How do you know when the Phillies have the Dodgers completely on the ropes and the end is nigh? WhenTJ Simers, the LA Times perennial curmudgeon and Philly baiter, begins taking swipes at Phillies fans, and the Phanatic of all creatures. Check out his column today that was supposed to be about how poorly the backend of the Dodger’s bullpen is:

Halloween, as well as the two days that follow, would have been World Series Games 3, 4 and 5 played in Dodger Stadium.

You get this far with the best record in the National League, the home-field advantage and now everyone in the country has good reason to be ticked.

As you know, Fox will be broadcasting the World Series and it likes to put the camera on the face of every single fan sitting in the stands, these fans as ugly as any in the country.

Nowhere in America are people more angry than those living here. During Game 3 they had their humorless furry mascot put on boxing gloves and take on someone who was supposed to be an L.A. fan, sunglasses, cellphone and all.

The furry mascot punched him out, much to the delight of the folks here who love a dash of violence with their sports entertainment.

During Game 4 the furry mascot took a small Dodgers blue helmet, placed it on the ground and then pulverized it, much to the delight of the locals. Same tired skits, by the way, they employed a year ago.

But this is considered entertainment here, the only bright spot if they draw the Yankees now, getting a look in the mirror at fans who might remind them of themselves.

If you are a fan of schadenfreude, check out all of the articles on the LA Times Dodger’s page.