Finally! Well, at least that’s what Amazin’ fans are saying today. Following another disappointing season, the Mets sacked GM Omar Minaya and manager Jerry Manuel today- confirming what had been the obvious.

So, the Wilpons finally shake things up and start fresh. Something their suffering fanbase have been dying for for quite some time.  Since Carlos Beltran took a called third strike against Cards’ hero Adam Wainwright leaving the bases loaded in the NLCS Game Seven, it’s all been downhill for a franchise that remains stuick on two championships (1969, 1986). What had looked so promising with that ’06 team fell apart in epic fashion.

Nobody could’ve predicted the ’07 and ’08 collapses, tormenting fans even more. Nor could anyone have foresaw all the injuries to key stars Jose Reyes, Carlos Beltran, K-Rod and Johan Santana the past two years, which killed any realistic chance of October baseball at their new ballpark, Citi Field.

Who also knew that David Wright would only hit five homers in his first season in the state of the art setting? Sometimes, you just can’t tell. Or that prize free agent Jason Bay would struggle even worse before being KO’d by a concussion. To quote a Guns N’ Roses song My Michelle, “Well, well, well, you never can tell.”

Such is how things went for the team in Queens, who were once front and center on SI with their mix master Minaya, leading credence to the SI jinx. When he changed managers two years ago in one of the worst PR moves ever, sacking Willie Randolph in the middle of the night on the West Coast, it was a black eye for the franchise. But they  responded under Manuel only to break hearts in September. Something that became a theme.

The hard truth is they were up against a better team in the Phillies, who were mentally tougher. This isn’t a knock on the Met core as much as it is giving props to Charlie Manuel’s bunch, who ran away with another division crown after acquiring Roy Oswalt from Houston. With a terrific trio of expected Cy winner Roy Halladay, Oswalt and resurgent ’09 World Series MVP Cole Hamels, the Phils are the favorites to win the pennant and could very well capture a second World Series in three years. Especially given the AL uncertainty.

None of this helps the Mets or their fans, who will once again have nothing to cheer for this Fall unless you consider hoping the Reds can upset Philly while the Giants beat Atlanta are going to make up for the failure of management. The Yankees are also playing Minnesota, having limped in.

What’s most important for the Mets is to address the problems by hiring the right GM, who will be given full autonomy to bring in a new skipper. Is John Hart on the shortlist? Will a new executive really promote from within with former ’86 hero Wally Backman, who managed Low-A Brooklyn to the Penn League finals before falling? It doesn’t seem to make a lot of sense. Yes, Backman is their guy but is it smart to move the fiery manager all the way up to the bigs? Our suggestion would be to give the former second baseman more time perhaps at a higher level.

Bobby Valentine would love the job but is he the right fit? His personality is fun but also can rub people the wrong way.  Joe Torre expressed interest but do they really want to bring in a man synonymous with four world titles in five years with the Bronx Bombers? It wouldn’t appease a fanbase who has to be tired of recycling names. Art Howe anyone?

The Mets need a GM and manager who’ll be on the same page- able to get the most out of a promising crop that includes first base slugger Ike Davis, catcher Josh Thole, second baseman Ruben Tejada, right fielder Lucas Duda along with pitchers Mike Pelfrey, Jonathon Niese and Dillon Gee. Assuming Reyes and Wright are back and Bay comes back healthy along with team MVP Angel Pagan, whoever takes over isn’t getting a bad hand as long as Luis Castillo and Oliver Perez are gone.

There’s also the matter of Beltran, who finished strong before his knee acted up again. Do they retain an aging center fielder who remains a question mark in center due to his knees? Beltran turns 34 next April 24 and will be in the final year of his contract. Is there any market for the former All-Star? That’ll probably be the toughest decision the new GM will have to make.

They also don’t know when Santana will return. If he makes it back before July, that would be positive. The Mets might want to take a look at Jenrry Mejia and should definitely bring back cult hero R.A. Dickey. The staff will be young. So, acquiring another vet is a must. Something Minaya failed at.

If the Amazin’s want to get back in the ballgame, they’re going to have to roll the dice. Especially competing against the Phillies and Braves. They can’t afford to be wrong. It sets up an interesting offseason.

Former Baby Bomber Mitch Hilligoss (pictured right) has responded well to his new organization this summer.

Trades are part of sports. For many observers, it’s a different world compared to the one players live in. One in which they’re constantly on the move and don’t know if they’re coming or going.

Take former Staten Island Yankee Mitch Hilligoss, who in 2007 had an outstanding season with Single-A Charleston that featured a new South Atlantic record 38-game hit streak, All-Star MVP and honors while emerging in the Yankee organization. In fact, he was nearly packaged to the Twins in a deal that would’ve sent Johan Santana to the Bronx. Instead, the 25 year-old Windsor Illinois native the Yanks tabbed in 2006 sixth round slumped- struggling in Tampa to show the form that made the third baseman a hot commodity.

Eventually, Hilligoss fell out of favor in the organization and was finally traded this past winter to the Rangers for Triple-A outfielder Greg Golson. Thus far, the scenery change has sparked the former Purdue standout who finally moved up from A to Double-A. After hitting .293 with two homers, 19 RBI’s and a .352 on-base percentage in 45 games with Bakersfield of the California League, he was promoted to the Frisco Roughriders where the ex-Baby Bomber continued to display solid form before an injury sidelined him earlier this month.

At the time, Hilligoss hadn’t slowed down- hitting .304 (24-for-79) with five extra base hits (four doubles, triple), 10 RBI’s and 11 runs scored in 24 games, also posting a .391 OBP. On the mend, he took time out to discuss what it’s been like with his new organization along with life out West compared to home.

Hitting Back: What was your reaction to getting traded?

Mitch Hilligoss: My initial reaction was just total shock, but excitement. I was coming off the injury and really two down years. It was the farthest thing from my mind. When it sank in though, I started thinking about all of the guys I played with and really having to start over with meeting everyone from coaches, instructors, to teammates.

HB: Joining a new organization, how much did the change motivate you?

MH: A lot. I looked at it as a total positive. I assumed I would be able to come in and get a chance to prove myself for this season.

HB: You’ve had better success thus far. What do you attribute it to?

MH: Well, I’m getting consistent playing time unlike last year. But over the last two winters, I’ve made big adjustments to my swing in hopes that it will produce at higher levels.

HB: Talk about making the jump to Double-A. Any differences?

MH: It’s great. Unbelievable ballparks and there are actually fans again. Probably the biggest difference is top to bottom the pitching is better. There is better starting pitching, but definitely better bullpens. Guys run it up there at that level without a doubt.

HB: You recently had a setback. How close are you to returning?

MH: We really don’t know how serious it is. It’s one of those things that takes time and if something is needed to fix it, I’ll be ready for next year.

HB: How have your new teammates/managers helped in the transition?

MH: They have all been great. I have learned so much from all of them. This is a great organization, as are the Yankees. They both have so much talent and great staffs. I learned a lot by playing with some of the older guys in Spring training and during the season.

HB: You noted that there have been a lot of good road trips. What stands out?

MH: Well, the one that stands out is a twelve game road trip with three 4 game series, 8 hour drives in between and no off days. That was tough. I don’t care how experienced or how tough you are. That works on you. We played great, clinched the first half and started the second on a tear. So, you can’t complain about it.

HB: You played a little first last year. How did it go?

