Notes from MLB Postseason on TBS – October 16, 2011

TBS MLB on Deck presented by Chrysler
Matt Winer (host) and Dennis Eckersley, Cal Ripken and David Wells (analysts)

TBS MLB reporter Craig Sager interviewed St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Jason Motte prior to the game

Motte on his role for the Cardinals: “I just have to make my pitches and execute.  And be ready to let the rest happen.  I really try not to think about it too much I just believe in the stuff that I have and (try to) be confident.”

Motte on facing Milwaukee Brewers power hitters Prince Fielder and Ryan Braun:  “I will just try to get them out.  If I face them, then we are going to attack them.  We have to get ahead of guys like these; we can’t fall behind.  The goal in pitching to anyone is getting ahead and if you fall behind, especially with these guys, you have to throw a strike otherwise these guys can hurt you.”

Motte on St. Louis Cardinals manager  Tony La Russa refusing to name him the closer: ” It doesn’t matter to me (on not being named the closer) or when they bring me in.  If the phone rings and my name gets called for the first inning or the fifth inning it doesn’t really matter.  I just look at it as it’s my job to go out there and get these guys out and that’s what I am going to do.”

Winer on the St. Louis Cardinals stats at Miller Park:  “All their numbers across the board are better here.”

Eckersley on St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Edwin Jackson:  “This is a power arm.  He throws the ball well.  This guy has been on the big stage.  He had an elimination game against the Phillies.  He’s played well for the Cardinals. He’s got nasty stuff.  Smoltz said it right,  you have to act like the closer every inning out there.    He’s pitched so well for the Cardinals this year. ”

Wells on Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Shaun Marcum’s demeanor during batting practice:  “He was loose, he was happy-go-lucky and I like that sign in a pitcher.  Especially when most guys are uptight in a potential elimination game.  He just has to go out there and play and trust his stuff.”

Eckersley on St. Louis Cardinals Jason Motte:  “His confidence is sky high, but he hasn’t faced Fielder and Braun, and sometimes when you are the closer sometimes that’s the way it works out.  You pitch who they tell you to pitch against but it takes nothing away from this guy’s confidence, and this guy is the closer, and it couldn’t come up at a bigger time because he is totally unaffected by it and Tony loves him.”

TBS’ Sager interviewing Milwaukee Brewers’ second baseman Rickie Weeks on the possibility of playing in the World Series with his childhood friend Milwaukee Brewers first baseman Prince Fielder

Weeks:  “It feels great.  This is what you dream of when you are in the backyard playing rag top baseball.  We felt pretty good right now. Obviously we would like to be in a better situation, but we need to perform tonight and go out there, have fun and win a ball game.”

***** ***** ***** ***** *****

St. Louis Cardinals (12) @ Milwaukee Brewers (6) – The St. Louis Cardinals win the NLCS and advance to the World Series
Announcers: Brian Anderson (play-by-play) Ron Darling and John Smoltz (analysts) with Craig Sager reporting

Anderson on the Brewers going into Game 6:  “The Brewers are playing without a net.  It’s either win or go home.”

Smoltz on St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Albert Pujols when at bat:  “That has been one thing in this series; Albert has had a good series but when Milwaukee executes its pitches and even throw pitches off the strike zone, he hasn’t been as patient as in the past so he can be pitched to.”

Darling on pitching in the postseason (speaking of the three-run homer Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Shaun Marcum gave up in the first inning to St. Louis Cardinals David Freese):  “No worse feeling for a pitcher.  You know what’s at stake.  You know what you have to come out and do.  You are maybe one pitch or one play away from being okay.  The postseason can be awfully cruel.”

Darling on St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Edwin Jackson:  “Edwin Jackson now has the luxury to go after hitters more aggressively.  He has a good fastball and a good slider.”

Smoltz on the number of times St. Louis Cardinals’ Jackson has been traded prior to coming to St. Louis:  “He has appeared in five different uniforms – his own version of the Jackson 5.”

Anderson on the number of home runs hit early in Game 5 after Milwaukee Brewers Rickie Weeks hits a home run in the bottom of the second inning:  “It’s a home run derby tonight here at Miller Park!”

Anderson on the number of home runs early in the game:  “Five home runs already in this game and we are only in the second inning.  Our pitchers up in the box, Darling and Smoltz, are a little gun shy up here.”

Darling on the Milwaukee Brewers at home:  “They just don’t panic here – the Brewers.  They know they play well. They know they are going to score runs.  They know they can pop the ball out of the park.  They had to have been shocked to have given up those four runs in the first, but they’ve done it here all year long.”

Darling on one of the Brewers relievers leading the the team in strike outs:  “You know it’s been an amazing series when pitchers have not had their way, but (Chris) Narveson leads the Brewers staff with strike outs.  You would never predict in this series that that could be the situation.”

Smoltz on Mark McGwire, St. Louis Cardinals hitting coach:  “In his second year, as the hitting coach for St. Louis, Tony La Russa said that the best thing that he (McGwire) does is he remembers that it was hard to hit the baseball and he is good not only with the mechanical parts of the swing but also very, very good at understanding his hitters.”

Darling on Milwaukee Brewers first baseman Prince Fielder:  “Doug Melvin, the Milwaukee Brewers general manager said he would like for the Brewers to go to the World Series and win it and turn the card on Fielder and have a chance to sign him and keep him in Milwaukee.”

Anderson on St. Louis Cardinals Pujols and Milwaukee Brewers Fielder:  “It’s going to be an interesting off-season with the two first basemen in this series; Albert Pujols and Prince Fielder.  Two guys you have a hard time imagining them in uniforms other than the ones they are wearing.”

Darling on La Russa’s involvement in the game:  “He loves postseaon baseball.  He is in it from pitch one and there are certain things you do during the postseason that you would never do during the regular season.  Like how he has handled his bullpen this series.”

St. Louis Cardinals manager Tony La Russa spoke to TBS in between innings on the events of tonight’s game
La Russa: “It’s unusual because you usually don’t get here without good starting pitchers, and it’s really a freak thing and really not fun to do this to a starting pitcher.  They have gotten us here, both of our clubs, and to struggle like this is tough to watch, but that’s how the game is being played.”

Darling on the home runs this game:  “You know there’s been a lot of home runs when you can start analyzing the pitches that the home runs were hit off of.  Six of them in this game already.”

Milwaukee Brewers manager Ron Roenicke spoke with TBS in between innings on what he thinks is the way back for the Brewers tonight
Roenicke:  “Certainly not the way we expected it to go.  It was tough on the starting pitching and offensively we are doing a nice job, so hopefully we keep it up and are able to come back here.”

Roenicke on Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Shaun Marcum:  “It was a tough game for him tonight.  We expected great things from him, so did he, and it’s been tough with the way things have been going for us this game.”

Smoltz on the Cardinals play this series:  “It has been a series where, as Tony (La Russa) said, he didn’t intend for this but it really has been magical what these guys have been able to do.  He’s pushed the right buttons and the guys have delivered.”

Anderson on the night’s multiple home runs:  “It has been a night full of home runs in this game.a record-setting night for home runs already six combined which is a postseason record and all of them came in the first three innings.”

Smoltz on Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Ryan Braun’s hitting capabilities at Miller Park:  “Braun can cover every part of the park.  His power is not limited to one section.”

Smoltz on the crowd’s reaction to Fielder’s potential last at-bat as a Milwaukee Brewer:  “There could be a big reaction from the crowd in what could be Fielder’s last at-bat.”

Smoltz on the St. Louis Cardinals potential play against the Texas Rangers in the World Series:   “I think Holliday is going to be key.  You know what (Albert) Pujols is going to do, but Holliday against the four starters for Texas are all left-handed and very talented.  The right-handed hitters are all going to have to come through.”

Smoltz on the Cardinals this year:  “This team, 10 ½ back…they get to the playoffs and everything they decided to do whether it was a bullpen choice or pinch-hitting choice, everything came up roses.”

TBS’s reporter Craig Sager interviewed St. Louis Cardinals Matt Holliday following the game

Holliday on the Cardinals road to the postseason:  “We had a lot of adversity along the way, but we got in, and played really well and we are on our way to the World Series.  We are hitting the ball really well.”

Holliday on Freese giving the team a big lift this postseason:  “I’m not surprised.  He is a good kid.  He’s battled serious injuries, but to get a chance to watch him grow as a person and as a player and come out here as a player, I am super-impressed.”

Sager interviewed St. Louis Cardinals Albert Pujols following the game
Pujols comments on when he thought this team might make it to the World Series:  “You know what, it was when we got to the postseason.  Anything can happen.  We tip our cap to the Brewers.  They played hard. They never gave up. They had a great year.  Tonight’s our night and we need to enjoy it.  But we got another step to climb and we have big games to play.

Pujols on what changed and why this team was so good in the postseason:  “It was our bullpen that pretty much got us into the postseason and we started swinging when we needed to and picking each other up.  That’s why we are here.”

Bill Giles honorary National League president, presenting the NL Championship trophy to the Cardinals president Bill DeWitt:  “This year was particularly remarkable.  You have a never-say-die attitude great character a testimony to you.”

Bill DeWitt, president of the St. Louis Cardinals on this year’s team:  “Our guys never gave up and we said let’s win as many games as we can and see what happens and you see what happened.  I commend the Brewers for a great season and a great series.”

John Mozeliak the St. Louis Cardinals general manager on the team’s late-season success:   “Right before we made the trades, we had a lot of people working together to make things happen.  We always thought we had a chance, if we could ever get it going.  It took a couple of weeks to get it going but once it did, we took off.”

Mozeliak on La Russa’s management of the team during the postseason:  “Every button he pushed worked.  I have been with him a long time and know how prepared he is.  I knew we had a chance.”

