Wheeler is the senior member of the Phillies broadcasting team, having finished his 33rd year in the booth.  He originally joined the organization as a member of the PR department in 1971.  "Wheels" has just published a book, "View From The Booth".  The 64-year-old is a Penn State U. grad and proud of it.

What is your favorite memory of October baseball as a child?
"Saw a lot of games on TV but my favorite memory was watching Sandy Koufax in the World Series.  He was something special."

What is your fondest personal postseason memory?
"Being with the team for the 1980 and 2008 World Championships and riding in those parades.  Thought the '80 parade was breath-taking until last year's ride."

Where were you when the Phillies won the World Series last October?
"Sitting next to Harry and hearing him call the last out.  I know I over-reacted as everyone has seen on the videos, but what the heck."

Postseason History
Phillies have played only one other postseason game on this date and it came in 1980.  Willie Aikens hit two homers and the Royals won, 5-3, to even the World Series at 2-2.  But something happened in the fourth inning that set the tone for the rest of the Series.  Dickie Noles brushed back George Brett on an 0-2 count.  Brett would only get three singles and Aikens one hit in the remaining two games.

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Phillies Insider is on twitter as barons63.

Rainy, damp and cold day at Citizens Bank Park.  Good there's no game scheduled for tonight.  Team arrived home around 3 this morning to 41 degree temperatures. Game time in LA yesterday was 93.

Both teams have scheduled workouts for the afternoon. Managers and starting pitchers for game 3 will be available in the interview room.

Game 2 recap
Postseason nail-biters continued yesterday afternoon at Dodger Stadium.  This time, the Phillies were on the short end of a one-run decision.  Pedro was magnificent with seven shutout innings.   Fateful eighth told the story: three LA hits plus two walks and an error led to two LA runs off five Phillies relievers (31 pitches). The nightmare half-inning took 28minutes.

Got to give credit to Padilla.  The former Phil silenced the Phillies bats in 7.1 innings, allowing one run on Howard's towering drive into the left field bleachers.  Howard had half of his team's four hits.

Howard's driven in a run in six straight postseason games, matching Bernie Williams and Pudge Rodriquez for second place in baseball history.  The great Lou Gehrig holds the record, eight straight games.

Howard has now reached base in 15 consecutive postseason games.  He has 15 hits in postseason road games over the last three seasons, best among all NL players.

Scouting the AL
Phillies have five scouts following the Angels-Yankees ALCS: Chuck LaMar, Charley Kerfeld, Gordon Lakey, Howie Freiling and Tim Kissner.

Ceremonial first balls
Darren Daulton will throw out the ceremonial first ball tomorrow night; teammate Mickey Morandini will have the honor on Monday night.  Dallas Green is scheduled for Game 5 on Wednesday night.

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Phillies Insider is on twitter as barons63.

Got to love those three-run homers.  Ruiz and Raul did the damage as the Phillies took game one.  LA lefty George Sherrill had given up two runs in 30 appearances after joining the Dodgers on July 30.  Left-handed hitters batted .128 with no homer in last 141 at-bats over two seasons. Raul took care of that hitting the first pitch he saw from his former teammate in Seattle.  It turned out to be the game-winning blow.

Brad gets the save but Chan Ho should also get a save for his outing.  He was really sharp.  Madson got himself in a jam but also pitched out of it.

Numbers
Phillies are 14-4 in their last 18 NLCS games.  Under Charlie, they are 15-7 in the playoffs.  Road record this year: 3-0.

Postseason Memories
A first baseman, Ricky Jordan played for the Phillies from 1988 through 1994.  He also played for the Mariners in 1996.  His postseason experience was 1993, the NLCS vs. Atlanta and WS vs. Toronto.  He led the club with 16 pinch hits in '93.  The 44-year-old resides in northern California.

What is your favorite memory of October baseball as a child?
"Watching Reggie Jackson hit home runs for the Yankees back in the 70's and becoming known as Mr. October."

As a player, what was the biggest change between the regular season and postseason?
"Having to rise to a different level, because more media and fans would be watching you on a bigger stage with more at stake."

