By Tom Ryan, Kansas City Star Reader Advisory Panel

The highlight of game 1 for me tonight was calling my Father during the first inning. The Phillies had just loaded the bases but didn't score. Dad was worried.

Dad told me about the last time the Phils played the Yankees in the World Series in 1950...Dad attended game 1 of that series, 59 years ago, and said that in his opinion the Phillies, who lost that game 1-0, lost their spirit that day because it was such a heartbreaker.

...the Yankees swept that World Series in four straight games.

He hoped that didn't happen this year...

I never knew Dad saw that game long ago...

Dad's 87...and he saw another game 1.

...this time the Phillies won 6-1...I hope we give them a sweep this time, is what Dad said.

I hope the Yankees don't lose their spirit, but I'm with Dad on this one.