I don’t think that’s a good move — only two days rest from last night, which was with only one day rest from a regular+ game(110 pitches)?!!!
Yesterday was his usual throwing day, though.
I don’t know what that regimen normally entails, but it’s usually not a game situation — if it’s the same # of throws (including warmups), same intensity, and from the mound, that makes me feel a little better.
This is best of 7, not 5. If he DOES pitch Sunday, that would mean 3 starts and a relief appearance in 10 days . . . AFTER being out with the back problem for more than 2 months.
My bottom line is I would trade an extra start for Kersh in this series if there’s any question at all about it affecting his health . . . I want to be rooting for him for many more years to come.
I think they will be careful with him and monitor him very closely
I wrote a response and THOUGHT it posted, but it’s MIA.
Bottom line: I don’t want to trade an extra start in this series for future health . . . I’m looking forward to enjoying Kersh for many, many years.
I’m sure (hope) the Front Office feels the same way.
I am anxious to see who gets added to the roster for the NLCS and who does not go on. I am pretty sure we will add a pitcher.
Reading up on last night’s game is highly enjoyable, and ALOT less stressful. Mama very happy.
I’m giving myself a full day without stress (that’s the plan, anyway).
I truly hope that I hang on to what an accomplishment this is, regardless of what happens in the next week. For the team . . . and for Kershaw, what a night!
Totally agree with Brown’s comment — other than risking the long-term help, needed to literally throw everyone to advance to the next level, then worry about that when it comes.
Besides, what about starting the 4 rookie pitchers in a row — and didn’t they all get the Ws? This has been a year of improvisation. And what are the two rules of improv? “Yes. And — ”
Yes, the Dodgers advance . . .. AND we can’t wait to see what happens next.
It not something that’s sustainable, Dusty, but regular season strategy is different.
Bob, did you get a feeling they were afraid of the Nats having to face Kersh?
Suppose, but got the feeling that they were just enthralled to see him. He is obviously the top pitcher on paper, but very impressive in the flesh. It was like an Elvis sighting.
Nice.
But couldn’t be Elvis — he’s in some hotel here in Vegas.
Too early, didn’t sleep well, but still a great morning after.
Just rolling out of bed. What a glorious morning! Spoke to Link, who is jet laggy.
But now well-fed, with rental car and GPS system. Waiting for Bob to meet me for coffee.
Enjoy yourselves.
An Elysian Fields East-West, Harmonic Convergence . . . and what a time for it!
I woke up several times, but it was never disturbing or uncomfortable.
Hey, good morning. When I called it a night, we were up 4-1, so glad to see we hung on for the W. Chicago is going to be a tough opponent, especially with our discombobulated
pitching situation.
One of my neighbors has one of those crazy W flags that he puts out when the Cubs win. I am hoping that, at the max, he only can fly it three more times. hopefully less.
The last time Kershaw got a save was as an 18 year old in rookie league in 2006. His catcher was Kenley Jansen.
That’s soo cool — not the least being they’re both home grown.
Do you have to work Friday, Bob?
Nope, but will try to link up with Link in the morning.
How neat.
Perhaps he can post a photo of the summit.
Can barely make myself out this time, but on Joc’s dinger I am right above the 10:36 sign.
I realized that the only thing that could’ve made this sweeter for Kersh would have been having AJ catching him in the 9th.
Then I read a quick recap of the 7th inning . . . impressed that Ruiz came up with another key PH.
Who’s to say what would’ve happened without Ruiz, but the FO has provided the players in this “complete team” (believe those are Kersh’s words).
Corey seems to be a lock on Rookie of the Year.
Dave should definitely be Manager of the Year.
I know it doesn’t work within the same season, but Comeback Player of the Year should be Kershaw!
Woohoo!
Goodnight, all!
1st game of NLCS — Oct. 15 . . . 28 years after the 1st game of the last WS (and championship) for LA . . . hmm, maybe I should lay a bet
sleep well everyone, see you all soon
Peace out!
G’day — it certainly was!!!
on to Chicago we go
I will sleep well tonight, at least it is only 4pm here, so I have several hours to calm down
1:00 am in DC. At least I’m sitting on a bed, unlike Bob.
Ha! Just got home Link.
I’m exhausted, too, but elated-exhausted!
How sweet it is!
Crowd seems resigned and exhausted.
But not you!
Are you wearing Dodger paraphernalia?
For sure. Very few of us here.
Nope, but quiet in my elation!
I do feel for the Washington fans. They have not had much baseball playoff fun to cheer about.
I usually feel for the fans of the losing team, even if I was rooting for the winner.
I wonder if Metro carried the game broadcast?
The plane didn’t. I saw Elway make The Drive against the Browns on a plane waiting to take off from Hnl, but not tonight.
Woo-HOO ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !
There it is! 8!
Who’dve thunk when Kersh went out that
a) the Dodgers would be playing in the DS, and
b) the clincher was saved by that very same bad-back ace?
Justin Turner?
Yeah, I loved that essay.
And he’s a huge reason why all of it is true.
Remember the end of Vin’s perfect game call for Sandy? Something about appropriate that “K” means strikeout and so does the -oufax.
Same with K-ershaw
So true!
Found the magic strategy; instead of trying to save a game for Kershaw, have Kershaw save the game for someone else.
Count down those exclamation marks RBI!
I hope I got it right. Let me know. Best out of seven, twice, right?
Yep.
How nice to have that worry!
Perfection.
Urias gets the win
Sweet!
We get to hear Vinny for at least 4 more games . . . on the commercials at least.
This is as good a game as when Orel saved the game in NY
yeeeha
Seriously – who gets the championship belt tonight?
Yabba dabba do!
Clayton Kershaw did!
No matter what happens, this is great . . . and playoff redemption for Kersh!
curveball magic!!
“My kind of town, Chicago is . . . “
We win!!!
YES!!!!!!!!!
This is fun.
It’s agony.
The President is a masochist?
