Finley Is the Out Man Again for Arizona

ATLANTA--Steve Finely had been there before.

The Arizona center fielder caught the final out in the 2001 National League championship series Sunday night at Turner Field, and the final out for the victorious San Diego Padres in the 1998 championship series at Turner Field.

“It was kind of straight deja vu to 1998,” said Finley, who entered on a double-switch in the eighth inning. “I caught the last ball in the exact same spot that year. As soon as it was hit [both times], I knew it was over. It’s a great feeling.”

Any difference?

“In 1998, I remember being nervous; goose bumps all over,” he said. “This time, not even an extra heartbeat. I was smooth and calm. I knew we were going to win. It was a good feeling to be out there for both of them.”

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Working on short rest for the first time this season, Atlanta starter Tom Glavine pitched five innings and gave up five hits and three runs (one earned). The two-time Cy Young award winner did not have his typical command, walking three and throwing 98 pitches in the short outing.

Glavine also did not fare well in his four previous playoff starts on three days’ rest, going 2-2 with a 5.02 earned-run average. Only John Smoltz, now a closer, has had success starting without regular rest for the Braves during their eight appearances in the championship series since 1991.

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The Braves barely held off the rising Philadelphia Phillies to win the East Division title. They have 15 free agents and need to be overhauled, but Greg Maddux said their successful run isn’t over yet.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if we were back here next year, I really wouldn’t be,” the four-time Cy Young award winner said. “I can say that because it’s not about the players, it’s about the organization and the decisions it makes. This organization makes good decisions.”