MH: First is harder than most people think, but it went well. It just makes me a better baseball player being able to play more positions with familiarity.

HB: Do you still keep in touch with former teammates?

MH: Of course. You know those guys are what make the minor leagues. I talk to a ton of guys. They are like family. We talk about good times and bad. I’m going to a couple of weddings this year and am excited to see everyone.

HB: When you see some of the success a few have had, does it serve as extra incentive?

MH: Sure. I mean you want to be at their level, no doubt. You always think you can play with anybody. And if you don’t, you are not a competitor. I’m happy for those guys, but it still drives a person.

HB: Talk about how different life is back home. More laid back?

MH: I’m from a really small town and I love it. It’s a great place to get away to in the off season. I enjoy the slow pace and no stoplights or traffic. That’s how I was raised and what I will probably always want to go back to. At the same time, I love some of the places I’ve had the advantage of playing at. The Charleston, SC and Frisco, TX. Both are beautiful and I could live there.

HB: When away from the ballpark, what do you do to clear your head?

MH: I love to hang with the guys, catch a good movie, and get my rest. It’s a grueling season and down time is important. The offseason is working on the farm, hanging out with friends and family, and deer hunting.

HB: How have the fans been?

MH: Fans are great. The last few places I’ve been have been to were tough because there is really not many. Like Bakersfield and Tampa. They are what get you going day in and day out. Even when you don’t feel your best, they give you energy.

HB: What’s in your Ipod?

MH: My Ipod is full of country. I’m big on Eric Church and have been for awhile. [Seth] Fortenberry actually introduced me to Texas country. So I’ve been listening to quite a bit of that. Bands like Randy Rogers and Eli Young.

HB: Favorite movies/quotes.

MH: I love history. So I like war movies. I’m a big fan of Varsity Blues too. As far as quotes, none really stick out. I have a couple mentioned on Facebook and I like what those mean.

Carlos Beltran is only part of the solution if the Mets are to see October.

The second half of the baseball season got underway Thursday. For the Mets, it didn’t go well. Facing two-time Cy Young Tim Lincecum, their bats failed- getting shutout 2-zip. The loss tied them with the Giants, who also share an identical 48-41 record with three big games left.

Complemented with Atlanta edging Milwaukee 2-1, the Amazin’s fell five back. Even more daunting is that with wild card leader Colorado red hot entering a three-game series against NL Central leader Cincinnati, it doesn’t get any easier for New York to make October. Especially with the Dodgers, Cards and Phils all in the mix. You could argue that it would just be easier to win their division. It’s hard to see the Braves running away with it even after their pickup of shortstop Alex Gonzalez. You have to figure both the Mets and Phillies will hang around making for a photo finish.

For Jerry Manuel’s club to do its part, they must get Jose Reyes back and see quick results from Carlos Beltran, who went 1-for-4 in his return. It would also help if Jason Bay earned his hefty paycheck every once in a blue moon. They’re not paying him to imitate David Wright’s 2009. Six home runs and a paltry 44 RBI’s just won’t cut it. It’s about time he gave Wright and rookie first baseman Ike Davis some support. They could also use some of that early magic from Rod Barajas’ bat.

On the pitching front, they need Mike Pelfrey to return to form. Hopefully, the time off allowed him to recoup. For much of the first half, he was their best pitcher. If they’re to seriously challenge, Pelf must follow a rejuvenated Johan Santana and Rookie Of The Year candidate Jonathon Niese with the kinda yeoman work we saw the first three months. Speaking of the crafty southpaw, he goes in Game 2 against vet Barry Zito. Lately, he’s been money. They need him to silence the fire alarm. The Mets can’t ask for much better out of vet knuckleballer R.A. Dickey, who yet again gave a quality outing tossing seven innings of one-run ball to lower his ERA to 2.62.

Of course, if Omar Minaya was able to acquire one more big arm (Oswalt, Lilly, Wolf, Myers) and add a setup man, they’d take their best shot. We’ve heard plenty about how they should consider their future. Uh. How many World Series have they won?!?!?!?!?! Beltran has one more year left. Santana ain’t getting any younger. And K-Rod has already been shaky.

How many chances do you get to win? After what’s happened the past three years, ain’t it about time Fred Wilpon made a statement? Save all the talk about how they got no money. What’s their payroll again? It’s not like they sold off players.

The Met slogan is “Believe In 2010.” What better way to do that than to go all out.

-The Celts got it done last night, advancing to their second NBA Finals in three years. They can thank Nate Robinson. Buried in Doc Rivers’ doghouse, Nasty Nate dusted off the cobwebs and scored 13 big second quarter points to spark Boston past Orlando 96-84 in Game Six- finally putting away a series they led 3-zip. Say what you want about the two-time slam dunk champ but he’s instant offense creating mismatches. Good on the Celtic coach to finally play him, seeing big results in a must win scenario. No way did they want to chance it after seeing what happened to the Bruins. Now, Paul Pierce, KG, Ray Allen, Rajon Rondo and Co. will wait to see who their opponent is. Will it be another Boston-LA clash or can the Suns recover from that Ron Artest crusher to force a deciding game? We’re hoping so.

-Tough night for the Mets, who finally saw their scoreless streak end at 35 courtesy of a Corey Hart two-run walkoff blast, making the Brewers winners. With a runner on and two out in the home ninth, he went yard off Ryota Igarashi, who relieved Pedro Feliciano after he got Prince Fielder for the first out. The Japanese import gave up an infield hit to Ryan Braun, who just got his foot on the bag to beat Jose Reyes’ one-hopper. The Met reliever got big RBI man Casey McGee to pop out for out No.2. But he couldn’t put away Hart, who clocked a hanging splitter over the left field wall as Jason Bay could only watch- snapping the Amazin’s four-game win streak.

Despite another great outing from ace Johan Santana, who went eight scoreless (8 IP, 3 H, 2 BB, 5 K’s) tossing 105 pitches, the Mets couldn’t get to Milwaukee ace Yovani Gallardo, who went the distance for the rare shutout, throwing 121 pitches. The 24 year-old from Michoacan is one of the most unheralded starters in the game, pitching in obscurity for a poor ballclub. Last night, he went pitch for pitch with Santana, who tried to help his own cause with a double in the eighth. But just as he had all game, Gallardo snuck a heater which moved from the inside part of the plate to the middle at Reyes’ knees, freezing him. That kinda pitching was on display at Miller Park where the two hurlers were brilliant. Gallardo scattered eight hits while walking one and fanning seven. Early on, he escaped a bases loaded no out jam by getting Reyes to ground out 3-2 and inducing Alex Cora into an inning ending 4-6-3 twin killing. In the Met ninth with the guys from Queens threatening, he stranded two by getting Angel Pagan looking.

-Of course, the hot topic on the radio airwaves is why Manuel didn’t let Santana start the ninth. He probably could’ve. Instead, the much maligned Met skipper left it to a strong pen, opting to match-up. Unfortunately, it didn’t go as planned leading to the Mets’ first loss in five. Worse, they fell to 6-15 on the road- falling to a putrid team to start a six-game road trip which concludes at Petco Park against NL West-leading San Diego. Whether you want to second guess Manuel or not, his team needs to get some wins away from Citi Field. Especially if they want to be taken seriously. Good teams win on the road. We’ll find out how they respond later tonight when Fernando Nieve opposes Manny Parra.

