Thanks for the Fish

This is it, sports fans, the last game of a season that should be celebrated for its surprising, if relative, success. Today's 1:05 matchup against the Philadelphia Phillies -- a team that spent much of the season just ahead of the Fish in the National League East and in the race for a wildcard playoff spot -- brings another year to an end. This was a save-money season, as opposed to those when the Florida Marlins decide to buy a World Series title, but the underdogs came through with more wins than was thought possible even by optimists. The entire team should be toasted today, but let's spotlight young Dan Uggla, who set the record for most homers by a rookie second baseman, kept his average up around .300, and set an example for those who play at the highest levels, even if their pay rates are at not-so-high levels. Tickets range from $6 to $90. Call 1-877-MARLINS, or visit florida.marlins.mlb.com.
Sun., Oct. 1