vs each vs League RanksTeam other +.500 Hit Pitch FieldCleveland 6-3 .553 3 3 3Toronto 3-6 .474 6 2 9Boston 8-1 .711 1 1 7Texas 1-8 .389 2 4 4Milwaukee 4-4 .527 3 2 12Philadelphia 4-4 .522 4 3 8San Diego 4-4 .592 1 4 15Pittsburgh 4-4 .541 10 1 5
If anyone had any doubt as to the secret behind these playoff teams' success, check out where they rank in pitching. That's right. In each league, the top 4 ranked teams in pitching made the playoffs. A coincidence? Perhaps, but probably not.
Toronto vs. Cleveland
Cleveland has the head to head advantage vs Toronto and has been better vs winning teams. In addition, they are an extremely balanced ballclub. Look for Cleveland to win the series 3-1.
Texas vs. Boston
Texas is also a very balanced team, at least until you compare it to Boston. Boston led the league in hitting and pitching this year. They dominate winning teams and have manhandled Texas this year. Look for Boston to take a 3-1 victory if not an outright sweep.
Milwaukee vs. Philadelphia
The National League looks to be a much more competitive opening round (that said, watch them be sweeps). Milwaukee and Philly are similar teams. Milwaukee has a slight edge in pitching and hitting, Philly has the edge in fielding. They played to a standstill this year. Look for Milwaukee to win a hard fought series 3-2.
Pittsburgh vs. San Diego
San Diego and Pittsburgh should prove to be a great series. Its the #1 offense of the Pads squaring off against the #1 pitching staff of the Pirates. Color me skeptical of the Pirates success. I look for the Pads to take the series 3-2. Prove me wrong Pitt.
Justin
