2011 MLB Championship Series playoffs

St. Louis Cardinals' Albert Pujols walks up to take batting practice before Game 6 of baseball's National League championship series against the Milwaukee Brewers, Sunday, Oct. 16, 2011, in Milwaukee.

Cardinals trounce Brewers, win NL championship

NLDS Game 6: Cardinals vs. Brewers

St. Louis Cardinals' Albert Pujols is tagged out by Milwaukee Brewers catcher Jonathan Lucroy at home during the first inning of Game 6 of the National League championship series, Sunday, Oct. 16, 2011, in Milwaukee.

Cardinals trounce Brewers, win NL championship

NLDS Game 6: Cardinals vs. Brewers

David Freese hits a 3-run home run — Getty Images/Christian Petersen

David Freese (23) of the St. Louis Cardinals hits a 3-run home run in the top of the first inning against the Milwaukee Brewers during Game 6 of the National League Championship Series at Miller Park on Oct. 16, 2011 in Milwaukee. Freese was named the series MVP hitting .545 BA, with 3 HR and 9 RBI.

Cardinals trounce Brewers, win NL championship

NLDS Game 6: Cardinals vs. Brewers

St. Louis Cardinals' Lance Berkman makes a diving catch on a ball hit by Milwaukee Brewers' Corey Hart during the second inning of Game 6 of baseball's National League championship series, Sunday, Oct. 16, 2011, in Milwaukee.

Cardinals trounce Brewers, win NL championship

NLDS Game 6: Cardinals vs. Brewers

Milwaukee Brewers' Jonathan Lucroy reacts after hitting a two-run home run during the second inning of Game 6 of baseball's National League championship series against the St. Louis Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 16, 2011, in Milwaukee.

Cardinals trounce Brewers, win NL championship

NLDS Game 6: Cardinals vs. Brewers

David Freese knocks the glove and ball away from Jonathan Lucroy — AP Photo/David J. Phillip

St. Louis Cardinals' David Freese (23) knocks the glove and ball away from Milwaukee Brewers catcher Jonathan Lucroy as he scores on a sacrifice fly by Adron Chambers during the fifth inning of Game 6 of baseball's National League championship series, Sunday, Oct. 16, 2011, in Milwaukee.

Cardinals trounce Brewers, win NL championship

NLDS Game 6: Cardinals vs. Brewers

Prince Fielder walks back to the dugout — Getty Images/Scott Boehm

Prince Fielder of the Milwaukee Brewers walks back to the dugout after he grounded out in the bottom of the eighth inning against the St. Louis Cardinals during Game 6 of the National League Championship Series at Miller Park on Oct. 16, 2011 in Milwaukee. Fielder and fellow star Ryan Braun combined to go 0 for 8.

Cardinals trounce Brewers, win NL championship

NLDS Game 6: Cardinals vs. Brewers

The St. Louis Cardinals celebrate after Game 6 of the National League championship series against the Milwaukee Brewers, Sunday, Oct. 16, 2011, in Milwaukee. The Cardinals won 12-6 to win the series and advance to the World Series.

Cardinals trounce Brewers, win NL championship

NLDS Game 6: Cardinals vs. Brewers

St. Louis Cardinals manager Tony La Russa and players celebrate after Game 6 of the National League championship series against the Milwaukee Brewers, Sunday, Oct. 16, 2011, in Milwaukee. The Cardinals won 12-6 to win the series and advance to the World Series.

Cardinals trounce Brewers, win NL championship

ALDS Game 6: Tigers vs. Rangers

Fireworks explode before Game 6 of the American League Championship Series between the Texas Rangers and the Detroit Tigers Saturday, Oct. 15, 2011, in Arlington, Texas.

ALDS Game 6: Tigers vs. Rangers

Detroit Tigers' Miguel Cabrera hits a solo home run off Texas Rangers' Derek Holland during the first inning of Game 6 of the American League Championship Series, Saturday, Oct. 15, 2011, in Arlington, Texas. Catcher Mike Napoli and home plate umpire Tom Hallion look on.

Michael Young celebrates with Mike Napoli — Getty Images/Kevork Djansezian

Michael Young (10) of the Texas Rangers celebrates with Mike Napoli (25) after scoring to take a 3-2 lead in the third inning of Game 6 of the American League Championship Series against the Detroit Tigers at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington on Oct. 15, 2011 in Arlington.

Young became only the fourth player in postseason history with two extra-base hits in the same inning - first a tying double into the left-field corner and then one down the right field line for a 9-2 lead. Every batter in the Texas lineup reached base at least once before the third out of the third.

