They Did It!

The hits just keep on coming.

But I mean that in the best way possible. Not only was the Sid Beam curse broken-more than good enough for me. Every year, yes, the goal is to win a World Series. For a team that had decades-worth of losing seasons, I would have been disappointed with missing playoffs, but more than happy with breaking the curse. Struggles in the past few Pirates game were frustrating, but they were still going to have a winning season.

After 20 years, what else could I ask for?

Well, the Pirates delivered more. Last night, a win by the Buccos and a loss by the Nationals clinched the Pittsburgh Pirates their first playoff berth since 1992; the year I was born. At six months old, those playoffs meant nothing to me. At 21 years old, this playoff berth is a dream come true. They did it.

Last night's win by the Pirates was stressful. Starling Marte broke the ninth-inning tie with a home-run, and an absolutely beautiful, heart-stopping throw to home plate got the final out of the game. The cardiac kids. They like to keep it interesting.

With the Nationals' loss, I have no been so happy for a team to lose. For many in this city, the Pirates making playoffs is a dream come true. Pour the champagne, and pour/spray they did. Loved the old school chemistry goggles.

Andrew McCutchen said that it was a night he'll never forget. We won't either, Andrew. Other sports fans might laugh at the city's celebration, but the Buccos were down on their luck. For a long time. But, honestly, this is why I love the game. We're contenders. There is a legitimate chance that we could win the World Series. Now that would be the comeback of a lifetime. The first winning season results in a World Series championship? Simply epic.

Clint Hurdle said "Abso-BUCN-loutely" (please excuse the spelling). I hope that catches on.

But the most epic moment of the night? Had to be when they went to the booth and Greg Brown and John Wehner were smoking celebratory cigars. Legendary.

Just a fun photo of me enjoying the Buccos playoff berth representing with the 412, Zoltan, and a gold bow. Yup.