Chris 'Mad Dog' Russo makes audacious statement ahead of NLCS decider - "If D-backs win this series I'll retire on the spot"
Capturing the attention of MLB fans worldwide, Chris "Mad Dog" Russo has audaciously wagered his radio career ahead of the NLCS decider. On his radio show, Russo boldly stated that he will immediately retire if the Diamondbacks can win the decisive game in the NLCS against the Phillies.
After Game 5, Russo did concede to underestimating the Diamondbacks' capabilities.
He said:
"I’ve been wrong on Arizona from day one."
However, the idea of them clinching the NLCS seemed far too improbable to him.
"If they win the next two games and win this series, I will retire on the spot,” Russo said.
The statement has not aged well since. The two teams are set for a showdown following a D-backs victory against the Phillies in Game 6.
This has left Russo, a Radio Hall of Famer, in an awkward position, to say the least. The Diamondbacks also have the added incentive of making a high-profile critic eat his words.
Whether Russo was being dead serious or not, his unexpected wager has undoubtedly elevated interest in this series finale.
Pitchers may be key as D-backs meet the Phillies in pivotal NLCS Game 7
As tension mounts ahead of the highly anticipated Game 7 between the D-backs and the Phillies, the pitching mound is set to be a focal point.
Brandon Pfaadt and Ranger Suarez, the projected starters for the D-backs and Phillies, respectively, showcased solid performances in Game 3. However, neither managed to pitch into the late innings, suggesting that team managers will quickly call upon their bullpens.
Offensively, the Phillies have leaned heavily on key players like Kyle Schwarber, Bryce Harper, and J.T. Realmuto during this NLCS. The Phillies could certainly benefit from some offensive contributions outside of this core group.
On the flip side, the Diamondbacks seem to be shaking things up a bit, especially offensively. After largely conservative base-running in the initial games of the series, they suddenly turned aggressive in Game 6, stealing four bases. This change in tactics can potentially unsettle the Phillies' defense and pitching.
One thing is certain: the Tuesday game will be epic, and fans can't wait for the action to begin.