Wait Until Next Year

Even the most pin-encrusted, garlic-fry-huffing San Francisco Giants fan must concede that this has been a dismal year for the home team. But let’s forestall, at least for a few hours, the urge to close the book on the 2008 Gigantes. For one thing, the end of the baseball season is a sign that winter is on its way — hardly a cause for celebration. Moreover, the opponents for today’s schedule-ender are none other than the demonic, despised Los Angeles Dodgers. Adding fuel to the volcanic fire that burns night and day in every Giants fan’s gut, the L.A. interlopers are closing in on the National League West title. Not only is there a chance the good guys will be in a position to block the Dodgers’ path to the playoffs, but also Tim Lincecum may take the mound today in pursuit of his 20th victory of the year and the inside track on the Cy Young Award. The 23-year-old phenom, known variously as the Kid, Tim Terrific, or (to those with money sunk in season tickets) the Franchise, has been the lone bright spot amid the darkness. Beat L.A., Timmy, and send us into the off-season with a glow.
Sun., Sept. 28, 1:05 p.m., 2008