The Angels have met the Red Sox twice in the post season since 1986 and were swept in the Divisional Series both times.
Los Angeles feels this is their time. During the season series, Boston won the first meeting but the Angels won the last eight.
No Manny This Time
The Red Sox are 34-19 without Manny Ramirez but this is playoff time and Jason Bay is not Manny.
Sox are not healthy. Mike Lowell and J.D. Drew are hurting. Ace pitcher Josh Beckett was moved back to game three and his status is uncertain. Jon Lester and Dice-K are solid but Beckett is a great post season pitcher.
The Angels can manufacture runs and don’t rely on the homerun ball, but a big series from Vladimir Guerrero would be a welcome sight. Boston can duplicate that and a key for Los Angeles will be keeping Dustin Pedroia off base.
Despite having the home field advantage, the Angels will likely need to win one game at Fenway Park.
Angels in five
NLDS: Dodgers vs. Cubs
This match up of two longtime National League rivals is the most compelling of the four Divisional Series.
Los Angeles was rejuvenated by the trade deadline addition of Manny Ramirez and have played well down the stretch but the Dodgers can be inconsistent.
The Cubs offense is predominantly right-handed, which may just play right into the Dodgers hands. Los Angeles is starting three right handers in the first three games.
Chicago’s starting pitching is better than the Dodgers but they’ll have their hands full pitching to Ramirez.
Los Angeles is a much different team than the one that dropped 5 of 7 games to the Cubs in the first half of the season before Manny’s arrival.
Managerial Contrast in Styles
Joe Torre and Lou Piniella provide an interesting contrast in managerial styles but both have a history of success. Torre is the calming influence while Piniella brings his fiery style.
Cubs have overcome their lack of left-handed hitting.
Chicago in five
NLDS: Brewers vs. Phillies
The Phillies were overwhelmed by the Rockies in last year’s playoffs and never really got to showcase their game.
Milwaukee may have "struck a deal with the devil" to qualify for the post season and its imperative that they win the game that C.C. Sabathia starts in order to have a chance to knock off the Phils.
The Brewers’ offense lacks a "table setter" but Ryan Braun and Prince Fielder can be dangerous, while their defense can be suspect.
In regards to the basics, pitching and hitting, Philadelphia is much more balanced than Milwaukee. The Phils also have a large edge in the bullpen.
Thirsting for Revenge
The Phillies are hungry after losing last year while Milwaukee is happy just to be there. Ryan Howard is swinging much better at this time of year than he was in 2007.
Phillies in four.
ALDS: White Sox/Twins vs. Rays
Tampa Bay has an energetic, young team and is solid defensively but their bullpen is suspect. Inexperience in the post season may also play a role.
Battle Tested
Chicago survived a season long duel with Minnesota and was a World Series winner just three years ago.
The Chisox’ strength is their starting pitching but their bullpen is also solid.
Tampa Bay was great at home during the regular season but that puts pressure on them to hold serve in the first round. If the White Sox can "steal" a game at Tropicana Field, then the Rays will start to feel some heat.
White Sox in four.
