What a game yesterday! Honestly, from both sides and the base running blunders by the Dbacks almost cost them the game. The fact that Philly only scored off of a wild pitch to many will seem like an aberration, for sure their big bats will be out today and, playing in a game vs. the Dbacks bullpen, that should be game, set, match. But as I stated yesterday, for those of you who haven't read or have no idea about the Diamondbacks GM Mike Hazen (great ESPN article posted a couple days ago), and the sudden loss of his wife, this team seems like they are somewhat destined. And Torey Lovullo is making sure he does all he can to ensure of that. But will that be enough???
Probably not. The truth is, the public is yet again all over Philadelphia. They have been for every game this series, which makes sense. How can Philly be stopped?! They crush homers (though almost all solo shots) and have just dismantled the mighty Braves. Now the long shot Diamondbacks are supposed to dethrone them? They have unfinished business so there is little to no shot they will not be in the World Series again.
Ehhh....I've seen this script played out for many years. In fact, not sure how so many forget, it was only last year when the Phillies were the ones who went on an amazing run. And so I see, once again, tremendous value in the Diamondbacks. I've read many threads on here with almost 90% backing Philly, but yet no real reasoning why.
Phillies starter Christopher Sanchez hasn't pitched since September 30th. If you think that makes no difference, then please move on. Seemingly every pitcher who had a lengthy layoff found it hard to get solid footing right out of the gate. Moreover, while the Diamondbacks have struggled all year against LHP, Sanchez has a horrible 4.19 ERA against right handed hitting, and there is no way to avoid a switch hitting Ketel Marte, amongst others. Though Sanchez has tossed 6 games on the road and has been quite good with a 2.08 ERA.
Philadelphia is a mediocre 41-40 on the road. Actually 42-42 if you count the playoffs including last nights game. Chase Field is much bigger than Citizens Park and that will actually make a difference. As for AZ, they are now 45-38 at home, including playoffs, so they are much more comfortable in Phoenix.
The Phillies will NOT want to lose this game, obviously, with Zac Gallen and his home prowess up next. I personally don't think Wheeler will be as good tomorrow so I will dump major coin on Gallen tomorrow. But tonight, it's the bullpen for AZ, which has been really excellent outside of the one game in Philly which Gallen thought the Phillies had their pitching signs. Whether fact or fiction, the pitching took major center stage yesterday so maybe some validity to it. Doesn't change my angle...
Hazen's wife Nicole is looking down on this team. As will 51000 fans. The Diamondbacks will make believers out of more people as, if my predictions are correct, they will head back to Philadlephia actually leading 3-2. Remember, it's the playoffs, and you're supposed to win at home. Arizona and yet another UNDER for me.
Happy to hear everyone's thoughts, really enjoy the comments. Keep them positive and, as always, tail or fade, good luck to all...
Hot Forum Topics