If it was the WS or even the NLCS I wouldn’t have said it. (Too nervous then). But come on, Kersh going in for the save in the NLDS? SO FUN!
It is . . . NOW.
But besides the outcome for the Dodgers, I want Kersh’s playoff legacy to be better than it is . . . and I was afraid what would’ve happened had he not come through.
Me, too.
One more, please please please.
finish him with a big curve
Get the K, Get the K, Get the K . . . .
Willem Dafoe up?
One more strike, Kersh . . . one more!
Back in my day in Hawaii, we didn’t get the baseball games until two weeks after they were played (Game of the Week)
I got scores only in the paper the next day and we only ever had the world series on TV
C’mon, Kersh — one more!
Peeking btwn fingers.
see above
I like our chances now
Another first ball was a strike.
2 down!
And Murph out of the way!
Spoiler!!
Oops!
(But not really apologizing)
be a spoiler if it is good news for the third out
Can you imagine Vin describing this?
Might be able to listen if he was.
How’re you following it?
Gameday and husband calling upstairs, where I am pacing.
So I guess this means no Kershaw for Game 1 of the NLCS…
Better that than no NLCS.
Just throwing between starts, no?
I don’t think I can bear this.
Shades of Hershiser in 88 coming in, in the 12th inning of the NLCS.
Thought of that as well — what a season for him!
When was Kenley’s last hold?
Not what Kershaw is used to. Scared.
KJ went a bridge too far.
I’m beyond scared
surely done now
Yes.
Soo many runs “given away” — runners on by BB or HBP . . . hope there aren’t anymore from the Dodgers!
Out. Of. Gas.
1 more strike KJ.
Get the K or double play!
Or pop up.
Out (no runs)
anything
Trade an out for Harper on 2nd?
yes
Definitely.
Kershaw will come in for Murphey regardless at this point
Double play, please
Didn’t mind the crowd chanting “Let’s go Harper”. But put me in mind of Stephen Harper.
At least it’s not Rob Ford.
Hiss.
If ever we needed a double play.
I’m with you again. (So to speak. 🙂 Is your husband a full-fledged fan now?)
Maybe Kershaw isn’t warm.
He is warm.
We all are . .. or shivering with nerves.
Ten feet away from me.
Same seats as last time?
Not good to leave him in.
I’m with you.
Kershaw will pitch to Murph, if it comes to that.
Oh man..
Staying with Jansen???!!!!
Hes losign control now. I think he is at the end, but still at 95, so who knows.
And missing low at least.
Kenley’s out of steam.
4-pitch walk doesn’t bode well
i’m losing control, just waiting here without a TV
Wasn’t sure about Kersh coming in, but less sure about KJ staying . . . he’s proven me wrong with the 1st out — make me a fool, Kenley!
A fool for love.
Caught Turner trying to steal first!
one
Give him that strike, Ump! You have a bunch to Scherzer!
What’s up RBI?
I’m losing my mind, thanks.
Ha! This is were all that meditation training pays off!!
Would it were so.
I’m okay at letting go afterwards, but during? Nuh-uh.
fairly intense bullpen session
Just a little throwing on the side between starts.
Hee!
Baker on Game 5: At least we won’t face Kershaw.
Wrong!
Turner. Harper. Werth.
Oh my, here we go!!
Maybe by the time the WS rolls around KJ will start the game and Kershaw will pitch innings 3-9.
Harper 2_20 against Clayton.
Clayton is getting loose.
Kershaw walking out here.
What?
And warming.
to pitch? 🙂
Does KJ pitch bottom of the 9th?
why not, all or nothing
Klayton
Sure. Why not.
Ahhhhhhh!
still going (school is now over for the day!)
Now, runs!
T he 3 longest outs left to go!
Feels like Toronto wrapped up their DS about a month ago.
No one on the pen warming, in case you were wondering.
Interesting
Thanks for the intel.
Not counting outs. Not counting outs.
Of course not.
Could use a few quick ones here though.
LOB again. Scary.
Let’s go Charlie!
Get your revenge, Charlie!
Crazy shuffling of all the puzzle pieces.
Dodgers may need Stripling before all is said and done.
Roster changes for next round, so no reason to save him.
Indeed.
It’s like a September expanded roster game
Jansen bunting is pretty funny.
Worked, though.
Good for him!
KJ batting again this series.
Putting it all out there.
Putting all them out there. Another pitching change.
Sacks juiced, the other team fails. Phew indeed.
It hurts leaving the bases loaded, hey Nats?!
I got caught up a little with the 14 texts my brother sent me . . . I’m glad I wasn’t there for that offensive frustration.
Phew!!
6 more outs . . . let’s get more runs!!!!!!
K-enley!!!!!!
I was working and out of touch for 2 hours.
LA was losing 1-0, then I was pleasantly surprised to see the 4-run outburst, then the bottom of the 7th. Maybe I should leave the game.
Bye Bob. 🙂
Ha!
I’ll take my dog out for a “walk” — last postseason that boded well for LA.
Oh yeah! I recall that now.
Better get him out now instead of responding!
No. We need you.
I’m stuck.
I may be superstitious (why risk the lives of everyone on the plane by me NOT touching the exterior before I board?) but I really don’t believe in magical thinking.
Uhh – you give the plane a pat before boarding? I do that too! And a thank you pat on the way out out as well. So far it’s still an even number!
1 more strike KJ.
I’ve always thought Rendon looked like the happier, nicer version of Angel Pagan.
I’m dying. Can’t watch. Tell me what happens.
C’mon, KJ — one more!
TRUE! –nervous –very, very dreadfully nervous I had been and am; but why will you say that I am mad?
I picked the wrong week to give up smoking…..
Absolutely agonizing.
Scary location.
Dodgers overdue for a DP
Need a DP.
Argh!
Still looks like a big crowd. Metro be darned.
After game may be a real disaster. Normally about a third of the crowd takes Metro
Are you taking the Metro Bob?
Ha!
Typing with a stylus is slow.
Roberts now matches Francona in use of bullpen.
