By: Kelly Byrnes
I’m not writing this to pick my predictions for the games but just wanting to talk about them in general. How exciting is today going to be? I’m thinking about calling in sick, so I could watch them, but I probably won’t, stupid conscience. Maybe the games aren’t as exciting as they could be. I mean all four teams are in the playoffs regardless of who wins and losses today. Think about what is on the line though. Winners go to the NLDS where they have the opportunity to win a 5 game series and advance to the NLCS. The losers on the other hand play the very next day in a loser out Wild Card game and if you are the Dodgers or Rockies that game will be on the road.
The last time there was a Game 163 to determine a division winner was way back in 2009 when the Twins beat the Tigers in 12 innings. Also, this is the first time EVER, we will have two tiebreaker games. So, what’s at stake for each team.
Dodgers
The Dodgers are in the playoffs for the 6th straight season and they are only the 3rd team to do that in MLB history. Obviously, they’re looking to come back from a World Series defeat last season. They started the season about as bad as they could being 16-26 and 8.5 games back in the NL West. So, if you told them at that point they would be playing in a Game 163 for the NL West title I’m sure they would take it.
Rockies
Last year the Rockies made the Wild Card game and lost to the Diamondbacks, so you know they don’t want that to happen again. Also, this is the Rockies 25th year anniversary and they have never won a division championship. What better anniversary gift to give the fans and city of Colorado then to win your first NL West title.
Cubs
This is the Cubs 4th straight postseason appearance and believe me they aren’t looking to play in a Wild Card game. Not only will the winner of the Cubs/Brewers play in the NLDS, but they will also have home field advantage in the NLDS and NLCS. The Cubs have played in three straight NLCS and nothing short of a 4th appearance is expected.
Brewers
The Brewers are the team that scares me the most in the National League. They are the hottest team and have the hottest player in Christian Yelich. This is the Brewers first playoff appearance since 2011 so in my eyes they have nothing to lose. They are a good young team who looks to open some eyes this postseason. As I said with the Cubs if the Brewers win they get home field advantage through the NLCS.
Best of luck to all fan bases of the four teams playing. I hope you are able to function and not stress you too much. To all the other teams fan bases, you’re welcome for the extra day of baseball. Welcome to October baseball!!!