Sometimes I hate being right
About this time each year, I get the same old feeling. I sit here waiting to be proven wrong, but alas, my assessments and predictions are always disappointingly accurate, give or take a game or two. It looks like I was premature in my suggestion that Smoltzie & Chipper just go ahead & set their tee times for today, but I don't think I'll be wrong in predicting that the series won't go past today. It appears that they are planning to go with Hudson, & that can't bode well for them right now. If I recall, they've had some success against Backe, & they might possibly get to him for a few runs early. But how many runds will Hudson need today? Five? Seven? Ten?

I don't mean to sound pessimistic -- really, I don't. These guys, most of whom were in AA or A ball last season, have had a hell of a season, & their uncanny poise & sheer talent give lots of hope for the immediate future -- at least until it's time for those first contract negotiations. But I think they've reached the end of the line this season. I don't think they'll go without a fight; but what will kill them will be the weakness that has plagued them for the entire 2005 season: a pitching staff that is full of holes, especially in the bullpen.

So there you are. Hope they prove me wrong.