To get a better gauge on the American League Championship Series between the Boston Red Sox and the Tampa Bay Rays, I decided to ask two hardcore, dedicated members of Bleacher Report what their thoughts were heading into the series. The following is a Q&A of 10 questions that should hopefully help you get a better idea of what to expect.

Red Sox Fan – RedSox Maniac

1- This series could easily hinge on Josh Beckett. What do you expect from
this big-time performer after his struggles in Game Three of the ALDS?

Maniac: There was a lot to take away from Beckett’s start; I think he still looked a little injury plagued. However, you can also look at other times he’s bounced back from long rest and injuries only to come up huge in big games.

I cannot say that Game Three of the ALDS foreshadows what he will do for the rest of the postseason. His fastball held up at around 91-93, he hit 95 only a couple of times, his location was spotty, and his lack of control led to four walks and two homers. I’m concerned about how he will come back after a very flat game.

He hasn’t pitched many innings this season and has confirmed no pain from the oblique injury.

Against the Rays this year, he is 2-1 with a 2.06 ERA and a .209 OBA. In his only loss against the Rays, he racked up 13 Ks and gave up only one earned run in seven innings. The Rays’ lineup has become more formidable as the season has progressed, and Beckett will have to muster up some quality innings.

I expect for him to come on stronger, but I do see bigger battles with a matured Rays lineup that has more confidence than earlier in the season.

2- Jason Bay has been huge for the Red Sox and really showed his value in
the ALDS. Are Red Sox fans over the Manny trade yet?

Maniac: I will never get over the Manny trade, but I thoroughly enjoyed being saved in this series by Jason Bay. His bat is quick—fastballs do not get by him—and he has picked up his team at the right time in nearly every game. With Pedroia’s struggles, Ortiz's lackluster series, and Lowell’s injury, I can happily call Jason Bay my savior.

As long as he stays off the breaking pitches and stays patient through his at-bats, look for him to keep producing at a Manny-esque pace. If the Rays are successful in keeping Drew and Youkilis off the basepaths, look for them to try Bay’s patience by pitching around him.

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