Series Preview

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The two best have arrived.  All along I thought the Dodgers were the best national league team.  I thought the differrence in the bullpens, particularly at the back, would give L.A. the advantage.  But a stud at the top of the rotation and ridiculous power throughout the lineup were both such an advantage that pressure on Lidge was minimal.

Not this time around though.

The Yankees will out philly the Phillies.  By that I mean that the Yankees are now the team with best stud at the top of the rotation.  I have noticed that many of my colleagues call the Yankees rotation deeper.  I disagree.  The Phillies have several more pitchers who are capable of giving a capable start.  Guys like Blanton, Happ and Myers.  The Yankees would theoretically respond with Gaudin and Hughes.  But here's the deal, the Yankees don't have to go deep in the rotation.  They will take their chances with their three hosses at the top.  I don't think the Phillies are that good.

The clubs are pretty even after that.  Offenses similar, New York maybe a slightly better defense but marginal.  Both managers stay with the same starting lineup so benches are not a huge factor.

If you are a Phillies fan one thing your club may have over New York could be energy, catalyst type players.  In particular, Rollins, Victorino and Werth.  I don't think the Yankees will be smug, but sometimes being "professional" can sort of take the urgency out of the game.  Will Swisher finally show his value?

Now that I have declared the Yanquis the winners, Lee will throw a shutout, Pedro will stick right in their Bronx, and Hamels will channel Steve Carlton.  These are the two teams that are most deserving and I expect it will be a thrilling series.  As my high holy days are winding down...I leave you with our religions most sacred of salutations..."Ol' Abner has done it again."