ALDS Game 6: Tigers vs. Rangers

The Texas Rangers' Josh Hamilton catches a fly ball by the Detroit Tigers' Ryan Raburn to end the fifth inning of Game 6 of the American League Championship Series Saturday, Oct. 15, 2011, in Arlington, Texas.

ALDS Game 6: Tigers vs. Rangers

After striking out in the sixth inning, the Detroit Tigers' Miguel Cabrera passes manager Jim Leyland as Cabrera enters the dugout at Game 6 of the American League Championship Series against the Texas Rangers, Saturday, Oct. 15, 2011, in Arlington, Texas.

ALDS Game 6: Tigers vs. Rangers

Nelson Cruz reacts after hitting a two-run home run — AP Photo/Charlie Riedel

Texas Rangers' Nelson Cruz, third from left, reacts after hitting a two-run home run against the Detroit Tigers during the seventh inning at Game 6 of the American League Championship Series Saturday, Oct. 15, 2011, in Arlington, Texas. Cruz set a postseason record with his sixth home run of the series and had 13 RBIs in the series - another postseason record - and was selected MVP.

ALDS Game 6: Tigers vs. Rangers

Texas Rangers fans react after Nelson Cruz hit a seventh inning two-run home run against the Detroit Tigers at Game 6 of the American League Championship Series Saturday, Oct. 15, 2011, in Arlington, Texas.

ALDS Game 6: Tigers vs. Rangers

The Texas Rangers' Nelson Cruz jumps on the crowd after winning the American League Championship Series 15-5 at Game 6 against the Detroit Tigers, Saturday, Oct. 15, 2011, in Arlington, Texas.

A franchise that began as the expansion Washington Senators and moved to Texas in 1972 had failed to reach the World Series in its first 49 seasons. Then the Rangers won their first AL pennant last year, only to lose the Series to the San Francisco Giants in five games.

Texas Rangers' Mitch Moreland and Elvis Andrus celebrate after winning Game 6 of the ALCS against the Detroit Tigers 15-5, Saturday, Oct. 15, 2011, in Arlington, Texas. Texas moves on to the World Series.

NLDS Game 5: Brewers vs. Cardinals

Yadier Molina is congratulated in the dugout after scoring — AP Photo/David J. Phillip

St. Louis Cardinals' Yadier Molina, center, is congratulated in the dugout after scoring a run during the second inning of Game 5 of the National League Championship Series against the Milwaukee Brewers, Oct. 14, 2011, in St. Louis. Molina and Matt Holliday had three hits each for St. Louis, which burst to a 3-0 lead in the second when Molina doubled in a run and third baseman Jerry Hairston Jr. allowed Jaime Garcia's grounder to go through his legs.

NLDS Game 5: Brewers vs. Cardinals

Carlos Gomez is tagged out by Nick Punto — AP Photo/David J. Phillip

Milwaukee Brewers' Carlos Gomez, bottom, is tagged out by St. Louis Cardinals' Nick Punto as he is caught trying to steal second base during the second inning of Game 5 of the National League championship series, Oct. 14, 2011, in St. Louis.

NLDS Game 5: Brewers vs. Cardinals

Milwaukee Brewers starting pitcher Zack Greinke hangs his head down on the mound during the fourth inning of Game 5 of the National League championship series against the St. Louis Cardinals, Oct. 14, 2011, in St. Louis. The Cardinals won 7-1 to take a 3-2 lead in the series.

NLDS Game 5: Brewers vs. Cardinals

Jonathan Lucroy scores — Getty Images/Christian Petersen

Jonathan Lucroy (20) and Jerry Hairston Jr. (15) of the Milwaukee Brewers celebrate after Lucroy scored on a RBI single by Corey Hart in the top of the fifth inning against the St. Louis Cardinals during Game 5 of the National League Championship Series at Busch Stadium on Oct. 14, 2011 in St Louis.

NLDS Game 5: Brewers vs. Cardinals

Octavio Dotel throws a pitch — Getty Images/Jamie Squire

Octavio Dotel (28) of the St. Louis Cardinals throws a pitch against the Milwaukee Brewers during Game 5 of the National League Championship Series at Busch Stadium on Oct. 14, 2011 in St Louis. Dotel (1-0) struck out two in 1 1/3 hitless innings, combining with three other relievers for 4 1/3 innings of scoreless, two-hit relief. Jason Motte got four outs for his second save of the series.