-Meanwhile in the Boogie Down, the Yankees got a big night from Robby Cano, whose third career grand slam catapulted the Bronx Bombers past the Indians 8-2. Hitting in the cleanup spot with A-Rod sitting out, the All-Star second baseman went yard against Cleveland reliever Tony Sipp in the seventh to break open a tight game. It was his club-leading 10th home run and first since May 2. All part of a big Friday that saw him go 3-for-4 with the grand salami and three runs scored. With Mark Teixeira still struggling and Alex Rodriguez given a rare night off, Cano carried the load. Exactly what you want to see from the 27 year-old.

The Yanks got a nice bounce back outing from Phil Hughes, who went seven permitting two earned on five hits, walking a batter and K-ing eight for his sixth win. No doubt the soon to be 24 year-old former first round pick is starting to fulfill expectations. Possessing a fastball that can hit mid-90′s along with a sharp curve, Hughes is nasty. It’s got to be exciting for Brian Cashman who wouldn’t part with the tall righty for Santana.

-At least that helps the Yankee GM, who designated free agent bust Randy Winn for assignment while keeping up Kevin Russo. Russo is from West Babylon and has been a solid bat thus far going 5-for-20 with a pair of doubles and four knocked in since being recalled from Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. Maybe the former Baylor standout can provide some versatility off the bench.

-Combined with the Rays falling a third straight time this time to the lowly White Sox, the Yanks cut the lead to 3.5 games. C.C. Sabathia will try to make it two in a row and four of five when he takes on David Huff at 1 PM. We’ll see how the former Indian Cy Young winner fares along with his teammates.

With a subpar showing, it was another rough weekend for Mike Pelfrey and the Mets.

-It was another tough weekend for the Mets, who after a good Friday night opening win backed by surprising Fernando Nieve couldn’t follow suit- dropping the final two to the defending AL champion Rays at Citi Field. That included a 3-1 loss the previous day with Johan Santana bouncing back from last week’s dreadful showing against the Yanks. However, he only got one run and allowed a go-ahead solo homer to Carlos Pena in a rain delayed 3-1 defeat. Sunday wasn’t much kinder to Amazin fans, who again had to endure more rain with it swirling around causing another delay in a seesaw game which saw the Met pen unable to protect a 5-4 lead on Brian Schneider’s second dinger of the series. Instead, the Rays teed off on struggling youngster Bobby Parnell, who didn’t retire a batter giving up four straight hits including B.J. Upton’s go-ahead two-run blast into the second deck in left. By the time he was done, he’d been charged with four earned with the Rays going ahead 8-5.

Even when the Mets crept within two on Gary Sheffield’s RBI ground out, they stranded the tying runs in the home seventh with Ryan Church going down swinging on a payoff pitch from one-time Yankee Randy Choate. Jerry Manuel went to resurgent righty Sean Green but for a second consecutive day, he couldn’t stop the bleeding loading the bases before Tampa pushed across a pair of insurance runs against lefty Pedro Feliciano to pad their margin.

And so, Manuel’s club settled for one win this weekend- good enough to actually gain ground on the slumping Phillies, who continued their bewildering play at Citizen’s Bank Park by losing 2-1 to the Orioles, getting swept. Yes. That means they’ve lost their last six and eight of nine on a disastrous homestand to Boston, Toronto and Baltimore. Yikes. That even included first base slugger coming off the hospital bed to hit a go-ahead pinchhit three-run home run putting the Phils up 5-3 in the seventh. But Ryan Madson’s struggled lately since taking over for injured Brad Lidge in the closer role. He couldn’t hold it allowing a tying and go-ahead two-run dinger in a crushing 6-5 loss Saturday. Ace Cole Hamels pitched well going eight while fanning 10 but the Birds were able to push two runs across which was enough because Jeremy Guthrie and two relievers combined to shutdown the Philly offense posting a 2-1 win.

So, the Mets despite dropping yet another series are still just two out of first. They’re a game over (34-33) but very much alive entering two more big series in Queens with first Albert Pujols and the Cards coming in for four before the Yankees pay a visit to Queens next weekend. It won’t get any easier.

-Amazingly enough, with the Phils and Mets scuffling, the Marlins with their 6-5 win over the Yankees pulled within three games- just one behind the Amazin’s. Florida took advantage of C.C. Sabathia departing early with tightness in his left biceps. Though afterwards, the Yankee ace indicated it wasn’t that bad. We’ll have to wait and see.

The Marlins cashed in against the shaky Yankee middle relief with superstar Hanley Ramirez (2-run shot) and Cody Ross (s0lo) going yard off Brett Tomko to go ahead 4-3. Earlier, the Yanks scored three on a Mark Teixeira RBI double and Alex Rodriguez two-run base hit. But things quickly changed with Florida’s Jorge Cantu driving in a pair in the home seventh making it 6-3.

The Yanks mounted a late rally against first-year closer Matt Lindstrom putting together three straight two out hits including rookie Brett Gardner’s two-run three-bagger that cut it to 6-5. But with the tying run 90 feet away following a Johnny Damon walk, Derek Jeter failed to deliver in the clutch a second day in a row grounding into a fielder’s choice. The Captain also couldn’t get down a bunt the day prior eventually killing a rally with a 4-4-3 twin killing in a 2-1 loss. Damon’s outfield misplay turned out to be the difference.

So, it was another banner weekend for Joe Girardi, whose club has only won one series in the last four. And they were handed it. The good news is they still lead the wildcard by a game over the Angels and Blue Jays with the Rays now within two. The bad news is they’re now four behind Boston, who squeaked past the Braves 6-5 on immortal Nick Green’s walkoff blast taking two of three up at Fenway.

Will the panic button be pushed? Why should it? They can still get it righted this week headed to Atlanta for three beginning tomorrow and then across town for three more. Besides. It’s not like the new regime will do anything drastic. They hardly even show a pulse which kind of reminds ya of what the new Golden Palace sounds like.

-So what else is going on? Well, the Cubs finally are showing signs after sweeping Cleveland by scoring off former pitcher Kerry Wood twice to continue their great comebacks that started Thursday over the White Sox. Derrek Lee, who we blasted is proving us wrong swinging a hot bat with four homers and nine RBI’s during a four-game win streak that has them back to three over (34-31) just two and a half behind the Cards and one in back of Milwaukee. The veteran first baseman has hit in 18 straight. Heck. Even Alfonso Soriano got a big hit winning a game with a walkoff. Perhaps things are finally turning at Wrigley.

-The surprising Giants just swept the first place Rangers winning by two runs, a run and a run against good competition at Pac Bell. A day following a wacky conclusion that saw the winning run come in via a wild pitch, San Fran got a great effort from Barry Zito. Yes. The lefty actually took a no-hitter into the seventh before veteran Andruw Jones broke it up with a two-run homer that tied it. However, the pesky Giants cameback with a runscoring single off the bat of veteran right fielder Randy Winn to get Baked Zito his third ‘W’ in the last four outings. Zito went seven fanning eight while walking four to lower his ERA to 4.54. Not bad. At least, they’re finally getting a return on the once failed $126 million investment. Bob Howry worked a scoreless eighth and closer Brian Wilson tossed a 1-2-3 ninth including Brandon Boggs swinging to end it for his 19th save.