Winer speaking with St. Louis Cardinals MVP David Freese on when he felt like everything clicked and why during the NLDS:  “That’s the crazy thing about baseball.  You just keep working hard and you get hot every now and then and it was a great time.  What our bullpen did, they are the ones that really deserve this award (MVP).  They are the reason why we won.”

Anderson on St. Louis Cardinals Freese and his accomplishments and his thoughts on the bullpen:   “David Freese is now a star.  But even Freese gave credit to the tremendous effort by the bullpen.”

Darling on the St. Louis Cardinals bull pen:  “The bullpen was just unbelievable.  It’s hard to believe they could pull it off being out there so many innings.”

Smoltz on the Texas Rangers and St. Louis Cardinals match-up:  “This is a year where if you know anything about baseball, throw it out the window.  For the Cardinals, they really are going to have to get more out of their starters.  It’s going to be an intriguing match-up because I think we are going to see some really different arms coming out of Texas.”

TBS reporter Craig Sager interviewed Chris Carpenter after the game
Carpenter:  “We have been playing hard all year long, we had some ups and downs, but the last two months we put it together and started winning.  You have to give credit to everyone in this clubhouse from top to bottom.  It was a lot of fun.”

***** ***** ***** ***** ****

Inside MLB presented by Captain Morgan
Matt Winer (host), David Wells, Dennis Eckersley and Cal Ripken (analysts)

Milwaukee Brewers first baseman Prince Fielder on taking off the Brewer jersey for maybe the last time: “I had a couple of clear-the-throat moments, but it was alright.  I mean, I love these guys, I have been playing with most of them since I was 18.  This organization has been great to me and it’s been good.”

Wells on Milwaukee Brewers first baseman Prince Fielder and what he will do next:  “He still has a long career to go.  This kid is going to be a great player, he already is now, his legacy is going to continue no matter where he is.  He is a cool cat.”

Eckersley on Fielder:  “He is unbelievable, he is a classy kid.  He could light it up, and he lit it up for six years in Milwaukee.”

Notes from MLB Postseason on TBS – October 14, 2011

The National League Championship Series will continue on TBS on Sunday, October 16 at 3:30 p.m. ET* with TBS MLB on Deck presented by Chrysler followed by Game 6 of the NLCS featuring St. Louis Cardinals @ Milwaukee Brewers (4 p.m. ET*). The night will conclude with the post-game show Inside MLB presented by Captain Morgan.

*If the ALCS has ended, TBS MLB on Deck at 7:30 p.m. (ET); Game 6 at 8 p.m. (ET)

***** ***** ***** ***** *****

TBS MLB on Deck presented by Chrysler

Matt Winer (host) and Dennis Eckersley, Cal Ripken and David Wells (analysts)

Wells on starting pitchers needing to throw more innings to give the bullpen some rest: “These guys have to go deeper into games in order to give (the bullpen) a chance.”

Eckersley on starting pitchers not living up to the hype due to short appearances: “This isn’t spring training but you might as well not even say who the starter is. We get all jacked up about who the starter is. Meanwhile, he only lasts about three innings and is forgotten and long gone by the time we get to the sixth inning.”

Eckersley on pitchers avoiding the big inning: “Everything is like a clincher and you can’t give up a crooked number. If you give up a three-run bridge-ball (home run), they can’t get you out quick enough.”

TBS’ reporter Craig Sager interviewed St. Louis Cardinals’ manager Tony La Russa prior to the game

La Russa on the high ERAs of the starting pitchers in the series: “I think the stat is a quirk because there are so few innings that’s your sample that if you have three or four (earned runs given up) in one start, it blows it out of proportion. More than anything else, it’s a tribute to the offense on both teams. Every (pitcher) who has given up a big number, has pitched several innings where they have given up nothing. If you make a mistake, these offenses on both sides will punish you.”

La Russa on Cardinals Game 5 starter Jaime Garcia: “He’s a work in progress and he’s been amazing. I expect him to be amazing tonight. He will get better and better.”

Ripken on Milwaukee Brewers’ lead-off hitter Corey Hart: “I like him leading off. He’s a unique lead-off hitter, he’s got good power to all fields. He can put a run on the scoreboard really quickly. He’s got a good eye at the plate. I just think he’s trying a little bit too hard. The off-day probably did him some good and he could do some damage.”

***** ***** ***** ***** *****

St. Louis Cardinals (7) @ Milwaukee Brewers (1) – St. Louis leads series 3-2

Announcers: Brian Anderson (play-by-play) Ron Darling and John Smoltz (analysts) with Craig Sager reporting

Smoltz on starting pitchers learning from their mistakes in the Postseason: “From start to start in the Postseason, if you’re fortunate enough to get more than one start, your failures can become your greatest assets. You can learn from an emotional inning. You then make the changes you need to make.”

Darling on pitching to Prince Fielder: “It’s a catch-22 when you’re facing Prince Fielder because the slider is the pitch he’s most vulnerable to but if you hang it, he can hit it 500 feet.”

Smoltz on mentally slowing the game down in the Postseason: “The guy that is the most successful at this time of year is the guy who can slow the game down. This game can be fast-paced.”

Smoltz on Brewers’ starter Zack Greinke pitching better than the score reflects: “It’s an odd game for Greinke. He does not deserve to have given up four runs (through four innings). That’s the way it can go because baseball is such a game of inches.”

TBS’ Brian Anderson, Ron Darling and John Smoltz interviewed Cardinals’ manager Tony La Russa during the game

La Russa on his decision to have his eighth place hitter, Nick Punto, sacrifice bunt with pitcher Jaime Garcia on deck: “Well you have two shots. Actually, Jaime has a real nice stroke and if he makes an out, you’ve still got (Rafael) Furcal, who’s been tough on Greinke. So you’ve got two chances to put the ball in play. It turned out alright; we had a contact hitter and got a nice break.”

La Russa on how he would rate his catcher, Yadier Molina: “How about twenty on a scale of ten in every category. I’d pay to sit here and watch him for 162 games. He does everything as good as it can be done on the defensive-side and he’s one of the toughest outs in our lineup.”

Smoltz on how pitchers can start to over-think things on the mound: “Every pitcher has a moment when they start reminding themselves of what could go wrong or what did go wrong. You have to eliminate it from your mind. You have to make pitches.”

Darling on La Russa removing Jaime Garcia with two outs in the fifth inning after allowing him to bat in the fourth: “Might be the first time we’ve seen a manager have more confidence in his pitcher as a hitter, not a pitcher.”

Smoltz on the Cardinals: “St. Louis has defied every law of baseball to get here.”

Smoltz on Brewers starting pitcher Zack Greinke: “(Acquiring Greinke) was a great move for Milwaukee to bolster their staff and give them a chance to be a front-runner in their division. He’s going to win a lot of games for Milwaukee if he can stay healthy.”

Darling on the Brewers feeling the pressure of the Postseason and making defensive mistakes: “Sometimes it’s shocking in the Postseason to see teams that have played well all year long start to make errors. To me, it comes from a little bit of frustration…and feeling a little bit of the pressure of a Game 5.”

Darling on the Cardinals’ bullpen: “If the Cardinals win this series, can the whole bullpen win the MVP award? Just give it to all of them.”

Anderson on Cardinals rookie reliever Lance Lynn batting in the 7th inning: “Do rookie relievers have their own bats?”
Smoltz: “No…we place those orders in spring training and they come by covered wagon.”

TBS reporter Craig Sager interviewed Cardinals’ catcher Yadier Molina following the game

Molina on the Cardinals’ bullpen: “We’ve been aggressive in the strike zone. Getting strike one has been the key for us. We’re having a good series right now and hopefully we can do it for one more game.”

***** ***** ***** ***** *****

Inside MLB presented by Captain Morgan

Matt Winer (host) and Dennis Eckersley, Cal Ripken and David Wells (analysts)

Ripken on Cardinals’ manager Tony La Russa’s use of his bullpen: “It seems like Tony (La Russa) has taken specialization to another level in the playoffs. He’s not really worried about getting the starter deep into the game, it’s about getting the hot pitcher and the right pitcher into that match-up and it’s working.”

Wells on La Russa’s quick hook with his starting pitchers: “I’m mad as a starting pitcher…the way things are going, if I’m a pitcher out there, it’s about pride too because his job is to go out there and go deep into the game. In a situation like that, I’ve got three runs (lead and get taken out)…I’m a little chapped and I might have to have a conversation with (the manager).”

Eckersley: “You’re going to have to put your pride in your pocket. Are you kidding me?

Wells: “Well you were a reliever; you want to be out there.”

Eckersley: “Come on…this is about winning. This isn’t about you going five innings and getting the ‘W’ (win).”

Eckersley on the Tigers vs. Rangers in the ALCS: “The pressure is on Detroit. I almost wrote them off when it was four games to one. It would be a great comeback but I don’t see it happening. Too much power in Texas.”

-30-

Notes from NLCS Game 4 on TBS – October 13, 2011

The National League Championship Series continues on TBS on Friday, October 14 at 7:30 p.m. ET with TBS MLB on Deck presented by Chrysler followed by Game 5 of the NLCS featuring the Milwaukee Brewers @ St. Louis Cardinals (8 p.m. ET). The night will conclude with the post-game show Inside MLB presented by Captain Morgan.

***** ***** ***** ***** ***** *****

TBS MLB on Deck presented by Chrysler

Matt Winer (host) and Dennis Eckersley, Cal Ripken and David Wells (analysts)

Eckersley on the Cardinals bullpen and closer Jason Motte: “That is the favorite part of the game for me. We’re talking about ‘Gas Masterson.’ The Cardinals know who their closer is and it’s Jason Motte.”

