[-STAT-]

Actually, -STAT-, Jason Bartlett got the game's first stolen base, and the free tacos won't be given away until October 28. Just figured I'd clear that up so you don't get all deppressed when Taco Bell won't award you you're free taco.

Now for the game...Cole Hammels is RIGHT NOW, the best pitcher in baseball. He was MVP of the NLCS with a 3-0 record and an ERA of just over 1.00. He pitched 7 innings last night, allowing only 2 runs. The kid is lights out, especially under pressure on the big stage, and he's only 24!!! The score should have been worse than 3-2. Philadelphia had chance after chance to break it open, but the Rays defense (which has been solid all year) bailed them out a few times. What really hurt the Rays was the offensive performance (or lack thereof) of BJ Upton, Carlos Pena, and Evan Longoria. Throughout the playoffs, these guys have carried the Rays, hitting a combined 16 homeruns. Last night, they were 0-12 with 5-6 striekouts. I know Hammels is good, I said he was earlier, but watching those three guys last night, you wonder if the bright lights and the big stage had somewhat of an impact on their performances. Just a though.

They said it would be the next day from 2-6!