NLDS Game 5: Brewers vs. Cardinals

Milwaukee Brewers first baseman Prince Fielder can't handle a throw on a ball hit by St. Louis Cardinals' Albert Pujols during the fifth inning of Game 5 of the National League championship series, Oct. 14, 2011, in St. Louis. Milwaukee made four errors that led to three unearned runs. Milwaukee's infield nearly had a cycle of errors, with second baseman Rickie Weeks and shortstop Yuniesky Betancourt also committing miscues along with reliever Marco Estrada.

NLDS Game 5: Brewers vs. Cardinals

St. Louis Cardinals' Matt Holliday hits a two-run scoring double during the eighth inning of Game 5 of the National League championship series against the Milwaukee Brewers Friday, Oct. 14, 2011, in St. Louis.

NLDS Game 5: Brewers vs. Cardinals

The St. Louis Cardinals and their fans celebrate their 7-1 win as fireworks are set off over the scoreboard against the Milwaukee Brewers during Game Five of the National League Championship Series at Busch Stadium on Oct. 14, 2011 in St Louis. St.

NLDS Game 4: Brewers vs. Cardinals

Fans watch from Busch Stadium during the first inning of Game 4 of the National League championship series between the Milwaukee Brewers and the St. Louis Cardinals, Oct. 13, 2011, in St. Louis.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

NLDS Game 4: Brewers vs. Cardinals

Matt Holliday hits a solo home run — Getty Images/Dilip Vishwanat

Matt Holliday (7) of the St. Louis Cardinals hits a solo home run in the bottom of the second inning against the Milwaukee Brewers during Game 4 of the National League Championship Series at Busch Stadium on Oct. 13, 2011 in St. Louis.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

NLDS Game 4: Brewers vs. Cardinals

Milwaukee Brewers starting pitcher Randy Wolf throws during Game 4 of the National League championship series against the St. Louis Cardinals, Oct. 13, 2011, in St. Louis. The 35-year-old lefty outfoxed the Cardinals for seven innings to earn his first postseason win and the Brewers got two more hits from Ryan Braun in a 4-2 victory that evened the NL championship series at 2 games.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

NLDS Game 4: Brewers vs. Cardinals

Jose Oquendo congratulates Allen Craig after homering — AP Photo/Matt Slocum

St. Louis Cardinals third base coach Jose Oquendo (11) congratulates Allen Craig after Craig's home run during the third inning of Game 4 of the National League championship series against the Milwaukee Brewers, Oct. 13, 2011, in St. Louis.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

NLDS Game 4: Brewers vs. Cardinals

Jerry Hairston Jr. slides safely past Yadier Molina — AP Photo/David J. Phillip

Milwaukee Brewers' Jerry Hairston Jr. slides safely past St. Louis Cardinals catcher Yadier Molina during the fourth inning of Game 4 of the National League championship series, Oct. 13, 2011, in St. Louis.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

NLDS Game 4: Brewers vs. Cardinals

Milwaukee Brewers' Rickie Weeks is congratulated after scoring on a ball hit by George Kottaras during the sixth inning of Game 4 of the National League championship series against the St. Louis Cardinals, Oct. 13, 2011, in St. Louis. Kottaras hit a grounder against a drawn-in infield off Arthur Rhodes, and Ryan Theriot bobbled the ball on a short hop for an error.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

NLDS Game 4: Brewers vs. Cardinals

The Milwaukee Brewers celebrates — AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast

Milwaukee Brewers' Craig Counsell (30), Yuniesky Betancourt (3), Jerry Hairston Jr. and Nyjer Morgan (2) celebrate after Game 4 of baseball's National League championship series against the St. Louis Cardinals, Oct. 13, 2011, in St. Louis. The Brewers ended an eight-game road losing streak in the postseason dating to the 1982 World Series opener at St. Louis.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 5: Rangers vs. Tigers

A view of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series between the Texas Rangers and the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park on Oct. 13, 2011 in Detroit.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 5: Rangers vs. Tigers

Ian Kinsler is congratulated by Michael Young after scoring — AP Photo/Charlie Riedel

Texas Rangers' Ian Kinsler, right, is congratulated by Michael Young after scoring on a sacrifice fly by Josh Hamilton during the first inning of Game 5 of the American League championship series against the Detroit Tigers, Oct. 13, 2011, in Detroit.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 5: Rangers vs. Tigers

