OAKLAND -- The final realistic beats of this race came down to five infielders, in close formation, backing up Frankie Rodriguez in the 12th inning.
The terrific relief pitcher then began to issue an intentional walk, and people wondered whether the Angels had gone to their prevent defense to protect K-Rod.
After all, it was right here, on Aug. 11, 2005, that the Angels had lost a game when Rodriguez mishandled a return throw from catcher Jose Molina.
Nothing of the sort was happening, of course. With Bobby Kielty on third base and only one out, the Angels were loading up their infield to increase their odds of preventing the losing run.
These indeed were desperate measures, in the waning seconds of a wonderful game that represented different things to different people.
To the Angels, it was a chance to stay one step ahead of the baseball grim reaper who eventually comes for all who have run out of magic numbers. For the Athletics, it was another nail.
Not even a roster full of infielders could have helped the Angels against Marco Scutaro, the pint-sized Oakland infielder who walks-off in the shadow of David Ortiz.
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Major League Baseball : News : Baseball Perspectives
A's, Angels about to swap roles
A's, Angels about to swap roles
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