As we forge ahead to the second season, I thought I would throw my predictions out there before the actual party starts. Never mind the fact that I fail miserably year in and year out when it comes to predicting World Series winners. Despite that, I feel the need to take a shot at it, so here we go.
First up, I would like for all fans of the game to recognize the Colorado Rockies, who Thursday night captured a playoff berth and still have a shot at taking the division. The big thing with the Rockies is that they have a huge head of steam headed into postseason play — much like 2007 — and although they came up short against the Sox in the Fall Classic last time, expect anything from this Jim Tracy-managed club.
The Dodgers have their work cut out for them any way you want to look at it. Clinging to a playoff position with just days to play in the regular season isn't exactly the most comforting feeling. But Joe Torre may be just what this team needs, even if he can't insert himself into the lineup.
On the other hand, the NL Central was a walk in the park for the St. Louis Cardinals. They can thank the rest of the division for that. They have Chris Carpenter, Adam Wainwright and Joel Pineiro as a dangerous 1-2-3 starting punch on the mound. And Ryan Franklin does nothing but complement his horses coming out of the bullpen.
Coming out of the NL East, the defending world-champion Phillies are going to be a force to be reckoned with. Not to dwell on the pitching aspect of this team, but they did it last season with solid work on the mound. And they have the guys to do it again this year thanks to the additions of Cliff Lee and Pedro Martinez. Expect this team to lay it all on the line in hopes of being the first team to repeat in this decade. And they've got a shot, too, if Brad Lidge can figure out how to be an effective closer again.
Next, we move over to the American League. Out of the West, it's the Angels who will go head to head with the Sox. And if history is any indication, this series is already over. But if we're counting on history to run its course, the Sox have some playoff history of their own (86 years or so) working against them.
The AL Central has provided the best race of them all, and with the race between the Twins and Tigers still boiling out of control, whichever team punches its ticket will be fun to watch.
That leaves the Yankees coming out of the East with what most think is a good chance to secure their 27th title. On paper, the Bronx Bombers look like the favorites, but for some reason I don't think this team has what it takes to seal the deal in October.
With that being said, it's time to make my World Series predictions. (And remember, I never pick correctly, so I may be making a pick in hopes I'm incorrect.)
AL champion: Red Sox, if their pitching holds up.
NL champion: Cardinals.
World Series champion: Cardinals. Growing up in Chicago, it breaks my heart to say this … but remember, I'm attempting to use some reverse psychology.
