League Divisional Series Preview #2

Hello everyone,

Today I'm gonna briefly look at two of League Divisional Series.

First,

Baltimore Orioles (93-69) vs. New York Yankees (95-67)

The Baltimore Orioles have had a magical season under Buck Showalter making the playoffs for the first time since 1996. Unfortunately, they have to play the New York Yankees juggernaut offense. The Yankees led the American League in home runs, total bases, slugging, and were second in runs scored.

While Baltimore's pitching staff has done an exceelent job, they are in the middle of the pack in just about every category. That said, there seems to be something special about this Oriole team. They may not be as intimidating as the Yankees, but the play with a grittiness that makes you want to root for them.

Who will win? My heart wants to say Baltimore will beat Yankees in five, but my brains is telling me that the Yankees are going to take the series in three.

I pick the Yankees to win in five because I think the rugged determination of the Orioles will push the Yankees, but in the end, the Yankees will be too strong.

St. Louis Cardinals (88-74) vs. Washington Nationals (98-64)

The Washington Nationals possess the best record in the majors this season. They have done this with a balance of excellent pitching, great defense, and great leadership under Davey Johnson. While the Nats have had a great season, it seems as though it has occurred under the radar somewhat. But, make no mistake about it, the Nats are a great team. The one concern that I have with the Nats is that they are missing their best pitcher for the postseason because they chose to shut down Stephen Starsburg. It may not cost them in this round, but if they get past the Cards, they may not get by either the Reds or Giants . . . both of which have deep pitching staffs.

The St. Louis Cardinals have been an enigma all season. They have a great pitching staff and the second best offense in the National League, but have not put a serious run of wins together all season until the last month.

Make no mistake about it, the Cardinals may be the most dangerous team in the National League. They are healthy for the first time all season with the return of Chris Carpenter, and they have solidified their bullpen with the trade for Edward Mujica, and the promotion of power arms Joe Kelly and Trevor Rosenthal who both throw in the high 90's.

The big question: Do the Cardinals still have that postseason magic? Who knows. It's hard to bet against a team like the Cards, but the Nats have had a tremendous and consistent season.

Who wins? This is difficult for me to be unbiased because I am a Cardinal fan, so I choose the Cards in five. What?! What kind of fan would I be if I chose the Nats?

Anyway, who do you think will win?
Let me know in either the comments below or on my Facebook page.

As always, thanks for reading!

Marty Sabin