As you cheer on the Brewers in game two of the NLDS against the Phillies tonight, send a little cheer of thanks to my pal Aaron Gross.

Why? Well, if it wasn't for a keen observation on Aaron's part our hometeam might never have made it to their first playoff series in 26 years.

It was on July 3, 2008, that he realized that he owned the "Hat of Doom."  While listening to the Brewers command the Diamondbacks to a 5-0 lead on his trek up north for July 4th, Aaron slipped on his old-school Brewers logo cap halfway through the seventh inning. That action coincided with a major meltdown by the Brewers, allowing the Diamondbacks to win the game 6-5.

This incredible loss combined with the realization that he donned this cap during the past 12 Brewers' losses made Aaron vow to burn the ill-fated cap once he reached the Northwoods.

During a raging bonfire on July 4, we elimated the curse, burning the Hat of Doom while chanting "Playoffs, Playoffs, Playoffs..."

We don't know how to explain September, but we are damn sure that our pagan sacrifice brought our Milwaukee Brewers to Game 2 of the National League Division Series.

Go Brewers!