And the Class Act Award Goes To,...

Phillies claim NL East crown
By Bob Ford

Inquirer Sports Columnist

As with everything else about the 2009 season, it wasn't easy or predictable as the Phillies clinched the National League East title last night with a 10-3 win over the Houston Astros.

If that description seems too dramatic for a season in which the Phils led the division since late May and secured their third consecutive title with a cushion of four games to play, you weren't paying attention.

Even though their division championships in 2007 and 2008 weren't assured until the final weekend and required them to catch and overtake a front-runner, this title might have been even more of a struggle.

And the class acts?

- Other then the automatic bragging rights that come with winning the World Series, no posturing from the players this year.

- Charlie Manuel showing his faith in Brad Lidge by bringing him in for the last out of the game

- The team spraying the "HK" sign in the outfield with champagne in memory of Harry Kalas