Give credit to veteran skipper Bruce Bochy, who despite no big bats has his club playing very well. Yes. The Giants at 37-31 lead the wildcard. Of course, it’s still early with a slew of teams including the Brewers, Cubs, sizzling Rockies who are invoking 2007 memories, Reds, Mets and Marlins all closeby. But you have to tip your cap to the former San Diego manager. His best bats are his catcher Bengie Molina, who hits cleanup, leadoff center fielder Aaron Rowand and heavy third baseman Pablo Sandoval, who swings a good stick. While all have proved to be solid players, none are what you’d deem scary. The Giants are getting zilch from free agent shortstop Edgar Renteria. Yet somehow, with a bunch of no-names and the majors’ deepest staff, they’re finding ways to win. It doesn’t matter how. They all count.

Will the Giants hang around long enough for maybe GM Brian Sabean to do something like perhaps add a bat? It sure would be nice to see.

-As for the Rockies, what can you say. They’ve now won five straight following a weekend sweep of the Pirates. And that’s 16 of 17 suddenly making them wildcard players at 36-33. They’re 16-4 in the month of June and show no signs of letting up. Why the improvement under vet skipper Jim Tracy? Because they’re hitting better with Clint Barmes now their everyday second baseman and former first round pick Ian Stewart showing some pop at the hot corner in place of slumping Garrett Atkins, who for one day cameback and contributed with an RBI playing first to give vet Todd Helton a day off.

They come up with big hits and also are pitching better with Tracy allowing his starters to go deeper into games. Josh Fogg and Joel Peralta have been steady bullpen influences getting the ball to closer Huston Street, who has saved eight in a row following a slow start.

Colorado will get a good test over the next week on a nine-game road trip with stops at the Halo’s, A’s and Dodgers. They’ll have three solid starters in a pair of six-game winners Aaron Cook and Ubaldo Jimenez. Plus nine-game winner Jason Marquis. Yep. That same Marquis who became the odd man out of the Windy City. Remarkable stuff. As a native Staten Islander who grew up in the same village as him we’re awfully proud.

-Ain’t it kinda sad that Andruw Jones has as many homers (8) as Met co-leader Carlos Beltran (8)?

-And how does one explain David Wright pacing the senior circuit with a .344 average but striking out 69 times in 252 at bats? And he only has four long balls. Insane.

-Best wishes to ex-Met left fielder Endy Chavez, who accidentally collided with Seattle teammate shortstop Yuniesky Betancourt and had to be carted off the field after tearing his ACL and MCL. The former Game Seven 2006 NLCS near Amazin hero is done for the rest of the season and could miss part of next Spring. Hope he makes it back.

-Final thought:

1B Adrian Gonzalez- .275-23-45, 46 runs, 57 BB (.418 OBP), .602 SLG

Just imagine if he played on a contender instead of in total obscurity in San Diego.

The Subway Series had its ups and downs this weekend but that wasn't the main event in the Bronx Palace. Francisco Rodriguez and Brian Bruney nearly got into it over some recent comments the Yankee reliever made.

It’s a laid back Monday awfully quiet here in the Big Apple. Guess that’s what happens when the local baseball teams are idle and the NHL and NBA are now officially done thanks to Finals MVP Kobe Bryant and the Lakers dismantling the Magic 99-86 last night to win the franchise’s 16th NBA title.

Hard to believe all we really got left is baseball. Unless, you’re a huge tennis fan like me who can’t wait for Wimbledon to get going next week. I so want to see Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer meet once more in another epic final. But wonder if the banged up No.1 Spaniard is up to it. Only time shall tell.

There’s also the U.S. Open starting this Thursday with Tiger chasing his 15th major. But that’s if you’re an avid golf fan. I’m sure I’ll flip to it out of curiosity.

So, with the two New York ballclubs off, what better time than to discuss this past weekend’s Subway Series clash in the Bronx Palace?

-The Yankees wound up taking the series by dismantling Met ace Johan Santana for nine earned in an unpredictable 15-0 blowout Sunday.

When I flipped on WFAN yesterday and heard the score, I was wondering what happened. Santana has never been that bad since he put on the Met uniform. And it arguably was his worst career outing. The Yanks pushed four across in the second with former Baby Bomber catcher Francisco Cervelli getting it started with an RBI single- part of a three hit day for the rookie. Derek Jeter and Johnny Damon knocked in the other runs.

Unfortunately for the Amazin’s, the Bronx Bombers were far from done putting up a nine spot in the fourth as they knocked out Santana highlighted by Hideki Matsui’s 10th home run.  Before the inning was through, Brian Stokes had been tattooed with Robby Cano going yard and Melky Cabrera driving in a pair. And so, what began as a chance for Jerry Manuel’s club to continue their momentum from Saturday and win the series turned into a laugher.

Instead, A.J. Burnett lived up to his paycheck for a change escaping an early bases loaded no out jam by fanning two and getting Carlos Beltran to harmlessly lineout to Jeter. While Burnett cruised tossing seven scoreless and fanning eight in maybe his best performance in Pinstripes, his teammates tacked on a couple in garbage time to finish off the rout.

And so, what started out as a debacle for the Yanks turned out alright thanks to Luis Castillo and Santana’s stunning result. Had the Met second baseman not misjudged a routine pop Friday night, Joe Girardi’s club could’ve been looking at a six-game losing streak versus the Red Sox and Mets. Wonder if that might’ve been enough to get him canned? So much for that. Instead, the Yanks picked up a game on Boston, who fell to the Phillies 11-6. The Red Sox lead the division by two games while the Phils remain four ahead of the Mets.

There’s really not much to say in terms of this series because both teams showed flaws with Andy Pettite and the Yankee pigpen continuing to fail while lack of fundamentals killed the Mets along with the continued platoon popgun at first between struggling rookie Daniel Murphy and Fernando Tatis. Since Carlos Delgado went down, the pair have totaled only one home run. Listening to Howie Rose lament that during yesterday’s slaughter made it sound like he was criticizing the Met organization. There was a bitterness to it. Who could blame him?

The bigger news that came out of yesterday was the pregame circus between angered Met closer Francisco Rodriguez and Yankee reliever Brian Bruney. Bruney’s big mouth got him in trouble Friday when he said it couldn’t have happened to a better guy of K-Rod’s first blown save due to his antics. While it’s true that the MLB record holder can go a little overboard when he records that final out for a save, he can do whatever he wants as long as he gets the job done. It’s up to the opposing hitters. So, if he wants to point to the sky thanking God, so be it.

I’m not a big fan of that. But hey. As was pointed out on the Mets radiocast yesterday, you wonder if Bruney feels the same way about Joba Chamberlain. It is what it is. At least before anything happened when Bruney tried to apologize to a furious Rodriguez, teammates separated them. It was really childish and has no place in the game.

There is no right here. Let’s just hope as both indicated that it’s finished.

Some other MLB thoughts:

-With his complete game in a 7-1 win yesterday, Matt Cain improved to 9-1 with a 2.39 ERA. The former Giants No.1 pick is stepping out of Tim Lincecum’s shadow this season dominating hitters. With Cain and Lincecum firing on all cylinders, don’t look now but the Giants are playing some good ball entering tonight 34-28. Unfortunately, Barry Zito got knocked around by the Angels for seven runs and they trail John Lackey 8-0. Still, San Francisco has been a pleasant surprise. Just imagine if they had any kind of hitting. Another slugger could help them contend for a wildcard.

