Oct. 29 -- IT'S ALWAYS SUNNY IN PHILADELPHIA

BY SCOTT LAUBER

So, the sun finally has broken through here at the Bank, and the resumption of the final 3-1/2 innings of Game 5 is only 3-1/2 hours away. We could obsess, if we choose, about Bud Selig's decision Monday night. To me, though, it's more interesting to talk about what's going to happen tonight.

There's no precedent for this. Never before has a World Series game started and not reached a resolution. So, really, it's anybody's guess how this will play out. One thing is for certain: When play resumes -- at the earliest, 8:37 tonight -- the Phils will pinch-hit for Cole Hamels. The identity of that pinch-hitter will depend largely on whether Rays manager Joe Maddon decides to leave right-hander Grant Balfour on the mound or to turn to another of his relievers, most likely David Price, the rookie lefty with the mid-90s fastball and the starter's pedigree. Regardless, Maddon intends to save ace right-hander James Shields for a possible Game 6 start. And Manuel will have to counter with an appropriate pinch-hitter, likely a lefty (Greg Dobbs?, Matt Stairs?) if Balfour stays in the game or a right-hander (So Taguchi?, Eric Bruntlett?) if the Rays go with Price.

Charlie Manuel said yesterday that he plans to put the game in the hands of his bullpen, rather than Game 6 starter Brett Myers. And the Phillies relievers have capable hands (or arms), posting the best bullpen ERA (3.19) in the National League during the regular season.

Beyond that, it will be a sprint to the ninth inning for the Phils and Rays -- and a chess match between Manuel and Maddon.

Should be fascinating.