ESPN

Buzzmaster

  (5:38 PM)

Buzz here, we'll be live for Game 2 of the NLCS starting at 7:30 p.m. ET tonight! Tune in to The Show and see if the Cardinalds take a commanding lead ... or Pete Munro emerges as an unlikely October hero. We'll also have inning-by-inning updates from Rob Neyer. See you at 7:30!

Buzzmaster

  (7:32 PM)

Ready for some baseball?

Chris (Buffalo, NY)

Hey Buzz!What's the weather situation?

Buzzmaster

  (7:33 PM)

It looks like they're playing the tarp right now. I thought they were taking it off, but now it looks like it's back on.

John (Reading, PA)

is it just me or is the Cards/Astros series boring?

Buzzmaster

  (7:34 PM)

10-7 in Game 1 with five home runs? I think it's just you, John.

CapriRS302 (St. Louis)

This game is in the bag. (weather permitting!)

MAtt (Hawthorne NJ)

Hey Buzz, I'm ready

Buzzmaster

  (7:35 PM)

That's what we like to hear. Got an umbrella?

Jeff J (Houston)

Buzz, If the game gets cancelled Does that give an Edge to the Astros so that their staff can get some much needed rest?

Buzzmaster

  (7:36 PM)

Absolutely it would, but the tarp is coming off after all, and you know they'll wait out as much rain as they need to in order to get this game in.

Joshua (Manchester,NH)

Will the Red Sox rebound from this 2-0 deficit and go to the World Series?

Buzzmaster

  (7:37 PM)

Come on now, we may get to the ALCS if there are some rain delays, but can we focus on the NL for at least one night?

AndyCoz (Ridgewood, NJ)

The Stros will definately start Clemens for Game 2 if they get this delay

AstrosDAD (Bowling Green OH)

So is the tarp on or off? I am not near a radio or tv?

Buzzmaster

  (7:38 PM)

They fooled me for a minute, but it's definitely off. Field looks to be in pretty good condition (at least from the tv shots)

Jeff J (Houston)

So its Morris vs. Munro tonight, Do you think Munro has even a chance of getting to the 4th or 5th inning?

Buzzmaster

  (7:40 PM)

From the stats? No. the Cards should eat him alive. But it seems like every postseason some pitcher comes up big. Could it be Munro?

AstrosDAD (Bowling Green, OH)

Munro will surprise us all. . . but it may be a 11-9 sort of game.

Scott (Lubbock, TX)

He's a fairly talented guy and can be tough when he's locating his pitches. When he doesn't locate though, it's pretty much BP.

Casey (Portland, OR)

Any rain delays certainly won't help his cause...the last thing he needs are long waits between innings that don't involve boat-loads of Astros runs.

Paul (Honolulu)

Pete Munro may fool everyone

Kyle (Calgary)

Stuck at work - sucks. Stuck at work listening to playoff baseball - sucks not as much.

Buzzmaster

  (7:44 PM)

Hey, we're live in Canada, too. Nice.

Zachary (Portland,Tx.)

Hey Buzz do you consider this a must win for the stros tonight? And if they win will there home field advantage be enough to win the series?Go Stros

Buzzmaster

  (7:46 PM)

I don't think it's a must-win, but it obviously improves their chances drastically. It's tough for any team, even a team as good at home at Houston, to win three in a row. So if they don't win here and only take 2-of-3 at home, they'd need two in a row back in St. Louis. Not likely.

Dan Z. (Philadelphia, PA)

Pete Munro is fairly talented, being that he went to my High School and we were college roommates....he's got great character and I believe he may pull this off, though not without the help of the 'Stros bats.

Buzzmaster

  (7:47 PM)

Any chance you also roomed with Derek Lowe? The city of Boston wants to know ...

Jeff J (Houston)

Well Kyle in Calgary has no hockey to watch

CapriRS302 (St. Louis)

Too bad there's no hockey, I miss the Blues. :(

Buzzmaster

  (7:47 PM)

Two hockey mentions? We've already beat the over/under for the whole night!

Lil'Joe (Chuncheon, South Korea)

Excellent point, Buzz, but I think the next 4 games belong to the Stros! They just want this too badly!

Buzzmaster

  (7:49 PM)

I'm guessing some St. Louis fans will dispute that ...

Greg (SD, CA)

Munro is done after 3. He won't get passed the second time through the lineup

Brye (LA)

yeah, you're right, the cards don't want it at all...

Buzzmaster

  (7:51 PM)

Lots of focus on Munro, but it's not like Morris has been on top of his game most of this season. Can the Cards count on a good night from him?

Scott (Lubbock, TX)

I love how everyone in this room thinks they could get a hit off Munro.

Matt (Chattanooga)

Hey Buzz...Which will Matt Morris be tonight? Jekyl or Hyde?

Brandon (Atlanta, Ga)

I don't know if they need a good night from Morris 6ip and 4 or less runs I think is good enough tonight.

Brye (LA)

i was at the "lima time" game and i thought morris threw well except for the 2 balls to green...but the stros could hit circles around the hapless dodgers.

Dale (Greenville, SC)

Let's hope Houston wins tonight so that the NLCS will be interesting. If St. Louis wins, this series is over .....

Saint Louis

Has the game started yet? I am at school and don't have a way to check on it.

Buzzmaster

  (7:56 PM)

Not yet, but it's looking better for a relatively on-time start.

Bob (Indy)

As a Cards fan, I think this is MUST win for STL. I do not want to face Clamens and Oswalt in HOU with a chance to go down 3-1, and then have to win game 5 there

Buzzmaster

  (7:57 PM)

That's a fresh take, a Cards fan who is a little concerned.

roger (stl)

it's real cold and wet here. just miserable

Casey (Portland, OR)

Bob, excellent reverse jinx, well done.

Bob (Indy)

Let's not forget that HOU won 18 in a row at home with the pressure on down the stretch.

Jeff J (Houston)

Bob from Indy, good point, i'd feel the same if i was in you seat

Matt (Roanoke Va)

houston is better than they get credit for...deep down all Cards fans know this

Andy (Virginia Beach, VA)

I have to agree with Bob.....the cards are fantastic, but what Im really worried about is Morris pitching tonight......he is either ON or OFF....

Scott (Lubbock, TX)

I can't imagine playing baseball is more miserable weather. High 30s with a light drizzle? Just shoot me.

Buzzmaster

  (8:02 PM)

Least it's not snowing like in WS in Cleveland.

Brian (Boonville, IN)

I may be one of the few, but I'm really glad La Russa moved up Morris in the rotation so he can pitch 2 games at home...that said, I hope he can get to more innings pitched than runs allowed. I'm with Bob that this game is huge for the Cards, not just the Astros.

JT (Lynchburg, VA)

Sandy Alderson just reported they're going to try get the game going 845 eastern.

Brye (LA)

Go take a look at Morris' career postseason numbers and then realize that Munro hasn't touched a ball in a game in weeks. Puh-lease.

Eric-Yankee Fan In (Atlanta, GA)

Hey Buzzmaster I was at that game in Cleveland--that was awesome!

kevin (cali)

if there is a rain delay are they going to wait it out or do you think they will play it another day ??

Buzzmaster

  (8:05 PM)

It looks like MLB is pretty confident the weather is going to pass through enough to let them play all nine innings. 8:45 ET start.

Andy (Virginia Beach, VA)

Alderson said there is no curfew, so the game will be played.....but rainout rules are in effect

Bob (Indy)

If you look at the radar, the rain is about of STL, although it is really moving slowly.

Scott (Lubbock, TX)

Do the same rules apply to playoff games as in the regular season? Does the game become official at any point even if they don't play the full 9 innings?

Buzzmaster

  (8:09 PM)

After five innings, same as the regular season. But with no curfew, you know they'll wait till the wee hours of morning to get all nine innings in.

