NL CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES: METS v CARDINALS

October 11, 2000

Tony La Russa

TONY LA RUSSA: I thought that he pitched an impressive game. In fact, I thought he and Darryl both pitched impressive games. We had some chances with men in scoring position. He made quality pitches. So I mean, our guy gets the loss, but I thought they were both impressive, tough to hit. I just like the way we played. I didn't like the score. The 9th inning got away from us. I saw a lot of good at-bats, defense on their toes. I liked the starting pitcher. It's just Hampton and the Mets were a little better.

TONY LA RUSSA: Yeah, he was hot a couple of times, just couldn't get -- I didn't want to -- I mean, obviously, when he is the tying run, it would have been a good time to use him. Couldn't ever get it going.

TONY LA RUSSA: Well, I mean, I am not going to hit him for Renteria or Edmonds. I mean those are two of our best clutch hitters, and that is not how I think it is the best way to use Mac. Plus we already had -- Polanco had to leave the game with that hamstring. I didn't think it was a good move.

TONY LA RUSSA: Ouchy. You know, he felt like it was getting -- started to get tight on him and grabbing a little bit, so..... Little concerned about him.