Final Playoff Predictions

With the MLB playoffs imminent, its time to make some more predictions. The following constitutes my revised predictions for the 2010 postseason, although I will say that a few of my original predictions have remained intact:

American League

Rangers vs. Rays: Rays in 4
The Rangers are potentially a very dangerous team, especially with the glorious Josh Hamilton back in the lineup. If Cliff Lee or CJ Wilson can steal one of the first two games in Tampa, I think the Rangers take this series in five. The thing is, that's not going to happen.

Yankees vs. Twins: Yankees in 3
The Twins haven't proven that they can win a playoff series in what seems like an eternity. Why should 2010 be any different? Especially against a Yankee team who, despite their pitching concerns, is much stronger. The Yankees win this one easily, particularly with no Justin Morneau to deal with.

Yankees vs. Rays: Rays in 7
I've been a walking advertisement for the ALCS between these two teams for months. It will be epic, I promise. Winner takes all, because no NL team can play with either squad.


National League

Reds vs. Phillies: Phillies in 3
The Reds don't stand a chance in this series. They've accomplished a lot this year, but all their late-inning heroics won't save them from Roy Halladay, Roy Oswalt, and Cole Hamels. Cincinnati will get but a taste of playoff baseball before their beloved Reds will be swept away.

Braves vs. Giants: Giants in 4
As I said in my last post, I really hope I'm wrong about this call. The Giants just have too much pitching, and they drew a great matchup in Atlanta, who has not played well for a good six weeks. Home field advantage is on their side as well.

Giants vs. Phillies: Phillies in 5
As good as the Giants' pitching is, the Phillies' pitching is better. And in the playoffs, it's all about pitching. Oh yeah, and the Phillies happen to have a killer lineup. The Giants do not. That's the difference. If the Giants had the Phillies' lineup, this would be an amazing series. But they don't. Enough said.


World Series

Rays vs. Phillies: Rays in 6
Two of the most balanced teams in baseball square off in this year's Fall Classic. I will be glued to my TV watching these two teams going at it, because we're going to see some great baseball here at the end of October. Ultimately, the Rays will beat the Phillies at their own game, and will prevail. They are the most complete team in baseball, and they've shown it all year long. I just hope people actually show up at the Trop to see it happen.