Steve (PA)

I think it's a great game for Rolen to break out

Buzzmaster

  (8:10 PM)

Looks like he started to break out last night.

Steve (PA)

So does that mean you are staying with us till the wee hours Buzz? :-)

Buzzmaster

  (8:11 PM)

You know it. Although I may need to run down to the vending machines for some caffeine.

Tyler (St. Louis)

for those who are worried about morris starting, check his home ERA. its not to bad. plus we should be able to support him with runs

Buzzmaster

  (8:12 PM)

Tyler has a point: 3.69 ERA in 16 home starts.

Andy (Virginia Beach, VA)

Rolen is still the backbone of the team.....regardless of how he hits.....

JT (Lynchburg, VA)

BTW--these all day chats may be the coolest thing since ESPN Radio started!

Buzzmaster

  (8:13 PM)

We like to think we've got sliced bread beat, as well.

mike (STL)

Morris usually pitches well at home, but I'm still concerned. He has a tendency to pitch one game fairly well and the next game just terribly.

Rob Neyer

  (8:13 PM)

Everybody's focusing on the fact that Pete Munro's got only 13 MLB wins under his belt. Fair enough. But you know, any number of pitchers have entered the postseason with a dozen or so postseason wins, and pitched well. The problem isn't that Munro doesn't have many wins. The problem is that he's not very good.Career numbers: 4.88 ERA, 1.57 WHIP, .304 batting average allowed. Munro did put together a couple of excellent (by his standards) starts this season . . . but the last of those came on July 25. Against the Brewers. I'll be surprised if Munro's survives the fifth inning, and I'll be shocked if he's still pitching in the sixth.

mike (STL)

They're singing the national anthem in the STL!

CapriRS302 (St. Louis)

Great, now everyone is going to think that people in St. Louis speak with a southern accent and live in trailers. (reference to the guy singing the national anthem)

Buzzmaster

  (8:16 PM)

Hey, Rob's in the house. Good to see Mr. Neyer here.

Casey (Portland, OR)

Buzz, look on the bright side...you have live WNBA to go to...sorry, couldn't resist.

Buzzmaster

  (8:17 PM)

Hey, Buzz is a season-ticket holder for the Sun. Don't knock it, Casey.

Casey (Portland, OR)

Question is, how will all the time between starts and the extra adrenaline effect Munro? If he's up in the zone, or missing his spots because of a little extra velocity it could be a VERY short outing.

Geoff (London, UK)

Is Rob Neyer in?

Buzzmaster

  (8:21 PM)

Rob will be here with inning-by-inning updates and some occasional bonus comments (hey, he's a fan).

Sam, (Northport NY)

How 'bout Buster Olney?

Buzzmaster

  (8:23 PM)

Buster's our man for the ALCS. He'll be back Friday night.

Scott (Belton, TX)

If Munro can give the Astros a good, solid 7 innings they are in good shape of gettin out of STL with a split. Wishful thinking from an Astros fan.

Buzzmaster

  (8:23 PM)

Very wishful thinking. Most Astros fans would settle for five good innings.

Neil (Boston, MA)

Please enter your question. Everyone talks as if Munro is coming up from AAA. He only has allowed 12 HR this year in 99 innings compared to Morris with 35HRs! in 200 innings. I think Houston will find a way to pull this one out.

Marty (Austin)

I'm just hoping for 4+ innings of 4 run ball

Rob Neyer

  (8:25 PM)

What's this? I turn on the tube at 5:18 (I'm on the Left Coast, or nearly so) and it's raining? Did somebody not get the memo?Seriously, it's easy to forget that baseball games aren't like the local news, and always start at the same time every night. Oh well, fee free to shoot some non-NLCS questions if we run out of jokes about umbrellas and B.J. Thomas.

Justin (Iowa City)

The only way to shut down the Cards is Lima time and Munro; well he's no Jose Lima

Rob Neyer

  (8:29 PM)

Neil, Munro's HR rate is good. Not great, but good. And he doesn't walk a lot of guys, either. Decent strikeout rate, too. Really, the only thing wrong with Munro's career is that he's given up a whole heck of a lot of hits: 380 in 315 innings. Bad luck? Maybe, but that's a lot of innings.Anyway, he's certainly capable of keeping the Astros in the game. The problem (as I suggested last night) is that when Munro gets knocked out in the fifth or sixth, there's nobody in the bullpen to cover his back.

Steve (PA)

side story: Louisville 10, Miami 7

Issam (Houston)

Please, Buzz, I'm doing my rain dance here so we can use Clemens tomorrow. Everyone dance with me!

Rob Neyer

  (8:31 PM)

I love watching La Russa being interviewed. He always has this look on his face, "I'll put up with this for a few minutes because I have to, and then I'll get back to the important stuff." I'm not a huge fan of his managing -- though I do realize he's a Hall of Famer -- but I appreciate the genuineness of the guy.

Block (Houston)

I hope the Yankees sweep Boston, so the NLCS can get some National TV loving... What is up with all the day games... The ALCS is ALL night games..

Buzzmaster

  (8:32 PM)

Hey, the Pedro-Zimmer game was a Day Game last year. Just get Clemens to throw at someone and it'll be memorable.

Scott (Eagan, MN)

Did anyone watch around the horn today? I think Woody made a good point about Boston and the Self-fullfilling prophecy, no matter how good Boston is, they just can't take down the Yankees

Buzzmaster

  (8:34 PM)

We were having that discussion today in the office. What are some of the best "rivalries" that aren't really even? Where one team owns the other. Red Sox-Yankees, Colts-Patriots. What else?

Marty (Austin)

Texas -Ou

Jeff J (Houston)

Braves and the rest of the NL East

Joe (Yankee Fan) (Boston)

The Sox will never be able to beat the Yanks when they have Mo, Jeter and Torre.

David (Atlanta, Ga.)

Florida 13 of 14 over my Dawgs

JD (Denver)

Florida - Georgia, Federer - Roddick

Brian (Houston)

Harlem Globetrotters and that other team. Poor guys can't ever get a win.

Tyler (St. Louis)

Kansas - Mizzo (basketball)

Chris (Sacramento)

A's vs (Insert playoff opponent here)

Kiwi Woody (Wellington, New Zealand)

C'mon guys....organise that start time better willya???...I need to have a confirmed time so I can ...ahem....get sick and have to go home!!

Buzzmaster

  (8:39 PM)

We'll get Mother Nature on that, pronto.

Rob Neyer

  (8:39 PM)

About the weather, it's hard to say when this game's going to get going. At the moment, St. Louis is smack dab in the middle of a big green splotch on the radar screen. And according to WeatherUnderground, "Current indications are that rain should begin to end between 800 PM and 1000 PM." Not very specific...

Super dave (Houston (home))

Has the game started or delayed or no decision?/ I am without radio or tele....

Buzzmaster

  (8:40 PM)

The field looks good, the anthem has been belted and folks are taking their seats (with umbrellas). It looks like the 8:45 start time is going to be pretty close to right.

Joe (STL)

Any Cards get caught in the tarp tonight?

Tim (Atlanta)

Hey Buzz, This is my first time and last on your show. YOU _ _ _ _ !!!!

Buzzmaster

  (8:42 PM)

I'm going to assume the blanks are for "stud"

Mike (Morton, Illinois)

I'm just glad we haven't heard the word 'daddy' yet tonight.

tyler mckee (san marcos, tx)

till now

BT (San Francisco)

No, Buzz, the blanks are for "aren't funny"

Buzzmaster

  (8:44 PM)

Then Tim wasn't a very good speller.

Buzzmaster

  (8:45 PM)

Umpires are taking their places, looks like we're about to get started.

David (Atlanta, Ga.)

They shouldn't start the game in these conditions. Bad move

tyler mckee (san marcos, tx)

It looks like its time to "PLAY BALL!!!!"