Ripken on the Cardinals starting pitching: “It seems at some point the starter has to get you a little farther into the game. You’ve got to get your pitcher past the fifth inning.”

Eckersley on the Cardinals starting pitching: “I’ve never seen any postseason where a starting pitcher can’t get into the sixth inning. It’s insane.”

Ripken on Cardinals third baseman David Freese: “This guy likes to hit with runners in scoring position. He is hitting the ball as hard and as well as anyone in the series.”

Wells on Milwaukee Brewers starter Randy Wolf: “He’s a veteran guy. He has to locate his fastball, his cutter and his change-up. He’s got to spot those [pitches] and be perfect. He knows this is a huge, huge game for him.”

TBS’ Craig Sager interviewed Cardinals third baseman David Freese about hitting cleanup tonight and explained how he was “informed.”

Freese: “[Cardinals manager] Tony [La Russa] just threw it on the lineup card and he didn’t really tell me.”

Ripken on Cardinals David Freese hitting clean-up: “I expect they’ll pitch around [Albert] Pujols and make David beat them.”

Wells on Brewers starting pitcher Randy Wolf and his prediction on the night: “[Randy] Wolf is going to pull it out tonight. He’s the only active pitcher with 127 [regular season] wins that doesn’t have a postseason win. I think he might get his first one tonight.”

Ripken prediction: “Milwaukee finds a way to sneak one.”

Eckersley prediction: “[Cardinals Kyle] Lohse is going to stick it to them [the Brewers].”

***** ***** ***** ***** ***** *****

Milwaukee Brewers (4) @ St. Louis Cardinals (2) – The series is tied 2-2

Announcers: Brian Anderson (play-by-play), Ron Darling, John Smoltz (analysts) and Craig Sager (reporter)

Smoltz on the strength of the Cardinals bullpen: “Every club likes to have an edge and they’re getting their edge back in the bullpen. If they continue, it’s the reason they could advance to the World Series.”

Darling on the Milwaukee Brewers: “It there panic? Absolutely not. Is there a sense of urgency from the Milwaukee Brewers? Of course. It’s really going to be Randy Wolf who’s going to have to toe the hill for this Milwaukee team.”

Darling on Cardinals starting pitcher Kyle Lohse and his propensity for giving up big innings: “When he gives up runs, he gives them up in bunches.”

Darling on the Milwaukee Brewers falling behind 2-0: “The Milwaukee Brewers have been a team that plays on emotion but it is hard to emote when you’re playing from behind.”

TBS interviewed Milwaukee Brewers manager Ron Roenicke in between innings:

Roenicke on the Brewers third baseman Jerry Hairston: “He’s really come on, especially in the playoffs. We will continue to put him out there and hopefully he’ll continue to do good things.”

Smoltz on Cardinals reliever Octavio Dotel’s pitching motion: “Dotel has one of those deliveries when the fastball has life, it’s hard to pick up. It doesn’t look like he’s throwing 95 [mph].”

Darling on the Brewers inability to mount a running game against the Cardinals: “Not too much running for these Brewers, a lot of that has to do with [Cardinals catcher] Yadier Molina’s arm.”

Smoltz on Milwaukee Brewers closer John Axford: “He just has one of the most electric fastballs.”

Darling on the Milwaukee Brewers win: “They got a big road game win to get them back to Milwaukee.”

TBS reporter Craig Sager interviewed Milwaukee’s Randy Wolf about his first postseason win after 127 regular season wins and Ryan Braun’s game-winning hit:

Wolf: “It was the biggest game I’ve ever pitched in.”

Braun: “Facing [Cardinals reliever Mitchell] Boggs, he’s throwing 96-97 and I’m just trying to make sure I got the run home.”

***** ***** ***** ***** ***** *****

Inside MLB presented by Captain Morgan

Matt Winer (host) and Dennis Eckersley, Cal Ripken and David Wells (analysts)

Wells on Milwaukee Brewers winning pitcher Randy Wolf: “He was scaring the heck out of those guys [the Cardinals] with his curveball.”

Eckersley on Cardinals losing pitcher Kyle Lohse: “He pitched good for three innings and then he lost it. [Cardinals manager] Tony [La Russa] rolled the dice to go out to the bullpen early again and it didn’t pay off.”

Wells on Texas Rangers pitcher C.J. Wilson’s ineffectiveness in the postseason: “C.J. is baffling me because he’s getting rocked this postseason.”

Wells on the Brewers offense: “They kept the pressure on them [the Cardinals] and that’s how you win ballgames.”

Eckersley on Milwaukee Brewers closer John Axford: “This guy is as good as anybody.”

-30-

Notes from NLCS on TBS – October 12, 2011

The National League Championship Series continues on TBS on Thursday, October 13 at 7:30 p.m. ET with TBS MLB on Deck presented by Chrysler followed by Game 4 of the NLCS featuring the Milwaukee Brewers @ St. Louis Cardinals (8 p.m. ET). The night will conclude with the post-game show Inside MLB presented by Captain Morgan.

***** ***** ***** ***** ***** *****

TBS MLB on Deck presented by Chrysler

Matt Winer (host) and Dennis Eckersley, Cal Ripken and David Wells (analysts)

Wells on St. Louis Cardinals’ first baseman Albert Pujols: “He is a dangerous threat at all times. For a guy to go out there and be effective with him you’ve got to pound him in and get him out with the nice little slider or cutter that’s down and away. Anything off the plate. He is hot right now and he is the guy you want to avoid now at all costs.”

Winer following a report on the St. Louis “Rally Squirrel”: “If I’ve said it once I’ve said it a million times; no one delivers a squirrel update like Craig Sager.”

Eckersley on St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Chris Carpenter: “He is a highly emotional person. He’s all about his curve ball. He is a big time competitor and if he holds his emotions in check and throws the way he did against Philadelphia you will see the emotion and I love that emotion. If you can just channel it. He throws everything up there; everything moves. He is one of the best in the game.”

Ripken on Milwaukee Brewers second baseman Rickie Weeks: “What makes him tough is he doesn’t swing at the ball inside and he has power to the opposite field. Rickie is starting to swing the bat really well. He sees the ball very well.”

Wells on Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Yovani Gallardo: “In this postseason, he is dominating right now. He is keeping hitters on their toes and runners off base. That’s his MO right there.”

Eckersley on Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Mark Kotsay: “He’s just a veteran batter. I would have a tougher time facing him than (Nyjer) Morgan. He can eyeball you and hit the ball the other way. He is a good center fielder and he can handle the pressure.”

***** ***** ***** ***** ***** *****

Milwaukee Brewers (3) @ St. Louis Cardinals (4) – Cardinals lead the series 2-1

Announcers: Brian Anderson (play-by-play), Ron Darling, John Smoltz (analysts) and Craig Sager (reporter)

Darling on the St. Louis Cardinals play during the postseason: “Just another part of the aggressive nature of this St. Louis ball club. It doesn’t just apply to base running but also at the plate. The team is being aggressive on first pitches and 3-0 counts.”

Smoltz on St. Louis pitcher Chris Carpenter: “It’s controlled aggression. He’s a different person when he is in the dugout; he’s rooting for all his players, leading a lot of charges and pulling for everybody. When he’s on the mound it’s like he’s waited all day to throw that emotion and work ethic and all that he has, and he does it. He pitches with emotion but he knows how to control it.”

Smoltz on St. Louis pitcher Carpenter: “All the young pitchers that come to St. Louis learn how to be a pro from him. You do sit on the bench. You do root for your teammates. You root for the other starters. It’s karma and you are going to get some good luck your way if you are a team player.”

Anderson on St. Louis Cardinals third baseman David Freese: “David Freese is a doubles machine. What a force he has been in this postseason.”

Smoltz on Freese’s performance in the regular season: “He’s had so many injuries it’s hard to gauge what kind of player he could have been this season. But he (La Russa) sees him as a big run producer in the future.”

TBS interviewed Milwaukee Brewers manager Ron Roenicke in between innings

Roenicke on the risks of putting Mark Kotsay in the line-up: “He usually has some good things happen to him and the homer was nice and the walk early to get on base in the first inning was good.”

Anderson on the Milwaukee Brewers regular season: “Roenicke has seen his Milwaukee club win in a lot of ways. They won 96 games and set a franchise record for victories in the regular season and they outlasted the Cardinals in the NL Central by six games this year. These two central division rivals ended up as the last two teams in the NL playing all out for a trip to the World Series.”

TBS interviewed St. Louis Cardinals Manager Tony La Russa in between innings:

La Russa on the two aces on the mound: “They (Cardinals Chris Carpenter and Milwaukee’s Yovani Gallardo) are just not sharp tonight. Gallardo is getting sharper; he’s made some strong pitches. And Carp started out not so sharp and he’s getting better. They have a tendency to get better throughout the game.”

La Russa on David Freese and his performance in this series: “He just gets better and better. He’s got a great career ahead of him doing exactly what you’ve seen here. He’s getting a lot of big hits.”

Anderson on youth baseball programs today: “Youth baseball, they play year-round and the kids get burned out so easily. Freese stepped aside from baseball for awhile after high school and that was one of the reasons he was rejuvenated and came back to the sport.”

Ron Darling’s on youth baseball players: “You don’t find professional baseball, professional baseball finds you.”

Darling on the pressure St. Louis Cardinals outfielder Matt Holliday to protect Albert Pujols: “There is going to be a lot of pressure on Holliday for the rest of this series if he can’t come up with a big hit.”

Smoltz on Holliday’s success against Brewers pitching: “You can’t flirt with a guy (Holliday) who has torn you up for the last few games.”