What is your fondest personal postseason memory?
"Being in the starting lineup as the DH for the first World Series game back in 1993 against Toronto.  As far as the fondest team memory, beating the Braves that year."

Where were you when the Phillies won the World Series last October?
"Well, I was back at home in California.  After being at Citizens Bank Park for Game 3 and part of 4, I returned home because Game 4 got postponed for a couple of days because of bad weather.  My Bad."

Postseason History
Phillies are 0-2 on this date, losing the 1983 World Series to the Orioles and losing the first game of the WS in Toronto 10 years later.

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Phillies Insider is on twitter as barons63.
 

Postseason Memories
Jim Eisenreich was an outfielder who played for the Phillies from 1993 through 1996. He also played for the Twins, Royals, Marlins and Dodgers during a 15-year career. He played for the Phillies in the 1993 NLCS and World Series and was a member of the 1997 World Champion Marlins.

What is your favorite memory of October baseball as a child?
"My memory of October baseball as a kid was pretty limited. I was a Twins fan, and except for 1965, they were never in the playoffs.  Cincinnati's 'Big Red Machine' and Reggie Jackson with the Yankees hitting home runs are the things that stick out for me."

As a player, what was the biggest change between the regular season and postseason?
"The biggest change when I played in the post season was the number of media people there. Also, the time that was allowed for them before and after each game."

What is your fondest personal postseason memory?
"My most treasured memory of the postseason was in Game 7 of the 1997 World Series, bottom of the 11th, bases loaded and I'm on second base in a 2-2 tie with the Cleveland Indians and Edgar Renteria got a single to drive in the winning run. We were World Series Champs."

Where were you when the Phillies won the World Series last October?
"I was at home last October watching the Phillies win the World Series as well as texting some of my Philly friends who were at the game."

Postseason History
A year ago on this date, Cole Hamels beat the Dodgers, 5-1, sending the Phillies to the World Series.

Alumni Reunion
Former Phillies on the Dodgers include Randy Wolf, Vicente Padilla, Jim Thome, Larry Bowa, Mariano Duncan and Ken Howell.

Last Day Game
Tomorrow's game begins at 1:07 (PDT) and will be the final day game of the postseason schedule.  It is also a travel day:
**7:30 a.m., early team bus leaves for Dodger Stadium
**9 p.m., 2nd team bus
**11 a.m., club officials, player wives/family bus
**Post-game, 4 buses depart for airport and Delta charter flight
**Approx. 3 a.m. Saturday, back home
**Sleep, sleep, sleep

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Phillies Insider is on twitter as barons63

Postseason Memories
Larry Andersen ("LA") just completed his 12th season as a member of the Phillies broadcasting team.  A former pitcher, LA played 17 years in the majors with six different teams, including the Phillies twice (1983-86; 1993-94).  He is one of handful of Phillies to appear in two World Series (1983, 1993).  The 56-year-old is a native of Portland, OR.

What is your favorite memory of October baseball as a child?
"As a kid we got to watch the World Series in school because all games were day games."

As a player, what was the biggest change between the regular season and postseason?
"The fact that game times were determined by television.  And, mass media everywhere."

What is your fondest personal postseason memory?
"Getting a save in Game 5 of the 1993 NLCS against the Braves and riding in the parade last fall."

Where were you when the Phillies won the World Series last October?
"Knowing I wouldn't be on the air in the late innings of Game 5 last year, I went down to Section 117 to sit with my girl friend, sister and other friends. I got to experience the last out with all the fans."

Postseason History
Phillies have played one game on this date, 1980: Bake McBride's three-run homered keyed a five-run third inning that carried the Phils to a 7-6 win over the Kansas City Royals in Game 1 of the World Series.  It was the first World Series game to be played in Philadelphia in 30 years.

Dreary LA
Soggy, rainy day in southern LA.  Team landed at 1:30 this morning.  Charlie had scheduled a 5 o'clock workout at Dodger Stadium this afternoon, same time as game time tomorrow.  Forecast for tomorrow and Friday is clear and in the 80s, quite a change from Denver.

Phillies must submit their NLCS roster by 10 tomorrow morning (PDT).  While flying over the northern most border of Texas, Ruben, Charlie, Dubee, Green, Proefrock and Looper all huddled on the Delta 757 aircraft for about 15 minutes.  Another meeting today.