Bradley (Dyersburg, TN)

These rainy conditions scare me. Cardinals are bad about somebody getting hurt before or during the playoffs

Steve (PA)

SCOOOTTTTERRR!!! EVERYBODY FAV!!!

Issam (Houston)

Agh! Scooter!

Bradley (Dyersburg, TN)

all right it's SCOOTER!!!!!!

Scott (Lubbock, TX)

oh god, NOT SCOOTER

Rob Neyer

  (8:48 PM)

Watching Astros coach Jose Cruz, it occurs to me that 1) even at 57, he can probably still crank out the line drives, and 2) he's one of the 10 most underrated players, ever.

tyler mckee (san marcos, tx)

Scooter is corny

Erik (Los Angeles)

If the Astros and Cardinals circled the mound and lit themselves on fire during the 7th inning stretch I still wouldn't care about this game.

Buzzmaster

  (8:48 PM)

Good to have you here, Erik

Buzzmaster

  (8:48 PM)

Biggio flies out on the first pitch, nice way to start for Morris.

Buzzmaster

  (8:49 PM)

Oops, scratch that. Beltran just went yard (again) for the Astros. Home run off Matt Morris ... who would have guessed?

Bradley (Dyersburg, TN)

What is up with Morris and the Homeruns this year?????

Robert (Dallas, TX)

I love Carols Beltran. In a platonic way.

Robby (Hillsboro, IL)

Only 1 HR out of the first 2 batters faced...not a bad start for Matty Mo

Joe (St. Louis)

I hate Beltran. In a hate way.

Rob Neyer

  (8:51 PM)

Beltran homered again. I know a lot of people are just now seeing him. I mean, really seeing him. But there was a stretch like this for the Royals last spring, when it seemed like every time a pitcher made a mistake, Beltran just crushed it. He's not really this good, but he can be this good for a week or three.

Scott (Lubbock, TX)

I don't care what it takes, the Astros have got to find a way to sign Beltran. He's perfect for that centerfield and compliments Berkman

Joe (St. Louis)

Bags looked good in that ab...Morris is looking good, Beltran is just locked in. I am not worried.

Buzzmaster

  (8:52 PM)

Quickly 0-2 on Berkman. Morris doesn't look bad ... aside from that one pitch.

Buzzmaster

  (8:53 PM)

1-0 Astros going to the bottom of the first.

Tom (Seattle)

Morris is up in the strike zone - I AM worried

Dave (IL)

Morris has got good velocity tonight... That's been part of his problem this year. Some starts he doesn't seem to be able to get above 90...

Rob (STL)

Morris never looks that bad...other than the 5 HR pitches he gives up a game

Block (Houston)

Nice start, but I think we're gonna need more than solo shots to win tonight with Munro going.

Bradley (Dyersburg, TN)

Womack has to get hot and start getting on base more in these games

Buzzmaster

  (8:57 PM)

Womack hits the ball hard, which pretty much tells you Munro could be in trouble.

Dillon (London)

As you wish....Womack line drive base hit.

Issam (Houston)

Ah well, that can't be good. Start warming up Lidge!

Buzzmaster

  (8:58 PM)

Munro misses first base on the pick-off attempt and Womack scoots to second.

Nate (St. Louis)

Is that ball slippery from the rain or is Munro a little jittery?

Brian (Houston)

Time to pull Munro while we still have the lead.

Andy (Virginia Beach, VA)

I almost said that Munro has a decent pickoff move until he threw that one away

Joe (STL)

Over/under on Cards runs this inning? I'm goin with 4.

Kyle (Charlottesville, VA/Temple, Tx)

Wow, reactionary comments or what? He's pitched to two batters!

Buzzmaster

  (9:01 PM)

Houston fans off the ledge, Munro whiffs Walker on a nice change.

Nate (St. Louis)

Reactinary comments? He's PETE MUNRO!

Matt (Macomb, IL)

Cards batters workin Munro deep in the count, isn't looking good for Peter Piper

Landon (WA)

Pujols is gonna jack one out....watch

Andy (Virginia Beach, VA)

Munro isn't getting the outside corner they were giving Morris in the top half of the inning.....

Issam (Houston)

This umpire's strike zone is more like an amorphous blob.

Brent (Orlando, FL)

Why does the NL get such awful camera angles? Seems like Fox has their main camera more in left center than center.

Buzzmaster

  (9:04 PM)

Munro isn't exactly challenging Pujols, but he's not giving him a free pass, either. Good to see him pitch to him.

Buzzmaster

  (9:04 PM)

Hits it hard, but an easy play for the third baseman.

tyler mckee (san marcos, tx)

yes it is tough to tell between balls and strikes with that kind of camera angle

Peter (Chicago)

Rolen really needs to get back on a roll

fig (houston)

the strike zone last night was pretty variable too, got rather low and outside at times.

Scott (Belton, TX)

So far the Astros whole pitching staff hasnt gotten the same calls as the St Louis staff or the camera is too messed up to be able to tell

Rob Neyer

  (9:06 PM)

Watching the game on TV, and Thom Brenneman just said something like, "A lot of people think if you were starting a franchise today and could pick one player, Albert Pujols is the guy you'd take."What do you guys think? I think Pujols is probably the guy, if he's really 24 (which I'm still not sure about). Otherwise the two names that spring to mind are Alex Rodriguez and B.J. Upton.

steve (san francisco)

Walker, Pujols, Rolen? Hey, this Championship Series stuff is easy!

Marty (Austin)

well that wan't horrible

Landon (WA)

BJ UPTON?!?!?!?!?

Buzzmaster

  (9:07 PM)

Wait till next year, Landon. Upton is going to be pretty special.

Dillon (London)

I think you have to pick Pujols because he can play 3 positions and hits the ball everywhere in the park and hard.

Issam (Houston)

What is a BJ upton? and why is he better than friggin A-Rod???

Brian (Houston)

How about Beltran? They guy is 40-40 next season!

Marty (Austin)

Pujols would have to be the guy as long as he's not 30

Joe (St. Louis)

Pujols is 24...he went to US high school and was never a baseball talent, he had no reason to lie about his age.

Buzzmaster

  (9:08 PM)

But there have been lots of rumors, Joe.

JW (St. Louis)

Pujols isn't a leader definitely A-rod.

Robert (Dallas, TX)

I build my team around Pete Munro, but I don't let him try to pick anyone off.

Chris (Little Rock)

I take Cabrera from the Marlins, if he is really 21

Buzzmaster

  (9:10 PM)

Back to the action in St. Louis, Kent hits a double into left.

Patrick (Charleston, SC)

I agree, BJ Upton. But I saw a lot of their prospect here in town (the A club of Tampa), Delmon Young, and he looked fantastic, Still really raw, but the natural talent is clearly there. If Tampa could ever get eough $ on the pay roll they could make some noise.

Jared (Houston, TX)

Because A-rod has led so many teams into the post season. It's a good thing he has Jeter's coat tails to ride on this year.

Buzzmaster

  (9:11 PM)

Rough at-bat for Ensberg, quick K.

Peter (Chicago)

Rolen just isn't getting to many balls he would if he were 100%.

Mike (Austin)

how ugly was that swing?!?

Marty (Austin)

morgan has to get him over in that situation

Vishal (Philly, PA)

Mike Lamb should be starting for the Astros at 3rd base. Ensberg is better defensively but the 'Stros need Lamb's bat, as he was a huge part of their offensive explosion during the second half.

Eric (Boulder)

It looks like his hook is a little more effective than against the Dodgers

Peter (Chicago)

Morris is doing a lot better than I thought, but normally he doesn't start mixing in the curve until the second time through -- this could mean fireworks later.

Issam (Houston)

That is the first intential walk to Ausmus ever

Buzzmaster

  (9:15 PM)

Chance for Munro to really help himself here.

