>Looks like the Phillies playoff hopes were washed out tonight in Washington.
>
>Just when they figured out how to beat the Astros (took 4 of 6 this year), they dropped 2 of 3 to the Nationals, and are just about out of it. So I jinxed them!
>

I think Tamar called at least part of the reason exactly right. We were speculating about whether Ryan Howard would become the "unjuiced home run king" and she said maybe, if they give him anything to hit. And sure enough, it seems like he's getting walked at least once a game. I only get to see the Phillies play once in a blue moon but I'm sure he's seeing a lot of garbage pitches in the other at-bats. It doesn't help that he has no protection behind him. Presumably that will be an offseason priority for the Phils.

The late September news may not be all bad for Phillies fans. The Cardinals appear very interested in wresting the "biggest collapse ever" title away from the 1964 Phillies. On September 20 they led the Astros by 8 1/2 games. They now lead by 1/2 game.