Oct 30

Written by: PaulySore
10/30/2008 1:12 PM

I spent quite a few hours over my lifetime supporting my Philadelphia teams.  Typically this is in the form of watching on TV but I've done my fair share of carnivals as well.  I had yet to experienced the kind of intense desire to win or the relief that comes with winning a championship than what I did last night.  For my beloved Philadelphia Phillies to go out and knock off a very good Tampa Bay Rays team and do so in front of the home crowd was a magical moment indeed.  I can't recall the last time I jumped and screamed with the neighbors on my block and release all this pent up frustration.  What a beautiful sight that pitch from Brad Lidge was last night.

All in all, this team provided lots of ups and down this year but it seemed like when all was going good it was done so by the entire team.  Never in my memory can I think of a team where everyone played a part, big or small.  From the daily contributions of Chase Utley to the one pinch hit single by So Taguchi that brought home some runners against the Mets.

For me, the most satifying aspect of this championship is the following:

• Pat Burrell - this guy has endured quite a long string of boos over the years not to mention quite a few losses.  As the most senior member of the team, he has put in a lot of time and played hard regardless.  Though I don't see him back here next year due to cost constraints, I know Pat is going out a winner.
• Charlie Manuel - This guy has been given the short end of the stick by the fans and media from time to time.  In the end, I think we can all say, he knows baseball.  Though Charlie may make a mistake from time to time, he has the one thing critical to a successful team.  That is: the entire team respects him and plays hard for him.  If any manager can get that, a championship run is not far behind.
• Chris Coste - Having read Chris' book, I certainly am glad to see him finally reach a goal that years back would have been considered a pipe dream to most.  To see him come into his own while with the Phillies and prove to all that he has major league talent is a testament to this man's desire, devotion and dedication.  Because of this, he is my favorite Phillie and likely will be forever.

I look forward to tomorrow's parade and wish everyone to stay safe and enjoy the moment.  You never know when this may happen again.

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