Mike (Austin)

lets see munro pull a woody williams

Joe (St. Louis)

I question that...Ausmus should be an easy out...I hope this doesn't come back to haunt them.

Buzzmaster

  (9:15 PM)

3-1 on the pitcher? Morris can't lose him here.

Buzzmaster

  (9:15 PM)

And he does.

Bradley (Dyersburg, TN)

HOW CAN YOU WALK THE PITCHER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Andy (Virginia Beach, VA)

WOW...that is the first time I have EVER heard a Cardinal get boo'ed at home....ever......

Peter (Chicago)

wow, i don't know about that call... who was saying the cards were getting all the calls?

Joe (St. Louis)

See...that's what I didn't want to happen...They shouldve attacked Ausmus.

Dillon (London)

Everybody is talking about hits with 2 outs...none could be bigger than right now.

Buzzmaster

  (9:17 PM)

Biggio doesn't make them pay, grounding into the force at second.

Steve (PA)

not much harm done

Toby (Richmond, VA)

Astros will pay for that later in this game. They will need at least 7 to win this and they missed a great opportunity there!

Mike (Austin)

the biggio of postseason past

Rob Neyer

  (9:18 PM)

I wonder how many bases-loaded chances the Astros can waste, and still be close in two hours?

Sam (Houston)

but it cleared the way for the heart of the order next inning

Buzzmaster

  (9:18 PM)

You like your glasses half-full, right Sam?

David (Atlanta, Ga.)

The booing of Morris tells me St. Louis fans aren't much different then the rest of us. They have been made out to be much more than that.

Nate (St. Louis)

Were they booing Morris? I think they're booing the ump...

Jose (Houston )

here goes munro, lets see what happens!

Michael (Sacramento)

Can i shoot Scooter?

Scott (Lubbock, TX)

Thanks Scooter. I will now light myself on fire.

fig (houston)

scooter is fox's answer to the ewok.

Buzzmaster

  (9:22 PM)

At least some of the Ewoks died.

Buzzmaster

  (9:22 PM)

Two quick outs for Munro in the second.

cory (st louis)

where is the score are buzz?

Buzzmaster

  (9:23 PM)

1-0 after two.

Dillon (London)

I think getting out of that jam in the 1st was big for Munro.

Bradley (Dyersburg, TN)

like i said the cards will make this guy look like the second coming of cy young

Issam (Houston)

two scoreless innings! i'm happy. now pull him!

Dillon (London)

When you think about it, the Cards haven't exactly had great moments in the playoffs recently, they have choked with some pretty good lineups in the last couple of years just like Houston.

Mark (Albany, NY)

Cards, like the Yankees, have too many experienced sticks and will wear Munro down. It's only a matter of time.

Rob Neyer

  (9:25 PM)

You know what? I don't mind Scooter. And if he popped up on ESPN Classic as part of a game from the 1960s, we'd think, "Cool. Retro!" And you have to give Fox credit for doing something non-offensive to get the kids involved. I doubt if many kids are actually paying attention, but still it's worth the effort.

Buzzmaster

  (9:26 PM)

Beltran up to start the third.

Scott (Belton, TX)

So do pitchers just keep pitching to Beltran??

Buzzmaster

  (9:27 PM)

Morris is careful with him, running the count full before walking him.

Dillon (London)

Rob no offense but it's 9:30 at night and I doubt many kids are staying up waiting to see Scooter.

Michael (Sacramento)

Rob, it'd be okay if he actually told you how to throw the pitch or something but he's just a useless animatronic nothing.

Buzzmaster

  (9:28 PM)

Beltran takes second on the wild pitch.

chris (phx)

morris just looks bad

Kyle (Charlottesville, VA/Temple, TX)

Both of these teams are in the Central Time Zone, so kids watching at home might still be up at 8:30

Dillon (London)

Give me Al Leiter talking pitches and what the pitcher is thinking. I could listen to that stuff all night long.

Buzzmaster

  (9:30 PM)

Bagwell walks and suddenly Morris looks like Victor Zambrano ... without the strikeouts.

Joe (St. Louis)

Bring in Danny Haren...

Buzzmaster

  (9:31 PM)

Fly to Edmonds in center, one out.

Steve (PA)

that's routine for Edmonds, not trouble

Mike (IL)

Haren? How about Ankiel.

Brendan (L.A)

Please enter your question. This is the only way i can watch the game right now, so be specific if anything good happens for the Redbirds.

Buzzmaster

  (9:32 PM)

And vague if anything good happens for the Astros?

Joe (St. Louis)

No Ank...I want to win...Ank will kill some poor fan behind the plate.

Sam (Northport NY)

I would completely trust Rick Ankiel in a big playoff situation.

Issam (Houston)

ha! please bring ankiel in. we have two walks, but no hit batters yet.

Jared (Houston, TX)

Astros need to do something here. They can't let Morris get out of trouble twice.

Phill (LA)

Has anybody in Houston ever heard of advancing the runner with a bunt--they need runs tonight and they can't waste scoring chances

Buzzmaster

  (9:33 PM)

But you really want Kent bunting?

Buzzmaster

  (9:34 PM)

What was that Rob was saying about wasting chances? Kent strikes out and the runner gets hung up between first and second. Inning over.

Scott (Lubbock, TX)

awesome base running guys

Andy (Virginia Beach, VA)

that is gonna kill the astros....

Marty (Austin)

well that was horrible

Steve (PA)

wow, that was ugly, very very ugly

Toby (Richmond, VA)

Wow Astros...they are killing themselves. Munro won't hold the Cardinals silent any long. Im looked for the infamous "crooked number" this inning

mike (charlotte)

Obviously, they hasn't watched Tom Emanski's "Defensive Drills". It's endorsed by Fred McGriff, you know.

Block (Houston)

Can we bring in Pettitte now? I know he's not 100%, but...

Buzzmaster

  (9:37 PM)

Matheny-Morris-Womack up in the third.

Buzzmaster

  (9:37 PM)

And a leadoff single for the second time in three innings.

Steve (PA)

morris HAS to bunt here

Michael (Sacramento)

hey look it's small ball

Dillon (London)

Finally someone bunts a runner successfully.

Rob Neyer

  (9:38 PM)

Well, let's see . . . In the top of the second, Biggio swings at the first pitch after Morris walked the pitcher. In the top of the third, Bagwell heads for second base for no apparent reason . . . I'm sure the Astros are trying to win, but it's not obvious.

Joe (St. Louis)

I hope the Astros dont try to steal the Cards fancy bunting strategy...

Buzzmaster

  (9:39 PM)

Matheny goes to third on Womack's grounder to second. Two outs.

Dillon (London)

Munro is not pitching poorly, what's going through his head watching his team squander runs inning after inning.

steve (san francisco)

The Astros are just trying to confuse the opposition. Brilliant!

Chase (San Marcos, TX)

Womack has the bushiest eyebrows in the MLB

Buzzmaster

  (9:41 PM)

You don't get that kind of analysis anywhere else, folks.

Buzzmaster

  (9:42 PM)

Walker caught looking, and he's not happy about the last two strikes. Inning over, no damage done.

Joe (STL)

What was that about Munro not getting calls?

JimZ (Atlanta)

What a pitch for the strikeout!

Scott (Lubbock, TX)

Strikes or not, those pitches were nasty.

Kyle (Charlottesville, VA/Temple, TX)

Where did our Pete Munro haters go? Sure, the game isn't over, but he's been impressive thus far.

Michael (Sacramento)

you can see the steam coming off Walkers bald head...that's classic...of course it is like -49 degrees on the field evidently.

Block (Houston)

Munro is looking Lima-esque.... Let's hope he doesn't look like the Lima of old, and the next ten pitches or so fly into the upper deck.