-Also pitching great yesterday was Cleveland lefty ace Cliff Lee, who took a no-hitter into the eighth before Yadier Molina broke it up with a double. Lee needed only 93 pitches to go the distance on a three-hit shutout improving to 4-6 with a 2.88 ERA. Following a sluggish start, last year’s AL Cy Young winner has really picked it up. Might he become available if the Indians continue to struggle? Stay tuned.

-The Cubs fired hitting coach Gerald Perry this weekend. Apparently, it was his fault that Alfonso Soriano doesn’t hit anything but home runs and Derrek Lee can’t get around on a fastball anymore. Was it his fault that Aramis Ramirez got hurt and the Cubs overpaid Milton Bradley? 2008 NL Rookie of The Year Geovany Soto has also struggled. Who told the Cubbies it was a good idea to trade away Mark DeRosa? Sometimes, you gotta look in the mirror first.

-When they fired Clint Hurdle, I figured it was just foolish because the Colorado roster just doesn’t spell contender. However, so far I’ve been proven wrong with the suddenly surging Rockies completing  a three-game sweep of Seattle, winning their 11th in a row to get within a game of .500 (31-32). Amazing turnaround.

-Speaking of sweeps, with an impressive three-game weekend in Toronto, are the Marlins finally ready to turn the corner or is this just another tease?

-Early returns on that Nate McClouth trade to Atlanta:

McLouth: 10 GP, 10 for 41 (.244), HR, 2 RBI, 2 SB, 7 Runs

Atlanta record: 4-6

Andrew McCutchen: 11 GP, 16 for 49 (.327), 0 HR, 7 RBI, 2 triples, 2 SB, 9 Runs

Pittsburgh record: 6-5

Keep in mind they weren’t traded for each other but McCutchen was Pittsburgh’s former 2005 first round pick (11th overall) who was waiting in the wings when McClouth was finally moved for prospects Gorkys Hernandez, Charlie Morton and Jeff Locke.

Though we won’t know the full returns on this deal for quite some time, it’s always nice to know that that self-proclaimed Baseball Tonight genius Steve Phillips is once again right on top of things just as he was with the Mets. Some things never change.

-And finally, I’m just going to echo WFAN’s Mike Francesa that the Twins will win the AL Central. They’re young but well managed by Ron Gardenhire and boast a very underrated middle of the order in Joe Mauer, Justin Morneau and Jason Kubel. Nobody really pays attention to how good those three are. When you boast the best hitting catcher, a former MVP who will seriously challenge again and a former No.1 pick who’s finally healthy fulfilling expectations, you always got a shot. Toss in young hurlers Scott Baker, Nick Blackburn and Francisco Liriano and there’s plenty to like. Plus Joe Nathan’s one of the best closers in baseball. This is a team worth tracking.

Mark-Paul Gosselaar as Zach Morris on Jimmy Fallon was indeed epic stuff. More so than meaningless June baseball in NYC.

It’s a cool June New York Wednesday with overcast skies that are threatening. Ah. Kinda sounds like a classic Jimi Hendrix tune.

So, what’s cooking? Oh. Plenty. Well, if you’re as baseball-sessed as the folks here. While there’s a Stanley Cup going to a Game 7 and an NBA Finals where the home team has won all three games thus far, they may as well not exist based on all the sports radio talk about the Yankees suffering their latest defeat to the Red Sox and the Mets actually giving a subpar Johan Santana enough run support to edge the Phillies.

So, here we are in the second week of June with still plenty of baseball left before we go crowning anyone. But that’s not the way it works around these parts. Where one week, the NY baseball teams stink and the next, they are virtual locks for the first Subway Series in nearly a decade. No. Not the fake half a dozen games we get in each new stadium with the Mets invading the real short porch later this weekend with the Bronx Bombers later doing the same at the much longer ballpark in Queens.

So, here are some random thoughts on the area locals and other big sporting events going on:

-If you ignored all the fun pie in the face stuff from A.J. Burnett, he’s been almost Carl Pavano-esque so far in his first Yankee season. Maybe it’s a 2003 Marlins thing. Speaking of DL Pavano, hasn’t he won like six games now with Cleveland or as many as he won in his Bronx stint? Amazing.

-If Santana really did show up Jerry Manuel when he pulled him last night in the eighth for Bobby Parnell which was the right thing to do, then maybe it’s time for someone to get in the ace’s face. This other thing about changing the bunt to a hit which worked out as an RBI double ain’t exactly too encouraging either. Sure. He’s a great pitcher but play by the same rules the rest of your teammates do.

-With him the majors’ first 10-game winner and finishing most of his games in a tougher hitting league, maybe we’d take Doc Halladay over Johan. The Jays ain’t exactly bad either these days. What with Adam Lind looking like an All-Star at second. Imagine if Alex Rios and Vernon Wells get going.

-Heard a fan call into Mike Francesa and compare Jose Reyes and Robinson Cano. Well, one’s a shortstop who bats leadoff and steals at least 60 bases and scores over 100 runs while the other’s a second baseman who hits for a higher average and drives in more. Still, we’d take Reyes over Cano because he can impact the game more. Both are outstanding at times defensively while there are other plays that make you scratch your head. Ditto for Reyes on the basepaths and Cano mailing it in last year. Just imagine if both played up to their full potential.

-When Big Papi goes yard and former castoff Nick Green drives in a pair while Josh Beckett silences the Yankee bats, you know the Red Sox are in their heads. Speaking of which, what will the run-o-meter look like when Chien-Ming Wang starts tonight versus Tim Wakefield?

-I’m more interested to see how Cole Hamels does against his favorite opponent.

-Raul Ibanez now has 20 homers and already speculation has begun about whether he’s on the juice. The Phillie slugging outfielder was far too pleased and even said he’d return every penny earned if found with a positive test. Damn. Maybe he should just take it to prove innocence and sue for libel. Not that it will ever happen.

-I don’t mind how emotional he gets after a save but what happens when K-Rod blows one? Does he still point up to the Heavens?

-Have you ever seen so much fuss made over Mo Rivera’s implosion against the Rays in a tie game? Not like we’ve never seen it before.

-Who has a better built-in excuse? J.J. Putz or Brad Lidge. I’m going with the guy who was a perfect 48 for 48 and won a world championship last year after coming over from Houston.

-I still say Francisco Cervelli should be the Yankee catcher and Jorge Posada the DH. Say bye to Godzilla already.

-David Wright, who hit his fourth homer and first in forever last night is right about Citi Field. But hey. He’s also much younger than Chipper Jones, who he joked to and is having a better year. Suck it up!

-Remember when Derek Jeter was done? Remember when the Yankee centerfield was a weakness? Next.

-I’ll take Carlos Beltran on my team but if he’s going to rip teammates for getting swept by the Pirates and then not bother hustling out of the box, what kind of leadership is that?

-The Stanley Cup rematch has been pretty good but badly needs a last second finish or sudden death. Cause aside from Game 7, what better drama is there than that?

-I like Kobe and he’s the best player on the planet but when he turns to the refs begging and getting a call in crunch time following a clean block by Dwight Howard, something’s very wrong.

-Still can’t believe the Magic rolled out Finals failure Nick Anderson to get the place jumping. What? Dennis Scott wasn’t available.

