2008 MLB Playoff Predictions: Magic is the Key

ALDS:

Rays over White Sox in 3

I am done with underestimating teams that have seemingly overachieved during the regular season and appear ready to come back down to earth, like the’06 Tigers and ’07 Rockies, both of whom won their respective pennants after magical seasons. The Rays are thatteam of this year, and while I would love to see Thome and Griffey get a ring (I will be semi-rooting for them), this is the year for the Rays to keep riding the magic. Tampa is nearly unbeatable at home this year and even better when the Trop is full. As good as the White Sox are at home, and coming off two must win, emotional games, they got unlucky with their draw, and will be out-destinied by the 2008 Tampa Bay Rays.

Angels over Red Sox in 3

Like getting burned by choosing what seems like the “better team on paper” every year, I always have problems predicting the length of each series. The Angels will beat the Red Sox. They are the powerhouse of the American League this year and should prove it by knocking off the defending champions. I usually like long series between two good teams, since I am a baseball fan in general, but I want the Sox out quickly. Do the job Angels, take them out.

NLDS:

Brewers over Phillies in 5

This one is definitely going to be Phillies in 3, but every ounce of me wants the Brewers to have the same magic that I expect the Rays to be playing with. Yes, they can’t hit at all sometimes, but Ryan Braun and Prince Fielder are studs and the fact that midseason acquisition C.C. Sabathia has done so well and has said that he wants the ball in every big game no matter how much it taxes his arm is just too good to pass up. He even told his agent to stay out of his business right now since he “wants to win” at all costs. You gotta love that. I won’t be heartbroken or surprised if Philly wins this since their core players are even better than Milwaukee’s, but playoff baseball is all about magic and momentum and the Brewers have both right now.

Cubs over Dodgers in 3

Hopefully for my sake as a fan, this goes 5, but I doubt it. Regardless, the Cubs are simply the better team here who can march out a different solid starting pitcher every game. Joe Torre also hasn’t had recent success in the first playoff round, and only has one player carrying his offense in Manny Ramirez. The Cubs should cruise here, setting themselves up perfectly for what will happen in the NLCS…

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