L.A. Giveaway

Yes, it was only Game 1. But Ken Rosenthal says the Dodgers missed a golden opportunity to get the Phils in trouble.

Success story

Do more with less is a pretty common rally cry these days, but the Rays are actually doing it. Tracy Ringolsby explains how.

Need a drink?

The Red Sox, Rays and Joe Torre all popped champagne this week. Ian O'Connor says it's enough to drive the Yankees to drink.

Houston Astros Roster Report

by Sports Xchange

Updated: October 10, 2008, 3:00 AM EST

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The Astros remained in postseason contention until Sept. 26 despite playing in the NL Central with the league-leading Cubs and wild-card-winning Brewers. They were optimistic and are only three players or so away from serious contention.

BIGGEST NEEDS: The Astros need another quality starting pitcher, and Cecil Cooper and Ed Wade made clear they will go after one this winter.

FREE AGENTS: No Astros has filed for free agency, but Brad Ausmus made it clear he will not return to Houston. INF Mark Loretta, LHP Randy Wolf and RHP LaTroy Hawkins are likely to be the club's top three free agents this winter. RHP Doug Brocail's 2009 contract option was declined by the Astros, but they said they still want to re-sign him.

ARBITRATION-ELIGIBLE: SS David Newhan, LHP Wandy Rodriguez, RHP Brandon Backe, 3B Ty Wigginton, RHP Geoff Geary.

The Astros will try to retain all of them.

IN LIMBO: The Astros don't have much trade bait.

MEDICAL WATCH:

RHP Chris Sampson (right elbow tendon surgery in October 2008) will need four to six months to recover, meaning he might miss spring training.

RHP Geoff Geary (groin surgery in October 2008) should be fully healthy in time for spring training.

LF Carlos Lee (left pinkie surgery in August 2008) should be fully recovered next spring.

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Phillies grab 2-0 lead
The Phillies took a 2-0 series lead over the Dodgers in the NLCS with an 8-5 victory. Hear from Shane Victorino, who collected two hits and four RBI, as well as starter Brett Myers, who picked up the win and also had a stellar day at the plate.

Dodgers have their Phil of Myers
The Phillies jumped out to 2-0 lead in the NLCS with a 8-5 win in Game 2. Hear from winning pitcher, Brett Myers, who had had three hits and three RBI, and Dodgers manager Joe Torre.

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