Dodgers Sweep Cubs in NLDS

When the Chicago Cubs begin spring training in Mesa, Arizona next February they will begin their second century of futility.

The Cubs were denied a chance to win their first World Series in 100 years tonight when the Dodgers beat them 3-1 at Dodger Stadium to sweep them in three games. It is the second year in a row the Cubs have been swept in the NLDS. The Cubs were vanquished by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 2007 NLDS.

If you read my post-season predictions I thought the Cubs would take the Dodgers to a fifth game. But the Dodgers dominated from Wrigley to Chavez Ravine. In Game 1, Cubs starter Ryan Dempster walked seven batters and surrendered a grand slam to James Loney. Dodgers won 7-2. In Game 2, the Cubs committed four errors and were absolutely humiliated 10-3. Tonight, the Dodgers had great pitching from Hiroki Kuroda, Cory Wade and Jonathan Broxton.

The Cubs might have had the best record in the NL in 2008. But they are still the Cubs. Lovable losers.

The Dodgers could know who they are facing in the NLCS as soon as tomorrow afternoon should the Phillies beat Milwaukee in Game 4 of the NLDS. Currently, the Phillies have a 2-1 lead in the playoff. They could have swept this afternoon but the Brewers won 4-1 in their first home playoff game since the Reagan Administration. If the Brewers win tomorrow that will force a Game 5 in Philadelphia on Tuesday. The Phillies would have the unenviable task of facing C.C. Sabathia. Sure, the Phillies knocked out Sabathia in the 4th inning in Game 1 but they can't count on that twice. But if Game 5 comes to pass the Phillies will counter with their ace Cole Hamels. Either way I think the Dodgers are going to the World Series.