The World Series had barely begun, and now it's over (much to the disappointment of FOX, who would have surely preferred a few more games). The Red Sox were unstoppable. Their team is too well-rounded from top to bottom, and it's a sad statement about the National League that the Rockies were the best the league could bring to the table.There was nothing particularly interesting about this World Series. It didn't hold historic significance like the Red Sox's 2004 season. The Rockies' magical late-season surge (21-1 during their last 22 games before playing the Red Sox) ended with a whimper. The series itself was a dud in terms of excitement and intrigue, for the Red Sox dominated early and never let up.
And so, it's interesting to see other news sources desperately attempt to dig up something interesting about the series to mention.
Actually, ESPN's Jim Caple didn't try at all. He called it as he saw it, saying that this was "the worst postseason in baseball history."
You know a postseason is bad when the most interesting moment is an invasion of insects.
This World Series has been particularly disappointing. It held such promise. Old against young. The tradition and history-bound Boston Red Sox with their powerful lineup, intriguing starters and Riverdancing closer against the upstart Colorado Rockies and their powerful lineup, solid bullpen and miraculous winning stretch. Cramped and historic Fenway Park versus enormous and new Coors Field. Minutemen versus cowboys. Sea level versus mile high. The Green Monster versus the humidor. Samuel Adams versus the microbrewery.
Oh, it was going to be good. All those passionate (i.e., obnoxious) Red Sox fans, plus a brand new set of fans experiencing the World Series for the very first time.
But what have we gotten? A 13-1 Game 1 blowout, a 2-1 Game 2 that despite its close score, never seemed in doubt after the fifth inning and then Saturday's 10-5 Game 3.
So much for the great expectations. As one father said to his son during Saturday's game, "Well, at least you're here to see it. Even if it is s---."
The Los Angeles Times' Bill Shaikin offered a more restrained assessment, but with a hint of disappointment:
This series was no accident, starting with the most lopsided Game 1 in World Series history. And the final game had little suspense, with the Red Sox taking the lead after five pitches.
As Seth Smith struck out, for the final out, Papelbon flung his glove at the sky. Then he rushed into the arms of catcher Jason Varitek and disappeared into a sea of teammates. Baseball's best team, and champions again.
Most writers are coming to the conclusion that the Red Sox are this decade's team, now becoming the first team this decade to win twice. With their significant payroll and impressive farm system, it appears the Boston team will not only be a major contender next year, but for many years to come.
The New York Times' Tyler Kepner says is simply:
They have gone from exorcism to coronation in record time. The Boston Red Sox, who fought ghosts for most of the last century, are the premier team of the new millennium.
Thus, Bostonians can celebrate tonight and look forward to future success. For all other baseball fans, thank goodness something else happened today -- something concerning this year's expected American League MVP. But it's not right to talk about that player tonight. This is Boston's night.