Darling on the Brewers and Cardinals bullpen: “The bullpen for Milwaukee in this series so far has struggled a little bit while the Cardinals bullpen has been great.”

Smoltz on St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Jason Motte: “If you think he throws like a catcher, that’s because he was one! His delivery is pretty interesting as he gets the ball from the rubber to home plate quickly.”

Anderson on the Cardinals bullpen: “A bullpen that has been much maligned all season might have been the reason the Cardinals had to fight for the wildcard but they came up as good as you can do it tonight.”

TBS reporter Craig Sager interviewed Cardinals’ Jason Motte and David Freese after the game

Motte on the Cardinals bullpen: “When that phone rings we are ready to go. When the phone rings we are going to get our arms ready and battle our butts off. The bullpen was able to shut it down tonight.”

David Freese on the game and his injuries: “First inning was huge. Tonight was a big game and our bullpen; what a job they did tonight. I have had a rough time with injuries but it’s all about dedication and I’m trying to do my part and stick with this ball club.”

***** ***** ***** ***** ***** *****

Inside MLB presented by Captain Morgan

Matt Winer (host) and Dennis Eckersley, Cal Ripken and David Wells (analysts)

Ripken on St Louis Cardinals third baseman David Freese’s batting: “David Freese is swinging a hot bat. He’s even hotter than Pujols.”

Eckersley on St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Jason Motte: “This guy is my closer! Are you kidding me? He has hair on his face and hair on his head.”

Eckersley on the St. Louis Cardinals bullpen: “This whole postseason has been about Bullpen. But they (Cardinals pitchers) are not well known. This bullpen is a makeshift bullpen and they seem to get it done.”

Wells on Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Yovani Gallardo: “He was off tonight. You think you would see a closer game with these two pitchers (Gallardo and Carpenter) but he (Gallardo) battled back and pitched a few good innings.”

Eckersley on Boston Red Sox GM Theo Epstein moving to the Chicago Cubs: “Everything is exploding in Boston. Francona left and all these things are coming out about what is going on in the clubhouse. It’s an absolute mess. Theo did a nice job in Boston and brought two world championships to the Red Sox and if he can bring a world championship to the Cubs, it would be a beautiful thing. He did a nice job with the Red Sox, he was well thought of and everyone wanted him. And the Cubs finally got him. I think it’s a good move by the Cubs.”

Eckersley on Epstein: “He’s had a beautiful thing in Boston. They did make a lot of mistakes and if you want to fault him for anything it should be on the free agency, it cost them a lot of money. But he moves on now and he has more money to play with in Chicago.”

Ripken on the Brewers decision to walk St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Albert Pujols: “He can do damage no matter what. You can’t put him on every night, but in the playoffs there are times when the other team says “Ok, Albert, we are not going to let you beat us”.

-30-

The National League Championship Series will continue on TBS on Wednesday, October 12 at 7:30 p.m. ET with TBS MLB on Deck presented by Chrysler followed by Game 3 of the NLCS featuring St. Louis Cardinals @ Milwaukee Brewers (8 p.m. ET). The night will conclude with the post-game show Inside MLB presented by Captain Morgan.

*****     *****     *****     *****     *****

TBS MLB on Deck presented by Chrysler

Matt Winer (host) and Dennis Eckersley, Cal Ripken and David Wells (analysts)

Eckersley on how to get Brewers left fielder Ryan Braun out: “Change his eye level and (do) all the things that are easier said than done.  By the time you do it, its ball four and he hasn’t swung at anything.”

Ripken: “He is so disciplined and he does not extend the strike zone.”

Ripken on why Jerry Hairston is in the Brewers’ lineup every game: “The reason he is in there every single day is because of his bat.  He’s been getting some clutch hits, some big hits, some runs and he’s just playing really, really well.  He was a great pick-up.  He and Nyjer (Morgan) give energy to that club.”

Wells: “(Hairston) plays every position you put him at like he’s been there a long, long time.”

Ripken on Brewers outfielder Nyjer Morgan: “He knows the strike zone really well and has a nice, short little swing.  He can push it down the left field line and can also turn on (the ball).  He sets up really well against power pitching because of that short swing.”

*****     *****     *****     *****     *****

St. Louis Cardinals (12) @ Milwaukee Brewers (3) – Series tied 1-1

Announcers: Brian Anderson (play-by-play) Ron Darling and John Smoltz (analysts) with Craig Sager reporting

Darling on Cardinals first baseman Albert Pujol’s first inning home run: “He made this ballpark look tiny.”

Darling on the Brewers’ starting pitchers: “(The) Brewers have had a lot of success with all of their starting pitchers this year.  (They are) Very dependable and guys who put up a lot of innings.  But so far in the Postseason, (Yovanni) Gallardo has been the only one that’s been effective as a starter.”

Smoltz on the Texas Rangers: “Texas has done an amazing job.  They are the most balanced team in the playoffs.  They can throw a lot of dynamic arms out of the bullpen and they’ve got some guys they can mix-and-match in the rotation.  I think they are the deepest (team).”

TBS’ Brian Anderson, Ron Darling and John Smoltz interviewed Cardinals’ manager Tony La Russa during the game

La Russa on having a good feeling about Albert Pujols going into Game 2: “That’s the easiest call you can make.  He’s going to get you sooner or later and it’s usually sooner.”

Smoltz on the dangers of violent post-home run celebrations: “You don’t want to be a pitcher and try to high-five some of these guys.  You’re knocking your forearm out of the game.”

Smoltz on the Brewers figuring out how to get Pujols out: “As good as Albert is, you can get him out down (in the strikezone), you can’t get him out up.  That’s the adjustment that the Brewers are going to have to make as they move on in this series.”

Smoltz on the Cardinals’ deep lineup and decision to challenge Pujols in Game 2: “You’re basically picking your poison (with the lineup) and the Brewers have picked their poison wrong with Albert Pujols twice (in Game 2).  For the Cardinals, that’s the reason why they’re here.  The hitting depth that they have is apparent and the pitchers are taking notice.”

Smoltz on starting pitchers who aren’t at the top of the rotation: “You have to feel for some of these starters who are not named (Chris) Carpenter or (Yovani) Gallardo.  They don’t really possess a lot of swing-and-miss stuff.  They have to study videos and say, ‘I’ve got to stay away from here, I’ve got to stay away from there and I’ve got to be a little more perfect.’

 Smoltz on the Brewers dealing with a blowout loss in Game 2: “This is one of those games that if you’re going to lose, this is an easier one to forget.  Everything went right for St. Louis and nothing went right for (the Brewers).”

*****     *****     *****     *****     *****

Inside MLB presented by Captain Morgan

Matt Winer (host) and Dennis Eckersley, Cal Ripken and David Wells (analysts)

Eckersley on the impact of the Cardinals scoring early in Game 2 of the NLCS: “This was like a football game tonight.  (The Cardinals) quieted the crowd, dropped a 7-spot (touchdown) and did not stop.  They gave (the Brewers) a sniff in the fifth inning and Tony (La Russa) went to the bullpen to quiet that.  That’s exactly what happened tonight.”

 Ripken on Cardinals manager Tony La Russa working the match-ups early in the game: “Tony (La Russa) started the match-up game in the fifth inning tonight…but that’s playoff baseball.  The match-ups start a little bit early.”

Wells on the liberal use of the bullpens in the Postseason: “It’s amazing that the starters aren’t going longer than four innings.  There are only a couple of guys that have done it.  These guys have to get better because as much as they’re using their bullpens right now, if these next (starting pitchers) don’t go deep in the game, (the relievers) are going to be spent.”

Eckersley on the Rangers bullpen shutting down the Tigers: “You’re talking about two games (in the ALCS with) 12 2/3 scoreless innings…it does not get any better than that from a bullpen.  I know they have a good bullpen but this is ridiculous.”

Ripken on Rangers’ rightfielder Nelson Cruz, who had a walk-off grand slam in Game 2: “He’s a streaky hitter and got hot at the right time last year.  When he’s (hot) he can put the whole team on his shoulders.”

TBS reporter Craig Sager interviewed Cardinals’ first baseman Albert Pujols following the game

Pujols on being patient at the plate: “It’s part of the game.  Sometimes as a player you want to do too much and you’re a competitor and in the Postseason, you’re trying to help your team to win.  I think sometimes you learn from that.  I’ve been in this situation before and I’ve been in the Postseason so much in my career and I’m blessed to have those (opportunities).  Sometimes you’re going to chase a pitch and sometimes you’re going to get some good swings like I did tonight.  That’s the way it goes.  You just learn.”

Eckersley on the Brewers needing more production from their starting pitching: “Something’s gotta give.  You can’t win this thing with (Yovani) Gallardo and that’s it.  He’ll pitch Game 3 and he might pitch Game 7 (if necessary) but in between is three more starts from guys that have been getting lit up…they just have not pitched well at all.”

 -30-

The MLB Postseason continues on TBS today beginning at 4:30 p.m. ET with TBS MLB on Deck presented by Chrysler followed the Arizona Diamondbacks @ Milwaukee Brewers, (Game 5 – 5 p.m. ET) and St. Louis Cardinals @ Philadelphia Phillies, (Game 5 – 8:30 p.m. ET). The night will conclude with the post-game show Inside MLB presented by Captain Morgan.

***** ***** ***** ***** *****

TBS MLB on Deck presented by Chrysler

Matt Winer (host) and Dennis Eckersley, Cal Ripken and David Wells (analysts)

Eckersley on the pressure he pitched under: “When I pitched in the 9th inning, I felt like it was an elimination game every night.”

Wells on playing in the Postseason: “When you’re on this big of a stage, a lot of things can go wrong really quick.”