Who’s in next? Baez?
Kenley
Really? Cool.
Have to get out of the 7th before worrying about the 9th. I like it.
Agreed.
It’s pushing 11:30 in New Hampshire so I hope not
No wonder “experts” had trouble predicting this series.
It’s never easy for this team.
Decade after decade
can Kenley just get all of the remaining outs?
It would be great if we won 4-3 again. He says at this point.
No!!!!!!
Crazy..
Drat.
No!
The walk?
Yeah.
It’s the middle of the seventh, and time to mute GBA.
True or false: historically, beating Washington in the NLDS leads to a World Series Championship?
Well, beating the Expos does.
Saw an Expo cap in the crowd. It made me feel nostalgic
I can’t even begin to go there.
I retract the question then.
Sorry about the Kelley injury, though.
Baker maybe pulled Scherzer too early?
Too late, no?
OK I’ll play Goldilocks with you guys and say – just right!
this is great (now back to my class) 🙂
I guess this makes it easier for the crowd to leave…
I think I’ll top up my glass of Malbec.
Dodger dugout – they are killing each other down there – out of pure excitement.
Joc slugging Dave Roberts.
Hahahaha. Who gets the belt tonight I wonder if the Dodgers finish this up?
JT!!!!
Justin is my hero!
You could have reached over and caught a souvenir
No. wanted to stay away from ground rule double.
Oh my!
Could use one more big hit right here.
Thank you.
A lead!
A long inning
That 11:30 Metro is coming fast!
I think I hear a train whistle in the distance
Oh YES!!
Might Barnes stay in the game?
Its Kendrick or Barnes in left isn’t it?
Puig wasn’t announced.
Could go extra innings and Dodgers need a backup catcher don’t they?
Yeehaw
“Metro sucks” chanting has begun.
People are saying…Kershaw could have bunted successfully.
Bob, phone is 979-4400 room 110 if you want to meet tomorrow.
Wow – can’t even bunt with RISP.
really
Drat
Now hit a double Charlie.
We are pushing this rally to the max with all these switches.
keep it going, keep it going
Cross fingers
There’s our broken bat hit.
Hmm not sure I would pull Toles for Howie. I get the batting matchup. It’s the fielding loss that I worry about.
unfortunately I have class in 5 minutes (but I will peek at the score when I can)
Give them an assignment to keep them busy!
Let’s go back to back!!
A 4+1 would be okay as well
Joc!!!!!
and somehow we are in this game, finally
Scherzer finally locates his gopher ball!
Now it’s pen vs pen.
Joc ran a bit harder out of the box this time. Although he did toss his bat away as if he hit it out.
JOC
Too bad he didn’t enjoy it
what do you mean?
Sarcasm!
Thanks Dave, Joc might be hoarse tomorrow
I thought you may of meant he injured himself as he swung or something like that
JOC!!
Ha! Another bullpen shot.
Yahoo!
9 outs for us to do something
Called frt desk, and cable now okay. Good thro home!!
I said it too RBI and I’ll say it to you too. “Welcome back to the fight.”
Nice throw Toles. Nice play Seager.
Good speed and hustle to cut off the ball before it got to the fence and then made a strong accurate throw.
Hahahaha. He was out by soooo much.
Toles almost could have taken it himself.
I thought for sure Werth would hold up at 3rd.
Wonder how long Dave goes with Urias. I’m not complaining or suggesting anything – just legit curious.
Until his spot in the order comes up.
OK Reddick. Easy there.
In DC. No cable tv. Why Hill early exit?
Tough situation v. Rendón, who struck out v. Blanton.
Tks
Hill didn’t do all that well
Hey Link!
Yo!
OK. Next next inning we score.
AGon parachutes one into centerfield.
Didn’t he lead the league in pick offs?
WOW
What did I miss?
Julito picked off Harper.
Thanks.
Geez. Can nothing go right tonight?
At only 1-0, still within striking distance despite all.
I was talking about Urias funny landing on fielding the ground ball.
This is a good umpire for Urias who seems to get pinched a lot.
Maybe Puig can get in this game too.
Well, that did not end well. At least the games is no longer interesting.
True but now we get Urias
They get Urias.
So far so good
You have an issue with Urias?
I love him
What the young guys giveth the old guys take away
No worries. Next inning we strike.
And strike hard.
Is that when we will score our dirty dozen?
Bakers dozen
Horrible.
Bases loaded curse. Utley needs to do it here.
Arggghhh!!!!
I would take a walk, passed ball/wild pitch, sac fly or a HIT!
HBP, balk…
Error.
Here we go RBI!
Whoa that was close.
Grandal having a terrible series.
Keep it going Toles!
Maybe we wore him out last inning.
Yas-man. Let’s keep this rolling.
I was trying to tell Joc a change up was coming but he already knew it
Maybe something happening now!!
Joc let’s do this!
YES
There we go. Turner gets an assist
Reddick – do something good here.
Thank you!
Exercising, to aid with digestion.
“Welcome back to the fight.”
Let’s get the first hit out of the way, please.
We are still in this but need to get a few runners on.
Nice inning for Blanton.
RBI! You are here!
My big sister is here. We leave for the Desert Concert tomorrow morning (featuring my first Nobel prize winning musician live). Let’s win this game to make it a happy drive.
Bob Dylan!
Great inning from Joe.
Is Scherzer throwing a no-hitter?
not allowed to say that either 🙂
Let ‘s just say Scherzer is throwing an interesting game.
have the Dodgers got a hit yet?
Nope. 2 walks.
not allowed to say 🙂
I thought that was Jon’s thing only
Nope. 2 walks only.
Joe still in.
Which I like. Don’t want to burn through pitchers too quickly.
I agree
Scherzer needs to find his gopher ball again.
Well, as moral victories go, he threw a lot of pitches that inning.
Oh AGon. That was not helpful.
stand and applaud
Then stand and deliver. AGon that is.
someone needs to deliver
Hope this AB turns the tide for LA.
Scherzer benefiting from big strike zone.
