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October 23, 2005

I Finally Agree with the New York Times

I am not a fan of the New York Times. In fact, I can hardly stand their bias. But, to keep abreast of American culture, I get a daily email summary of the articles in the NYTimes. Most of the time I don't even bother. But this weekend, I found an OP-Ed piece I agree with.

In the October 22nd edition, John Thorn writes a piece "Baseball's Silly Season" (the link is http://www.nytimes.com/2005/10/22/opinion/22thorn.html?th&emc=th but you will have to "sign up" for free to read it). It is a great piece on the Wild Card team in the playoffs. I know it sounds like sour grapes from me to gripe about the Wild Card team since the Astros beat the Cards to go to the World Series, but really, why should a team that finished second in their division over 162 games be able to compete in the World Series. It is ridiculous. It makes the Season somewhat worthless.

I understand that the Wild Card introduces some drama into baseball. But so did division races - the winner of the division played to go to the World Series. That made the 162 game season mean something. The Wild Card is nothing more than a high paid "March Madness" - whoever gets hot (and lucky) at the right time wins. I could go on with the dismerits of the Wild Card concept, but I will save time for now.

Although I haven't been asked by MLB for these recommendations, I would either penalize the Wild Card team by not allowing them any home games during the playoffs. This would give the division winners an advantage or reward for being the best in their division over the course of a season. It would also put a lot emphasis on winning the division.

Or, if that is not "fair", then go to 4 divisions in each league and have the division leaders slug it out in the playoffs.

Either way, let's get rid of the Wild Card. Baseball is about winning pennants, not coming in second place and then getting hot for the playoffs.

Posted at 11:44 PM |

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Comments

Rob T

Tim,
I detect some bitterness and sour grapes. Perhaps winemaking meets your skill set better than doctoring.
Just a little ribbing to keep you honest.
Rob

Posted by: Rob T | October 24, 2005 at 09:20 AM

Bob Travis

Hi Dr. Tim,
I think the White Sox are going to take it all....(about time). However, being a G. B. Packer fan, I will join you in sulking.....they are being pounded.
Our Heavenly Father is definitely not a Packer Backer. Bob T.

Posted by: Bob Travis | October 26, 2005 at 12:22 PM

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