Dodgers Advance to NLCS
The Dodgers won their first playoff series in 20 years tonight, beating the Cubs 3-1 to complete a remarkable 3 game sweep. The Dodgers were clearly the better team in the series, outplaying the Cubs in every single game.
James Loney once again stepped up with a big hit and Russell Martin seems like he's in a zone for the playoffs. Hiroki Kuroda, Cory Wade, and Jonathan Broxton all got out of jams, preventing the Cubs from doing any damage. Broxton really seemed to grow up tonight, and his stuff looked about as good as I've ever seen it.
Next the Dodgers face either the Phillies or the Brewers. With the way the team has played over the past few weeks, one would think that LA will be the favorite in the NLCS. The Phillies are a stronger team with one of the best lineups in the game. Their pitching staff isn't that strong after Cole Hamels, and their bullpen is above-average but not spectacular. Milwaukee limped into the playoffs, and I'm not sure if they have much left. They need to rely on CC Sabathia getting fabulous starts, but that might not happen if he keeps going on short rest.
Regardless, tonight's victory is certainly one to savor for Dodgers. There's been a ton of frustration with this team for past 20 years, and it's great to see them finally breakthrough.