Carlos Ruiz’s Helmet To Hall Of Fame

Got an e-mail from the Baseball Hall of Fame announcing the opening of their annual World Series exhibit on Monday. Included in the display will be Ryan Howard’s bat used during Game 4 of the World Series, Carlos Ruiz’s batting helmet from his game-winning hit in Game 3, the bat Joe Blanton used to hit his home run in Game 4, and the cap Brad Lidge wore during Game 5.

Finally! Carlos Ruiz’s batting helmet has made the Hall of Fame, as it deserves. There really should be a special Hall of Fame exhibit where fans can beat up whoever made Toyota’s “Saved by Zero” commercial.

Phillies Get Bad Omen At All-Star Game

Major league baseball’s All-Star Game just ended a few minutes ago in the 15th inning. Guess who the losing pitcher was? That’s right: Brad Lidge gave up the game-winning sacrifice fly in the bottom of the 15th.

When the Phillies reach the World Series this year, they will have to play on the road. (For those who didn’t know, the team that wins the All-Star Game wins home field advantage for the World Series.) On the plus side, ex-Phillies closer Billy Wagner blew the save in the 8th inning in non-shocking fashion.

The Fightins have a whole two days off, then head to Miami to play the third-place Florida Marlins. Catcher Chris Coste also had a book signing yesterday in North Dakota; apparently he did not believe he was going to make the All-Star Game this year. Way to give up early, Chris! (Well, okay, I guess it was a pretty safe bet.)

AL 4, NL 3 [AP/Yahoo! Sports]
Photo by BenYankee, Creative Commons license