The ump is in love with Max apparently.
Got out of it well. Hopefully Urias can go 3 plus and the Dodgers can score about 12 runs…
phew, hopefully 12, but I’m finding it hard to see where our first run is coming from
Hopefully Utley will give you a quick answer
Yeah I hear you. It’s tough sledding out there.
Tight rope walk continues.
I’m surprised to see Hill pulled so early, even in these circumstances.
Hopefully Hill makes a big contribution in the next series.
I hope that next series is not in April.
If it is, doubt that it would be with the Dodgers
Could be, but it’s a tough call.
and hopefully that is this year
Hill out. I was wondering why they would walk a lefty batter even Murphy to get to a righty bat and now we know why.
Hill out. Blanton in. Urias on deck.
Don’t give Murphy anything here.
Walk him.
Gave him a walk.
Big k of Werth there!
Honey on the phone
Blanton up
Broken bat and gets a hit. Classic Dodger non luck in the playoffs.
Need a clean inning.
7, 8, 9 down on 6 pitches although Toles hit it hard
Hit it hard and ran fast but couldn’t stop it from being a DP. Hit it too hard I guess.
Will Hill bat?
interesting question
No one up in the pen, so yes.
Sitting right above it.
But won’t be around for his second AB I’m thinking.
That’s the attitude!
lets make this count here
Thank goodness the pitcher came up to bat.
Could’ve been worse.
C’mon, bats — get it back!
wow, thanks Ump
Let’s keep it at one here guys.
Asked. Received.
I’ll take it.
and done
Not great. Reddick’s throw way up the line.
It was a bit late, also. Puig woulda nailed him.
I think so too.
Agree and then got Zimmerman at third
Seems like Puig is still not appreciated as a starter.
Heck, he would have gotten Murph at third.
That’s the spirit
I suspect Puig would have delivered it to Grandal just as Murphy rounded 3rd base (well sort of)
I am hoping we can break this game open to save our stressed out souls.
DP back in play.
This feels like a playoff game
Hahahaha. That’s great!
Now a DP would be nice.
Ha. No RBI for you Murph.
Where is RBI
Good question.
My guess. Nervously lurking. 🙂
Time to nibble on some garlic-onion pistachios.
Never seen those
Bought in bulk at Berkeley Bowl.
Well, it was a hard hit ground ball at least
Sounding — from radio and you guys — that several of these have been well hit, so hopefully they’ll start going the Blue’s way.
Nice to have no one on base with Murphy up.
Reddick is supposed to be the x factor but I don’t see it.
Reddick goes for ball four.
AGon just missed.
Not that close, nor so hard hit.
Well, it backed up Harper half way across the warning track.
It was a routine play, though.
Sure – because he just missed it.
Great inning.
Great job, Rich!
Hope the wrist holds up.
Good thing its not Anderson that got hit on the wrist
Spin us a web Mr. Hill and catch a Nat for dinner.
But gnot a Gnat.
Hopefully Capital Hill.
Capitol Hill, says the pedant in me.
Darn auto-correct ruined my pun. Capitol was what I was going for.
Capitol idea!
At least it’s not a 8 or 9 pitch inning.
And no K’s for Max.
Dusty was quoted as saying he fears JT the most.
Go Chase. Start us off well.
Almost
Indeed.
are we ready everyone, deep breaths.
Crowd seems just a little bit thin. Metro issue I am guessing.
Out the door. Gotta go early as no Metro after the game. Need to drive and find a place to park! At around 11:30 (local time) if the game is going on you will see a mass exodus as fans scurry to make the last train.
Have fun!
Bring a Dodger W!
Why no Metro? Does it stop so early?
Games usually start at 7, so normally no problem. In the past they have made exceptions with the team paying, but they are implementing a maintenance program and won’t make an exception for anything.
My brother was thinking of going. He said a newspaper headline sums it up: “Sure, take me out to the ballgame. But then how do I get home?”
As i told him, William Goldman said it best in his book & script for “The Princess Bride” — Inconceivable!
Taxis are cheap in DC – or at least they were when I lived there.
But not plentiful. Uber making a real difference in DC.
Many years ago, I drove to a game at Fenway and found a parking place right across the street.
On the night the lights went out, we ended up taking a bus back to Silver Springs, because the non game went so late.
Starting Lineups
Dodgers Nationals
2B Utley (L) CF Turner
SS Seager (L) RF Harper (L)
3B Turner LF Werth
1B Gonzalez (L) 2B Murphy (L)
RF Reddick (L) 3B Rendon
CF Pederson (L) 1B Zimmerman
C Grandal (S) SS Espinosa (S)
LF Toles (L) C Lobaton (S)
P Hill (L) P Scherzer
Link,
dodgers.com gives start time as 8 ET, 5 PT.
Also, may have LATd myself:
————————-
Grant with a realistic take about Tuesday and Kershaw.
I didn’t see the game and I was one of those fans cheering when Dave let him stay. But the point is well made — Kersh’s reputation needs to be weighed with the current evidence . . . and the bullpen reputation needs to be taken into account as well. (Of course, the bullpen’s subsequent execution doesn’t help that case, but we didn’t plan on it happening.)
Nice story about Kersh’s redemption mirroring the Bulldog in ’88: http://www.sportsonearth.com/article/206095822/clayton-kershaw-save-postseason-moment-dodgers
Indians beat Blue Jays, 1-0.
Don’t want to be hanging here at 499, so here’s post #500.
Yes, happy.
https://twitter.com/McCulloughTimes/status/787042967601176576
I don’t think that’s a good move — only two days rest from last night, which was with only one day rest from a regular+ game(110 pitches)?!!!
Yesterday was his usual throwing day, though.
I don’t know what that regimen normally entails, but it’s usually not a game situation — if it’s the same # of throws (including warmups), same intensity, and from the mound, that makes me feel a little better.
This is best of 7, not 5. If he DOES pitch Sunday, that would mean 3 starts and a relief appearance in 10 days . . . AFTER being out with the back problem for more than 2 months.
