Here's a little quiz for you, to see whether you've been paying attention.
Last year at this time, I was:
(a) complaining about an unfair suspension handed down to one of our pitchers,
(b) griping about Brewers' fans grammar,
(c) talking to myself about an aggressive (and well-intended) throw by Yadi that cost us a game,
(d) grieving for a lost closer,
(e) pushing for a gold glove for a very deserving third baseman,
or
(f) examining the magical effects of some very terrible-looking facial hair sported by Ryan Franklin.
Some things change, while others never do. The Cards, for the most part, are on a pretty hot tear these days (the game in the middle of which we currently dwell notwithstanding), and sit at a very comfortable 4.5 game lead in the NL Central. (And 14 games above .500 ain't nothin' to sneeze at either.)
Last year was a different story. Last year at this time I was clinging to threadbare hope that we could sneak in for a wild card slot.
This year the "experts" are wildly impressed with our well-rounded team and our better than average chance at "running away" with the division.
Last year, the Cubs were unstoppable.
Last year, the Phillies were cruising to their second World Championship.
Last year, the Cards were looking to the future (which, as we all know, is code for "giving up on this year").
This year, the Cubs are all injured.
This year, the Phillies, well, they're still pretty ferocious.
This year, the Cards have become the "aggressive" team. John Mozeliak came out swinging and landed one of the most dangerous hitters in baseball to bat cleanup, and has made it clear that when it comes to making a run at the postseason, his team is "all in."
For the record, the answer lies in the archives. (Oh, what? Did you think I was going to tell you?)
Also, for the record, winning is fun. (Just in case there was any doubt.) However, I would be watching anyway.
For the record.