Eckersley on Tigers ace Justin Verlander not being available to pitch in Game 5: “He could’ve (pitched tonight), I mean, why not? I don’t really agree with it but this guy is their man. They are worried about him long-term. At the same time, do you panic? Is it a panic move to have him pitch? They said it a long time ago and they’ve stuck to their guns. They haven’t changed about putting him in.”

Wells: “This could be the last game of the season and you’ve got to go with the whole arsenal. Those 57 pitches (Verlander threw pre-game) could’ve been applied to the game. Don’t waste your bullets.”

Ripken: “It almost feels to me (they are saying), ‘Should Justin Verlander pitch every game? Let’s just wear him out and push him out there.’ You have to rely on the whole team and I like what (Tigers’ manager Jim) Leyland is doing here. He’s staying strong and saying, ‘No, we’re not going to use him here. We’re going to rely on the whole team to help us get there.’ If they do, they’ll have Verlander for Game 1 (of the ALCS).”

TBS’ reporter Tom Verducci interviewed Yankees’ shortstop Derek Jeter prior to the game

Jeter on if elimination games have a different feel in the Postseason: “They are all the same. If you have the same approach for every game – like it’s a must-win situation – then nothing changes going into this situation.”

Ripken on the slumping Alex Rodriguez and Mark Teixeira of the Yankees: “When these two guys don’t perform, they are always going to make a big deal out of it and I think wrongfully so. They’ve gotten big hits in big games before…we know they can play but they haven’t done it so far.”

***** ***** ***** ***** *****

Detroit Tigers (3) @ New York Yankees (2) – The Tigers win the series 3-2 and advance to the ALCS

Announcers: Brian Anderson (play-by-play), Ron Darling and John Smoltz (analysts) with Tom Verducci reporting

Darling on Yankees rookie starting pitcher Ivan Nova giving up back-to-back home runs in the first inning: “I don’t care if you’re a 10-year veteran or a rookie, giving up back-to-back home runs has to shake you to your core.”

Smoltz on Tigers Game 5 starting pitcher Doug Fister: “What you’re not going to see are three pitches in the same spot. He has a really good feel for the game…He really works the zone and keeps the hitters guessing.”

Smoltz on pitching in elimination games: “Game Fives are great for everyone except the pitchers.”

Smoltz on the Yankees’ patience in the Postseason: “The reason why this series is so intriguing is the relentless Yankees and their patience because they’ve been there, done that so many times. You’ve got the young players on the Tigers who are there for the first time and that tension causes you to be a little too aggressive. The Yankees have struggled offensively up until the last game and there’s no panic. They just know how to be in this moment.”

Smoltz on Yankees pitcher Phil Hughes: “He was a big key this year for the Yankees. It didn’t go the way he or the Yankees wanted it. He’s a solid pitcher that hasn’t found what he’s really capable of doing. It’s really important in the future of the Yankees to get Hughes back in their rotation.”

Darling on how relievers can give his team a lift: “There are a lot of things that can get your team going. A fine defensive play, getting some hits or a reliever coming in and shutting down the opposition can also give your team a lift.”

Smoltz on the solid communication between Tigers catcher Alex Avila and the pitching staff: “(Avila is) on the same page with a lot of his starters. Doesn’t seem like there has been a game with a lot of shake-offs. He’s really commanding and understanding of what his pitchers want to do. He’s finding the best pitch in the right situation…it helps the pitcher’s rhythm.”

TBS’ Brian Anderson, Ron Darling and John Smoltz interviewed Yankees manager Joe Girardi during the game:

Girardi on having to take starting pitcher Ivan Nova out of the game after two innings: “Nova tightened up a little bit so that’s why we had to take him out. Now it’s a bullpen game and our guys are going to have to shut them down. So far, so good. We’ve had some opportunities and now we have to capitalize on them.”

Smoltz on the Tigers’ game plan against the Yankees: “The Tigers came into this series with a game plan. You’ve got to push the hitters back and you’ve got to make them move a little bit. Their (pitching) staff has done a good job of maintaining that game plan. You don’t always make the perfect pitch but you put them on notice that this is how we are going to try to get you out.”

TBS’ reporter Tom Verducci interviewed Tigers outfielder Don Kelly following the game:

Kelly on his lead-off home run in the first inning: “The crowd was into it at the beginning and it was good to get on the board. Delmon (Young) followed it up with back-to-back home runs. It’s big to get out in front early here.”

***** ***** ***** ***** *****

Inside MLB presented by Captain Morgan

Matt Winer (host) and Dennis Eckersley, Cal Ripken and David Wells (analysts)

Eckersley on Game 5 of the Tigers/Yankees series: “That was one of the most exciting games. It really was. I was holding my breath. I couldn’t imagine being a Yankee fan and watching those two bases loaded situations. That is as good as playoff baseball gets…. in the fifth game, deciding game. Great game.”

Wells on Tigers starting pitcher Doug Fister: “He had his game on tonight. He challenged the guys and went right at them. He had Derek (Jeter) chasing them. That’s what good pitching does.”

Eckersley on the pitching in the Playoffs: “This is why you watch Major League Baseball postseason. One pitch changes everything.”

Eckersley on Tigers closer Jose Valverde: “This guy is a big reason they are there. This game was so exciting, especially in Yankee Stadium. It was just an exciting game. Great relief pitching.”

TBS Reporter Sam Ryan interviews Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Ryan Braun

Braun on the mood of the team going into Game 5: “I think it is the same as it was when we came in here. We still feel good about ourselves. Obviously, we would have loved to finish the series here (in Arizona). There is a reason we worked hard to get home field advantage at least in the first round. We like our chances in Game 5.”

Braun at playing Game 5 at Miller Park in Milwaukee: “It is a huge advantage like we said all along. That’s why we work so hard all year. We recognize the importance of getting home field and we know how well we play at home. I’m sure it would be a great atmosphere. That’s what it should be about. It is fun this time of year.”

Eckersley on the Game 5 match-up on the mound between Cardinals Chris Carpenter and Phillies Roy Halladay: “This is an exciting game. That is a great match-up. Those guys are identical pitchers. They make the ball move all over the place and they are great competitors. This is a marquee match-up.”

Wells on what he’s looking for between Carpenter and Halladay: “Just a good pitching duel. That’s what those guys are there for. They are both rested, both feel good and they both have their game plan. I think for them going in there it is just a matter of who makes the first mistake and hopefully the other guy capitalizes on it.”

Ripken on the Brewers’ strength at home: “Arizona at Milwaukee…The important thing is at Milwaukee. Both those teams have played really well at home. Milwaukee seems to be a different club in their own ballpark. The advantage has to go to Milwaukee.”

TBS Reporter Tom Verducci interviews manager Joe Girardi following the game

Girardi on what the first round loss means to the Yankee organization: “It is hard. It is very disappointing for all of us. I’m extremely pleased with how well the guys played all year long and in this series. When this series first started, I said when this game started someone was going to be extremely disappointed after three or four hours and it was us. We were one hit away and it hurts.”

Eckersley on what the Yankees did wrong this season: “I think a lot of things went right for the Yankees. They swung the bats good all year. Their ERA was as good as they have had in 30 years. What they need is a starting pitcher. Now they need a catcher too. I think they are going to want another bat. I don’t think (Jorge) Posada is going to be there anymore. Who knows? They are going to do what they have to do and I think it starts with a starting pitcher.”

Wells on the Yankees’ postseason performance: “They have the pitching in their organization. They just need to hit a little better in the Postseason. They weren’t on all cylinders. Sometimes they were hit or miss. Now they need to get on all cylinders and they have all off-season to work on it. Next year might be another story. They’ll be right back in it.”

-30-

The MLB Postseason continues on TBS tonight beginning at 7:30 p.m. ET with TBS MLB on Deck presented by Chrysler followed Game 5 of the Detroit Tigers @ New York Yankees (8 p.m. ET). The night will conclude with the post-game show Inside MLB presented by Captain Morgan.

*****     *****     *****     *****     *****

TBS MLB on Deck presented by Chrysler

Matt Winer (host) and Dennis Eckersley, Cal Ripken and David Wells (analysts)

Ripken on the potential of the Cardinals being eliminated and how you combat those feelings: “It’s an individual thing. You need to draw on all of your big game experiences – All Star Games, Playoff Games, even Opening Day. You’ve just got to get yourself relaxed and play to your capability. It’s not the easiest thing to do.”

Eckersley on the routine of baseball and how it plays into an elimination game: “To me, baseball is about routine. If I’m on my routine then I have confidence. Mine was about a turkey sandwich with no mayo and it went from there. Ultimately, you’re asking the wrong guy because I was uptight for 1,000 games. I thought every game was a big game.”

Wells on having experience in big games: “The more experienced guys you have, the calmer it’s going to be. Some of these young guys, it’s like En Vogue said: ‘Free your mind.’ Go out there and worry about what you have to do. Don’t add pressure to yourself and have some fun.”

Eckersley on Cardinals starting pitcher Edwin Jackson: “He’s been great. This is a power arm…this guy has been dynamite. He’s a power arm and I love power arms in the playoffs.”

Eckersley on Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Shaun Marcum and intentionally walking the Diamondbacks Miguel Montero to load the bases to pitch to Paul Goldschmidt, who hit a grand slam in Game 3: “He [threw] one bad pitch and it cost him the ballgame.”

 Wells on Marcum pitching to Goldschmidt: “You’ve got bases loaded so you have to pitch to the guy. But you have to make quality pitches. If you get behind in the count, you better keep the ball down. If you don’t, that’s what happens [Goldschmidt’s grand slam].”

Ripken on the strategy behind intentionally walking the Diamondbacks’ Miguel Montero in order to face the Diamondbacks Paul Goldschmidt: “The only right strategy is the one that works out. You’re always going to be second-guessed. During the game you have to make some quick decisions and sometimes those decisions are wrong.”

