Monday Morning...but no Quarterback

(This is a blog posted after Game 4 of the 2009 World Series)

The hangover from last night's loss is one that may linger the longest.

One out away...one strike away from tying the series 2-2 and guaranteeing another Amtrak trip back to New York. Then the Brad Lidge of 2008 made way for the Brad Lidge of 2009 returned.

Lidge, after not being on the hill for 11 days, started the inning by getting the 1st batters out. He looked good. The moved appeared to be a good one even though Ryan Madson has pitched a very solid 8th inning.

Johnny Damon then steps to the plate. He beats off 8 pitches, including a 1-2 pitch he tipped and Carlos Ruiz missed. When the 9th pitch of the at bat is delivered, that is when the Lidge version '09 returned.

Damon smacked the pitch into left field. Teixeira is hit by a pitch. Now, I won't tourture you or myself with what transpires next as it is a moment that will live in Phillies baseball history.

On this Monday morning, we can Monday Morning Quarterback Charlie Manuel all day. But I won't.

Charlie has been unconventional since he has taken over the club. Charlie is loyal to a fault, but somehow the best always comes of his decisions. Take Charlie's name out of those previous 2 traits and it's possible I could be describing another Head Coach across the street in South Philly. Only difference, a Champhionship. Not just a conference or division championship, but our 1st World Series Championship in 28 years. The Eagles have only 1 Conference title in 10 years.

As much as I want to rant and rave much like the guys on WIP this morning, I can't. Instead, I'm extremely appreciative of the opportunity to return to the World Series and defend our World Series title. For a National League team to defend it's crown in the Series, something that has not taken place since the Reds of the 70's, is rare and a treat. For that reasons, I am unable to Monday Morning Quarterback Charlie or the players today.

No matter how tonight's game with Cliff Lee on the mound. No matter how or when this Series ends. No matter win or lose, no Monday Morning Quaterbacking from me today. Instead.....

Thank you Charlie for providing the fans of Philadelphia something to believe in. Thank you for bringing home our 2nd World Series title last year. Thank you for managing this team to our 2nd consecutive World Series appearance and opportunity to defend our title.

Thank you

Check out Move Da Chains for a post game show tonight after Game 4 and our new time on Thursday: 8p eastern, 7p central, 6 mountain, 5 pacific by clicking here.