-There’s absolutely no way Sidney Crosby should be considered for the Conn Smythe given how mediocre he’s looked versus Henrik Zetterberg and Detroit. Our playoff MVP leading candidates:

1.Evgeni Malkin, Pit

2.Chris Osgood, Det

3.Henrik Zetterberg, Det

4.Johan Franzen, Det

If Malkin has a good game Friday and the Pens fall short, it should be enough for the league’s leading scorer to win the award. Only five times in NHL history has the Conn Smythe recipient come from a losing club (Roger Crozier 1966 Red Wings, Glenn Hall 1968 Blues, Reggie Leach 1976 Flyers, Ron Hextall 1987 Flyers, Jean-Sebastien Giguere 2003 Mighty Ducks).

-If Pavel Datsyuk had been totally healthy for this series, it would’ve already ended.

-Has anyone seen Marian Hossa? Please send whatever info you have to the Detroit Red Wings before 8 ET/5 PT Friday night.

-Still can’t believe the Magic shot 63 percent from the field and still had to hang on for dear life to get their first Finals win in seven tries. That isn’t too promising for the rest of the series.

-I really could do without the nauseating second and fourth quarter interviews with the coaches. Though we loved Phil Jackson’s response during the Game One blowout when asked about Kobe and he was like, ‘How about that game.’

-Kudos to Svetlana Kuznetsova on winning the French Open for her second grand slam title easily dispatchng Russian countrywoman Dinara Safina. The elder former U.S. Open winner played steady tennis from the baseline while young Safina melted down for a second consecutive slam final. Last time out down under, it was against Serena Williams, who Kuznetsova bested in three hard fought sets in the quarters at Roland Garros. Too bad she was a sore loser about it. Kuznetsova also went three sets coming back to beat Samantha Stosur in the semis. Congrats on the win and we think she should be ranked a little higher than five. Speaking of which, no player should ever be No.1 and still haven’t won a major. Sorry.

-It’s still great a few days later that Roger Federer finally conquered his Paris demons completing the career slam. Just wish it could’ve come against archrival Rafael Nadal, who we hope will be healthy enough to defend his title at Wimbledon in less than two weeks.

-I don’t care because it’s the story that won’t go away. But someone needs to tell Brett Favre just that.

-And finally, for your entertainment, the absolutely classic appearance by one Mark-Paul Gosselaar as none other than Saved By The Bell’s Zach Morris on Jimmy Fallon a couple of nights ago on Late Night:

Dude hasn’t aged and stayed totally in character which made it work. Full credit to Fallon for letting him do his thing for this anticipated reunion.

“750 Math. 752 Verbal. 1,502 combined score. Stansbury material.“

It’s snowy here in NYC and that’s a nice thing especially around this wonderful time of year right before Christmas and Chanukah or whatever you celebrate. If Kwanza, Happy Happy!

But here I am with this one thought floating around my brain. It centers on New York baseball and its fans. Let’s face it! There’s no more spoiled fanbase than our city’s two teams which the majority support.

What other city’s baseball fans demand and expect to land the biggest free agent superstars every Winter? Not even the Red Sox who have won two more World Series than both the Yankees and Mets combined the past eight years get every star by overpaying like our teams do.

Sure. Francisco Rodriguez fell into Omar Minaya’s lap and the three years at the price of 36 million ain’t bad for the former Halo who established a new regular single season record with 62 saves. But that also had to do with the market and other options like Brian Fuentes who remains unsigned along with seasoned vet and all-time save leader Trevor Hoffman. Heck. The Astros still could put up Jose Valverde one year after acquiring him. How did that Brad Lidge deal workout again?

Getting back to the point, K-Rod is an elite closer in the upper echelon with Mariano Rivera, Jonathan Papelpon, Lidge and the much overlooked Joe Nathan. By acquiring him on their terms, the Mets addressed their biggest flaw which prevented them from October play a second straight season.

But by also going out and dealing for former Mariners closer J.J. Putz to hand the ball off to Rodriguez, Minaya instantly bolstered his pen with arguably the best 1-2 punch in the Senior Circuit. How it works out remains to be seen.

Thing is what other team’s fans would have expected this? No other city is like New York when it comes to its baseball teams. We always believe we’re getting the big star. Whether it’s a top flight ace like Johan Santana last year or the best free agent starter in C.C. Sabathia this month landing in the Bronx for a ridiculous seven years worth 161 million matching the old street they played at, baseball fans here hold their teams to a different level.

We want them to buy the best players and improve our teams even if it doesn’t always guarantee a world championship. I bet Met fans at this point would settle for just a division crown guaranteeing October after how the last two years have gone. And Pinstripe supporters are just hoping Ca$h Cow and A.J. Burnett (5 yrs, 82.5 million) are enough to get them back to the postseason when they’re competing with the Rays and Sahhhxxx.

In other words, there are no guarantees despite what our teams have done thus far. Sadly, it’s not over with the Yanks still chasing Manny Ramirez and possibly Mark Teixeira although I believe it was just to jack up the price which seems to have worked with the Red Sox bidding adieu to landing the switch hitting first base slugger who also can flash the leather.

The Yankee brass won’t be satisfied until they’ve acquired every All-Star as if that change in philo$ophy has paid dividends since they threw the gauntlet at Jason Giambi when George Steinbrenner got his own network. Alex Rodriguez still resides at third and the team has won exactly one playoff series in the four years the future home run King’s been here. You can bring in whoever you so desire but it doesn’t exactly mean anything.

It still doesn’t account for team chemistry. You don’t need to spend a fortune to win. But you can’t exactly field a team like the Omaha Royals do or Pirates. Toss in the Padres since they’re trying to sell off former NL Cy winner Jake Peavy because the owner is going through a messy divorce. This is the sad state of baseball.

Where not every fanbase has as much to get excited for when it comes to pitchers and catchers. If you live here, all you hear are baseball fans calling up WFAN in NY as if we’re already in April. It grows about as tiresome as all the NFL talk. Granted. At least it’s more warranted with a lot riding on the line for the Jets and Giants this weekend.

Sometimes, I still ponder what exactly basketball or hockey did so wrong. The Knicks get air time only cause they’re watchable again due to Mike D’Antoni’s up-tempo unselfish brand of basketball. At least for now until something else develops with the Stephon Marbury fiasco.

Compared to baseball and football, the hoops discussion is still limited because the hardcore fan knows that this Knick team might not even be good enough to make the playoffs as an eighth seed. It’s really all about 2010 with a free agent class of LeBron, Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh and future Knick Amare Stoudemire.

As for the Nets who are a better act and are broadcast on FAN with Devin Harris torching Jason Kidd for 43 and 13 assists last night, nobody really cares. They rarely get mentioned except for loyal Net fan midday co-host Evan Roberts. Pretty sad for a station which airs their games.

As for hockey, what is it? Mike Francesa blatantly ignores it as if it were the plague. Chris Carlin’s Morning Warmup show is all hot air over the baseball and football teams. Anything but hockey seems to be the breakfast recipe.

It gets a little acknowledgment from Boomer and Carton along with Ranger fan Joe Benigno and Roberts due to interest in the Rangers. Esiason also is a huge Blueshirt supporter sometimes showing up at games. Steve Somers is probably the best hockey guy due to his passion for the Rangers and funny Islanders (Icelanders) skits. He was upset about Mats Sundin choosing the Canucks due to Glen Sather’s inability to make necessary cap space because of scrubs like Dmitri Kalinin (2.1 M) wasting away on the roster.

Mark Melusis to be fair also talks puck and tries to cover all sides including the Devils, who are broadcast on the station but may as well be playing their games in Siberia.

How is it that this station can air the NJ basketball and hockey team but rarely ever give them any love? Hypocrite$.

