NLCS: Torre makes another run? This time in Dodger blue.
Prediction: Dodgers over Phillies 4-1
This series I believe was over when James Loney hit the grand slam back against the Cubs in game 1 of the NLDS. Beating the Cubs is a feat in itself but sweeping the best team record wise in the NL is astounding and really is something that I was caught off guard by. The Dodgers play in a very weak division but we have seen this in the past from the D-backs and as well as from the Rockies in last years playoff run to the series. Record wise, the NL West is abysmal. Only one team finished over .500 this year, that being LA. Both Western Divisions have been very weak competition wise and each year it seems that one team is always running away with it toward the end of the year. In the AL, the Angels not so successful this year. But that's besides the point. This year it is different for the Dodgers. New management is in town and that is really where I think this all stems out from. When fighting a war you go after the general but in this case, Torre has been untouchable. He hands down out-managed Lou Pinella in the NLDS. And that comes with experience. Something this team is really lacking roster wise. This is a young fiery ball club but sometimes with a wise coaching staff and a young talented roster is a recipe for bigger and better things. Manny Ramirez is hitting the ball better than anyone else in baseball at this point. James Loney, Russel Martin and a healthy Rafael Furcal only improves the Dodgers chances to move on. I say we'll see the Dodger blue on the diamond in the Series.
ALCS: Tropicana, Here we come!
Prediction: Rays over Red Sox 4-2
A call for the ages but one that will hold true. The Red Sox have struggled against the Rays all season. We have already learned that the regular season means absolutely nothing. I am not picking the Rays because of their success against Boston this year. This team is going to win because they have one of the most all around teams in the game. There is not one big name on their roster that will even be in the MVP talks this year. Evan Longoria is a long shot for Rookie of the Year but due to injury, that may hurt his chances. But that doesn't matter. What matters is that this team plays as a team. They do not rely on the long ball to win them games. Or shutout 1-hitters from their pitching staff. They play as a team. This group of guys is one that you would want a Little League team to watch and observe play the game. The do little things that win ball games and that is why they are so successful. Joe Madden hits and runs, he steals bases, he utilizes his middle relief pitching in a way that does not run them dry after two games. This team has the mentality as well as the talent to beat anyone in baseball. The team salary doesn't matter how good a team is on the baseball diamond. Look for Tampa to drop the first game but not to lose again until game 4, and then win out the rest and take the series dropping only 2 games. Now the Red Sox are obviously the favorites to win. But with Josh Beckett not 100 percent and Mike Lowell questionable, this team will have a tough time being dominant over the red hot Rays.
No dancing for Paps in his underwear this year, sorry Boston. Manny will be doing all the dancing this year, in DODGER BLUE!
World Series 2008: Dodgers vs. Rays (talk about history in the making)
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