Mark (Albany, NY)

Pete is the English version of Pedro. Need I write more.

Rob Neyer

  (9:44 PM)

Scratch that last comment. . . Pete Munro is definitely trying to win. In three innings, he's proving that you don't have to have great stuff if you can hit your spots. Just think: if he can just retire nine more Cardinals without giving up more than a run or two, the Astros could actually win this thing. And if they win this thing . . . well, it'll get interesting, which is a good thing if you're a baseball fan, considering what's happened in the Bronx.

Buzzmaster

  (9:44 PM)

Not if it involves using the word "daddy" in any way.

Mike (IL)

Backe was impressive for 4 innings too.

Buzzmaster

  (9:45 PM)

Dinger for Ensberg, 2-0.

Andy (Virginia Beach, VA)

morris...home run.....psychics did predict it...

Devin (Durham, NC)

Anyone else remember when Busch was toughest outdoor HR park?

Brian (The Lou)

When Morgan Ensberg goes deep on you, you've got problems!

Robert (Dallas, TX)

Mmm, I don't mind if the Astros forego the bunt if they can keep doing that.

Buzzmaster

  (9:46 PM)

Reggie Sanders saves Morris, gunning down VIzcaino at second on a shot to the gap.

Devin (Durham, NC)

who wins in a race, Vizcaino or Julio Franco?

Bradley (Dyersburg, TN)

i think he was actually safe

Jeff (Blacksburg, Va (formerly Bedford, TX))

good thing houston can hit the long ball...caused they sure cant run the bases

Jeremy (St. Joe, MO)

The Cardinal defense is bailing out Morris

Buzzmaster

  (9:48 PM)

Morris gets out of it with a K and a grounder to second. 2-0 going to bottom fourth.

Patrick (Charleston, SC)

What do y'all think? How under-rated has Reggie Sandfers been in his career? The guy seemingly is always making a play or doing something right.

Andy (Virginia Beach, VA)

hey everyone....hats off and thoughts to ump Rapuano and his family......he is one of the good ones....

Michael (Sacramento)

Sanders has also played for every team in the majors...twice.

Brian (Long Island, NY)

haha.. no i think Reggie sanders is still over rated.. he mad one good play that doesnt make up for how much hes getting over paid

sean (houston)

sanders is amazing ... seven different teams and never traded in the middle of a season

MC (San Francisco)

Sanders is under-rated, but also over rated. I am a Giants fan. He did so many things that contributed to that team going to the World Series, but he also killed us so many times.

MC (San Francisco)

Sorry, what happened to Rapuano?

Rob Neyer

  (9:50 PM)

Big home run for Ensberg. My buddy Jim Baker wrote about Ensberg this summer . . . Ensberg got off to a terrible start this season, power-wise, didn't hit a home run until his 206th at-bat (give or take a couple of at-bats). But he wasn't healthy early in the season, and even after he got healthy he couldn't lift the ball. Ensberg hit 10 homers from July 2 through the end of the season, and he does have power.

Buzzmaster

  (9:51 PM)

He was forced to leave the game with dizziness. He's being treated at the stadium.

Buzzmaster

  (9:52 PM)

Another inning, another single to lead off against Munro. This time it's Pujols.

Dillon (London)

This inning is huge....second time around for murderers row Cardinal style.

Hepless At Work (Vermont)

Please Whats the score?

Buzzmaster

  (9:53 PM)

2-0 in the bottom of the fourth. one on and one out as Munro gets his third K.

Brian (The Lou)

Rolen just looks off.

Dillon (London)

I agree, Rolen does not look 100 percent. He isn't getting the bat around on pitches.

Nate (St. Louis)

Rolen hasn't looked on since the injury.

Chris (St Louis)

The Cardinals need to capitalize on one of these lead off hits. the longer this goes on the more confidence Munro gets and might make it to the 7th when Garner can bring Lidge. This is a short bullpen tonight.

Buzzmaster

  (9:57 PM)

That helps. Double for Edmonds, second and third with one out.

Bradley (Dyersburg, TN)

pujols has bad wheels right now

Brian (The Lou)

The Cardinals MUST plate a runner now with second and third with one out.

Brian (Long Island, NY)

ok here is where st. louis can make some really noise

Mike (Austin)

what's munro's pitch count?

Buzzmaster

  (9:58 PM)

He was at 42 after three, so north of 50 at this point.

Buzzmaster

  (9:59 PM)

Liner to second, two outs. Pujols thought he was Jeter for a second with the tag-up.

Dillon (London)

Cardinals 0 for 6 with RISP.

Devin (Durham, NC)

I think Kent could have walked it into the plate while Pujols was sprinting

Brian (Long Island, NY)

i think its better that its two outs for the cards they seem to do soo much better when there are two outs

Buzzmaster

  (10:01 PM)

Munro gets out of it, grounder to short. 2-0 Houston to the fifth.

Scott (Belton, TX)

Munro does it again!!

Sam (Northport NY)

Oh yeah, Reggie is way underrated.

Marty (Austin)

Munro has by far exceeded expectation no matter what else he does

Chris (St Louis)

How early is too early for Lidge tonight?

Jeff (Blacksburg, Va (formerly Bedford, TX))

its looking like its just meant to be for Munro tonight...playoff baseball always has that nobody who comes out of nowhere to have a huge postseason, maybe its gonna be Pete Munro this year

Scott (Lubbock, TX)

How much longer can Morris last? Biggio-Beltran-Bagwell due up.

Rob Neyer

  (10:04 PM)

You're right, Marty. But if he doesn't get through the fifth and maybe even the sixth, those few who remember won't care. If Munro's going to be the hero, he's got to close the deal.

Buzzmaster

  (10:04 PM)

Leadoff single for Biggio.

Chris (St Louis)

Backe looked good for 4 innings last night. This looks alot like like last nights game....but it was the 5th and 6th that the Cards got to Back and the bullpen last night. Houston can't pull away from the Cardinals

Dillon (London)

That was a big K on Beltran.

Clay (Scranton, PA)

Okay... maybe Morris can stick around a few more years...

Andy (Virginia Beach, VA)

I think if the catcher actually catches the ball for this ump it is a strike

Scott (Belton, TX)

Strike Zone inconsistency getting on my nerves

Matt (New Brunswick, NJ)

Memo to Eric Cooper:Maybe you would like to let the players know what your strike zone. Maybe you would like to let yourself know what your strike zone is.

Buzzmaster

  (10:09 PM)

Balk sends Biggio to second, still 3-2 on Bagwell.

Buzzmaster

  (10:10 PM)

Anyone else think LaRussa is just trying to stay warm, coming out to argue?

Sam (Northport NY)

One of the top ten balks I've ever seen.

Buzzmaster

  (10:10 PM)

That's actually next week's List on Page 2.

Devin (Durham, NC)

ball four was only 6 inches outside...surprised it wasn't a strike

Mike (Austin)

berkman's second chance w/ two men on...

Everett (Frankenmuth, MI)

Morris is gonna get yanked here in a sec after Berkman hits a double.

Andy (Virginia Beach, VA)

no worries....the astros will try a double steal and both will be picked off.....

Buzzmaster

  (10:13 PM)

One run in on the single from Berkman. Was pujols trying to throw his glove?

Sam (Northport NY)

Nice glove chuck.

Scott (Belton, TX)

Caveman comes through!!

Michael (Sacramento)

the glove slipped...

JW (St. Louis)

give him the two base penalty

c-for (ny)

that is such an obscure rule...i never knew about that rule

Marty (Austin)

one of the top 10 glove chucks of all time

Rob Neyer

  (10:14 PM)

I know this flies in the face of statistics, but even at 3-0 I don't think the Astros are going to win this game.

Everett (Frankenmuth, MI)

Is anybody up throwing yet?

