Missouri's Own World Series
The 2010 World Series begins on Wednesday, October 27 when the Texas Rangers meet the San Francisco Giants. That date also marks the 25th anniversary of Game 7 in Missouri’s “I-70 Series” between the St. Louis Cardinals and the Kansas City Royals. Area baseball fans eagerly watched their teams that fall, knowing that an all Show-Me State World Series was possible. The Cardinals did their part when they defeated the Los Angles Dodgers in the National League Championship Series. Hopes faded however, when the Royals fell behind three games to one against the Toronto Blue Jays in the American League Championship Series. Beating the odds, the Royals rallied to win the pennant and Missouri’s own World Series was a reality.
The 1985 World Series began on October 19 in Kansas City. The Royals lost the first two games at home before the series traveled to St. Louis. Game 3 went to the Royals, but they lost again in Game 4, falling to yet another three games to one deficit. A Royals victory in Game 5 brought the series back to Kansas City.
Of course, the series is best known for first base umpire Don Denkinger’s blown call in the ninth inning of Game 6. The Royals trailed 1-0 and were down to their last three outs. Lead off hitter Jorge Orta hit a ground ball into the infield and in a close play, was called safe at first base by Denkinger. A television replay clearly showed that Orta was out. The play started a Royals rally, though the Cardinals got Orta out later as he advanced to third base. The Royals loaded the bases and pinch hitter Dane Iorg drove in two runs, forcing a decisive Game 7 the following night. That game featured little of the previous night’s drama as the Royals won their first World Championship with an 11-0 victory.
Both teams featured memorable players such as George Brett for the Royals and Ozzie Smith for the Cardinals. But thanks to Don Denkinger, Royals and Cardinals fans will always debate the outcome of Game 6, and never forget when their teams battled for baseball supremacy.
To see the Denkinger’s infamous call, click here www.youtube.com/watch
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