Those Other Series

I haven't forgotten about the rest of the playoffs, just been more focused on the Yankees' ALDS match up. But here's how I see things:

Red Sox vs. Angels

The Angels have been miserable in the playoffs against Boston and I don't see it changing. The Angels should be able to run at will against Jason Varitek and Victor Martinez, but Boston's 1-2 punch of Josh Beckett and Jon Lester is awfully tough.

The Angels have been through a lot this year with Nick Adenhart's death and a rash of injuries, and Mike Scosia has done an amazing job of keeping it all together. But I don't see the Angels' rotation, outside of John Lackey, shutting down the Boston lineup.

Prediction: Boston in 5


Rockies vs. Phillies

The Phillies have had their problems this season, particularly in the bullpen, but there's still plenty of talent in the starting rotation and a powerful offense.

The Rockies turned things around when manager Clint Hurdle was replaced by Jim Tracey, and played some of the baseball in the 2nd half. I don't like their starting pitching in this series. None of them scare you.


Prediction: Phillies in 3


Cardinals vs. Dodgers

St. Louis easily outclassed the heavily favored Cubs to win the NL Central. The Dodgers had a cake walk in the NL West, at least until the last 2 weeks of the season. Then things got ugly and they nearly blew the division (though they would have made the playoffs either way).

The difference in this series will be the Cards' top 2 starters - Chris Carpenter and Adam Wainwright should be able to shut down the Dodgers bats, which have been slumping of late. And Albert > Manny.

Prediction: Cardinals in 4