My bottom line is I would trade an extra start for Kersh in this series if there’s any question at all about it affecting his health . . . I want to be rooting for him for many more years to come.
I think they will be careful with him and monitor him very closely
I wrote a response and THOUGHT it posted, but it’s MIA.
Bottom line: I don’t want to trade an extra start in this series for future health . . . I’m looking forward to enjoying Kersh for many, many years.
I’m sure (hope) the Front Office feels the same way.
https://twitter.com/McCulloughTimes/status/787041557782355969
Vin calls Jimmy Kimmel’s HR
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XsKNRFGqVV8
Anyone have a link to all of Vin’s visit?
Hotel has business center. Will post game thread tomorrow.
Enjoy the break.
This will allow a possible record-breaking number of posts on this one.
According to Natfans, it’s Henley’s (sic) fault: https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/nationals/at-nationals-park-the-ghosts-arrive-early-in-october/2016/10/14/9a1de432-9149-11e6-a6a3-d50061aa9fae_story.html
“He was out by the gulf between (D) and (R).”
I am anxious to see who gets added to the roster for the NLCS and who does not go on. I am pretty sure we will add a pitcher.
Reading up on last night’s game is highly enjoyable, and ALOT less stressful. Mama very happy.
I’m giving myself a full day without stress (that’s the plan, anyway).
I truly hope that I hang on to what an accomplishment this is, regardless of what happens in the next week. For the team . . . and for Kershaw, what a night!
Dusty about the loss — https://larrybrownsports.com/baseball/dusty-baker-dodgers-game-5-loss/328088
Totally agree with Brown’s comment — other than risking the long-term help, needed to literally throw everyone to advance to the next level, then worry about that when it comes.
Besides, what about starting the 4 rookie pitchers in a row — and didn’t they all get the Ws? This has been a year of improvisation. And what are the two rules of improv? “Yes. And — ”
Yes, the Dodgers advance . . .. AND we can’t wait to see what happens next.
It not something that’s sustainable, Dusty, but regular season strategy is different.
Amazing amount of electricity in the stands around the pen when Klayton started to warm up, with fans swarming to the rails.
https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/cfad8831e41fda14e66dd65c78ab2163d25cb638ccc766915fbfdbed1e901417.jpg
Bob, did you get a feeling they were afraid of the Nats having to face Kersh?
Suppose, but got the feeling that they were just enthralled to see him. He is obviously the top pitcher on paper, but very impressive in the flesh. It was like an Elvis sighting.
Nice.
But couldn’t be Elvis — he’s in some hotel here in Vegas.
Too early, didn’t sleep well, but still a great morning after.
Just rolling out of bed. What a glorious morning! Spoke to Link, who is jet laggy.
But now well-fed, with rental car and GPS system. Waiting for Bob to meet me for coffee.
Enjoy yourselves.
An Elysian Fields East-West, Harmonic Convergence . . . and what a time for it!
I woke up several times, but it was never disturbing or uncomfortable.
Hey, good morning. When I called it a night, we were up 4-1, so glad to see we hung on for the W. Chicago is going to be a tough opponent, especially with our discombobulated
pitching situation.
One of my neighbors has one of those crazy W flags that he puts out when the Cubs win. I am hoping that, at the max, he only can fly it three more times. hopefully less.
The last time Kershaw got a save was as an 18 year old in rookie league in 2006. His catcher was Kenley Jansen.
That’s soo cool — not the least being they’re both home grown.
Do you have to work Friday, Bob?
Nope, but will try to link up with Link in the morning.
How neat.
Perhaps he can post a photo of the summit.
Can barely make myself out this time, but on Joc’s dinger I am right above the 10:36 sign.
I realized that the only thing that could’ve made this sweeter for Kersh would have been having AJ catching him in the 9th.
Then I read a quick recap of the 7th inning . . . impressed that Ruiz came up with another key PH.
Who’s to say what would’ve happened without Ruiz, but the FO has provided the players in this “complete team” (believe those are Kersh’s words).
Corey seems to be a lock on Rookie of the Year.
Dave should definitely be Manager of the Year.
I know it doesn’t work within the same season, but Comeback Player of the Year should be Kershaw!
Woohoo!
Goodnight, all!
1st game of NLCS — Oct. 15 . . . 28 years after the 1st game of the last WS (and championship) for LA . . . hmm, maybe I should lay a bet
sleep well everyone, see you all soon
Peace out!
G’day — it certainly was!!!
on to Chicago we go
I will sleep well tonight, at least it is only 4pm here, so I have several hours to calm down
1:00 am in DC. At least I’m sitting on a bed, unlike Bob.
Ha! Just got home Link.
I’m exhausted, too, but elated-exhausted!
How sweet it is!
Crowd seems resigned and exhausted.
But not you!
Are you wearing Dodger paraphernalia?
For sure. Very few of us here.
Nope, but quiet in my elation!
I do feel for the Washington fans. They have not had much baseball playoff fun to cheer about.
I usually feel for the fans of the losing team, even if I was rooting for the winner.
I wonder if Metro carried the game broadcast?
The plane didn’t. I saw Elway make The Drive against the Browns on a plane waiting to take off from Hnl, but not tonight.
Woo-HOO ! ! ! ! ! ! ! !
There it is! 8!
Who’dve thunk when Kersh went out that
a) the Dodgers would be playing in the DS, and
b) the clincher was saved by that very same bad-back ace?
Justin Turner?
Yeah, I loved that essay.
And he’s a huge reason why all of it is true.
Remember the end of Vin’s perfect game call for Sandy? Something about appropriate that “K” means strikeout and so does the -oufax.
Same with K-ershaw
So true!
Found the magic strategy; instead of trying to save a game for Kershaw, have Kershaw save the game for someone else.
Count down those exclamation marks RBI!
I hope I got it right. Let me know. Best out of seven, twice, right?
Yep.
How nice to have that worry!
Perfection.
Urias gets the win
Sweet!