*****     *****     *****     *****     *****

Philadelphia Phillies (3) @ St. Louis Cardinals (5) – The series is tied 2-2

Announcers: Dick Stockton (play-by-play), Bob Brenly (analyst) with Craig Sager reporting

Brenly on the return of Cardinals outfielder Matt Holliday to the starting lineup and the Cardinals record of 70-54 with him in the lineup and 20-18 without him: “If the Cardinals fans needed a reason for optimism they got it when Matt Holliday was inserted in that customary five spot in the Cardinals lineup.”

Brenly on the Phillies quick two-runs after three straight hits to start the game: “If a Cardinals fan had trouble parking the car they’re going to miss a lot of action here in the first inning.”

Brenly on Cardinals starting pitcher Edwin Jackson: “Charlie Manuel referred to Edwin Jackson as a guy who likes his fastball a lot. But as the Phillies have shown here in this first inning he’s going to have to mix in some of his secondary pitches and show that you can throw them for strikes.”

TBS’ Dick Stockton and Bob Brenly interviewed Cardinals’ manager Tony La Russa during the game: 

Brenly: “Is there anything you say to your team when they’re facing elimination?”

La Russa: “When in doubt be aggressive.”

Brenly on the Cardinals third baseman David Freese who had a home run and four RBI: “He has been a big-time hitting prospect for this organization. When he’s been healthy and playing regularly he’s got tremendous power.”

Brenly on Cardinals starting pitcher Edwin Jackson: “You have to really give a lot of credit to Edwin Jackson and the way he settled in after that rocky start. It would’ve been very easy for things to tumble down the hill after those first three hitters [double, triple and single] of the game but Jackson was able to right the ship and pitch six strong innings.”

TBS’ reporter Craig Sager interviewed Cardinals third baseman David Freese following the game:

Sager: “The Cardinals score a run a game more when he [Matt Holliday] is in the game, what difference does it make having Matt in the lineup?”

Freese: “When Matt Holliday is in our lineup it’s a world of difference. He’s a beast and when he’s healthy, he’s a huge part of our success.”

Sager: “You hit a towering home run. What were you looking for?
Freese: “I just try and stay simple and look for something out over the plate. I put a good swing on it and it left.”

*****     *****     *****     *****     *****

Bank of America Game Break

Matt Winer (host) and Dennis Eckersley, Cal Ripken and David Wells (analysts)

Eckersley on Cardinals starting pitcher Edwin Jackson: “I was impressed. That was a great trade for them [the Cardinals] to get him in late July.”

Wells on Cardinals starting pitcher Edwin Jackson: “He solidified the [Phillies] four, five and six hitters to nothing. He shut those guys down – [Ryan] Howard, [Shane] Victorino and [Raul] Ibanez. That’s the key to shutting down the Philadelphia Phillies. They [Howard, Victorino and Ibanez] had nothing to do in this game whatsoever.”  

*****     *****     *****     *****     *****

Milwaukee Brewers (6) @ Arizona Diamondbacks (10) – The series is tied 2-2

Announcers: Victor Rojas (play-by-play) and Joe Simpson (analysts) with Sam Ryan reporting 

Simpson on the Diamondbacks Ryan Roberts grand slam in the first inning: “Wow, four straight home games with a grand slam for Arizona.”

TBS’ reporter Sam Ryan interviewed former Arizona Diamondbacks Luis Gonzalez during the fifth inning:

Ryan: “Kirk Gibson in his first year as manager of the Diamondbacks. What is he doing to get these guys playing for him?”

Gonzalez: “He’s done an incredible job. Him and the coaching staff. They have all the credentials. He’s pushing all the right buttons. This team has bought into whatever he’s preached since Spring Training.”

Ryan: “They certainly have the swagger but what else is it that is bringing this team back from an 0-2 deficit?”

Gonzalez: “They believe in each other and have a certain swagger, especially playing here at home [in Arizona].

TBS’ Victor Rojas and Joe Simpson interviewed Brewers manager Ron Roenicke during the third inning:

Roenicke comments on his team falling behind early in the first inning: “It was a tough inning there. [Diamondbacks starting pitcher Joe] Saunders is a good pitcher. But I’m happy the way we’re coming back swinging the bats and we’re going to keep coming back at them.”

Simpson on the hitting prowess of the Diamondbacks and Brewers: “Neither one of these lineups give you any room to breathe. They’re just going up there looking to tee off – both teams.”

Simpson on Arizona’s clutch-hitting: “What an exhibition in these two games by the Arizona hitters [having gone 9-19 with runners in scoring position through seven innings in Game 4].

Simpson on the Brewers’ efforts offensively in the 8^th inning: “The Brewers never feel like they’re out of a ball game. They just haven’t been able to keep the Diamondbacks from scoring.”

*****     *****     *****     *****     *****

Inside MLB presented by Captain Morgan

Matt Winer (host) and Dennis Eckersley, Cal Ripken and David Wells (analysts)

Eckersley on the Diamondbacks’ explosive offense at home: “(The Diamondbacks) go down 1-0 and then they drop a 5-spot on you.  They are a different team at home.”

Ripken on the Brewers’ second baseman Rickie Weeks: “He’s going to be a big player here if they go deep into the playoffs.  He’s got a lot of power, he drives in big runs.  Hhe is hitting behind (Prince) Fielder so he’s going to have to provide some protection. In order for Milwaukee to really get rolling with their offense, (Weeks) is going to have to be part of the ‘big three’ (with Fielder and Ryan Braun) and he needs to get hot.  Weeks is going to play a key role.”

Ripken on pitching and hitting perspectives:  “From a hitter’s perspective, sometimes pitchers like to save pitches and just get through the first inning with just their fastball.  From a hitter’s perspective, if you establish your curveball and off-speed pitches early it gives them more things to think about.”     

Eckersley on St. Louis Cardinals: “That club has been fighting for the last month.  They have been eliminated almost every game. They have to be psyched.  St. Louis is loving life right now.”

TBS reporter Craig Sager interviewed Cardinals’ third baseman David Freese and outfielder Matt Holliday following the game

 Freese on teammate Matt Holliday:  “When he’s in our lineup, it’s a world of difference.  He’s a beast and when he’s healthy, he rolling and a huge part of our success.”

Holliday on playing the Postseason:  “This is why you go to spring training, work hard in the off-season and play hard in the regular season for an opportunity to be out here in the Postseason.”

TBS reporter Tom Verducci interviewed Detroit Tigers Game 5 starting pitcher Doug Fister

Fister on playing in an elimination game in the Postseason: “This is the opportunity that every kid dreams of.  But, we need to focus on each pitch and the task at hand.  We need to rely on what we have been working on all year.” 

-30-

The MLB Postseason continues on TBS tonight beginning at 5:30 p.m. (ET) with TBS MLB on Deck presented by Chrysler followed the Philadelphia Phillies @ St. Louis Cardinals, (Game 4 – 6 p.m. ET), Milwaukee Brewers @ Arizona Diamondbacks, (Game 4 – 9:30 p.m. ET).  The night will conclude with the post-game show Inside MLB presented by Captain Morgan.

*****     *****     *****     *****     *****

New York Yankees (10) @ Detroit Tigers (1) – The series is tied 2-2

Announcers: Brian Anderson (play-by-play), Ron Darling and John Smoltz (analysts) with Tom Verducci reporting

Smoltz on the significance of Yankees pitcher A.J. Burnett finding his release point: “A hitter shouldn’t see your number (on the back of the jersey) for too long.  That’s the turn you see and his arm angle is so dependant on that turn.  Sometimes it’s lower than it should be and you get the left-to-right fade on the fastball…you don’t want that.  He has to find that release point.”

Darling on A.J. Burnett with runners on base: “Pitching from the stretch is not a friend of A.J. Burnett.”

Darling on A.J. Burnett: “Burnett’s career has been defined by being consistently inconsistent.”

Darling on pitchers’ confidence level: “Pitchers who pitch with confidence let the ball go.  Pitchers that don’t have confidence aim the ball.”

Smoltz on finding a lost release point: “When you lose your release point, you lose your confidence.  It’s like making a putting stroke and getting the yips.  Until you mechanically fix it, it’s not easy (to correct).”

TBS’ Brian Anderson, Ron Darling and John Smoltz interviewed Yankees’ manager Joe Girardi during the game:

Girardi on hitters getting good at-bats: “If you keep putting up good at bats, you’re going to get hits.  That’s all you can ask the guys to do.”

Smoltz on how Yankees closer Mariano Rivera shortens the game: “Nothing in this game is 100% or foolproof but with Mr. Rivera in the bullpen, you’ve got about two innings to make up some ground.  If the Yankees have the lead, we all know how good (Rivera) is.  You play the game differently when you’re facing the Yankees.  It’s a shorter game…period.”

Smoltz on the Yankees’ toughness: “These guys are some of the toughest guys in baseball and not necessarily because of their physique but because of what they have to deal with on a daily basis in New York.  There is so much expected of them and you’re either a hero or a goat this time of year.”

Smoltz on players having fun despite the high pressure situations of the Postseason: “If you can’t enjoy (the pressure), it’s going to swallow you up.”

Darling on Alex Rodriguez starting to pull out of his series-long slump: “The one thing you don’t want to see (if you’re Detroit) is (Alex) Rodriguez, who has struggled this entire series. His bat speed is starting to quicken, he’s starting to get hot and he’s getting a little confidence.  That’s not a good thing for the Tigers.”

