Chase Utley and Ryan Howard put themselves in the record books in back-to-back at-bats in the seventh inning of Game 5 of the World Series in Philadelphia. Each tied an offensive mark originally set before Phil Coke, the Yankee pitcher who faced the duo, was born. Utley matched Reggie Jackson, who hit five home runs in the 1977 Fall Classic. Jackson, incidentally, was in his first year in Yankee pinstripes. Howard tied Willie Wilson, whose 12 strikeouts in the 1980 World Series were at the hands of none other than the Phillies. (Howard went on to set a new record in Game 6.)
How ‘bout that?
How about Chase Utley? His five home runs against Yankee pitching were one fewer than all of his teammates combined for during the six-game series. Utley absolutely carried the offense, either scoring or driving in 15 of the 27 runs the Phillies put up against the Yankee hurlers.
How about Mariano Rivera? In 12 appearances this postseason, Mo threw 16 innings and allowed just a single run while striking out 14 and saving five games. His value was particularly apparent in Game 4 of the World Series, when he retired the Phillies in order to preserve the Yankee victory after his counterpart, Brad Lidge, surrendered three runs in the top of the ninth and took the loss.
How about the Yankees? With a record of 11 wins against just four losses this postseason, they really were the true champions, outplaying their opponents for the duration of the playoffs. They never faced elimination and trailed only one of the three series they played – the World Series, after Game 1. As always, expectations in the Bronx will be very high in 2010.
Athletes who own guns should learn how to not shoot themselves
With the NFL’s Plaxico Burress in prison on weapons charges after accidentally shooting himself in the thigh less than a year ago, you would think professional athletes who own firearms might take extra precaution not to follow suit. Perhaps some have, but on Tuesday this week, Vicente Padilla shot himself in the leg while at a shooting range in his native Nicaragua. I hope the team that signs him for 2010 will stipulate that he not hold a gun for the duration of his contract.
A silver lining to season’s end
The season may be over, but at least there’s something to look forward to this winter: Opening Day is just 149 days away.
Keywords: Brad Lidge, Chase Utley, Mariano Rivera, New York Yankees, Opening Day, Phil Coke, Philadelphia Phillies, Plaxico Burress, Reggie Jackson, Ryan Howard, Vicente Padilla, Willie Wilson, World Series