We get to hear Vinny for at least 4 more games . . . on the commercials at least.
This is as good a game as when Orel saved the game in NY
yeeeha
Seriously – who gets the championship belt tonight?
Yabba dabba do!
Clayton Kershaw did!
No matter what happens, this is great . . . and playoff redemption for Kersh!
curveball magic!!
“My kind of town, Chicago is . . . “
We win!!!
YES!!!!!!!!!
This is fun.
It’s agony.
The President is a masochist?
If it was the WS or even the NLCS I wouldn’t have said it. (Too nervous then). But come on, Kersh going in for the save in the NLDS? SO FUN!
It is . . . NOW.
But besides the outcome for the Dodgers, I want Kersh’s playoff legacy to be better than it is . . . and I was afraid what would’ve happened had he not come through.
Me, too.
One more, please please please.
finish him with a big curve
Get the K, Get the K, Get the K . . . .
Willem Dafoe up?
One more strike, Kersh . . . one more!
Back in my day in Hawaii, we didn’t get the baseball games until two weeks after they were played (Game of the Week)
I got scores only in the paper the next day and we only ever had the world series on TV
C’mon, Kersh — one more!
Peeking btwn fingers.
see above
I like our chances now
Another first ball was a strike.
2 down!
And Murph out of the way!
Spoiler!!
Oops!
(But not really apologizing)
be a spoiler if it is good news for the third out
Can you imagine Vin describing this?
Might be able to listen if he was.
How’re you following it?
Gameday and husband calling upstairs, where I am pacing.
So I guess this means no Kershaw for Game 1 of the NLCS…
Better that than no NLCS.
Just throwing between starts, no?
I don’t think I can bear this.
Shades of Hershiser in 88 coming in, in the 12th inning of the NLCS.
Thought of that as well — what a season for him!
When was Kenley’s last hold?
Not what Kershaw is used to. Scared.
KJ went a bridge too far.
I’m beyond scared
surely done now
Yes.
Soo many runs “given away” — runners on by BB or HBP . . . hope there aren’t anymore from the Dodgers!
Out. Of. Gas.
1 more strike KJ.
Get the K or double play!
Or pop up.
Out (no runs)
anything
Trade an out for Harper on 2nd?
yes
Definitely.
Kershaw will come in for Murphey regardless at this point
Double play, please
Didn’t mind the crowd chanting “Let’s go Harper”. But put me in mind of Stephen Harper.
At least it’s not Rob Ford.
Hiss.
If ever we needed a double play.
I’m with you again. (So to speak. 🙂 Is your husband a full-fledged fan now?)
Maybe Kershaw isn’t warm.
He is warm.
We all are . .. or shivering with nerves.
Ten feet away from me.
Same seats as last time?
Not good to leave him in.
I’m with you.
Kershaw will pitch to Murph, if it comes to that.
Oh man..
Staying with Jansen???!!!!
Hes losign control now. I think he is at the end, but still at 95, so who knows.
And missing low at least.
Kenley’s out of steam.
4-pitch walk doesn’t bode well
i’m losing control, just waiting here without a TV
Wasn’t sure about Kersh coming in, but less sure about KJ staying . . . he’s proven me wrong with the 1st out — make me a fool, Kenley!
A fool for love.
Caught Turner trying to steal first!
one
Give him that strike, Ump! You have a bunch to Scherzer!
What’s up RBI?
I’m losing my mind, thanks.
Ha! This is were all that meditation training pays off!!
Would it were so.
I’m okay at letting go afterwards, but during? Nuh-uh.
fairly intense bullpen session
Just a little throwing on the side between starts.
Hee!
Baker on Game 5: At least we won’t face Kershaw.
Wrong!
Turner. Harper. Werth.
Oh my, here we go!!
Maybe by the time the WS rolls around KJ will start the game and Kershaw will pitch innings 3-9.
Harper 2_20 against Clayton.
Clayton is getting loose.
Kershaw walking out here.
What?
And warming.
to pitch? 🙂
Does KJ pitch bottom of the 9th?
why not, all or nothing
Klayton
Sure. Why not.
Ahhhhhhh!
still going (school is now over for the day!)
Now, runs!
T he 3 longest outs left to go!
Feels like Toronto wrapped up their DS about a month ago.
No one on the pen warming, in case you were wondering.
Interesting
Thanks for the intel.
Not counting outs. Not counting outs.
Of course not.
Could use a few quick ones here though.
LOB again. Scary.
Let’s go Charlie!
Get your revenge, Charlie!
Crazy shuffling of all the puzzle pieces.
Dodgers may need Stripling before all is said and done.
Roster changes for next round, so no reason to save him.
Indeed.
It’s like a September expanded roster game
Jansen bunting is pretty funny.
Worked, though.
Good for him!
KJ batting again this series.
Putting it all out there.
Putting all them out there. Another pitching change.
Sacks juiced, the other team fails. Phew indeed.
It hurts leaving the bases loaded, hey Nats?!
I got caught up a little with the 14 texts my brother sent me . . . I’m glad I wasn’t there for that offensive frustration.
Phew!!
6 more outs . . . let’s get more runs!!!!!!
K-enley!!!!!!
I was working and out of touch for 2 hours.
LA was losing 1-0, then I was pleasantly surprised to see the 4-run outburst, then the bottom of the 7th. Maybe I should leave the game.
Bye Bob. 🙂
Ha!
I’ll take my dog out for a “walk” — last postseason that boded well for LA.
Oh yeah! I recall that now.
Better get him out now instead of responding!
No. We need you.
I’m stuck.
I may be superstitious (why risk the lives of everyone on the plane by me NOT touching the exterior before I board?) but I really don’t believe in magical thinking.
Uhh – you give the plane a pat before boarding? I do that too! And a thank you pat on the way out out as well. So far it’s still an even number!
1 more strike KJ.
I’ve always thought Rendon looked like the happier, nicer version of Angel Pagan.
I’m dying. Can’t watch. Tell me what happens.
