It’s been written all over the blogosphere how the Cincinnati Reds have self destructed in their NLDS series against the Phillies. A series that was wrapped up in the minimum three games on Sunday night.
But how much of the errors that other teams make are the result of bad timing, poor fundamentals or bad luck and how much can be attributed to the lurking presence of the Phillies causing teams like the Reds to feel the pressure of having to play a perfect game to win?
Though no one knows for sure, it’s a valid question, as the Reds built their NL Central title on playing solid fundamental baseball all season and now suddenly they can’t seem to make the plays when needed.
Well, this much we do know: the sight of H20 can make any team nervous. Against the Phils big three of Halladay, Hamels and Oswalt, teams know they won’t get very many opportunities to shine and must play their best baseball to have a chance, especially in a short series.
So let’s take a look at how the intimidation factor might play against the remaining teams going forward.