Your Definitive 2009 Divisional Series Post


Today is the day that the MLB Playoffs begin. The NLDS gets underway and so we’ve arrived at the time to make our picks. Last year, we were pretty much right all the way through; so pay attention to our picks because you’re likely to see things fall the way that we see them falling.
Truth is, while we picked the Yankees to win it all before the season started; we’re still undecided as to who will win the National League. So here goes.
Anaheim Angels vs. Boston Red Sox
The Angels have made a habit of getting to the ALDS and losing quickly. They haven’t had a memorable run in a long time. Let’s not forget that this is the same team who lost one of their teammates in Nick Adenhart early in the season; and they’re sure to get that storyline re-hashed for as long as they’re alive in the postseason. The Red Sox quietly snuck into the playoffs and to be honest–while they know how to win they’re an aging squad who is aging fast. We’re going to go with an upset of sorts here.
Prediction: Anaheim Angels 3 games to 1
Minnesota Twins vs. New York Yankees
You have a Twins team who battled all season long and into the final week (hell the final innings) just to be part of this postseason. They’re exhausted. The Yankees have been in coast mode for a long time. The Yankees are hungry and know what is at stake. They won’t settle for falling short yet another time. The Yankees are also deep and really don’t have an aparent weakness. There’s no way in hell that Minnesota can take this series, even if it is good to see Joe Mauer get some swings in the postseason.
Prediction: New York Yankees 3 games to 0
Los Angeles Dodgers vs. St. Louis Cardinals
The Dodgers are a much different team then back in 2004 when they took the Cardinals to the limit in the NLDS. The Cardinals are much different as well. Wainwright and Carpenter are tough customers. This should be a very good series once again, but in the end we like LaRusa’s mad scientist act over Joe Torre’s classy successful experience. Plus the Cardinals have the best player on the planet and he seems to shine brightest when the stage is lit.
Prediction: St. Louis Cardinals 3 games to 2
Colorado Rockies vs. Philadelphia Phillies
The Rockies are what we call ‘sneaky good’. They’re a very good team who just happened to run into the champions of the world. The Phillies aren’t as dangerous as they were last year, but they’re still a formidable opponent. In the end, we don’t think the Rockies have the pitching to keep up with the Phils. That Philadelphia lineup should eat them alive in what should be a very high scoring and exciting series if you aren’t a fan of pitchers duels.
Prediction: Philadelphia Phillies 3 games to 1