Chan Ho, on the DL for the NLDS, was on the flight to LA.  Todd Zolecki will file all the news stories on phillies.com.  Check often.
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Phillies Insider is on twitter as barons63.

Tummy Twister
What an NLDS series.  Final three games came down to the final at-bat in one-run games. Brad posted back-to-back saves to send the Phillies on to LA.  For the fifth time in NLCS history, the Phillies will battle the Dodgers.

Phillies are known for their long ball and not always playing small ball.  They should also be known as playing resilient ball. 

Team arrived in Philly around 3 this morning.  Early this evening, a Delta charter flight will depart for Los Angeles.

If you haven't noticed, Scott Eyre is writing a blog on phillies.com.  It is must reading.

Postseason Memories
Dickie Noles was a right-handed pitcher with the Phillies from 1979-81 and again in 1990.  His 11-year major league career also included the Cubs, Ranges, Indians, Tigers and Orioles. In three postseason games with the Phillies in 1980, he allowed one run in 7.2 innings.  Now, 52, Noles is the Employee Assistance Professional for the Phillies.

What is your favorite memory of October baseball as a child?
"Mine was the 1969 New York Mets. It was the first year that I fell in love with baseball. I could not get enough, playing or watching."

As a player, what was the biggest change between the regular season and postseason?
"I thought the biggest change was the so called pressure.  You get so pumped up ( in sports they say don't get to high and don't get to low) that everything seems better--the food you eat tastes better, your clothes fit, you feel better, your focus is better. This is what you dream of as a kid. Plus, I believe that as a minor league player in the Phillies farm system, we were taught to look forward to these situations."

What is your fondest personal postseason memory?
"Winning the World Series in 1980.  Just looking around the Vet with Tug on the mound and the excitement of the fans. All players have that dream, bases-loaded, game on the line and you win the championship. I can still see that moment as though it was yesterday."

Where were you when the Phillies won the World Series last October?
"I was in the stands with our employees and then went inside to watch everything on TV.  Another great moment."

Postseason History
Phillies are 1-2 on this date, including winning the NL pennant in 1993. A year ago, Phillies won Game 4 of the NLCS.  This year, Game 1 of the NLCS is Thursday night.

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Phillies Insider is on twitter as barons63.

Postseason Memories
Ron Reed came to the Phillies as a starting pitcher and was converted into a durable reliever (458 games) from 1976-83.  He also pitched for the Braves, Cardinals and White Sox. His postseason experience with the Phillies includes one Division Series, five NLCS and two World Series, 1980 and 1983.  The 66-year-old Notre Dame grad also played in the NBA for two seasons. 

What is your favorite memory of October baseball as a child?
"Watching the Yankees in the World Series. It seemed like they were always in the World Series. I was a big Mickey Mantle fan."

As a player, what was the biggest change between the regular season and postseason?
"Has to be the level of intensity. My first playoffs were with the Braves against the 69 'Miracle Mets.' I remember all of the excitement and the feeling in the clubhouse of 'Hey, we are really in the playoffs with a chance to go to the World Series.'  And that carried over into all of the playoffs when I was with the Phillies. Unbelievably intense atmosphere."

What is your fondest personal postseason memory?
"Getting the 'SAVE' in Game 2 of the 1980 WORLD SERIES is my fondest personal memory from all of the postseasons I participated in. And of course being part of that great Phillies team is a great memory. After getting to the playoffs in 1976, 1977, and 1978, and losing all three playoff series, 1980 was special and a memory I'll always cherish."

Where were you when the Phillies won the World Series last October?
"At home watching fellow Golden Domer Brad Lidge get the final out. The Phillies have won only two World Series in their history and both times a former Notre Dame pitcher was in the bullpen!"

Postseason History
Phillies are 1-3 on October 12.  The lone win was a big one, clinching the NL pennant in Houston 29 years ago.

Game 3 Recap
"The absurdity of a wildly entertaining game was that it didn't end until 2:14 a.m. Eastern time in temperatures in the mid-20s, which begs the question that if no one was awake to see it, did it really happen?", wrote Martin Frank in the Wilmington News-Journal.