Alex Avila hits a solo home run in the third inning — Getty Images/Harry How

Alex Avila (13) of the Detroit Tigers hits a solo home run in the third inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series against the Texas Rangers at Comerica Park on Oct. 13, 2011 in Detroit.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 5: Rangers vs. Tigers

Delmon Young watches his solo home run — AP Photo/Mark Duncan

Detroit Tigers' Delmon Young, standing in front of Texas Rangers catcher Mike Napoli and home plate umpire Jeff Nelson, watches his solo home run to left center in the fourth inning in Game 5 of the American League championship series against the Texas Rangers, Oct. 13, 2011, in Detroit.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 5: Rangers vs. Tigers

Justin Verlander reacts to the third out in the sixth inning — Getty Images/Harry How

Justin Verlander (35) of the Detroit Tigers reacts to the third out in the sixth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series against the Texas Rangers at Comerica Park on Oct. 13, 2011 in Detroit.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 5: Rangers vs. Tigers

Delmon Young is met at home by teammate Victor Martinez — AP Photo/Duane Burleson

Detroit Tigers' Delmon Young, right, is met at home by teammate Victor Martinez after his two-run home run during the sixth inning in Game 5 of the American League championship series against the Texas Rangers, Oct. 13, 2011, in Detroit.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 5: Rangers vs. Tigers

Nelson Cruz celebrates — Getty Images/Harry How

Nelson Cruz (17) and Mike Napoli (25) of the Texas Rangers celebrate after Cruz's two-run home run in the eighth inning of Game 5 of the American League Championship Series against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park on Oct. 13, 2011 in Detroit. It was Cruz's record fifth home run of the series.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 5: Rangers vs. Tigers

Detroit Tigers' Phil Coke reacts after the final out in Game 5 of the American League championship series against the Texas Rangers Thursday, Oct. 13, 2011, in Detroit.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

NLDS Game 3: Brewers vs. Cardinals

National Anthem at Busch Stadium — Getty Images/Christian Petersen

The St. Louis Cardinals line up for the performance of the National Anthem before playing the Milwaukee Brewers in Game 3 of the National League Championship Series at Busch Stadium on Oct. 12, 2011 in St Louis.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

NLDS Game 3: Brewers vs. Cardinals

Milwaukee Brewers' Mark Kotsay is out at second as St. Louis Cardinals second baseman Nick Punto takes a throw on a fly out by Prince Fielder during the first inning of Game 3 of the National League championship series Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2011, in St. Louis.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

NLDS Game 3: Brewers vs. Cardinals

St. Louis Cardinals starting pitcher Chris Carpenter throws during the first inning of Game 3 of the National League championship series against the Milwaukee Brewers Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2011, in St. Louis. Carpenter won his seventh postseason game to tie Bob Gibson's franchise record. He went only five innings, with nearly half of his 89 pitches for balls.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

NLDS Game 3: Brewers vs. Cardinals

Mark Kotsay can't come up with a double hit — AP Photo/Matt Slocum

Milwaukee Brewers right fielder Mark Kotsay can't come up with an eventual double off the bat of St. Louis Cardinals' Jon Jay during the first inning of Game 3 of the National League championship series Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2011, in St. Louis.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

NLDS Game 3: Brewers vs. Cardinals

David Freese hits a RBI double — Getty Images/Christian Petersen

David Freese (23) of the St. Louis Cardinals hits a RBI double in the bottom of the first inning against the Milwaukee Brewers during Game 3 of the National League Championship Series at Busch Stadium on Oct. 12, 2011 in St Louis. The Cardinals took an early 4-0 lead.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

NLDS Game 3: Brewers vs. Cardinals

The Rally Squirrel is displayed on the video screen for the St. Louis Cardinals against the Milwaukee Brewers during Game 3 of the National League Championship Series at Busch Stadium on Oct. 12, 2011 in St Louis.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

NLDS Game 3: Brewers vs. Cardinals

Milwaukee Brewers' Mark Kotsay hits a home run off St. Louis Cardinals starting pitcher Chris Carpenter during the third inning of Game 3 of the National League championship series Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2011, in St. Louis. Kotsay started ahead of slumping Nyjer Morgan for the Brewers.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

NLDS Game 3: Brewers vs. Cardinals

Albert Pujols celebrates with Jason Motte — AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast

St. Louis Cardinals' Albert Pujols (5) celebrates with Jason Motte after the ninth inning of Game 3 of the National League championship series against the Milwaukee Brewers Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2011, in St. Louis. Fernando Salas, Lance Lynn, Marc Rzepczynski and Motte shut down the Brewers to close out the victory. The Cardinals won 4-3 to take a 2-1 lead in the series.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 4: Rangers vs. Tigers