C’mon, KJ — one more!
TRUE! –nervous –very, very dreadfully nervous I had been and am; but why will you say that I am mad?
I picked the wrong week to give up smoking…..
Absolutely agonizing.
Scary location.
Dodgers overdue for a DP
Need a DP.
Argh!
Still looks like a big crowd. Metro be darned.
After game may be a real disaster. Normally about a third of the crowd takes Metro
Are you taking the Metro Bob?
Ha!
Typing with a stylus is slow.
Roberts now matches Francona in use of bullpen.
Who’s in next? Baez?
Kenley
Really? Cool.
Have to get out of the 7th before worrying about the 9th. I like it.
Agreed.
It’s pushing 11:30 in New Hampshire so I hope not
No wonder “experts” had trouble predicting this series.
It’s never easy for this team.
Decade after decade
can Kenley just get all of the remaining outs?
It would be great if we won 4-3 again. He says at this point.
No!!!!!!
Crazy..
Drat.
No!
The walk?
Yeah.
It’s the middle of the seventh, and time to mute GBA.
True or false: historically, beating Washington in the NLDS leads to a World Series Championship?
Well, beating the Expos does.
Saw an Expo cap in the crowd. It made me feel nostalgic
I can’t even begin to go there.
I retract the question then.
Sorry about the Kelley injury, though.
Baker maybe pulled Scherzer too early?
Too late, no?
OK I’ll play Goldilocks with you guys and say – just right!
this is great (now back to my class) 🙂
I guess this makes it easier for the crowd to leave…
I think I’ll top up my glass of Malbec.
Dodger dugout – they are killing each other down there – out of pure excitement.
Joc slugging Dave Roberts.
Hahahaha. Who gets the belt tonight I wonder if the Dodgers finish this up?
JT!!!!
Justin is my hero!
You could have reached over and caught a souvenir
No. wanted to stay away from ground rule double.
Oh my!
Could use one more big hit right here.
Thank you.
A lead!
A long inning
That 11:30 Metro is coming fast!
I think I hear a train whistle in the distance
Oh YES!!
Might Barnes stay in the game?
Its Kendrick or Barnes in left isn’t it?
Puig wasn’t announced.
Could go extra innings and Dodgers need a backup catcher don’t they?
Yeehaw
“Metro sucks” chanting has begun.
People are saying…Kershaw could have bunted successfully.
Bob, phone is 979-4400 room 110 if you want to meet tomorrow.
Wow – can’t even bunt with RISP.
really
Drat
Now hit a double Charlie.
We are pushing this rally to the max with all these switches.
keep it going, keep it going
Cross fingers
There’s our broken bat hit.
Hmm not sure I would pull Toles for Howie. I get the batting matchup. It’s the fielding loss that I worry about.
unfortunately I have class in 5 minutes (but I will peek at the score when I can)
Give them an assignment to keep them busy!
Let’s go back to back!!
A 4+1 would be okay as well
Joc!!!!!
and somehow we are in this game, finally
Scherzer finally locates his gopher ball!
Now it’s pen vs pen.
Joc ran a bit harder out of the box this time. Although he did toss his bat away as if he hit it out.
JOC
Too bad he didn’t enjoy it
what do you mean?
Sarcasm!
Thanks Dave, Joc might be hoarse tomorrow
I thought you may of meant he injured himself as he swung or something like that
JOC!!
Ha! Another bullpen shot.
Yahoo!
9 outs for us to do something
Called frt desk, and cable now okay. Good thro home!!
I said it too RBI and I’ll say it to you too. “Welcome back to the fight.”
Nice throw Toles. Nice play Seager.
Good speed and hustle to cut off the ball before it got to the fence and then made a strong accurate throw.
Hahahaha. He was out by soooo much.
Toles almost could have taken it himself.
I thought for sure Werth would hold up at 3rd.
Wonder how long Dave goes with Urias. I’m not complaining or suggesting anything – just legit curious.
Until his spot in the order comes up.
OK Reddick. Easy there.
In DC. No cable tv. Why Hill early exit?
Tough situation v. Rendón, who struck out v. Blanton.
Tks
Hill didn’t do all that well
Hey Link!
Yo!
OK. Next next inning we score.
AGon parachutes one into centerfield.
Didn’t he lead the league in pick offs?
WOW
What did I miss?
Julito picked off Harper.
Thanks.
Geez. Can nothing go right tonight?
At only 1-0, still within striking distance despite all.
I was talking about Urias funny landing on fielding the ground ball.
This is a good umpire for Urias who seems to get pinched a lot.
Maybe Puig can get in this game too.
Well, that did not end well. At least the games is no longer interesting.
True but now we get Urias
They get Urias.
So far so good
You have an issue with Urias?
I love him
What the young guys giveth the old guys take away
No worries. Next inning we strike.
And strike hard.
Is that when we will score our dirty dozen?
Bakers dozen
Horrible.
Bases loaded curse. Utley needs to do it here.
Arggghhh!!!!
I would take a walk, passed ball/wild pitch, sac fly or a HIT!
HBP, balk…
Error.
Here we go RBI!
Whoa that was close.
Grandal having a terrible series.
Keep it going Toles!
Maybe we wore him out last inning.
Yas-man. Let’s keep this rolling.
I was trying to tell Joc a change up was coming but he already knew it
Maybe something happening now!!
Joc let’s do this!
YES
There we go. Turner gets an assist
Reddick – do something good here.
Thank you!
Exercising, to aid with digestion.
“Welcome back to the fight.”
Let’s get the first hit out of the way, please.
We are still in this but need to get a few runners on.
Nice inning for Blanton.
RBI! You are here!
My big sister is here. We leave for the Desert Concert tomorrow morning (featuring my first Nobel prize winning musician live). Let’s win this game to make it a happy drive.
Bob Dylan!
Great inning from Joe.
Is Scherzer throwing a no-hitter?
not allowed to say that either 🙂
Let ‘s just say Scherzer is throwing an interesting game.
have the Dodgers got a hit yet?