For those Phillies faithful that were able to stay awake, it indeed was an entertaining game and a huge win; Credit goes to both teams for playing a mistake-free game in bitter cold conditions.  Tip of the cap also goes to the Colorado fans who sat through the marathon game.  Hope no one got frostbite.

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Phillies Insider is on twitter as barons63

Postseason Memories
Jim Jackson's just completed his third season of hosting the pre-game and post-game shows on the Phillies Radio Network.  He's also the voice of the Flyers, having spent 16 seasons with the NHL Club.  The 46-year-old is a graduate of Syracuse University with a degree in broadcast journalism.

What is your favorite memory of October baseball as a child?
"I was 10 years old and got home from school just in time to see the famous brawl between the Reds and Mets in the 1973 NLCS sparked by Pete Rose and Bud Harrelson.  It caught my attention so that I followed playoff baseball from that point on."

Where were you when the Phillies won the World Series last October?
"Sitting in the Phillies radio booth right next to Harry as he made the call of the final out, a call he wanted so long to make.  It was such as tremendous thrill to see the absolute joy in his eyes.  And, of course, one seat away, Wheels was showing us all how to do the 'Wheeler.'"

Postseason History
Phillies are 2-3 on this date in postseason history, winning last two.  A year ago, Myers beat the Dodgers in NLCS game 2.

Numbers
Rockies had the second-best home record in the NL (51-30) . . . Phillies, the best road record (48-33) . . . At Coors Field, Phillies are 27-28.

Tonight
Parkas and gloves will be available to the Phillies . . . Dugout will also contain portable heaters and oxygen . . . Plus, Harry Kalas' blue blazer and white shoes.  Last game Harry called was in Coors Field on April 12.

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Phillies Insider is on twitter as barons63

Postseason Memories
Scott Franzke is the radio voice of the Phillies who's just completed his fourth season in the booth with Larry Andersen.  The 37-year-old Texas native is a graduate of SMU with a degree in broadcast journalism.

What is your favorite memory of October baseball as a child?
"I grew up following the Rangers, so no October memories there. In Texas, October was for football. I think the '86 series between the Mets and the Red Sox was the first that I really followed, pitch-by-pitch. I had a friend who was a Sox fan; but more than anything, I was drawn to the drama of it all. Whether it was Buckner's error in '86; Gibson in '88 (as a Rangers fan I didn't much care for A's closer Dennis Eckersley); the Game 7 between the Twins and Braves in '91; or (sorry, folks) Carter's homer in '93 - those were the classic moments I remember most."

Where were you when the Phillies won the World Series last October?
"People ask me all the time, whether I was in the booth with Harry watching that scene unfold? The answer is, no. I was in the groundskeepers room under the ballpark watching on TV. I was in there with 2 or 3 other 'reporters,' ready to storm the field and do post-game interviews, plus a few officials from Major League Baseball. Once the umpires had cleared the tunnel, we were allowed onto the field. It was amazing watching it all from that perspective. Once the players came out of the dogpile, I stopped Shane Victorino for an interview, and realized we were standing right on top of the pitchers mound. There was so much joy in his eyes. Mine, I'm sure, were pretty wide too watching from field level as 45,000-plus people went crazy."

Postseason History
On this date, the Phillies are 2-3.  First game was in 1915 at Baker Bowl and Woodrow Wilson became the first U. S. President to throw out a first ball.

Game 2 Recap
Game was filled with a lot of drama.  Biggest at-bats belonged to Fowler.  Twice we had two strikes on him and each time he hit a sacrifice fly and we lost by one run . . . Shane had three hits and his bid for a 4th needed a foot more to Barmes' left to fall in for a game-tying hit in the last of the 9th.

Today
Both teams had charter aircraft waiting for them after yesterday's game.  Flight time: four hours. Phillies were scheduled to land at 9:45 p.m., which would be 11:45 in the east.  Phillies are scheduled to work out at Coors Field at 1 this afternoon.

Game times
In case you haven't heard, Sunday's game will begin at 10:07 p.m. (EDT).  Game 5, if necessary, will be either 6:07 or 8:07 p.m. (EDT) at Citizens Bank Park.  If it is the only game that day, then it will start at 8:07 p.m.