Rain clouds approach Comerica Park during the first inning of Game 4 of the American League championship series between the Detroit Tigers and the Texas Rangers, Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2011, in Detroit. The teams waited through a rain delay of 2 hours, 13 minutes before the first pitch. The game was supposed to begin at 4:19 p.m. EDT, but the rain didn't let up until around 5:30.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 4: Rangers vs. Tigers

Miguel Cabrera hits an RBI double — Getty Images/Kevork Djansezian

Miguel Cabrera (24) of the Detroit Tigers hits an RBI double in the third inning of Game 4 of the American League Championship Series against the Texas Rangers at Comerica Park on Oct. 12, 2011 in Detroit.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 4: Rangers vs. Tigers

Detroit Tigers' Rick Porcello reacts after the Tigers turned a double play to end the fifth inning during Game 4 of the American League championship series against the Texas Rangers, Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2011, in Detroit. Porcello allowed three runs -- two earned -- and eight hits in 6 2/3 innings. He struck out six with no walks.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 4: Rangers vs. Tigers

Brandon Inge (15) of the Detroit Tigers hits a solo home run in the seventh inning of Game 4 of the American League Championship Series against the Texas Rangers at Comerica Park on Oct. 12, 2011 in Detroit. Inge tied it with a stunning homer off Alexi Ogando in the seventh. The Detroit third baseman hit .170 against righthanders during the regular season with no homers in 171 at-bats, but he lifted a high drive to left field that seemed to stay in the air forever before clearing the fence to make it 3-all.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 4: Rangers vs. Tigers

Miguel Cabrera is tagged out by Mike Napoli at home plate — AP Photo/Charlie Riedel

Detroit Tigers Miguel Cabrera is tagged out by Texas Rangers catcher Mike Napoli at home plate during the eighth inning of Game 4 of the American League championship series Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2011, in Detroit. With Detroit runners at the corners in the eighth and the score 3-all, Nelson Cruz caught Delmon Young's flyball to right field and made a strong throw to Napoli, the catcher, to nail Cabrera.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 4: Rangers vs. Tigers

Texas Rangers' Nelson Cruz hits a 3-run home run in the 11th inning in Game 4 of the American League championship series against the Detroit Tigers, Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2011, in Detroit. Cruz is the first player to have two extra-inning homers in the same postseason series.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 4: Rangers vs. Tigers

Jose Valverde walks into the clubhouse — AP Photo/Paul Sancya

Detroit Tigers relief pitcher Jose Valverde walks past infielder coach Rafael Belliard into the clubhouse after giving up a 3-run home run to Texas Rangers' Nelson Cruz in the 11th inning of Game 4 of the American League championship series Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2011, in Detroit.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 4: Rangers vs. Tigers

Mike Napoli hugs Neftali Feliz — Getty Images/Harry How

Mike Napoli (25) hugs Neftali Feliz (30) of the Texas Rangers after the final out of Game Four of the American League Championship Series against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park on Oct. 12, 2011 in Detroit, Michigan. The Rangers defeated the Detroit Tigers 7-3 to take a 3-1 lead in the series.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 3: Rangers vs. Tigers

National Anthem at Comerica Park — AP Photo/Carlos Osorio

The Detroit Tigers and the Texas Rangers line the baselines as the National Anthem is sung by Aretha Franklin before Game 3 of the American League championship series, Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2011, in Detroit.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 3: Rangers vs. Tigers

Doug Fister delivers another strong start — Getty Images/Leon Halip

Doug Fister of the Detroit Tigers throws a pitch in the first inning of Game 3 of the American League Championship Series against the Texas Rangers at Comerica Park on Oct. 11, 2011 in Detroit. Fister delivered another strong start. He allowed three consecutive singles to start the game, but the 6-foot-8 right-hander held the Rangers in check after that, even striking out Nelson Cruz to end the seventh as the towel-waving crowd at Comerica Park roared.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 3: Rangers vs. Tigers

Texas Rangers starting pitcher Colby Lewis throws during the first inning of Game 3 of the American League championship series against the Detroit Tigers, Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2011, in Detroit. Lewis, who entered 4-0 in five postseason starts, allowed four runs and eight hits in 5 2/3 innings. He struck out six and walked two.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 3: Rangers vs. Tigers

