With One Fell Swoop, the Season Ends For the Atlanta Braves

To think, Braves fans had it all two days ago.

The Braves were on fire, the Rox were, to an extent, scuffling, and they sat only two games back.

An unlikely series of events would still have to occur. But, hey, we were believers.

Then, Cameron Maybin, Dan Uggla, Josh Johnson, and Jorge Cantu happened.

Later that night, Chris Iannetta happened.

No biggie. Still only three games.

It'll be a little harder, but it's still possible.

We have to believe...right?

Then tonight happened.

Ross Gload put the Fish up 5-0 on Javier Vazquez, all hope was lost.

But, excitement came in the late stages as the Braves mounted a comeback.

5-4, bases loaded, ninth inning...two outs.

New pitcher.

Joe Simpson had just said that Martin Prado needed to look for a good pitch that would at least drive Matt Diaz in from third to tie the contest up.

WILD PITCH!!!

Maybe this is the team of destiny!

Here comes Diaz to tie it up...wow is this...

What?

Matt Diaz didn't break all the way?

AND HE WENT TOO FAR AND GOT PICKED OFF OF THIRD TO END THE INNING/GAME/SEASON???

[Insert religious figure of your choice here]!!!

I think that one play sums up the Braves' whole season.

As Joel Barker said, "just good enough to drive a dagger through your heart..."

That one play showed how close the Braves have been all year to good situations.

And shows how well they seem to f%&# it all up.

Fifteen steps forward to make you get a sense of hope that they'll eventually crush with 16 steps back.

It frustrates me to no end to see this much talent, this much pitching, and this much momentum be thrown all against the wall.

"Believe" has become "Bogus."

Let's go Cardinals...spoil the Yankees' billion dollar party.

*Note to reader: This article's creation began approximately 30 seconds after the final out call.  I know it's choppy.  I know it rambles.  I also know that this team is better than second or third in the Wild Card—so give me a break.