Paul Hagen: The most intriguing revelation in Ruben Amaro Jr.'s press conference came off the first blunt question: whether he still thinks the lineup was good enough to get the job done.
Paul Hagen: Given all the unpleasant fallout that could result if champagne is sprayed in the visitors' clubhouse tonight, this is the most important game the Phillies have ever played.
Paul Hagen: The Phillies insisted there will be no additional pressure on them Friday night. Jimmy Rollins said it straight. "The truth is, it's not any other game," he admitted. "You win or you go home."
Paul Hagen: For the second straight NLDS game, Charlie Manuel had to go to his bullpen with nobody out in the seventh inning. The relievers bent. They didn't break.
Paul Hagen: There are reasons why it feels like the Phillies are playing from behind, even though their series with the Cardinals is tied. Some of the handwringing is justified. Some is just because that's what we do.
Paul Hagen: In the first two games of the NLDS, Ryan Howard has not only shown patience in clutch situations, but done some damage. Patience, it seems, really can be a virtue.
Paul Hagen: The best hitter on the team is supposed to bat third. So, it was kind of a big deal when Charlie Manuel moved Chase Utley from the No. 3 spot in the order to second.
Paul Hagen: What looked like a coronation is now threatening to cause coronaries. Those cold chills aren't just because autumn is settling in. The Phillies are suddenly lurching toward the finish line, every wart fully on display.
Paul Hagen: A couple of weeks from now, the regular season will be over. Some teams will be looking for new managers, and you have to think Ryne Sandberg will be a pretty hot name.
Paul Hagen: Football and hockey are more violent sports than baseball. But that doesn't mean baseball doesn't have to deal with an injury that has been linked to brain damage and suicide.
Rain's been a pain, putting a damper on Phillies schedule
Paul Hagen: The Phillies are getting to know the feeling a little too well. There's no doubt that all the rotten weather lately is starting to take a toll.