Texas Rangers' Adrian Beltre falls over after fouling a ball off his leg during the fourth inning of Game 3 of the American League championship series against the Detroit Tigers, Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2011, in Detroit. Beltre fouled a ball off his left knee and hobbled the rest of the night. X-rays were negative and he has a bruise.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 3: Rangers vs. Tigers

Victor Martinez of the Detroit Tigers grabs his back after hitting a solo home run in the fourth inning of Game 3 of the American League Championship Series to tie the game 1-1 against the Texas Rangers at Comerica Park on Oct. 11, 2011 in Detroit. Martinez, who hit .330 this season despite groin, knee and back problems, appeared to hurt himself on his home run swing, laboring slowly around the bases after the ball cleared the fence. When he returned to the dugout, his head still down, he slammed his helmet down as he descended the steps toward the clubhouse.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 3: Rangers vs. Tigers

Detroit Tigers' Miguel Cabrera connects on a solo home run in front of Texas Rangers catcher Yorvit Torrealba and home plate umpire Jim Wolf during the seventh inning of Game 3 of the American League championship series against the Texas Rangers, Tuesday, Oct. 11, 2011, in Detroit. Cabrera homered and hit a tiebreaking double to lead the Tigers past the Texas Rangers 5-2 in Game 3.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 3: Rangers vs. Tigers

Jose Valverde reacts after the final out — Getty Images/Harry How

Jose Valverde of the Detroit Tigers reacts after the final out of Game 3 of the American League Championship Series against the Texas Rangers at Comerica Park on Oct. 11, 2011 in Detroit. Valverde, after tossing a season-high two innings the day before, worked around a leadoff double in the ninth for his third playoff save. The Tigers defeated the Rangers 5-2.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

NLDS Game 2: Cardinals vs. Brewers

St. Louis Cardinals' Daniel Descalso warms up before Game 2 of the National League Championship Series against the Milwaukee Brewers Monday, Oct. 10, 2011, in Milwaukee.

Cards beat Brewers, Texas tops Detroit

NLDS Game 2: Cardinals vs. Brewers

St. Louis Cardinals' Albert Pujols hits a two-run home run during the first inning of Game 2 of the National League Championship Series against the Milwaukee Brewers Monday, Oct. 10, 2011, in Milwaukee. Pujols stood at the plate and admired his shot for a moment, flipped his bat away and trotted around the bases.

Cards beat Brewers, Texas tops Detroit
2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

NLDS Game 2: Cardinals vs. Brewers

Nyjer Morgan can't catch a double off the bat of Albert Pujols — AP Photo/Matt Slocum

Milwaukee Brewers centerfielder Nyjer Morgan can't catch a double off the bat of St. Louis Cardinals' Albert Pujols during the third inning of Game 2 of the National League Championship Series Monday, Oct. 10, 2011, in Milwaukee.

Pujols hammered a pitch deep to center, Morgan missed a chance at what would have been an acrobatic catch, and two runs scored to give the Cardinals a 4-0 lead. Pujols pointed to the sky upon arriving at second base, then clapped his hands.

Cards beat Brewers, Texas tops Detroit
2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

NLDS Game 2: Cardinals vs. Brewers

Rickie Weeks is congratulated by Prince Fielder — AP Photo/Jim Prisching

Milwaukee Brewers' Rickie Weeks (23) is congratulated by Prince Fielder (28) after Weeks hit a two-run home run during the fourth inning of Game 2 of the National League Championship Series against the St. Louis Cardinals Monday, Oct. 10, 2011, in Milwaukee.

The Brewers finally got to Edwin Jackson in the fourth, when Fielder led off with a double and Weeks hit a two-run shot to left to cut the Cardinals' lead to 5-2.

Cards beat Brewers, Texas tops Detroit
2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

NLDS Game 2: Cardinals vs. Brewers

Albert Pujols slides safely past Marco Estrada — AP Photo/David J. Phillip

St. Louis Cardinals' Albert Pujols (5) slides safely past Milwaukee Brewers' Marco Estrada (41) to score during the fifth inning of Game 2 of the National League Championship Series Monday, Oct. 10, 2011, in Milwaukee. The St. Louis slugger had one of the biggest postseason nights of his career, going 4 for 5 with a home run, three doubles and five RBIs to lead the Cardinals past the Brewers 12-3.

Cards beat Brewers, Texas tops Detroit 2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

NLDS Game 2: Cardinals vs. Brewers

Jon Jay and Yadier Molina celebrate — AP Photo/David J. Phillip

St. Louis Cardinals' Jon Jay (19) and Yadier Molina celebrate their 12-3 win over the Milwaukee Brewers in Game 2 of the National League Championship Series Monday, Oct. 10, 2011, in Milwaukee. The series now shifts to St. Louis, where Cards ace Chris Carpenter faces Brewers right-hander Yovani Gallardo in Game 3 on Wednesday night.

