NL West 10/14: Dodgers advance to NLCS, Kershaw gets a save

In a way that can only be done via the magic of October baseball, the Dodgers beat the Nationals and are advancing to the NLCS. The game was full of magical moments that remind us why we watch the sport. Scherzer was pitching a spotless game and hadn’t even allowed a hit through the fifth, and it looked like the Nationals would be facing the Cubs...until the tide turn in the seventh inning. Then, it was clear that the baseball gods had favored LA this evening. Julio Urias made his mark by being the youngest pitcher in MLB history to have a postseason win, Joc Pederson hit a monster solo shot that got the ball rolling for the Dodgers, and to top it all off, Kershaw, operating on zero rest, came in for the save. Isn’t baseball beautiful?

The Giants’ performance during Game 4 of the NLDS will go down in history as one of the biggest bullpen collapses of the postseason. But don’t jump on the “overhaul” bandwagon so quickly. That’s the exact opposite of what San Francisco needs.

However I think there’s one thing we can all agree on: Derek Law and his rally towel are the heroes we need.

With a sign of relief that could summon hurricane speed winds, the Padres are finally rid of Mike Dee. Now, the real rebuilding can begin...as soon as A.J. Preller is handed his walking papers as well. But it’s not all rainbows and unicorns over in San Diego. Tyson Ross will be having thoracic outlet surgery to correct his season-long shoulder issues. This procedure with work to relieve pressure on a bundle of nerves that run down Ross’ pitching arm. Major applause to him for trying to work through that because boy does it sound painful.

In some more sad news, the Padres won’t be having their Holiday Wonderland this year, so you’re all forced to spend the holiday season with your families. Sigh.

It’s already 9am, so let’s hit you with a hot controversy. Should the Diamondbacks trade Paul Goldschmidt? Would a deal involving him set up a sparkling Diamondback team of the future or drop fan morale? Before you light your torches and gather your pitch forks, please consider one thing: don’t shoot the messenger.

The Rockies now join the list of teams on the hunt for a new manager. After parting ways with Walt Weiss, the Rox have a large and qualified pool to pick from. Those being considered include former Padres manager Bud Black (who was an option for the Braves vacancy as well) and Brad Mills, the current Indians bench coach.