MLB's press release on the remaining game times included the following:  "Please note that the schedule is tentative and subject to change based on postponed and/or suspended games."  Saturday's Denver forecast: high of 30 degrees and snow.  Stay tuned.

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Phillies Insider is on twitter as barons63.

Postseason Memories
Gary "Sarge" Matthews is in his third year as a Phillies broadcaster.  An outfielder, Sarge played 16 seasons in the majors with the Giants, Braves, Phillies (1981-83), Cubs and Mariners.   He was the NLCS MVP when the Phillies upended the Dodgers on this date in 1983.  His NLCS numbers: .429, 3 HR, 8 RBI.  One of his five children, Gary Jr., is an outfielder with the Angels to open their ALDS series against the Red Sox today.

What is your favorite memory of October baseball as a child?
"The New York Yankees always won when I was a kid.  Elston Howard was my favorite player."

As a player, what was the biggest change between the regular season and postseason?
"I thought the intensity level was about the same.  But, there was so much more media to deal with.  Ticket requests from family and friends were off the chart."

What is your fondest personal postseason memory?
"Winning the MVP is my individual memory.  As a team, we were dominated by the Dodgers that season and we got to beat them and advance to the World Series."

Where were you when the Phillies won the World Series last October?
"I was in the broadcasting booth standing behind Harry.  Seeing and hearing him call the last out is something I will never forget."

Postseason History
First World Series game and win for the Phillies happened on this date 94 years ago. Overall, Phils are 2-3 on this date.

Game 1 Recap
Most of the time the Phillies will beat you with their league-leading power bats.  Yesterday, no homers (wind took one away from Jayson) but all nine starters had hits and five different players drove in runs.  Another offensive weapon is their speed,  three stolen bases in five attempts.

Werth has a 10-game postseason hitting streak, second in club history to the Bull's 13.

Impressive Debut
Cliff's first postseason start was awash with firsts: win, hit, stolen base, complete game.  He faced 32 batters and threw 25 first-pitch strikes.  Cliff always runs to and from the mound.  It took him 10 seconds from the last out of the Phillies eighth inning to reach the mound for the top of the ninth.  Oh, first chants by the fans in that ninth:  LEE-LEE-LEE-LEE.

In print
Mike Lopresti, talented Gannett sports columnist:
"Nearly as entertaining as Lee's pitching tutorial were groundskeepers occasionally chasing debris that the wind was blowing around the diamond.  They looked like men trying to corner a field mouse."

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Phillies Insider is on twitter as barons63.

(Gene Garber offers his postseason memories today)

A native of Lancaster County (PA), Garber was a relief pitcher with the Phillies from 1974 through 1978.  He also pitched for the Pirates, Royals and Braves.  Pitched in two NLCS with the Phillies (1976-77) and one with the Braves (1982).  Now, 61, he owns and operates a 400-acre farm.

What is your favorite memory of October baseball as a child?
"Listening to Don Larsen's perfect game in 1956 with my father who stopped planting wheat, got off the tractor and listened to the last few innings with me."

As a player, what was the biggest change between the regular season and postseason?
"The biggest difference was that there were only two division champs with only a five-game series to go to the World Series."

What is your fondest personal postseason memory?
"My fondest postseason memory was a game that also turned into my greatest nightmare - Black Friday against the Dodgers in 1977."

Where were you when the Phillies won the World Series last October?
"I was sitting in the stands at Citizens Bank Park with my family and as excited as everyone around me.  I was so happy for the organization, fans and Charlie and the players."

Elsewhere
Ballpark was quiet at 8 this morning.  Field covered for the overnight rain.  Phillies clubhouse was empty.  TBS crews were busy setting up their cameras.  The quietness won't last long.

Phillies postseason record on this date isn't the best, 2-5, including the Black Friday game Garber referred to.  Time to change our luck!

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Phillies Insider is on twitter as barons63.

(Postseason Memories is a new feature that will appear here during the next few weeks.  Phillies Alumni and broadcasters and perhaps others will offer personal insights into their postseason memories. Leading off is John Kruk, who will throw out the ceremonial first pitch on Thursday afternoon).

