Thursday, October 20, 2011

World Series Game 1 Recap

Here are a few observations regarding Game 1 of the 2011 World Series:

- Yadier Molina has a cannon for an arm. He made a great throw to catch Ian Kinsler trying to steal 2nd base in the 1st inning.

- Chris Carpenter looked like a 2-sport star in the 1st inning when laying out to catch a toss from Albert Pujols to beat the runner to 1st base. He resembled a tight end trying to catch a touchdown pass. Amazing play. Maybe he could play for the Rams after the season is over?

- Temperatures in the 40's are cold if you are from Texas, but after living in Green Bay for over a year I would sadly classify 40's as mild.

- It's only a matter of time before we see Ron Washington and "The Wash" appearing on Dancing With The Stars.

- Having Esteban German pinch hit was a big mistake by Ron Washington. He's on the roster for his speed, not his bat. Washington matching wits with Tony LaRussa should be a little scary if you are a Texas Ranger fan.

- 12 of the last 14 years the winner of Game 1 has gone on to win the World Series.

- I'm SO tired of watching Brian Wilson "act" in the Taco Bells commercials. The same could be said for the Old Spice commercials, too. Maybe I've been watching too many playoff games.

- It's great to see so many Christian role models on each team. Guys like Lance Berkman, Josh Hamilton, and Albert Pujols are not only great players; they seem to be great character guys as well.

- I prefer the American League style of play. I know purists love the National League because of the tradition and additional strategy that comes into play, but I'd rather see a lineup with 9 legitimate hitters while allowing the pitcher to stay in the game until he tires or becomes ineffective.

- Tony LaRussa has been pushing all the right buttons this postseason. Whatever he lacks in personality and people skills, he more than makes up for in baseball IQ and managerial strategy.

- David Freese has been a revelation this postseason for the Cardinals. It's great to see the hometown guy playing well for the hometown team.

- Josh Hamilton appears to be playing at about 50% due to a bad groin. When healthy he is one of the best players in the game. Hopefully he can improve each game and return to full health before the series ends.

- If the Cardinals win the World Series this will be their 11th World Championship.

- If the Rangers win the World Series this will be their 1st.

- Wednesday marked the 63rd World Series game to be played in Missouri. The Cardinals served as host for the 53rd time. The Royals have hosted seven games, while the St. Louis Browns hosted three games.

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