And what does it got to do with? Beloved baseball and football. The only sports which MATTER to them because of one word. One which I now deem evil. Rating$.

That’s all they care about. I got a question for the baseball fans out there. Is it really so hard to go a day without obsessing over which big star we’re going to wind up with next?

Wake me up when it’s May.

Not surprisingly, the two New York baseball teams came out the biggest winners at the Baseball Winter Meetings in Las Vegas with the Mets landing free agent closer and single season 62 save record holder K-Rod and wisely dealing for former Seattle closer J.J. Putz while the Yankees chased, chased and chased bending over backwards to land the biggest fish Cash Cow Sabathia severely overpaying by 60 million until the former 2007 AL Cy Young winner finally was convinced thanks to an out clause after the third year if he doesn’t like it here.

Would you go to all that trouble to land one of the game’s top starters when it was clear as day he didn’t want any part of New York hoping against hope that one of his hometown California NL teams the Dodgers or Giants would come calling keeping him in a Senior Circuit he flat out dominated tossing seven complete games in carrying the Brewers to their first October baseball in 26 years?

I’d have gone for Option B and looked into acquiring San Diego ace Jake Peavy, who might be better than Johan Santana even though Daily News columnist narcissist Mike Lupica and other Mets propaganda would have you believe otherwise. As if the Venezuelan was the second coming of Christ because he took the ball once on short rest and dominated giving the Amazin’s a chance on the final Sunday before the roof caved in causing Omar Minaya to wake up from the doldrums and realize his pigpen wasn’t championship caliber. I wonder what could’ve tipped him off? Was it the Phillies’ 1-2 punch of Ryan Madson to the perfect Brad Lidge resulting in the city of Philadelphia’s first world championship in 25 years?

Funny but as down as I am on the Yankees flexing their mu$cles for Sabathia, I could’ve sworn he finished five more games in three months than Santana did in his first NL season. In fact, the 27 year-old new Yankee ace’s 10 CGs are one better than the 29 year-old Mets ace for his entire MLB career.

This doesn’t mean Sabathia’s better. In fact, Santana has the more proven track record if you go year by year comparing their careers with Sabathia’s meteoric rise coming the past two seasons in which he won a combined 36 games with the Indians and Brewers taking home his first Cy and finishing in the top six despite half a season in the Senior Circuit. Santana finished third behind deserving NL recipient Tim Lincecum and Arizona’s Brandon Webb.

Speaking of Lincecum, it kind of makes you wonder why they didn’t extend an offer to Sabathia, who grew up pretty closeby and could’ve made a great 1-2 combo for the Giants, a team which has fielded some of the most pathetic squads recently having bought failed lefty Barry “Baked” Zito.

They already gave too many years to Edgar Renteria to fill a hole at short left by Omar Vizquel. You’re telling me they couldn’t go for a top tier pitcher who could’ve turned them into a division contender. It doesn’t take much to win the NL West. Just ask the Dodgers and Manny Ramirez.

Maybe it’s true that the Giant offense isn’t scaring anyone. But in a pitcher’s park, had they stacked up Sabathia with Lincecum, overlooked Matt Cain and young arm Jonathan Sanchez, suddenly they’d have a staff in place to compete no matter what Zito gave them.

Here’s a novel idea. Just bring back Will Clark, Robby Thompson, Matt Williams and Kevin Mitchell to give the offense a boost. If only it were that simple.

One other thing on Santana. While Lupica’s right that he’s more reliable than Sabathia, just remember all the Yanks did was waste more of their own money to get the former Brewer. Both will be paid the same yearly salary making a cool 23 million to win 18-20 games.

Only one team traded away prospects. And until the Mets see October or add another championship, you can’t say much. Telling a blowhard like Lupica that before he bashes the team in the Bronx for doing what they do best.

Better yet. What’s a tougher league? The loaded AL featuring DH driven lineups or the watered down NL that includes garbage teams like the Nats, Padres, Pirates and Giants?

Hard to believe the Nats are offering the kitchen sink to Mark Teixeira with a standing offer also from Baltimore with Boston in serious pursuit of the first base switch hitting slugger who also packs some leather. You don’t think he’d sign with such a bottomfeeder? Will the Angels bring him back? It’d probably be in their best interest considering Vlad Guerrero ain’t getting any younger.

With the Yanks and Mets loading up and getting more state grants to fund their state of the art new stadiums, what bad economy?

Apparently, they haven’t gotten the message.

-The baseball playoffs kickoff today with three of the four Division Series starting up with the Phillies hosting the Brewers, the defending champion Red Sox visiting the Angels and the Cubs taking on the Dodgers.

Last night, the White Sox became the eighth and final participant thanks to splendid pitching from John Danks, who limited the Twins to two hits over eight shutout frames en route to a 1-0 win in their one-game playoff last night in the Windy City to clinch the AL Central. Jim Thome’s 34th home run of the season off Minnesota starter Nick Blackburn which ledoff the seventh was the difference in a game that saw both teams combine for a run on seven hits.

The White Sox got a big defensive play by veteran center fielder Ken Griffey, Jr. who with the game scoreless tossed out Michael Cuddyer at the plate on a short fly to complete a 9-2 inning ending double play. The much likable future Hall Of Famer deflected attention paying homage to veteran backstop A.J. Pierzynski for catching the ball and in one motion applying the tag on a throw which he caught on the third base side of the plate:

“That play, all I had to do was make a good throw. The credit is all A.J. I put a two-hopper in there and he was able to get it and block the plate. That’s the key there. He put his body on the line for us.”

“He did a heck of a job,” Thome added of Griffey, who’s making his first postseason appearance since 1997 with Seattle. “I’m so happy for him, too.”

Closer Bobby Jenks came on to work a perfect ninth for his 30th save.

For the Twins, who dealt away ace Johan Santana for a four-player package which included speedy center fielder Carlos Gomez, it was a disappointing conclusion to what was a good year where they came oh so close to still making October.

“You never want to put 162 games all into one game, but that’s what ended up happening,” Twins first base slugger Justin Morneau lamented despite a great second half finishing one RBI shy of AL leader Josh Hamilton. “It’s going to hurt for a while and it’s going to be a long night for sure.”

Even in not the most productive lineup, the 27 year-old former 2006 AL MVP had a terrific season finishing at .300 with 23 dingers and 129 RBI’s- one shy of his career best two years ago. Morneau’s proven himself as one of the best young sluggers in the game and along with great hitting catcher and teammate Joe Mauer, whose .328 mark was good enough for the batting title should continue to lead Minnesota forward into their new stadium.

Ron Gardenhire did another tremendous job and should merit some AL Manager of The Year consideration though ultimately, Tampa’s Joe Maddon will justifiably take it home. One of these years, it’s all going to come together for the Twins which is a credit to Gardenhire and his staff.

-In assessing the four series, here’s who I like:

A.Cubs vs Dodgers- LA matches up well despite getting in via the most pathetic division. Their potent lineup has vastly improved since Manny Ramirez came over strengthening teammates James Loney, Matt Kemp and Andre Ethier. The key will be for Cubs pitchers to keep the guys in front of Manny off base so he can’t do much damage. Lou Piniella won’t let him beat them. So, it will be up to Manny’s teammates to come through.