"Krukker" (1989-94) was a first baseman who played in the postseason with the Phillies in 1993. He hit .250 in the NLCS and .348 in the World Series that fall.  His big league career also included the Padres (1986-89) and White Sox (1995).  Kruk, now 48, is an analyst of ESPN Baseball Tonight Show.

What is your favorite memory of October baseball as a child?
"Watching in 1977 Yankees/Dodgers World Series and Reggie Jackson hitting three home runs off of three different pitchers in Game 6.  Three guys who played in that World Series became teammates when I was in San Diego, Goose Gossage, Graig Nettles and Steve Garvey."

As a player, what was the biggest change between the regular season and postseason?
"The biggest change was the amount of media covering the game and realizing that we were the only two teams standing when we got to the World Series."

What is your fondest personal postseason memory?
"My fondest personal memory was without question Mitch striking out Bill Pecota at Veterans Stadium to put us in the World Series.  I had a great view standing at first base."

Where were you when the Phillies won the World Series last October?
"I was on the set of Baseball Tonight getting ready to do a show at Citizen's Bank Park and thinking about how excited my 6-year-old son (Kyle) was that his Phillies were the best team in the world."

Busy Day
Both teams are working out this afternoon at Citizens Bank Park.  The Phillies are at 1, the Rockies at 2:30.  Workouts are not open to the public.  Interview room today will feature each manager and each Game 1 starting pitcher, four separate sessions for the media.

Ruben and his staff, plus Charlie and his staff will also meet to further discuss the NLDS roster.  It must be filed with MLB by 10 Wednesday morning.  Scouts Del Unser, Jim Fregosi Sr., Gordon Lakey and Craig Colbert, who have been scouting the Rockies, will be part of another meeting.  This crew then heads for the Yankees series.

Elsewhere
Two Phillies Alumni will throw out the first ball on Wednesday, Geoff Jenkins and Dick Allen . . . In answer to an inquiry, MLB has decided to cancel the Rally Monday events that have been held right after the season the last few years . . . Questions about game times have also arisen.  Game times are decided by MLB and TBS.  Having two teams on the west coast helped complicate the scheduling . . . Sad news.  Barry Lersch, 65, who pitched for the Phillies from 1969-73, died of a massive heart attack in his Englewood, CO, home two days ago.  He was looking forward to seeing a game in Denver this weekend, according to his wife, Linda.
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Phillies Insider is on twitter as barons63.

The marathon season is over.  Time for three sprint seasons, Division Series (best-of-5), League Championship Series (7) and the World Series (7).

The four NL postseason teams begin the first leg on Wednesday.  TBS will televise all DS games.

Everyone is analyzing the Phillies chances of repeating as the World Champions, something that hasn't happened with a National League club since the Cincinnati Reds of 1975-76.  It isn't easy and the Phillies don't seem to do things the easy way.

Do the Phillies have question marks?  Certainly.  Every club does.  There are no perfect teams.  What happened in the regular season is now in the record books.  A new season starts in two days.

One thing the Phillies have that other teams don't, an angel in the sky.  Last year it was Charlie Manuel's mother and Shane Victorino's grandmother.  This year, Harry Kalas. 

Day Off
Charlie, his staff and the players have the day off.  Time to get away from the ballpark.

Phillies will work out at 1 Tuesday afternoon (workout is closed to the public).  Postseason means some changes from the norm.  During the season, media is allowed in the clubhouse 3.5 hours prior to game time until an hour before the game begins.  Now, the clubhouse is closed pre-game and open as usual post-game.  An interview room is arranged pre and post workouts and games to accommodate the media.

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Phillies Insider is on twitter as barons63.

Just think, Paul Hoover's walk-off single completed the Phillies first decade of the 21st century! 

What a decade it has been for the Phillies.  They won 850 games, more than any other decade in their storied history (1970s produced 812 wins).  The average number of wins per season (85) is also best in club history (81 in 1970s).  Their winning percentage (.525) ranks second to the 1890s (.536).

The season also was a record-setter at the gate:

**3,600,693 season total at home.
**44,450 average per game.
**73 sellouts.
**42 consecutive sellouts.
**30 engagements during games.

