Forget the opening weeks of the NFL and the start of conference play in college football.
Pennant fever is on.
With time running out on September, more than one spot to the post-season remains up for grabs.
But even those who gave up on their team making the playoffs in mid-summer — Diamondback fans, that’s you — still have reason to tune into our national pastime down the stretch.
Rooting for the 27-time world champion Yankees to fail in their quest for a repeat is always a fun endeavor.
Try watching mohawked Giants closer Bian Wilson, who talks, acts, and parties like a college student, pitch. And I wonder how many teams can win four games against a Phillies rotation with Halladay, Hamels, and Oswalt.
There will be plenty of fireworks, too. The Josh Hamilton-led Rangers, who are making their first playoff appearance since 1999, lead the AL in hits, and Cincinnati’s Joey Votto is always good for a longball or two.
Then there’s the heartwarming storylines, of course. Like Jim Thome’s rebirth in Minnesota. Or legendary manager Bobby Cox final shot at another ring.
For many teams, and for many players looking to garner individual accolades, it’s do or die time. You owe it to yourself to watch this drama unfold.
Reach the reporter at kyle.j.newman@asu.edu
