What already figured to be a memorable finish has suddenly, dramatically and tragically become the most emotional final week of regular-season baseball in recent memory.
MLB hoped the additional Wild Card spot would extend the races for postseason play, and whether we agree with the decision, it has. Adding a second team to the mix for a one-game playoff in each league has increased the intensity.
But it's safe to say nobody could have expected the kind of drama produced this week. The final days of Red Sox designated hitting slugger David Ortiz's career, plus the seemingly national tribute to legendary Dodgers announcer Vin Scully, guaranteed a coast-to-coast retirement party. All of this as the American and National Leagues headed to a wild finish, with teams jockeying for Wild Card position and home-field advantage for division and league series.
