Well, that may be the last time I’ll ever try blogging in the middle of a World Series game. As most of you know by now, the single run pitcher’s duel exploded in the bottom of the 8th as Texas relievers Holland, Lowe, and Kirkland walked in not one, not two, but three runs, then gave up a single, triple, and double. You could’ve taken a nice nap with only one remaining out in the 8th, it lasted that long. Instead of coasting with Cain’s flawless work, instead of sticking to the foolhardy plan of only getting one or two runs, we triumphed with a 9-0 blowout–mostly thanks to the shoddy work of our rivals. Incredible.
Not only was this game completely entertaining (not to mention torture-free), it set a few records as well:
San Francisco has not scored 7 runs in an inning of the World Series since they earned 8 runs against the Yankees in 1921.
The last Giants’ shutout in the World Series was in 1962, when Jack Sanford enjoyed a complete Game 2, with only three allowed hits and a final score of 2-0.
And, as a few articles are fond of pointing out, 40 of the last 51 teams to gather a 2-0 lead in the WS went on to win the championship (among others, thank you MLB).
For my part, I’m doing my best to deck out in true Giants fashion for Saturday’s Game 3. While my Wilson beard replica is still in the making, I do have a Giants cap and rally towel (courtesy of my color printer, Sharpies, and good strong packing tape). As it turns out, even my dog is pulling for the Giants to win this year.
So bring on the torture in Arlington! Make your predictions now: can we keep strong for a 3-0 lead? Will the magic follow us from California to Texas? Will the Rangers concede defeat or prepare to put up a fight?
Whatever happens… GO GIANTS!!!
Love the “Fear the Beard” towel.
And the assembled fans had a special sing along moment in the middle of the 8th inning. I am jealous.
Loved that environment back in 2008. The place get so charged up that you think if you shuffled your feet on concrete you could shock someone.
Great start to this World Series.
I honestly expected a split, but this has been a great hitting effort by the G-men when they have been given opportunities, and that wins teams titles.
Rays Renegade
http://raysrenegade.mlblogs.com
The Fear The Beard towel is pretty cool, but as a die-hard Rangers fan, I’m feeling the torture you guys seem to be so proud of.
I’m not going to wish you luck.
I hope you lose.
-Andrew
peanutsandcrackerjack.mlblogs.com
Rays – Thanks! I just saw the video for the sing-along on your blog… I’m so sad they weren’t able to air it last night! The Giants have definitely been playing wonderfully–even the most optimistic fan wasn’t expecting such high-scoring games, I’m sure. Here’s hoping the rest of the series goes just as well!
Andrew – I really don’t know why Giants fans are so fond of torture… guess it just makes things interesting! I hope you lose too
Just stopped by to wish the Giants, Good Luck! I think the Giants have demonstrated what teamwork is really about. They play with a lot of heart and collectively, find ways to win. Awesome pitching staff too! Amazing how the Giants have dominated, especially against a master like Cliff Lee. I have been impressed with the performance so far. Best wishes in winning a World Series champonship. Since I am a Cubs’ fan, I have to root for somebody, might as well be our National League West counterparts!
Thanks! The Giants have shown up strong this series, despite all the media complaints that they’re just a “ragtag bunch” who gets a lot of lucky breaks. I can’t wait to see how the rest of the games turn out. Go Giants!!