The 2009 Playoffs: Division Series Thoughts

I spent a bit of time this morning chatting with co-workers about the Twins-Tigers game last night, and needless to say, it was universally thought among us it might have been one the greatest spectacles we've ever seen on TV.

Well, now that we have all the teams seated in the playoffs, I'll give my predictions on all the Divison Series:

ALDS Series One: New York Yankees vs. Minnesota Twins

As much as I would like to see the small-market Twins and their scrappy ways perhaps upset the New York Yankees, I don't think it's going to happen. The Yankees are just too stacked lineup-wise, the pitching has been relatively solid, and of course they have Mariano Rivera to close out games. Now, one could consider that Alex Rodriguez may be hit with another slump, and the pitchng may be shaky; however, New York just seems and looks too good.

Then again, if the Twins can counter against C.C. Sabathia in Game One, and perhaps take a game in Minnesota, things will become very interesting. However, the Twins may be tired after Tuesday night, and seeing how much rest the Yankees have had, I don't see how the Twins can take the series.

ALDS Series Two: Boston Red Sox vs. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. Red Sox in 5.

I think the Red Sox take the series because of superior pitching -- Beckett, Lester, a healthy Dice-K and perhaps even Clay Buchholz; however, they will run into trouble with the athleticism of the Angels and their patience at the plate. A lot has been said about the ability of both Victor Martinez and Jason Varitek at the plate and how the Angels may run on them at all, but I do think the Red Sox have enough of a balanced team to take it.

Again, I'd be curious to see how the Red Sox offense does, because that may decide the series. Boston must have David Ortiz healthy.

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