Phillies Send Brewers Packing

The Phillies have rolled past the Brewers 6-2, earning themselves a trip to the NLCS. Pat Burrell lead the way with two homers, including a three-run shot in the third inning. Jimmy Rollins and Jayson Werth each added homeruns to the deal as Milwaukee was sent packing.

The Brewers had their own offensive worries, though [Joe] Blanton can take credit for most of those. The burly right-hander, acquired in July from Oakland, hadn't pitched since Sept. 26 and was making only his second career postseason appearance. But he was in a groove from the minute he took the mound, thanks partly to Rollins' leadoff homer. "From the first batter, it really set the tone. It allowed me to get comfortable," Blanton said.

Both the Phillies and the Dodgers are in a good position with their early wins, allowing them to start their ace pitchers and rest their rotation before Thursday when they meet up for the NLCS. Game 1 is Thursday in Philadelphia. • The Rays and White Sox had their 4:05 start delayed. The tarp is currently off of the field, so play should begin shortly. Tampa Bay is looking to sweep Chicago for their first trip to the ALCS. Tampa Bay has never been to the playoffs before but have done well this year, winning the division and showing what happens when you build intelligently with youth. UPDATE: The game is now underway.