1. We're still not convinced about a manager's impact, but in Joe Torre, the Dodgers have the most experienced and successful playoff manager of our time (though Terry Francona is catching up). If nothing else, maybe that helps the Dodgers' young players feel more comfortable.

2. Pitching. Not only did the Dodgers lead the National League in team ERA, but their pitching was brutal against right-handed hitters, allowing just a .239 average and .361 slugging percentage. Chicago's offensive production — Alfonso Soriano, Aramis Ramirez, Derrek Lee, Mark DeRosa and Geovany Soto — comes largely from the right side.

3. They're scoring 4.6 runs per game since trading for Manny Ramirez, up nearly a half-run off the first four months. With Ramirez and superagent Scott Boras angling for a nine-figure payout this winter, the Dodgers are getting the best of Manny without the distractions that eventually disgusted the Red Sox.

—McClatchy Newspapers Chicago Cubs (97-64) Los Angeles Dodgers (84-78)