*****     *****     *****     *****     *****

Milwaukee Brewers (1) @ Arizona Diamondbacks (8) – The series is tied 2-1

Announcers: Victor Rojas (play-by-play) and Joe Simpson (analysts) with Sam Ryan reporting 

Rojas on the Diamondbacks pitching strategy for the Brewers’ Ryan Braun:  ”They are trying to keep the pitches in on Ryan Braun.  Something they didn’t do in Milwaukee. On a couple of occasions when they did, they were successful in getting him out.”

TBS’ Victor Rojas and Joe Simpson interviewed Brewers Manager Ron Roenicke during the game

Roenicke on Diamondbacks starting pitcher Josh Collmenter:  ”We know he has the fastball and a deceptive delivery.  His change-up is really good.  That deception is just really hard to read.  He’s throwing pitches at 88-89 mph but they seem more like 93-94 m.p.h.”

Simpson on Diamondbacks manager Kirk Gibson’s coaching staff:  The coaching staff that Gibson has assembled is a very talented bunch – two MVP Awards, eight Gold Gloves.  That’s a special unit in the Diamondbacks’ dugout.  It’s very rare these days.”  

Simpson on Diamondbacks manager Kirk Gibson:  ”He’s a guy who knows how to motivate and knows what buttons to push on his team.  He is so even-keel and low-key, which is hard to believe considering the way he played the game and his reputation.”

TBS Reporter Sam Ryan interviewed Arizona Diamondbacks Paul Goldschmidt following the game:

Goldschmidt on being the third rookie in baseball history to hit a grand slam in the Postseason: “It’s very exciting.  The game was exciting, as well, and I am glad we could get the win tonight.  The pitch was pretty much down the middle and I was able to get enough on it to get it out of here.”

Goldschmidt on watching Collmenter on the mound:  ”He is fun to watch.  He was throwing strikes and he has been doing that all year long for us so it was great to see.”

*****     *****     *****     *****     *****

Inside MLB presented by Captain Morgan

Matt Winer (host) and Dennis Eckersley, Cal Ripken and David Wells (analysts)

TBS Reporter Tom Verducci interviews Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter following the game:

Jeter on the importance of getting on the board first in Game 4: “It is important. We wanted to come out and score first. Obviously, (Rick) Porcello has been pitching well as of late and he was tough on us today. With the exception of the 8^th inning, this was a close game.

Jeter on teammate A.J. Burnett’s command of the ball:  “He threw the ball well. We have a lot of confidence in A.J., regardless of what he’s done in the past; he’s pitched some big games for us. He was very calm and we had some good plays out there in centerfield. You are going to have pitch and play defense but A.J. was spectacular.”

Jeter on how Yankees pitcher Ivan Nova should handle the atmosphere of Game 5: “Treat it like any other game that’s the bottom line. It is still baseball.  Whether it is Game 1, Game 5 or if you are in spring training; we have confidence in him.”

Wells on the importance of the Yankees defense behind A.J. Burnett:  “That’s what saved them, that defense.  But that’s what those guys get paid for, making great defensive plays.  It’s a team effort and that is what he needed behind him and it showed.”

Eckersley on Yankees outfielder Curtis Granderson:  “He’s up for the MVP. He may not get it.  He just doesn’t get enough credit for his defense. That’s what he is capable of doing. He’s done it all for the Yankees.”

Ripken on the importance of Game 5: “You can say it is only one game and now we are 2-2. Sometimes you can start to get healthy, non-pressured at bats. A-Rod looked much better, more like his old self. Teixeira hit two balls really hard. I think sometimes you need a blow-out game to get healthy. This can play over to the next game. Once you feel like you got your timing at the plate, now we are ready for those pressures at- bats. It could be a little more significant than just one win.”

Wells on Rangers’ Adrian Beltre’s power hitting: “He is somebody to reckon with. This guy is a free swinger. He swings outside the zone and that’s where he gets a lot of his home runs. Anything up in the zone, up in the middle of the plate, outside the plate, whatever, this guy just crushes the ball.”

TBS Reporter Craig Sager interviews Phillies pitcher Cole Hamels following the game:

Hamels on what worked for him during Game 3: “I was able to stay down in the zone. Anytime I was going to miss, I was going to miss down.”

Hamels on Ben Francisco pinch-hitting for him in the bottom of the 7th: “Benny has done really well for us. I knew the circumstances of where we were. To have guys on, Benny came up huge and that was awesome.”

Ripken on the Cardinals hitters’ view affected by the sun: “It seemed like the conditions were so tough for the hitters that the game really didn’t begin until the seventh (inning). It’s kind of a shame when you play a playoff game, that that really does exist.  That’s just the reality of playing in the playoffs. It is so frustrating. It just seems the hitters didn’t have a good view.”

Eckersley on Diamondbacks pitcher Josh Collmenter: “I haven’t seen this kid pitch much, but once you see him you know why he’s difficult. There’s no one quite like him. A rookie to go out on the mound, he made a statement; everyone knows who he is now.”

Wells on Brewers pitcher Shaun Marcum reacting to Paul Goldschmidt’s grand slam by throwing his glove: “You can just get caught up in the moment. No one wants to give up a granny, let alone a home run. It just shows the emotion.”

-30-

The MLB Postseason continues on TBS on Wed., October 5 beginning at 5:30 p.m. ET with TBS MLB on Deck presented by Chrysler followed the Philadelphia Phillies @ St. Louis Cardinals, (Game 4 – 6 p.m. ET), Milwaukee Brewers @ Arizona Diamondbacks, (Game 4* – 9:30 p.m. ET).  The night will conclude with the post-game show Inside MLB presented by Captain Morgan.

*****     *****     *****     *****     *****

TBS MLB on Deck presented by Chrysler

Matt Winer (host) and Dennis Eckersley, Cal Ripken and David Wells (analysts)

Wells on Philadelphia Phillies Game 3 starting pitcher and fellow San Diego native Cole Hamels: “He utilizes every pitch with strike ability.  His cutters, fastballs, change-ups – it’s like perfection.  He’s a gamer.  Plus, he’s a San Diego boy… those guys know how to pitch out there.”

Eckersley on St. Louis Cardinals Game 3 starting pitcher Jaime Garcia: “This kid has got great stuff.  He keeps the ball down and had a good change-up and curveball.  He pitched great in September and great against the Phillies.  He pitched 15 innings against the Phillies and gave up only one run so he has to keep that going.”

Wells on New York Yankees Game 4 starting pitcher A.J. Burnett: “His game is in his hands.  The whole world is against him right now, but I’m not.  His last two starts have been pretty darn good and he knows that.   He has to keep that in mind the whole game.”

Eckersley on A.J. Burnett:  “This is a huge start for him and there is no room for error here.  He’s capable of anything.”

Ripken on A.J. Burnett:  “He needs to flaunt his stuff to the hitters.  He needs to go after them and see what happens.  He has pitched well against Detroit this year.”

Eckersley on Milwaukee Brewers Game 3 starting pitcher Shaun Marcum: “He will need to keep his change-up down.  He pitches great at home.  He’s been dynamite for them.”

Wells on Arizona Diamondbacks Game 3 starting pitcher Josh Collmenter:  “He’s so deceiving because his pitches are straight over the top.  Until he drops the change-up on you and it falls right off the table.  It’s hard to read him as a hitter.”

*****     *****     *****     *****     *****

Texas Rangers (4) @ Tampa Bay Rays (3) – The Rangers win the series 3-1 and advance to the ALCS

Announcers: Don Orsillo (play-by-play) and Buck Martinez (analysts) with Jaime Maggio reporting

Martinez on Rangers catcher Mike Napoli this postseason: “Napoli has been in the middle of big innings for the Rangers so far.  As good as he has been at the plate, he has been even better behind it.”

Martinez on Rays’ outfielder Desmond Jennings: “Jennings has a very good eye at the plate for a young hitter.  He shows a lot of confidence and patience; very selective.  The Rays recognized this very early.”

Martinez on the mental aspect of the game: “Our own John Smoltz brought to light that he consulted with an advisor to help him focus, concentrate and create a game plan.  Yogi Berra always said, ‘90 percent of this game is half mental.’”

Martinez on the Rangers bullpen: “The Rangers ability of their bullpen to shut down the Rays late helped win the game.  They really did a terrific job shutting down B.J. Upton and Evan Longoria who were key to the Rays’ offense.”

TBS’ reporter Jaime Maggio interviewed Rangers third baseman Adrian Beltre following the game:

Beltre on making history for three home runs in one postseason game: “The first couple games their pitching was really good and I couldn’t get anything.  Today something changed and I felt more comfortable at the plate.  I just wanted to help my team win.”

Beltre on the Rangers advancing the ALCS: “It feels great to win today and be four games away from the World Series.  We are looking good right now but we still have a long way to go. “

*****     *****     *****     *****     *****

Philadelphia Phillies (3) @ St. Louis Cardinals (2) – The Phillies lead the series 2-1

Announcers: Dick Stockton (play-by-play) and Bob Brenly (analysts) with Craig Sager reporting

Brenly on Pujols needing to hit the ball to the opposite field: “Pitchers aren’t going to make many mistakes where (Pujols) can get a good rip and hit the ball out of the ballpark.  He’s going to have to be content to hit the ball to the opposite field and set it up for Lance Berkman and others in the Cardinals lineup.”

TBS’ Dick Stockton and Bob Brenly interviewed Cardinals’ manager Tony La Russa during the game:

Stockton referring to La Russa’s controversial comments during an in-game interview in Game 2: “Anything you’d like to get off your chest today?”

La Russa: “No…my jaw is wired shut.”

La Russa on the pitching in the series: “We all know they’ve got great starting pitching but we do too.  That’s why we’re here.”

Brenly on Cardinals second baseman Ryan Theriot: “The way Ryan Theriot has handled himself at the plate, you might think about pushing him up higher in the order.  He’s very accustomed to hitting one or two in the lineup.”

