Ben's Bold Prediction Of The Week: July 16

As a new segment, each week I will make a relatively bold prediction about something that will occur in the MLB within the subsequent week.

My first bold prediction is that the New York Mets will stretch their winning streak to 13 games with a sweep of the Cincinnati Reds. Not only would this be quite the feat to win thirteen games in succession, but the Reds have won seven of their last ten ballgames and are looking quite sharp. Not to mention, the Mets will be traveling to Cincy to play this four game set.

I know, you're probably thinking I'm crazy, but that's why it is a bold prediction. I'll give you some justification for why I think this may actually be possible.

First off and most importantly, Mets' ace Johan Santana will be starting the series off. When Santana starts, it is almost a sure advantage for the Mets, as he boasts a 2.84 ERA. The one issue for the Shea Stadium bunch is whether or not they will be able to put runs up on the board in support of the former Cy Young winner.

Secondly, I looked ahead to Friday's game to see that the Mets clearly have the edge here as well. John Maine, a young dynamic pitcher, can really showcase some overpowering stuff at times, but he can also be wild. Which Maine shows up may be the answer to who wins this contest.

Regardless, the Reds are putting Bronson Arroyo on the mound, who has struggled mightily this year, to the tune of a 5.97 ERA. If his bat can't keep him in the game, I don't know what will. This definitely has the looks of a 2-0 series thus far.

On Saturday, the Mets have lefty Oliver Perez starting. He has been pretty inconsistent, but like Maine, he can have some sick stuff, and can absolutely fool hitters with his off-speed pitches. The Reds starter has yet to be determined, but if Edison Volquez is in, this may be my big hiccup in the prediction. For now, I'll assume Volquez isn't pitching on Saturday.

The four-game set reaches its finale on Sunday, and if Volquez didn't pitch Saturday, he definitely will on Sunday. If I am 3-0 on my prediction through Saturday, I'll be pretty disappointed to see Volquez's namecard up on the scoreboard on Sunday.

That said, that's why we make predictions and play the games! I hope you liked the first installment!