::::Insert It's Coming Down to the Wire Cliche Here::::

Perhaps the only way the last day of the regular season could be more exciting would be if these races were for deciding the division champion.  Other than that, I can't think of a funner scenario for the last day of the season.  Then again, I am not a Red Sox, Rays, Braves, or Cardinals fan. I do understand that this is not fun for everyone.  I can't imagine having to go through this roller coaster ride into the postseason being a fan of one of those teams, especially since at the beginning of the month it appeared that the wild card races were surely locked up. 

Here's what we have tonight:

American League Wild Card
Boston – Jon Lester (15-9, 3.49 ERA)
Baltimore – Alfredo Simon (4-9, 4.85 ERA)
New York – TBA
Tampa Bay - David Price (12-13, 3.35 ERA)

Regardless of who the Yankees throw in the game, Girardi has already said he will at least play his starters for a few innings.  The integrity of the game is at stake, so that is an admirable move.

National League Wild Card
Philadelphia – Joe Blanton (1-2, 5.03 ERA)
Atlanta – Tim Hudson (16-10, 3.23 ERA)
St. Louis – Chris Carpenter (10-9, 3.59 ERA)
Houston – Brett Myers (7-13, 4.31 ERA)

At first glance it may seem curious that Blanton is starting the game versus the Braves.  But Manuel has said that Hamels most likely will come in and throw a few innings in the game.  And he is certainly no pushover.  Blanton has been good too since his return from the disabled list for most of the season.  Integrity preserved.

Tonight is going to be awesome.  Part of me wants to go down to Camden Yards to watch the game, but the weather here isn't so great.  Plus if I do that then I won't be able to watch the Phillies and Braves game on anything but my iPhone.  If someone offers me tickets I might go--it is certainly going to be an exciting game and it is fan appreciation night at Camden Yards.  

One more thing.  Those four teams mentioned aren't the only ones that are playing for something.  Although it has much less significance in all of this, the Phillies are going for their 102nd win tonight.  That would set a franchise record, and be pretty awesome in a season of pure awesomeness.

Enjoy the final day of the regular season, everyone.  Will there be a game 163 for anyone?  If you care to make predictions leave them below!