Buzzmaster

  (10:14 PM)

Cal Eldred is throwing.

Jeff (Denver)

Is Neyer from St Louis?

Devin (Durham, NC)

Rob Neyer sounds like he's seen the Hou pen before

Kyle (Charlottesville, VA/Temple, Tx)

Rob brings up a good point - are the Astros backs still against the wall? If they are against the wall, has the last 2 months proven that they play best when the cards are stacked against them?

Buzzmaster

  (10:16 PM)

When the cards are stacked against them? Are we assuming you meant to do that, Kyle?

Dustin (Houston)

Hey, did the Astros just score a run without hitting a homer?

Buzzmaster

  (10:17 PM)

3-0 for Houston going to the bottom of the inning. Still, could have been worse for the Cards (again).

Brian (Montgomery, TX (Lake Conroe))

Hey. Pete Munro is star of this game so far.

Buzzmaster

  (10:19 PM)

How long do you stay with him? Do you trust the "he's pitching well" philosophy or get him out while the getting is good?

Rob (STL)

Why would you ever go to your bullpen if you are Houston?

Everett (Frankenmuth, MI)

Stay with him as long as you can.

Mike (IL)

Ask Grady.

Chris (St Louis)

Is the bullpen for Houston a better option?

Dan (RI)

The bottom of the cards lineup needs to produce in order to get some runners for the big bats.

Buzzmaster

  (10:21 PM)

Matheny fans to start the fifth.

Robert (Dallas, TX)

Finally, didn't give up a leadoff single.

Michael (Sacramento)

does anyone think Munro's delivery is screwing up the Card's timing he does that whole hide the ball behind your back thing could be having an effect.

Sam (Northport NY)

Why didn't it effect any of the other teams he pitched against?

Brian (Long Island, NY)

somethng is screw it up.. becouse i have never seen the cards bats this quiet

Devin (Durham, NC)

isn't it nearly impossible to walk Marlon Anderson, yet he just did it?

Kyle (Charlottesville, VA/Temple, Tx)

How dare we give Munro credit for pitching well - could it be that the man is hitting his spots with all 4 of his pitches?

Brian (Long Island, NY)

you have to love thoes dug out interviews..

Buzzmaster

  (10:25 PM)

Womack steals second, in scoring position with two outs.

Devin (Durham, NC)

when was the last time Ausmus threw anyone out?

Buzzmaster

  (10:26 PM)

Walker homers, 3-2.

Steve (PA)

well, there that goes

Bradley (Dyersburg, TN)

SEE WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU SWING LARRY!!!!

Rob Neyer

  (10:26 PM)

BOOM. Just a matter of time, right?

Jared (Houston, TX)

Nice defense Kent.

Buzzmaster

  (10:27 PM)

The missed double-play opportunity did come back to haunt them.

Jeff (Blacksburg, Va (formerly Bedford, TX))

this series is gonna set some sort of record for most HR in a NLCS...Im calling it now

KB (Springfield, MO)

I don't think they could've turned two anyway.

Steve (PA)

womack flying down line, not sure about DP

Buzzmaster

  (10:28 PM)

Pujols lines a single and Munro is done. Quick hook or not?

Block (Houston)

Lidge is good for 4 1/3....

Jared (Houston, TX)

Let him pitch to Rolen! Don't make the same mistake two games in a row!

Chris (St Louis)

Garner has absolutley NO faith in his starters. They really better hope that Clemens and Oswalt can give them 7 innings each just for the rest.

DP (Jersey)

Anyone but Qualls!!!!!!

nick (flint, mi)

probably a quick hook but managers fear criticism after Grady

Block (Houston)

Anyone but Qualls, Harville, Miceli, Redding, Oliver, Gallo, well....

Buzzmaster

  (10:31 PM)

Chad Harville enters the game for the Astros.

Rob Neyer

  (10:31 PM)

So Munro doesn't escape the fifth. It's amazing how this game's gone according to form, just as last night's did.

Buzzmaster

  (10:32 PM)

Well, that worked out well. Two-run HR for Rolen.

Rob Neyer

  (10:32 PM)

Speaking of form...

Joe (STL)

Scott Rolen is officially......ALIVE!!!!

Claire (Saline, MI/New Ulm, MN)

Okay Munro pitched well, according to the announcers, then Harville comes in and bam! Home run.

Block (Houston)

Did anyone -not- see that coming...

Dustin (Houston)

Good move Phil. You freakin genius!

Steve (PA)

DE-JA-VUUUU!!

Robby (Charleston, SC)

Just had to check my TiVo to make sure i wasnt watching last nights game

Gary (NJ)

if the astros lose they have no one to blame but themselves...they should be leading this game

TOM (ST. LOUIS)

HOW DO WE LOOK? I'M IN A RESTURANT WITH NO TV.

Buzzmaster

  (10:34 PM)

But with internet?

Buzzmaster

  (10:35 PM)

Inning over, Cards score four to take the 4-3 lead.

Claire (Saline, MI/New Ulm, MN)

What a saaad inning for the 'stros. Didn't someone say that even when Houston had the 3-0 lead, they still didn't trust them to win the game. Great call.

Buzzmaster

  (10:40 PM)

First and second, no outs. Battle of the bullpens tonight.

Marty (Austin)

houston can't blow it this time

Jed (PA)

bring in Kiko...just want to hear his name a few more times

Chris (St Louis)

this cold weather cannot be good for Kline's finger. I tore a tendon in my finger ten years ago and it still hurts when its cold

Reverse the curse (Houston)

Whats the record for most consecutive games with a HR in the post season?

Buzzmaster

  (10:42 PM)

Howie Schwab's chat was earlier today, sorry.

Buzzmaster

  (10:44 PM)

Houston finally bunting, for all you small-ball fans.

Buzzmaster

  (10:44 PM)

Nice play by Pujols to go to third for the out.

Steve (PA)

did someone say Houston can't blow it?

Marty (Austin)

well that sucks

Brian (Beacon, NY)

And you wonder why Houston never bunts.

Matt (Buffalo)

that has to be bunted better, in a better place

KB (Springfield, MO)

Pujols might make it in this league one day.

Buzzmaster

  (10:46 PM)

Big K on Biggio, postseason struggles continue.

Marty (Austin)

Bidge rounding into post season form

Ray (Jamaica, the country, not NY)

St Louis and Houston are really trying hard to disprove the old "Pitching wins championships" adage. You feel like every game could end up 11-9.

Robby (Charleston, SC)

I just had one channel go out on my TV...guess which one

Buzzmaster

  (10:46 PM)

Bravo?

Mike (Austin)

well how much does Beltran REALLY wanna make this offseason?

Rob Neyer

  (10:47 PM)

Might this be the biggest moment of the NLCS? Beltran up with two on and two out, Astros down a run?

Dustin (Houston)

Are we going to have a meeting at the mound for every hitter this inning?

Rob Neyer

  (10:48 PM)

Not the way you want to start Beltran, 2-0

roger (stl)

ball oneball twoballl threeball four is how the cards should pitvh Beltran

Jeff (Blacksburg, Va (formerly Bedford, TX))

he's not gonna see a hitable pitch....rather take their chance with Bagwell

Devin (Durham, NC)

I'd walk him to get to Bagwell

Steve (PA)

Rather face Bagwell here with his struggles too

Mike (Austin)

I guess this is why they say Bagwell would be very important to the Stros in this series...

Buzzmaster

  (10:49 PM)

Bases loaded, 0-1.

Rob Neyer

  (10:49 PM)

Never mind. The Cardinals didn't give Beltran anything to hit, which is a little strange considering first base wasn't open. But then, baseball men have very short memories...

Brian (Beacon, NY)

Bagwell...grand salami here. Just you watch.

Mike (San Francisco)

D'oh

Mike (IL)

The Astros simply are not getting it done with 2 outs.