Nope. 2 walks.
not allowed to say 🙂
I thought that was Jon’s thing only
Nope. 2 walks only.
Joe still in.
Which I like. Don’t want to burn through pitchers too quickly.
I agree
Scherzer needs to find his gopher ball again.
Well, as moral victories go, he threw a lot of pitches that inning.
Oh AGon. That was not helpful.
stand and applaud
Then stand and deliver. AGon that is.
someone needs to deliver
Hope this AB turns the tide for LA.
Scherzer benefiting from big strike zone.
The ump is in love with Max apparently.
Got out of it well. Hopefully Urias can go 3 plus and the Dodgers can score about 12 runs…
phew, hopefully 12, but I’m finding it hard to see where our first run is coming from
Hopefully Utley will give you a quick answer
Yeah I hear you. It’s tough sledding out there.
Tight rope walk continues.
I’m surprised to see Hill pulled so early, even in these circumstances.
Hopefully Hill makes a big contribution in the next series.
I hope that next series is not in April.
If it is, doubt that it would be with the Dodgers
Could be, but it’s a tough call.
and hopefully that is this year
Hill out. I was wondering why they would walk a lefty batter even Murphy to get to a righty bat and now we know why.
Hill out. Blanton in. Urias on deck.
Don’t give Murphy anything here.
Walk him.
Gave him a walk.
Big k of Werth there!
Honey on the phone
Blanton up
Broken bat and gets a hit. Classic Dodger non luck in the playoffs.
Need a clean inning.
7, 8, 9 down on 6 pitches although Toles hit it hard
Hit it hard and ran fast but couldn’t stop it from being a DP. Hit it too hard I guess.
Will Hill bat?
interesting question
No one up in the pen, so yes.
Sitting right above it.
But won’t be around for his second AB I’m thinking.
That’s the attitude!
lets make this count here
Thank goodness the pitcher came up to bat.
Could’ve been worse.
C’mon, bats — get it back!
wow, thanks Ump
Let’s keep it at one here guys.
Asked. Received.
I’ll take it.
and done
Not great. Reddick’s throw way up the line.
It was a bit late, also. Puig woulda nailed him.
I think so too.
Agree and then got Zimmerman at third
Seems like Puig is still not appreciated as a starter.
Heck, he would have gotten Murph at third.
That’s the spirit
I suspect Puig would have delivered it to Grandal just as Murphy rounded 3rd base (well sort of)
I am hoping we can break this game open to save our stressed out souls.
DP back in play.
This feels like a playoff game
Hahahaha. That’s great!
Now a DP would be nice.
Ha. No RBI for you Murph.
Where is RBI
Good question.
My guess. Nervously lurking. 🙂
Time to nibble on some garlic-onion pistachios.
Never seen those
Bought in bulk at Berkeley Bowl.
Well, it was a hard hit ground ball at least
Sounding — from radio and you guys — that several of these have been well hit, so hopefully they’ll start going the Blue’s way.
Nice to have no one on base with Murphy up.
Reddick is supposed to be the x factor but I don’t see it.
Reddick goes for ball four.
AGon just missed.
Not that close, nor so hard hit.
Well, it backed up Harper half way across the warning track.
It was a routine play, though.
Sure – because he just missed it.
Great inning.
Great job, Rich!
Hope the wrist holds up.
Good thing its not Anderson that got hit on the wrist
Spin us a web Mr. Hill and catch a Nat for dinner.
But gnot a Gnat.
Hopefully Capital Hill.
Capitol Hill, says the pedant in me.
Darn auto-correct ruined my pun. Capitol was what I was going for.
Capitol idea!
At least it’s not a 8 or 9 pitch inning.
And no K’s for Max.
Dusty was quoted as saying he fears JT the most.
Go Chase. Start us off well.
Almost
Indeed.
are we ready everyone, deep breaths.
Crowd seems just a little bit thin. Metro issue I am guessing.
Vinny is on Jimmy tonight (Kimmel)
http://abc.go.com/shows/jimmy-kimmel-live/episode-guide
Out the door. Gotta go early as no Metro after the game. Need to drive and find a place to park! At around 11:30 (local time) if the game is going on you will see a mass exodus as fans scurry to make the last train.
Have fun!
Bring a Dodger W!
Why no Metro? Does it stop so early?
Games usually start at 7, so normally no problem. In the past they have made exceptions with the team paying, but they are implementing a maintenance program and won’t make an exception for anything.
My brother was thinking of going. He said a newspaper headline sums it up: “Sure, take me out to the ballgame. But then how do I get home?”
As i told him, William Goldman said it best in his book & script for “The Princess Bride” — Inconceivable!
Taxis are cheap in DC – or at least they were when I lived there.
But not plentiful. Uber making a real difference in DC.
Many years ago, I drove to a game at Fenway and found a parking place right across the street.
On the night the lights went out, we ended up taking a bus back to Silver Springs, because the non game went so late.
Starting Lineups
Dodgers Nationals
2B Utley (L) CF Turner
SS Seager (L) RF Harper (L)
3B Turner LF Werth
1B Gonzalez (L) 2B Murphy (L)
RF Reddick (L) 3B Rendon
CF Pederson (L) 1B Zimmerman
C Grandal (S) SS Espinosa (S)
LF Toles (L) C Lobaton (S)
P Hill (L) P Scherzer
Link,
dodgers.com gives start time as 8 ET, 5 PT.
Also, may have LATd myself:
————————-
Grant with a realistic take about Tuesday and Kershaw.
http://www.sbnation.com/mlb/2016/10/12/13259748/clayton-kershaw-postseason?_ga=1.246258695.2014194878.1389713399
I didn’t see the game and I was one of those fans cheering when Dave let him stay. But the point is well made — Kersh’s reputation needs to be weighed with the current evidence . . . and the bullpen reputation needs to be taken into account as well. (Of course, the bullpen’s subsequent execution doesn’t help that case, but we didn’t plan on it happening.)