The Cards are once again justifying their sterling reputation. Everyone's coming through for them. Eckstein plays with heart and he's got the talent to compliment that (as evidenced by his clutch hit yesterday).
I'm not giving up my fool's hope that the 'Stros can catch the Cards, but as you've said they've fallen farther behind this last week as a result of the G-Men's Schmidt and Lowry. It may be a challenge, but I find that one need have someone to chase in order to keep focus. Since the 'Stros are leading the WC (for now), we might as well set our sights on St. Louis.
As I've said before, both St. Louis and Houston will be in the playoffs (regardless of who wins the Division and who wins the Wildcard), and that there will be a rematch of last year's NLCS.
I'm not sure at what point optimism becomes foolishness, but I remain dedicated to the ultimate triumph of the Astros in the Central Division. Loyalty trumps reason, I guess. :)
The motto of all true FANS.
How many years did I have to live through the Cardiac Cardinals Football fiascos, only to lose them to Arizona (man was I pissed), become a Chiefs fan, get the Rams and support them through the first inept years.
Eventually the rewards come... unless you are a Cubs fan.