MLB Playoff Preview and Predictions

ALDS

Red Sox vs. Angels

With the Red Sox playoff ace, Josh Beckett, hurting a little bit I feel that in this 5 game series the the Angels hold a stark advantage when it come to starting pitching. Despite Dice-K's great record, he experienced some control problems this year which could cause some problems against the Angels lineup. While I feel the Red So are starting to get some of that aura and mystique that the Yankee World Series teams of the late 90's used to have, I just don't think they will pull this one out. With Lowell and JD Drew hurting the lineup and defense will suffer. The departure of Manny Rammirez from the middle of the order will have an impact come crunch time for the Sox. Despite what all the players say they are going to miss Manny's playoff bat in their lineup. Angels pull this one out on the back of Teixeira, Guerrero, and the pitching staff.

Angels 3-2


Rays vs. White Sox

Led by the perfect combination of speed, power, and defense this young Rays team will continue to surprise teams in the 2008 playoffs. This fearless group of young kids and experienced veterans will lead this team past the White Sox right to the ALCS. The White Sox will miss the bat of Carlos Quentin in the middle of that order, even though the ageless Jim Thome continues to crush the ball as he carried his team into the playoffs along with a fantastic start from lefty John Danks. The Rays bullpen is much improved and is one of the strengths of this team. Joe Maddon has done an excellent job mix and matching the bullpen in oft injured closer Troy Percival's numerous absences. The Rays continue their run.

Rays 3-1