Well, that’s the playoff thoughts around here, huh?! Talking shit about the Cubs. We all remember that Drew Barreiro likes dumping on the Cubs. But, come on! What are you, the White Sox? NO. You are the Division Champions! You’ve enjoyed the fruits of victory. So why the silence? Are you thinking about 2003? 2004? Last year’s playoffs? I’m telling you right now: forget it!
Look, you know who hates the Yankees the most? Not the people of Boston – they hate everything. ME. I bleed Dodger blue, and I hate the fucking Yankees. Just like Tanner in the Bad News Bears. So believe me when I tell you…after the shitstorm of a season the Dodgers lived…and the continuing court case of our owners…nothing would warm this Italian’s heart more than a Twins sweep! Beat em in 4 or 5, that’s fine, too. What – you’re concerned at how you’ve looked since winning the division title? Think about last year: you had to win an extra game just to get in. All guts right to the playoffs. What happened then? That’s my point. Let me give you an example.
When we clinched in 1977, we had a healthy 10-game lead. In that final home stand, I was trying out people and trying out new culinary delights in the dugout. Before a weeknight game with the Giants, I had Dave Pearson send down a homemade Meatball Sub. Sure, I ate before the game, but I knew this was not a game that would worry me. Douggie Rau was on the mound…and he was throwing like he had a hot date. Next thing I knew, it was the 5th inning. In-between talking to players (Reggie Smith spent a whole inning telling me about The Spy Who Loved Me) I barely had time to finish that thing. Just as I did, we won. Game was less than 2 hours long, so I had to shovel that one down, fast.
So you see what a manager does leading up to the playoffs: get his shit in gear. If I know Ron…and I think I do…you’re all set.
Texas has yet to do well in the Playoffs…and they’ve got another stern challenge in Tampa Bay. For those of you attending games in Arlington, unfortunately I can’t recommend a restaurant around there. I didn’t go with the team last year; I knew Andruw Jones would be there.
I think you can tell I’m trying to avoid one playoff fact: the Giants won the division. As much as I enjoyed the historical slide the Padres performed (stringing along their fans to the final game…well done!) I just want to see the Giants slaughtered. Doesn’t matter how. Bobby Cox is ornery…maybe he’ll slug Aubrey Huff. What an awful name.
Well boys, this is the playoffs. Don’t just make an appearance. Hang around! Kick the shit out of New York! Give me something to celebrate!