Brian (Beacon, NY)

Um... grand salami... I meant...fly out to right! Yea, they're the same thing. Hold on... I'm gonna go eat some crow.

Helpless At Work (Vermont)

Checking In Pleae...Score

Buzzmaster

  (10:53 PM)

Can't turn down a request from Vermont, 4-3 Cards to start the bottom of the sixth.

DP (Jersey)

Sure, it's only a commercial, but I think Griffey just pulled a Hammy shagging flies with those kids.

Mike (IL)

Seriously kids, if you're on the internet, so is the score!!!

Devin (Durham, NC)

can we outlaw putting the mic on players/coaches during the game?

KB (Springfield, MO)

Unless it's Jim Edmonds so I can hear him drop the F bomb after he strikes out. Actually, you don't need a mic for that.

Block (Houston)

Fox has some really creative things during their broadcast. Bad, but creative.

DP (Jersey)

Jeff Kent seems to have the same "yellow leg disorder" that Schilling has.

Josh (Austin)

thanks for clarifying where the foot is with the graphic

Buzzmaster

  (10:56 PM)

How long until we see Scooter on the WebMD report?

Buzzmaster

  (10:57 PM)

Going to the seventh. Even if the Astros don't score in the top, how soon do you bring in Lidge to keep it close?

Joel (Auckland New Zealand)

Should've brought him in in the 5th.....

Chris (St Louis)

I think you do it in the 7th. You have to just to make sure no more runs are scored.

Devin (Durham, NC)

if you take the lead and have burned lidge already, are you willing to throw Russ Springer out there?

Josh (Austin)

Garner is brushing up on the double switch rule first

Buzzmaster

  (11:00 PM)

Big double for Berkman to lead off the seventh ... giving the Astros yet another chance to fail with runners in scoring position.

Marty (Austin)

seriously the astros can't blow it this time

Stone (Houston)

I cant watch anymore

Mike (San Francisco)

Why would anyone throw Kent a fastball? Can't hit the slider to save his life...

Jaime (San Diego)

Thats a hanger he got away with...

Dave (Pittsburgh)

Houston showed last night, they came back to make it interesting, tonight it's only a one run lead, they can do it

Buzzmaster

  (11:05 PM)

Wow, Berkman steals third.

Devin (Durham, NC)

ok, I must be losing it. Did Berkman actually steal third?

Sam (Urbana, IL)

Once again - announcers belittle Berkman's awareness, then he promptly catches STL napping!

Buzzmaster

  (11:07 PM)

Drawing out the moment here ...

Buzzmaster

  (11:08 PM)

And Ensberg comes through to tie it, 4-4.

Kramer (FL)

Good piece of hitting.

Sam (Northport NY)

Another big hit from Ensberg.

Block (Houston)

Ok, bring in Lidge.

Marty (Austin)

what's with the fireworks?

Mike (IL)

I'm starting to think somebody set those off on accident.

Rob Neyer

  (11:09 PM)

Ensberg's single ties the game, and now it's Danny Miceli's turn to rank as the No. 1 key to the Astros' season. Miceli's presumably going to come into the game in the home seventh, and if he can pass the baton to Lidge the Astros have a real shot.

Buzzmaster

  (11:10 PM)

Stretch time ... 4-4.

Kramer (FL)

Everyone put on Miami-Louisville.

Devin (Durham, NC)

Rob, there is a reason Miceli pitched for so many teams last year

Mike (San Francisco)

I've got to say, I'm enjoying these Leon ads.

DP (Jersey)

That's a good spot there....

Jared (Houston, TX)

Leon is the best. All Leon, all the time.

Michael (Sacramento)

Terry Tate would eat Leon for lunch...

Buzzmaster

  (11:14 PM)

Wheeler still in for the Astros to start the seventh.

brett (houston)

do you bring in lidge if wheeler gets in trouble?

Buzzmaster

  (11:15 PM)

At this point, can anyone really guess what Garner might do?

Roger (stl)

jeesh, Cedeno a little late on that slider

Rob Neyer

  (11:16 PM)

So it's not Miceli, but Wheeler. Doesn't really matter much, as once you get past Lidge all the middle guys are just so-so. You probably don't use Lidge in the eighth inning of a tie game anyway, so Garner's probably saving Miceli for the next inning. Whatever else happens, this game's been a real joy, largely because it's been such a surprise.

Buzzmaster

  (11:16 PM)

Oswalt throwing in the bullpen, presumably just normal work between starts ... right?

Block (Houston)

Wheeler is pitching amazing. Maybe we DO have a shot tonight at getting the ball to Lidge.

Scott (Lubbock, TX)

If he gets a split in St. Louis, I don't care who pitches.

Kramer (FL)

Someone tell Garner that Game 4 is on Sunday.

Sam (Northport NY)

If Oswalt comes in, Garner has officially lost his mind.

Buzzmaster

  (11:18 PM)

Meanwhile, Wheeler cruises through the seventh. To the 8th, 4-4.

Marty (Austin)

wheeler has moved up the food chain after tonight

Kramer (FL)

It's not unusual to bring in your Sunday starter on Thursday? Let's drink them! Brilliant!

pat (los angeles)

Even if we lose tonight, at leastwe made St Louis fans catch colds. Come on down to Minute Maid where its covered, hot and sexy.

Buzzmaster

  (11:19 PM)

Sexy? Nevermind, I don't want to know.

c-for (ny)

you gotta bring in lidge to pitch 8th and 9th and pray that your offense can score runs in the next two innings

Big Body Berkman (Georgetown)

If Astros score here, Lidge comes in. If not, maybe Miceli

Buzzmaster

  (11:23 PM)

Orlando Palmeiro pinch hitting for Wheeler.

Joel (Auckland New Zealand)

We need a nice 16, 17 inning NLCS game....

Buzzmaster

  (11:23 PM)

With these bullpens? Not likely.

Jason (Austin)

Lidge has to pitch 8th and 9th. He didnt pitch yesterday, he wont pitch tomorrow. Unless astros go up 12-4 here in this inning, you have to go with Lidge. Kinda silly to save him for the 9th if you lose it in the 8th.

Jeremy (St. Joe, MO)

You mean with Houston's bullpen, not likely. St. Louis' bullpen was the best in baseball this year.

Buzzmaster

  (11:25 PM)

Fair enough.

Mike (Austin)

uh, did you see houston tear STL's bullpen apart last night....

Buzzmaster

  (11:27 PM)

And that's it for the Astros in the 8th.

Big Body Berkman (Georgetown)

Pujols, Rolen, Edmonds for STL in the 8th and Beltran, Bagwell, Berkman for Astros in the 9th. That'll be interesting.

Larry (Hotlanta)

Nice Biggio! Take a newspaper up their with ya next time.

Barry (St. Louis)

Guys....I've been saying it all along. The Astros won't beat the Cardinals at home, nobody will. Period.

Buzzmaster

  (11:29 PM)

Trust me, he has been saying it all along. About every fifth post, to be exact.

Buzzmaster

  (11:29 PM)

Miceli vs. Pujols to start the bottom of the 8th.

Buzzmaster

  (11:30 PM)

And we'll go ahead and give the edge to Pujols with the dinger. Where was Lidge?

Mike (San Francisco)

Yeah, figured that was coming...

Eric (Boulder)

MVP!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Jaime (San Diego)

Nice managing Garner...

Jason (Austin)

Why bring in your best pitcher against three of the best hitters in the league. It would have made no sense.

Kramer (FL)

I'm sorry. But Phil Garner has now lost at least two games for the Astros this postseason. Stop ruining the playoffs.

Josh (Austin)

Beltran will match that.

Buzzmaster

  (11:32 PM)

The Astros need someone with a glove in the left-field bleachers.

