The Skillz Report

I don't use hyperbole, so when I say I've never been more interested in the MLB playoffs, I mean it. It helps to know no matter what, a long World Series drought will come to an end, that the likelihood of an egregiously blown call is practically nil, and that Tim McCarver will not be involved in the broadcasting. In an effort to take you on a detailed walkthrough, this slideshow was born. First, we'll revisit the American League Wild Card Game.

Pablo Sandoval's Rail Catch

Though his Giants were up 7-0 in the 7th, 3B Pablo Sandoval didn't let up in the slightest. Bucs' catcher Russ Martin led off with a foul pop near the home dugout; Sandoval and snagged the pop while flipping over the rail—and landing on his feet! The beefy-but-nimble infielder made it look semi-routine.

Brandon Crawford's Grand Slam

The grannie Crawford ripped in his first MLB game three years ago is the only hit of his career less expected than the slam he drilled off an Edinson Volquez curve in the 4th. It was a little-doubter to right that would have silenced most crowds, but the Giants have a vocal contingent in just about every city.

Madison Bumgarner Goes Nine

With the decline of Tim Lincecum and injury to Matt Cain—plus his own excellence—Bumgarner is the Giants' undisputed #1 starter and he threw like it on this night. Needing only 109 pitches, he allowed but five baserunners and struck out 10 in shutting the Pirates out. Bumgarner only reached four 3-ball counts all night.

Russ Martin's Possible Sendoff

Described as the Pirates inspirational leader by some—I can't vouch personally—it's no accident Pittsburgh's first postseason appearances in 20 years coincided with Martin's arrival. The former All-Star is a free-agent-to-be, and likely to sign elsewhere. Recognizing that, the fans gave Martin a very warm ovation following his 9th-inning flyout , just in case he does indeed move on.

Brandon Belt's Tough Take Vs. Volque

Crawford's grand slam will go down in history, but only those who watched the game will know/care about what set up the critical at-bat. Batting ahead of Crawford with a 2-2 count was Belt. Volquez threw a savage curveball just below the strike zone, easily his best one of the night. 9.5 out of 10 hitters would chase it. But not Belt—he laid off and wound up drawing a walk. The stage was set and the rest was history.