Brenly on the Phillies’ deep pitching staff: “When you have a deep starting rotation like the Phillies do, you can survive a hiccup during the regular season.  If one of your aces goes out there and has a subpar outing, you’re pretty sure you’re going to get a good outing the next day.  The Phillies can throw arms at you all year long.”

Brenly on the two starting catchers in the series framing pitches: “(Carlos) Ruiz and (Yadier) Molina are both very good at making borderline pitches look better than they really are.

Brenly on Cardinals catcher Yadier Molina: “Molina is like having another coach on the field.

-30-

The MLB Postseason continues on TBS on Tue., October 4 beginning at 1:30 p.m. ET with TBS MLB on Deck presented by Chrysler followed the Texas Rangers @ Tampa Bay Rays, (Game #4 – 2 p.m. ET), Philadelphia Phillies @ St. Louis Cardinals (Game #3 – 5 p.m. ET) and New York Yankees @ Detroit Tigers (Game #4 – 8:30 p.m. ET).  The Milwaukee Brewers @ Arizona Diamondbacks, (Game #3 – 9:30 p.m. ET) will air on TNT.  The night will conclude with the post-game show Inside MLB presented by Captain Morgan.

*****     *****     *****     *****     *****

TBS MLB on Deck presented by Chrysler

Matt Winer (host) and Dennis Eckersley, Cal Ripken and David Wells (analysts)

Eckersley on Detroit Tigers Game #3 starting pitcher Justin Verlander: “(He’s had) Absolute dominance over the course of the last couple of months.  This is the difference-maker and he is the reason why Detroit could go all the way.”

Ripken on Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez’s Postseason slump: “The real issue is that he didn’t have a lot of reps down the stretch (of the regular season).  Then he has to come out and face (the Tigers’) Verlander, Fister and Scherzer (in the LDS).  His timing is off and if you watch him really closely, I think he’s getting out (in front) too soon.  He’s not in a good position to hit the (inside) pitch.  He’s recognizing pitches early but his body is leaking out further.  It’s a simple fix…he could bust out.  There’s not really anything to worry about right now.”

Eckersley on Yankees second baseman Robinson Cano: “(Cano) is ridiculous.  He used the whole ballpark the other night.  It’s frightening…this kid can hit anybody.”

Ripken on Alex Rodriguez: “A-Rod doesn’t have the same presence right now, but that could change really quickly.”

TBS reporter Jaime Maggio interviewed Tampa Bay Rays outfielder Johnny Damon prior to the game

Damon on the importance of young players learning how to hustle from him: “I’m showing them how to play the game.  Hustling is the one thing you can control in this game.  Because of that, over the course of the season, I think we may have won four or five games because of the way I hustle.”

Ripken on the Rays being active on the basepaths: “They’ve gotten it done differently this year after losing all those guys with the offense last year.  They are going to get it done any way they can and part of that is stealing bases.  I don’t know a lot about stealing bases but I do know that’s how they manufacture runs.”

*****     *****     *****     *****     *****

Texas Rangers (4) @ Tampa Bay Rays (3) – Rangers lead the series 2-1

Announcers: Don Orsillo (play-by-play) and Buck Martinez (analysts) with Jaime Maggio reporting

Martinez on Rays centerfielder B.J. Upton: “Upton has really gotten hot since they moved him up to the No. 2 spot in the lineup.  He’s more patient, he’s more selective and most importantly, he’s got Evan Longoria hitting behind him.”

Martinez on Rays Game #3 starting pitcher David Price: “(Rays manager Joe Maddon) called Price the best teammate he’s ever seen anywhere.  Everyday he comes to the park and brings enthusiasm.  He cheers his teammates on and you couldn’t ask for a better teammate.”

TBS’ Don Orsillo and Buck Martinez interviewed Rays manager Joe Maddon prior to the fifth inning

Maddon on Rays rookie outfielder Desmond Jennings: “Two years ago he struggled but right now, he’s doing pretty well.  We talked about him all the time and finally someone thought that he’s ripe and now he’s up here.”

Martinez on speed: “(Speed) can be beneficial even if you don’t run.  It’s a distraction.”

Martinez on Rangers Game #3 starting pitcher Colby Lewis:  “Lewis doesn’t have overpowering stuff but he certainly messes with the hitter’s timing.  Plus, he has great location with his fastball.  He goes in-and-out and controls both sides of the plate.  He puts all of his pitches in the hitter’s mind.”

Martinez on Rangers catcher Mike Napoli: “There are a lot of things that factor into his success.  (He’s in) a better lineup with more hitters around him and a very good ballpark to hit in at home.  Not to take a thing away from him…he’s had a great year.”

*****     *****     *****     *****     *****

Detroit Tigers (5) @ New York Yankees (4) – Tigers lead the series 2-1

Announcers: Brian Anderson (play-by-play), Ron Darling and John Smoltz (analysts) with Tom Verducci reporting

Smoltz on Tigers Game #3 starting pitcher Justin Verlander: “(Verlander) has one of the most lively arms in baseball and its tantalizing to go to it and rush it up there at 98, 99 miles-per-hour.  He has to pitch to contact a little bit more and he’s learning how to do that.”

Darling on a starting pitcher’s day compared to a reliever’s: “The starting pitcher’s day starts as soon as he gets his head off the pillow on the day he pitches.  The reliever’s day starts as soon as that (bullpen) phone rings.”

Smoltz: “The heart beats are a little different.”

Smoltz on how pitchers should be able to adjust in-game: “Pitching is so finicky.  On the fourth day (of rest) you might feel great, on the fifth day, you don’t feel as good.  Sometimes your body reacts differently.  Every game is different and every five days is not going to be the same.  That’s why you do the best you can to try to adjust in-game as much as possible.”

Smoltz on the raised stress levels in the Postseason: “The stress in the Postseason is not the same (as the regular season).  It’s like pitching a ninth inning…every inning.”

Darling on the importance of Game #3 in the best-of-five LDS: “A lot of tension here at the ballpark.  Not just with the fans but also with the players.  Historically, this third game is always the swing game in a five-game series.  Whoever wins this game usually goes on to win the series.”

TBS’ Brian Anderson, Ron Darling and John Smoltz interviewed Yankees manager Joe Girardi in the fourth inning

Girardi on CC Sabathia’s performance in Game #3 through three innings: “He’s thrown a lot of pitches and I think he’s made some good pitches and some borderline pitches that he hasn’t gotten tonight.  But he’s thrown the ball well and to get out of that jam, bases loaded, nobody out and only give up one run after he gave up the first run, that’s pretty good pitching.”

Smoltz on Verlander: “He knows his mechanics and he’s perfected them.  You don’t have a 24-win campaign just because you’ve got good stuff.  You have to time-in and time-again deliver in the right spot.”

Smoltz on the Tigers’ performance in the Postseason: “There aren’t a lot of teams that would be able to play this game as close as they have.  The Yankees and their superstars, they’ve been there, done that.  They’ve (the Tigers) scratched and clawed and that’s what makes these games so special at this time of the year.  These guys have the flare for the dramatic.”

Darling on Verlander throwing 100 mph in the 8^th inning: “Not since Nolan Ryan have I seen anything like this this late in a game.”

TBS’ reporter Tom Verducci interviewed Tigers Game #3 winning pitcher Justin Verlander following the game:

Verlander on pitching on short rest between games: “There’s so much adrenaline in a situation like this.  It’s really a non-issue.  I was a little out of rhythm in the first, found it and then lost it for three batters.  This team has a never-say-die-attitude…tonight is another example of that.”

Verlander on teammate Delmon Young’s first pitch home run in the seventh inning: “It was amazing.  What an acquisition he’s been.  He’s been such a great teammate and he just extends our lineup even further.  What a stud…what an at-bat.”

*****     *****     *****     *****     *****

Inside MLB presented by Captain Morgan

Matt Winer (host) and Dennis Eckersley, Cal Ripken and David Wells (analysts)

TBS Reporter Tom Verducci interviews Detroit Tigers Delmon Young following the game:

Young on Justin Verlander throwing 120 pitches:  “I’ve seen it ever since I’ve been here – 120 pitches is the norm for him. He’s going to go out there and battle and keep us in a situation where we have a chance to win the game. You need a pitcher like that to counter (Yankees) CC Sabathia.”

Young on the Tigers chances of winning Game #4 at home: “We like our chances right now but we have to make sure we come out and play all nine innings because anything could happen.”

Wells on Verlander’s strength on the mound: “It’s incredible to see how this guy throws. When he gets in trouble, he throws harder. It’s consistent.”

Wells on what impressed him about Texas Rangers catcher Mike Napoli’s hitting prowess:  “Just the way he stayed composed at his at-bat.  With Mike Napoli, the way he’s playing now, you cannot pitch him middle in, unless it is in off the plate because he is going to launch on you.”

Eckersley on Rangers pitcher Colby Lewis: “He knows how to pitch. Good change-up, good breaking ball; a one- hitter in six innings. He pitched a great game.”

TBS Reporter Sam Ryan interviews Arizona Diamondback manager Kirk Gibson following the game:

Gibson on the coaching decisions he has made thus far in Games #1 and #2: “You are forced to make decisions within games, some of them work out and some of them don’t. Ultimately, we haven’t played well. My decisions don’t look good and I understand that. We need to get back to playing the way we play and putting pressure on them in our home environment and getting this series back in our favor.”

Gibson on what the Diamondbacks need to do to win Game #3: “We just stay consistent and have a good attitude like we have had all year. We won three or more games 12 times this year. We are capable of doing it. Two teams have come back from a two-game deficit seven times since 1981.”