Astros gambled and lost. They were in a better position to compete in the next round with the way they went. Game 6, though, was much closer and within reach.

Beltran will probably sign for a bazillion dollars and then never be a factor again. Clemens needs to retire, no doubt.

As for next year, we'll have to put up with the revived cubbies getting to the world series and proclaim that they have broken their own curse.