First Down: NASCAR’s first Hall of Fame class

NEWSMAKERS WHO’S MAKING HEADLINES THIS WEEK

BRAD LIDGE

Remember those 11 blown saves and that 7.21 ERA from the regular season? Seems like ages ago. In the playoffs he’s 2-for-2 with a 0.00 ERA.

HUSTON STREET

The lockdown Rockies closer was 35-for-37 during the season but was saddled with both losses at home as the Rockies bowed out of the playoffs.

JONATHAN PAPELBON

Like Street, Boston’s ace closer was down to the final strike to keep his team alive. Then he allowed the first earned runs of his career in the postseason.

JOE NATHAN

Another guy with seemingly untouchable stuff didn’t have his best days in the ALDS against the Yankees, finishing with a 9.00 ERA.

RYAN FRANKLIN

Not nearly as bad statistically as some other closers in the first round, the Cardinals pitcher did blow his one save opportunity vs. the Dodgers.

TWT FIVE NASCAR’S FIRST HALL OF FAME CLASS

The inaugural NASCAR Hall of Fame class will be announced Wednesday. Here’s who should get ushered in first:

1. Richard Petty — The first of two no-brainers. The question: How long will his dad, Lee, have to wait to get in?

2. Dale Earnhardt — The late seven-time champ is the other no-brainer.

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