And I'll address everyone like an adult.  Unlike a few other posts, I'll look backward.  In the last 10 games played, the Phils are (GULP) 10-0.  Our Bravos are 4-6, with the difference being the six game deficit we currently face.  Other leading teams in their last 10 games:

NYY: 5-5

Rays: 4-6

RedSox: 6-4

Rangers: 6-4

Reds, Padres, Giants, Rockies: all 5-5

Other than a sterling 8-2 put up by the Twins, everyone else in contention for a playoff spot would have lost serious ground to PHI as well.  When you factor in we threw TWO rookies plus one guy with 1.5yrs of MLB experience versus Hamels and the Roy Brothers, it's no wonder we got swept.

Do we have problems on offense?  Yes, in several areas.  Am I worried about missing the playoffs?  Yes, but I think we have at least as good a chance as anyone.  And if we get there, I'd match up our starters and our pen with anyone, including the Phils.  So let's not freak out too much just yet.

<end soapbox>

NL East

The Braves would have to consider letting Derek Lowe's contract go if he's claimed.  Kenshin Kawakami is more likely, as he has a more modest $6.667MM salary for 2011 and is currently in the bullpen.  The Braves tried to trade Kawakami over the past month, reports MLB.com's Mark Bowman.  Nate McLouth's stock is way down, as he's trying to rebuild value in Triple A.  He's getting $6.25MM next year, plus another $1.25MM for a 2012 buyout.

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Peavy gone

Glad we didn't end up with him.  I remember there being a lot of debate about his long-term durability given the unorthodox mechanics he has.  It remains to be seen how this turns out but at least for the intermediate-term, I'm glad he doesn't have a tomahawk on his chest.  Many thanks to the dumba$$ San Diego GM for not biting on the haul of players we were dangling in front of him.