The Cubs have a balanced attack with Alfonso Soriano, Derrek Lee, Aramis Ramirez, Mark DeRosa and certain NL ROY Geovany Soto. The pitching is about even with the red hot Derek Lowe taking on Ryan Dempster, who went 14-3 at Wrigley Field this year. Chad Billingsley faces Carlos Zambrano in Game 2 with Rich Harden battling Hiroki Kuroda in Game 3 and Greg Maddux getting the ball against Ted Lilly for Game 4. If it goes five, Lowe and Dempster would face off again.

The pens are about even with Chicago using the trio of rookie Jeff Samardzjia, setup man Carlos Marmol and closer Kerry Wood to shut the door. Rookie Cory Wade sets up while either Jonathan Broxton or Takashi Saito closes depending on Joe Torre.

The Cubs should have an edge in experience which could be huge at the plate if some of the younger Dodgers aren’t patient. This shapes up to be a good series but there’s too much at stake for the Cubs here.

Series Prediction: Cubs in 5

B.Phillies vs Brewers- Last year, the Phillies had a remarkable run to their first division title in 14 years stunning the Mets. The euphoria from that comeback was too much as the Rockies swept them. This October should be different because of last year’s experience. The goal wasn’t just to get there again but to win. This time, the Brewers are playing that role after winning five of six to slip past the Mets for the wild card clinching their first playoff berth since 1982 when they were in the AL East.

With C.C. Sabathia unable to pitch until tomorrow, that should be an edge for the Phils who even seem to have an advantage in starters with ace Cole Hamels dominating today’s first game fanning nine in eight innings. Not surprisingly in just his fourth outing this season, Yovani Gallardo struggled allowing a three-run third with Chase Utley’s two-run double and Shane Victorino’s bases loaded walk the difference. With Ben Sheets out for this round, the pressure falls on Sabathia who again will go on short rest against Brett Myers tomorrow. Jamie Moyer faces Jeff Suppan in Game 3 and Hamels returns for Game 4 against Dave Bush. If it goes five, it would be Myers against Sabathia with all bets off.

It’s hard not to like the Phils in this series due to a lethal attack of Utley, possible NL MVP Ryan Howard, Pat Burrell, Jimmy Rollins along with underrated contributors Jayson Werth and Shane Victorino. They should hit. Taking nothing away from Prince Fielder, Ryan Braun, J.J. Hardy and Corey Hart but this just isn’t their time.

Philly’s pen is also stronger with Scott Eyre and J.C. Romero setting up closer Brad Lidge, who took NL Comeback Player of The Year by going 41-of-41 in save opportunities. It’ll still be interesting to see how the ex-Astro fares in October with memories of Albert Pujols taking him yard. He didn’t look great today giving up a run while putting the tying runs in scoring position before K-ing Hart to save it for Hamels. The Brewers rely on Guillermo Mota to setup closer Salomon Torres who was very shaky in September. It might be wise to use Todd Coffey and Mark DiFelice more. Starter Manny Parra also is available.

All signs point to the Phillies. They have a better offense, more pitching, a solid bench and valuable experience.

Series Prediction: Phillies in 4

C.Angels vs Red Sox- This is the hardest match-up to call as it pits the experienced defending champion Red Sox against baseball’s best team during the regular season, the Angels who hit the century mark in wins.

For Mike Scioscia’s club, the pressure is on to get the monkey off their back versus a team that’s historically owned them in October. Dating back to 1986 when they rallied from 3-1 down to advance to the World Series, Boston’s won nine straight postseason games against the Halos. Something’s gotta give.

Their lineup is improved with first base slugger Mark Teixeira added to a middle of the order featuring vets Torii Hunter and Vlad Guerrero trying to get in table setters Chone Figgins and Garret Anderson. They better hit because even post-Manny, a Red Sox lineup that includes MVP candidates Dustin Pedroia and Kevin Youkilis along with always dangerous slugger David Ortiz will. They also got good news as J.D. Drew pronounced himself ready to go if needed for tonight’s first game. Mike Lowell probably should be back too. Toss in deadline pickup Jason Bay and speedy rookie center fielder Jacoby Ellsbury and Boston’s loaded.

The pitching match-ups are intriguing with John Lackey facing Jon Lester tonight, Dice-K versus Ervin Santana Friday and Joe Saunders taking on Josh Beckett in Game Three. Lackey and Lester will also go in Game 4 and ditto for Daisuke Matsuzaka and Santana if it goes the distance. Both teams possess good starters but I’ll give a slight edge to the Red Sox trio.

The Angels will have an edge in the pen with Scot Shields setting up record setting closer Francisco Rodriguez (62 saves). Rookie Jose Arredondo and Darren Oliver also are frequent contributors. Terry Francona will rely heavily on the duo of Hideki Okajima and closer Jonathan Papelbon, who was up and down in the final month due to coming in a few games in the eighth. He might be gassed. Manny Delcarmen and Javier Lopez should also be called upon out of the pen along with promising rookie Justin Masterson.

This series could depend on if the Angels hit. They never have had much success against Boston. Either way, it shapes up as a five-game series.

Series Prediction: Red Sox in 5

D.Rays vs White Sox- You have the new kids on the block against a very experienced bunch who have been here before. If the AL East winning Rays aren’t fazed by their first ever October, they should have enough to get through the White Sox.

Joe Maddon’s scrappy bunch pitch better and find ways to win games despite only two consistent power threats in certain AL ROY Evan Longoria and 101 RBI man Carlos Pena. The good news is that Carl Crawford is back which should give the lineup a boost. Speedy center fielder B.J. Upton (67 SB) and backstop Dioner Navarro also are part of the mix. Veterans Cliff Floyd and Eric Hinske provide leadership. Hinske usually comes off the bench as does utility specialist Willy Aybar.

The White Sox will have a huge power advantage with veterans Ken Griffey, Jr., Jermaine Dye, Jim Thome, Paul Konerko and Nick Swisher all threats to go deep. Toss in talented rookie second baseman Alexei Ramirez (21 HR, 77 RBI, 13 SB) and Ozzie Guillen’s club has plenty of offense. A.J. Pierzynski might be universally hated but can get the job done. Just imagine if they had first base slugger Carlos Quentin.

The question is are the White Sox too reliant on the home run? The Rays boast a good pitching staff with 14-game winner James Shields matching up against Javier Vazquez in Games 1 and 5. Scott Kazmir goes against Mark Buehrle in a battle of southpaws for Game 2. Game 3 pits Matt Garza against Gavin Floyd in what promises to be a good match-up between young hurlers. Andy Sonnanstine gets the ball in Game 4 versus White Sox hero John Danks.

The White Sox pen is basically Octavio Dotel handing off to closer Bobby Jenks. Matt Thornton and Scott Linebrink also contribute. Tampa has a distinct edge with the trio of Grant Balfour, J.P. Howell and veteran sidearmer Chad Bradford setting up for veteran closer Troy Percival. There’s also Dan Wheeler who saved 13 while Percival was out. Plus lefty Trever Miller. If a starter gets into trouble, Maddon can also bring in former 2007 first overall pick David Price, who was very sharp after being recalled posting a 1.93 ERA fanning 12 in 14 innings with opponents hitting just .176.

If a game is tight late, you have to like the Rays.

Series Prediction: Rays in 4

Here are the rest of my October picks:

ALCS: Red Sox over Rays in 6

NLCS: Cubs over Phillies in 5

World Series: Cubs over Red Sox in 7

WS MVP: Aramis Ramirez, Cubs