Cards beat Brewers, Texas tops Detroit
2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 2: Tigers vs. Rangers

Mike Hawkins wears his Texas Rangers towell — AP Photo/Kim Johnson Flodin

Mike Hawkins from North Ridgeland Hills, Texas wears his Texas Rangers towel as others wave theirs at the beginning of Game 2 of the American League Championship Series against the Detroit Tigers, Monday, Oct. 10, 2011, in Arlington, Texas.

Cards beat Brewers, Texas tops Detroit

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 2: Tigers vs. Rangers

Elvis Andrus is congratulated by Michael Young scoring — AP Photo/Eric Gay

Texas Rangers' Elvis Andrus is congratulated by Michael Young after Andrus scored a run on a double by Josh Hamilton during the first inning of Game 2 of the American League Championship Series against the Detroit Tigers Monday, Oct. 10, 2011, in Arlington, Texas. The Tigers' Max Scherzer is at left.

Cards beat Brewers, Texas tops Detroit

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 2: Tigers vs. Rangers

Detroit Tigers' Ryan Raburn hits a three-run home run off Texas Rangers' Derek Holland as catcher Mike Napoli home plate umpire Larry Vanover look on during the third inning of Game 2 of the American League Championship Series Monday, Oct. 10, 2011, in Arlington, Texas. The Tigers led 3-2.

Cards beat Brewers, Texas tops Detroit

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 2: Tigers vs. Rangers

Detroit Tigers' Max Scherzer throws a pitch during the fifth inning of Game 2 of the American League Championship Series against the Texas Rangers Monday, Oct. 10, 2011, in Arlington, Texas.

Cards beat Brewers, Texas tops Detroit
2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 2: Tigers vs. Rangers

Nelson Cruz (17) of the Texas Rangers hits a home run in the seventh inning of Game 2 of the American League Championship Series to tie the game 3-3 against the Detroit Tigers at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington on Oct. 10, 2011 in Arlington, Texas.

Cards beat Brewers, Texas tops Detroit
2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 2: Tigers vs. Rangers

As Texas Rangers' Josh Hamilton looks on, shortstop Elvis Andrus catches a fly ball to make the third out against the Detroit Tigers in the ninth inning at Game 2 of the American League Championship Series Monday, Oct. 10, 2011, in Arlington, Texas.

Cards beat Brewers, Texas tops Detroit
2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 2: Tigers vs. Rangers

Miguel Cabrera tags Mitch Moreland — AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill

The Detroit Tigers' Miguel Cabrera tags Texas Rangers' Mitch Moreland to end the ninth inning during Game 2 of the American League Championship Series Monday, Oct. 10, 2011, in Arlington, Texas. Cabrera started and ended a nifty double play on Mitch Moreland's sharp grounder after David Murphy hit a fly ball to shallow left for the first out.

Cards beat Brewers, Texas tops Detroit
2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 2: Tigers vs. Rangers

Texas Rangers' Nelson Cruz reacts after hitting a grand slam home run off Detroit Tigers Ryan Perry, rear, Monday, Oct. 10, 2011, in Arlington, Texas.

With nobody out in the 11th after a misplay in the Detroit outfield loaded the bases, Cruz hit a high drive to left off Ryan Perry that sent 51,227 fans into a towel-waving frenzy. Cruz's trip around the bases ended with him getting mobbed at the plate by the Rangers, who won Game 2 of the American League Championship Series 7-3. Texas now leads the playoffs two-games-to-none.

Cards beat Brewers, Texas tops Detroit
2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

NLDS Game 1: Cardinals vs. Brewers

A general view of the players from the Milwaukee Brewers and the St. Louis Cardinals lined up on the foul lines during the performance of the National Anthem, at Game 1 of the National League Championship Series at Miller Park on Oct. 9, 2011, in Milwaukee.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

NLDS Game 1: Cardinals vs. Brewers

Ryan Braun (8) of the Milwaukee Brewers hits a 2-run home run in the bottom of the first inning against the St. Louis Cardinals during Game 1 of the National League Championship Series at Miller Park on Oct. 9, 2011, in Milwaukee.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

