A series that for so long has been billed as an early September showdown between division rivals has suddenly turned into San Francisco's last stand.
Barry Bonds' obstruction of justice conviction has been upheld by a federal judge, who denied the home run king's motion for a new trial or acquittal on the charge.
Scoring in the first half of the season dropped to its lowest level in 19 years and the major league batting average shrunk to its smallest midseason figure since 1985, confirmation that the Steroids Era has ended and that a new Age of the Pitcher is taking hold.
Scoring in the first half of the season dropped to its lowest level in 19 years, and the major league batting average shrunk to its smallest midseason figure since 1985, confirmation that the Steroids Era has ended and that a new Age of the Pitcher is taking hold.
Pick a moment.
Todd Helton looked like he was finished last year. A chronically bad back had robbed the strength from his legs and the pop from his bat.
Brandon Inge hit a game-winning homer, then seemed to speak for many big leaguers when it came to Barry Bonds, drugs and the verdict for baseball's home run king.
Roy Halladay, Roy Oswalt, Cole Hamels _ and Cliff Lee. Yes, Cliff Lee.
Miguel Tejada watched from the visiting side when the San Francisco Giants celebrated their NL West title after knocking out his San Diego Padres on the final day of the regular season.