Tyler (stl)

back to back... gotta love it

Rob Neyer

  (11:32 PM)

So that's it, don't you think? Again, this is why five good innings from Houston's starter just isn't good enough. They need seven, because otherwise Lidge never gets involved.

Ron (Houston)

Maybe they'll bring in Lidge now?

Mike (IL)

Beltran can go ahead and have his 1 run, you guys need 2 now.

Block (Houston)

Great pitch location there Dan Miceli.

Devin (Durham, NC)

throwing belt-high over the middle of the plate isn't going to get it done

Marc (Manhattan)

If this guy hits a homer... i want my message posted

Bobby (Huntington Beach)

Does anyone know who sang God Bless America in the 7th inning?

Buzzmaster

  (11:34 PM)

Was it Lidge? He's not busy doing anything else.

DP (Jersey)

Singer was Joe Nichol

Block (Houston)

I give Garner credit for getting the team to the playoffs, but he has done nothing positive for the Astros during the postseason. And he has lost in my opinion 3 games now, that he can't blame on "players not executing"

Dave (Waterloo,IA)

good chance to get Oswalt some work now if you're Phil Garner, right? He's screwed this one up enough already, why not completely ruin the series?

Devin (Durham, NC)

OK, Garner is comatose, but the defense was the reason for the big inning last night, and the pitches they hit out were BAD pitches...give credit to the players for not getting it done too

Jaime (San Diego)

Well I think you could blame Miceli for a few hanging sliders and some non clutch hitting by others...

michael (st. louis)

you can't totally blame him... they left so many runners on base

Hoggfather (Fayetteville, AR)

Wow...talk about timely hitting.

Buzzmaster

  (11:38 PM)

Three outs to go for a 2-0 lead for St. Louis.

michael (st. louis)

C'mon Izzy!!

Dave (IL)

Izzy vs. the Killer B's... my money's on Izzy

Rob Neyer

  (11:41 PM)

Heading to the ninth, and at this very moment Jason Isringhausen's blood pressure is probably a few counts higher than normal. He can handle the pressure, though. This season: 47 saves, 2.87 ERA, roughly one baserunner allowed per inning. Hope lives, though . . . the Astros' three best hitters are due next.

Joe (STL)

This game isn't over folks. Izzy is no Gagne.

Burt (NY)

He's no Rivera

Michael (Sacramento)

Buzz you getting OT for this???

Buzzmaster

  (11:42 PM)

No, but I may get a Stu Scott bobblehead.

Jeremy (St. Joe, MO)

He's no Brad Lidge either.

Mike (San Francisco)

Big AB here. Gotta get on to start it up.

Buzzmaster

  (11:43 PM)

And he does with a walk. Another big chance for Bagwell.

Craig (NYC)

Walking leadoff hitters is never good

Jason (Austin)

Do you run Beltran?

Russell (Memphis, TN)

I feel a double play coming on...

Buzzmaster

  (11:44 PM)

One out as Bagwell flies out.

Larry (Hotlanta)

There ya go Bags. Killer B's are killing the Astros!

Jon (Boulder, CO)

I would run Beltran. No question. He's the most efficient base stealer ever I think. I read that in a Rob Neyer article this summer.

Buzzmaster

  (11:46 PM)

Two outs ...

Pete (Rochester, NY)

If you're an Astros fan, do you want Kent up in this situation?

Ryan (New Orleans)

Come on Izzy...

tyler mckee (san marcos, tx)

kent is due for a homerun

Brett (Boonville, IN)

or the walk...

Buzzmaster

  (11:48 PM)

Does Ensberg have one more big hit in him?

Barry (St. Louis)

I told you Izzy likes to make it interesting....he always does. He'll let up one but still get the save I bet.

Russell (Memphis, TN)

Was Kent's walk unintentially intentional? Or was Izzy just missing?

Buzzmaster

  (11:50 PM)

To the edge of the track, but no luck for Ensberg. Cards take a 2-0 lead in the series.

GERRIT (VANCOUVER CANADA)

see you in Houston guys...then back in St Louis next week

Michael (san mateo, CA)

all those stranded runners...

Killer B's (Houston)

the cards were up 3-1 on Atlanta in 96..history will repeat itself, just ask the red sox.

Jaime (San Diego)

Well done by Garner saving Lidge....

Scott (Lubbock, TX)

This is a real tough one to take. Astros had so many chances. Off to the local watering hole for me.

Buzzmaster

  (11:52 PM)

So neither the Astros nor the Sox can take a game on the road. Are they both done? Do they both have to take all three at home to stand a chance?

Scott (Lubbock, TX)

I would say so Buzz.

Burt (NY)

The astros are Done. The red sox still scare me for soem reason

Rob Neyer

  (11:53 PM)

Well, at least they made it interesting. If you're an Astros fan, stop reading . . . Okay, for those of you still with me, here's why the Astros are dead . . . Yes, I know they come back with Clemens and Oswalt, and yes the Astros might well take two of the three games in Houston. But I just can't see the Astros taking two of three when (if) the series returns to St. Louis. Why not? Because Clemens and Oswalt both would be going on three days rest, and thus couldn't be counted on for more than six innings. And we've seen, these last two nights, what happens when St. Louis hitters meet Houston middle relievers.Thanks for hanging around tonight, and I'll be doing this again during Game 3 on Saturday.

Devin (Durham, NC)

they both have about as much a chance as this House show of lasting deep into oct

Buzzmaster

  (11:54 PM)

But your risking this patient's life!

Taylor (Indianapolis)

I hope that now people will finally give the Cardinald the credit that they deserve, I'm sick of hearng about the Yankees and the Red Sox. The Cardinals had the best record this year for a reason.

Larry (Hotlanta)

I'd say Houston has a better shot than the Sox. Best pitchers yet to pitch. Not so for Boston.

Joe (St. Louis)

The Astros are almost done...they will probably steal a game in Houston...Boston is not done.

Buzzmaster

  (11:56 PM)

Thanks to Rob Neyer for all his insights tonight. Nice to have minds like Rob and Buster Olney around while we're watching the games.

Robby (Charleston, SC)

Sportscenter will still have the Schilling story leading off the show..cardinals have been disrespected all year long no reason to change it now

Buzzmaster

  (11:56 PM)

Wow, there's some bitterness there, Robby.

Sam (Northport NY)

Who wins game 3 of ALCS tomorrow?

Buzzmaster

  (11:57 PM)

Anyone want to offer a preview? Does Arroyo have New York's number?

Mark (St. Louis)

Bobby is right. STL still does not get the respect they deserve.

Craig (NYC)

Francona should pitch Wakefield tomorrow, Arroyo has never pitched a game this big, may soil his shorts before the first pitch

Michael (Sacramento)

Brown melts down Sawks win.

Tony Larussa (St. Louis)

It always seems like the AL East teams get all the publicity. My club deserves better.

Joe (STL)

Looking forward to Wakefield and Scooters explanation of a knuckleball.

Brett (Boonville, IN)

i'm sorry if it's getting repeated a lot, but who cares about the yanks anymore? the cards are the ones coming out of the postseason with the hardware this year

Buzzmaster

  (12:02 AM)

All right, folks seem pretty spent (rain delays will do that) so let's call it a night. Thanks for spending your evening with us in The Show. Be sure to check in tomorrow night for Game 3 of the ALCS, with your host The Showgirl and inning-by-inning reports from Buster Olney.

Mike (IL)

Why is "Buzz" glaring at the chat room like that. It kind of creeps me out.

Buzzmaster

  (12:02 AM)

Closing time, last call, turning on the lights ...

J.D. (Fayetteville, AR)

Well folks, it was fun being with you all once again. Shall we do it again tomorrow?

Robby (Charleston, SC)

Pujols is batting .714 this series...amazing

Buzzmaster

  (12:03 AM)

And with that ... G'Night! Thanks all.