There's little doubt that Phillies fans are very passionate about their team and Citizens Bank Park.

So, a huge THANK YOU!

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Phillies Insider is on twitter as barons63.

With three games left in the regular season, the wheels are in motion for the National League Division Series.  The Phillies are in but still await the enemy.  A bundle of employees behind the scene are hopeful that will be determined soon.

Games 1, 2 and 3, if necessary, could be played at Citizens Bank Park next week.  Schedule calls for games on Wednesday and Thursday, and October 13.  Other two games are somewhere October 10 and 11.  Game times? To Be Determined.

Frank Coppenbarger handles all the team travel.  He's got charter flights, hotels and busses lined up for three NL cities, St. Louis, Los Angeles and Denver.  He's also set up for other postseason series. 

Chris Long schedules the pre-game field festivities: anthem singers, musical groups, ceremonial first balls, seventh-inning stretch singers, etc.  Her biggest dilemma?  When, where and what time are the games.

Once the season is over, head groundskeeper Mike Boekholder, will need to paint NLDS logos on the field before the first game.  When, where and what time are joined by weather concerns.  Tough to paint in the rain.

Tina Urban oversaw the design and manufacture of 42 colorful postseason banners that have been mounted on light poles surrounding Citizens Bank Park.  Christine Negley oversees the Phillies Division Series Magazine that will be available for home games.

Media accommodations come under the supervision of Bonnie Clark, head of the communications department.  NLDS media numbers are larger than opening day.  Those numbers grow significantly with each successive postseason series.

TBS, who will handle the national telecast of the NLDS, is standing by, waiting to move their trucks to some ballpark.

Merchandise is busy unpacking boxes of "NL East Champions" paraphernalia for the Majestic Clubhouse Store and the Mitchell & Ness Alley Store.  The Majestic Store has added tents to help accommodate Phillies fans hungry for postseason merchandise.

The events team is planning a rally that will take place prior to the first game on Citizens Bank Way.  Once again, when, where, what time.

Scott Brandreth, in addition to overseeing the merchandise empire, has ordered 140,000 rally towels.  The advertising department has lined up sponsors for the first two games, Teva Pharmaceuticals and Liscio's Bakery & Holy Family University.

Then, there's a little matter that needs attention: What 25 Phillies are on the NLDS roster?  Deadline is 10 a.m. of the first game day.  Don't tell anyone but Jimmy Rollins will make it. 

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Phillies Insider is on twitter as barons63.

The Sherwin-Williams clock at Citizens Bank Park registered 10:10 p.m. when the Braves' lost, ending their drive to the NL East title.

One minute later, Brad threw one pitch, a grounder to Howard.  Ryan stepped on the bag for the final out, Brad pumped his fist in the air and the celebration was on.  Players hugged one another, the sellout crowd remained on its feet waving MyPhilTV rally towels, NL East Championship hats and t-shirts were given to the players and Phillie Phanatic appeared with a white 2009 banner that will now join the others above Ashburn Alley.  Oh, aerial fireworks were exploding.

For the third straight year, the Phillies are the beasts of the NL East.  We now have nine  NL East crowns. The first six all were settled on the road.  There's magic in Citizens Bank Park.

From the field, the players went to the clubhouse for the usual champagne and beer fun.  That never gets old no matter how many times it happens.

One by one players appeared on the field to the delight of the remaining passionate fans.  At 10:18 p.m., PhanaVision showed a video of Harry Kalas singing "High Hopes" and everybody joined in.  That never gets old, either.

Classy Moves
**Needing one more out, Charlie brought in Brad.   Brad struggled during the season but he is needed postseason.  It may have been the biggest confidence boost Charlie could have done.

**The fans.  When Brad started trotting in from the bullpen, there were some low murmurs.  But the closer he got to the mound that changed and a loud ovation took over.  Phillies fans knew and understood.

**At 10:36 p.m., a group of players marched to the HK memorial sign on the left field wall.  They shared their champagne with Harry and touched the sign, some pausing and lowering their heads.  It was a true indication of the character of this very special group of human beings.

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Phillies Insider is on twitter as barons63.