Rays/Phillies

What a great start to the 2008 World Series. Before it started, I said the Rays would win in seven (I have witnesses). I'm holding to that prediction because I still thought the Phillies would win Game 1 with Hamels on the hill. The Phillies absolutely needed that 3-2 Game 1 victory. For them to have a chance in this series, they must win every game when Hamels is on the mound. Why? Because they are facing a mismatch in every other pitching match up in this series. Shields is terrific at home, so I give him the slight edge over Myers tonight in Game 2. In games 3 and 4, the Rays have a huge advantage, with Garza and Sonnanstine facing off against Moyer and Blanton. The location for games 3 and 4 (in Philly) will off set the advantage slightly, but Tampa still has a significant edge. Hamels was terrific again last night, as he has been the entire post season. If the Phillies end up winning this series, he would be the MVP of the playoffs. What the Phillies need is Ryan Howard and Jimmy Rollins to get going. Last night Utley stepped up big time for the Phils, but since you know the Rays bats will get going, the Phillies need Howard and Rollins to keep up with them. Both look out of wack right now, especially Howard. He just needs to hit a ball to the opposite field, and that might get him going. They are pitching him hard away, and he is missing the ball by several feet right now. On another note, Brad Lidge has been filthy good this season, and was again last night. I've never seen a pitcher generate so many check swings with a slider, and Lidge did it to Pena and Longoria last night. His slider is so nasty, with tight rotation and a great sinking action to it. He really is a sinker/slider pitcher, but it's the same pitch. It's just filthy. Lidge and that Phillies bullpen will keep them in this series, and may be the deciding factor. We'll see. Great Game 1. Looking forward to Game 2 tonight.

Thanks for reading.