While there's a pretty big basketball game in Los Angeles this evening, Phillies fans will be focused on the series opener from Dodger Stadium, now the site of some of the best Philly sporting memories ever.
Before they beat the Rays to be forever known as WFC, the Phillies played that incredibly memorable series against the Dodgers. Personally, once the Phillies reached the World Series, I was confident they'd get it done and bring that parade down Broad Street. But before we faced L.A. in the NLCS, those old Philly nerves and innate skepticism were running rampant.
Obviously tonight's match up is only an early June game against two division leaders but it gives us a moment to reflect on that glorious ride and perhaps motivate the boys to do it all over again.
Shane Victorino and Matt Stairs made it happen in the amazing game four in L.A. with their long ball heroics and their names will come up tonight. Shane Victorino is out of the starting line up with a hip injury that he doesn't believe to be too serious. Stairs could take his place in the line up. [UPDATE: and it's Eric Bruntlett in right]
Cole Hamels, winner of games one and five of the '08 NLCS, will take the mound this evening for the Phils and will go up against Clayton Kershaw. The Phillies beat Kershaw back on May 12th at CBP when he gave up only four hits but four walks and four earned runs.
After sweeping the Padres to keep up great road momentum, catching the Dodgers during their stint without Manny is a nice break, and the Phillies should look to pounce.
Also, a big happy birthday to J.C. Romero who turns 33 today. Let's hope the Phils get a win for him.
The Dodgers fans will likely start to show up at some point in the fourth inning, that is if they show up at all, but Phillies fans will want to tune in at 10:05 ET.
Original Story:
http://www.the700level.com/2009/06/lo...
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June 04, 2009
