soluslupus

So as of tonight we have the final playoffs set thanks to the White Sox shutting out the Twins in the play-in game.

Los Angeles Angels versus Boston Red Sox

Give the pitching edge to the Red Sox but the series to the Angels in five.  This series could go either way as any of them can but the keys for the Angels is to play the way they do and manufacture runs.  The key for the Red Sox will be the big innings.  Both teams have great starting pitchers but the Angels have a miniscule edge in the bullpen.  The Red Sox have a slight edge in striking out opponents but the Angels walk fewer opposing hitters.  Boston has knocked the Angels out the last two times these teams have played so at some point the Angels should win one and this should be the year.

Philadelphia Phillies versus Milwaukee Brewers

Give the pitching edge to the Brewers and I would say the series to the Phillies if I were smart but hey it is my glog lol.  Both teams are boppers and if the Brewers score while there pitchers hold the Phillies in check I like their chances.  The Phillies have everything going their way in the offensive categories so I will not rehash why they should win.  You can check the stats for yourself.  The Phillies also have the better bullpen so if the games are all close then the Phillies will most likely win.

Tampa Bay Rays versus Chicago White Sox

Give the pitching edge to the Rays but the offensive edge to the White Sox.  This series is definitely in the Rays favor and I look for them to come out on top.  Defensively they are more complete than the White Sox and they have the home field.  If the White Sox can ride the emotional wave of the last week and sneak a win in Tampa they could win this series but I think the Cinderella story continues.

Chicago Cubs versus Los Angeles Dodgers

Pitching on both sides will be the determinate factor in this series as they are both good for a short series.  Give a miniscule edge to the Cubs in starters and no edge in the bullpen as both teams will hope their starters go far.  Offensively the Cubs are the better team.  They have so many who can step up while the Dodgers must rely on only a few.  Both teams have excellent game managers.  I cannot see the Cubs losing this series but it should be a great one.  Go Cubs!

On a side note my Packers look a little bit out of sync thanks to injuries.  Hopefully they turn it around this week.