[Ghoulish Delight]

Well, I think that should solidify Kershaw's Cy Young. Tied for first in wins, first in strikeouts, ERA, batting average against, and WHIP. Short by one out of first in innings pitched. There has never been a pitcher that got the triple crown (first in wins, Ks, and ERA) that DIDN'T win the award.

It's been a frustrating but hopeful couple of months. Frustrating to see a winning percentage of 65.7% since 8/21 (when Loney warmed up as an emergency reliever). Where was that all season? Of course, possibly more relevant to the improvement than Loney's bullpen session was Dave Hansen taking over as hitting coach in late July. He certainly looks like a genius (he definitely knows about hitting, nice that he seems to be able to translate that into effective coaching).

There's finally a legitimate ace to anchor the pitching staff. The bullpen got its act together in a big way. Solid veteran role players in Miles and Carroll. Impressive rookie play. And, even with financial uncertainty, Prince Fielder's name is being seriously kicked around (aided by friendships with Kemp and Gwynn).

It would be a miracle to get Fielder AND keep Loney, but Loney's said he'd be willing to play left in that situation. That's a tantalizing thought. Loney (assuming continuation of his late-season success), Ethier (assuming successful rehab), Kemp, Fielder. Damn.

Is it april?