World Series Predictions

Greetings All-

With first pitch in mere minutes, I figure now is as good a time as any to make my first contribution to the blog. Up front, let me just say that I'm thinking Phillies in 6. Also, let me just say that I'm HOPING Phillies in 5, but I just don't see it happening.

The Fightin' Phils were one of the best road teams in baseball this year, but Tampa was THE BEST team at home this year. I figure the Phils can scratch out one win(Game One) with their ace on the hill(Hamels), but there is simply no way that they'll be able to get two straight in Tampa. Can a brother get a little celebration in the city of brotherly love please??? Answer--no. The Phillies can win this series, and I do think they will. The bats are starting to come to life at the right time(Case in point- Ryan Howard, or R6 as I like to call him, stroking three hits in the decisive Game 5 against the Mannys), the pitching has been outstanding from top to bottom, and there is something to be said for experience.

The Phils got embarassed last year against the Rockies in that first round, but didn't play too poorly in any of the three losses. They're better this year than they were last year, and they're better than the Red Sox were this year. What I'm saying is that this is the best team that these Rays have played so far this year. These Rays are going to make it one hell of a series, and they won't give an inch. Kazmir figures to give Hamels a tough night on the hill, and the hitters an even tougher night at the plate. BUT---the Phils will find ways to scratch out hits, and if the top of the lineup gets going, and if Uncle Charlie hits The Flyin' Hawaiian in the number 2 spot, the Phils showed late in the series against the Mannys that they can play small ball. All season they lived and died by the homer, but late in these playoffs they showed that they can play small ball as well.

Tampa is FREAKING GOOD. Apparently all of the "baseball people" are saying that they knew the Rays were going to be this good, but that they're a year ahead of schedule. LOTS of runs will be scored, LOTS of good defense on both sides.... and LOTS of cowbell in the Trop. All that said, I still pick the Phils to win in 6 this year. Now if you'll excuse me, I need to go down the street to get a cheesesteak.....