NLDS Game 1: Cardinals vs. Brewers

David Freese after hitting a three-run home run — AP Photo/Jim Prisching

St. Louis Cardinals' David Freese (23) is congratulated by Yadier Molina (4) and Lance Berkman (12) after Freese hit a three-run home run during the fourth inning of Game 1 of the National League Championship Series against the Milwaukee Brewers, Oct. 9, 2011, in Milwaukee.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

NLDS Game 1: Cardinals vs. Brewers

Milwaukee Brewers' Prince Fielder hits a two-run home run during the fifth inning of Game 1 of the National League Championship Series against the St. Louis Cardinals, Oct. 9, 2011, in Milwaukee.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

NLDS Game 1: Cardinals vs. Brewers

Yuniesky Betancourt is congratulated by Rickie Weeks — AP Photo/David J. Phillip

Milwaukee Brewers' Yuniesky Betancourt (3) is congratulated by Rickie Weeks (23) after Betancourt hit a two-run home run during the fifth inning of Game 1 of the National League Championship Series against the St. Louis Cardinals, Oct. 9, 2011, in Milwaukee.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

NLDS Game 1: Cardinals vs. Brewers

Milwaukee Brewers relief pitcher John Axford is hit by a ball off the bat of St. Louis Cardinals' Jon Jay during the ninth inning of Game 1 of the National League championship series, Oct. 9, 2011, in Milwaukee.

The Brewers won the playoff opener 9-6.

2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 1: Tigers vs. Rangers

Fireworks fly after the Detroit Tigers and Texas Rangers are introduced before Game 1 of the American League championship series, Saturday, Oct. 8, 2011, in Arlington, Texas.

AL Playoffs: Rangers win 3-2 over Tigers
2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 1: Tigers vs. Rangers

Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Justin Verlander throws a pitch during the first inning of Game 1 of the American League championship series against the Texas Rangers Saturday, Oct. 8, 2011, in Arlington, Texas. Texas faced Verlander only once during the regular season, a 2-0 Rangers' win on April 11, when Verlander lost despite pitching a six-hitter.

AL Playoffs: Rangers win 3-2 over Tigers
2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 1: Tigers vs. Rangers

Austin Jackson misses a fly ball — AP Photo/Charlie Riedel

Detroit Tigers center fielder Austin Jackson, left, misses a fly ball while teammate right fielder Magglio Ordonez looks on during Game 1 of baseball's American League championship series against the Texas Rangers Saturday, Oct. 8, 2011, in Arlington, Texas.

AL Playoffs: Rangers win 3-2 over Tigers
2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 1: Tigers vs. Rangers

David Murphy is greeted by manager Ron Washington — AP Photo/Charlie Riedel

After scoring from a single by Texas Rangers' Ian Kinsler, David Murphy, left, is greeted by manager Ron Washington during Game 1 of the American League championship series Saturday, Oct. 8, 2011, in Arlington, Texas.

AL Playoffs: Rangers win 3-2 over Tigers
2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 1: Tigers vs. Rangers

Texas Rangers' Nelson Cruz hits a solo home run against the Detroit Tigers during Game 1 of the American League championship series Saturday, Oct. 8, 2011, in Arlington, Texas. Cruz was in an 0-for-10 postseason slump before his drive to left for his Rangers-record seventh postseason homer, one more than two-time AL MVP Juan Gonzalez. The Rangers led at that point 3-0.

AL Playoffs: Rangers win 3-2 over Tigers
2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 1: Tigers vs. Rangers

Fans wait through a rain delay during Game 1 of the American League championship series between the Texas Rangers and the Detroit Tigers Saturday, Oct. 8, 2011, in Arlington, Texas. The game was interrupted twice by rain for a total of 1 hour, 50 minutes.

AL Playoffs: Rangers win 3-2 over Tigers
2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 1: Tigers vs. Rangers

Detroit Tigers' Austin Jackson scores on a wild pitch by Texas Rangers starting pitcher C.J. Wilson during the fifth inning of Game 1 of the American League championship series Saturday, Oct. 8, 2011, in Arlington, Texas.

AL Playoffs: Rangers win 3-2 over Tigers
2011 MLB Division Series playoffs

ALDS Game 1: Tigers vs. Rangers

The Texas Rangers celebrate after defeating the Detroit Tigers, 3-2, in Game 1 of the American League championship series Sunday, Oct. 9, 2011, in Arlington, Texas. This was the ninth one-run game already in this postseason, the most since there were 11 two years ago, according to STATS LLC.

AL Playoffs: Rangers win 3-2 over Tigers
2011 MLB Division Series playoffs