MLB Playoffs 2013: Ranking Best Potential World Series Matchups

As the divisional round of the 2013 MLB playoffs continues to roll on, this is about the time we start wondering what certain World Series matchups would look like.

Well, at least I do. My parents always told me I was an imaginative child.

There are plenty of exciting storylines this season, whether you are talking about the revitalized Pittsburgh Pirates or the explosive offense of the Boston Red Sox. What about Billy Bean's Oakland Athletics? They certainly seem to be defying expectations again.

And we can't forget about the St. Louis Cardinals, who were crowned in 2011. 

Here's a look at my dream matchups for the 2013 World Series.

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3. Oakland Athletics vs. St. Louis Cardinals

The Athletics, forever the "underdogs," have performed on virtually the same level as the Cardinals this season.

The Cardinals ranked third in baseball in runs during the regular season. The A's ranked fourth.

The Cardinals ranked fifth in ERA. The A's ranked seventh.

Heck, St. Louis had just one more win than the A's in the regular season.

Given the similarities, it's hard to imagine this series not being a thriller. The Athletics would be searching for their first ring since 1989 against the 2011 champions.

That's not to mention the presence of Cuban slugger Yoenis Cespedes.

2. Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Boston Red Sox 

The Pirates haven't won the World Series since 1979, but it seems like it's been even longer. Before this season, the Pirates hadn't posted a winning record since 1992.

Meanwhile, the Red Sox won two rings (2004, 2007). "The Curse of the Bambino" no longer applies. This is a true powerhouse, currently sporting the best offense in baseball.

Beyond that, the Pirates posted the third-best ERA in baseball this season, so they would at least figure to have a chance against Boston's torrid offense. 

Pittsburgh also posted the second-best road record in the National League.

1. Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Boston Red Sox

The Dodgers have had a special feeling about themselves ever since Cuban slugger Yasiel Puig joined the team. 

That was evident in Game 3 of the divisional series against the Atlanta Braves. The Braves tied the game up, 4-4, in the top of the third. Then, the Dodgers erupted for nine unanswered runs after that.

With Puig and left-hander Clayton Kershaw leading the charge, you get the feeling that anything is possible with this club. And given the Dodgers posted the best road record in the NL during the regular season, it's safe to say there would be some fireworks at Fenway Park.

I just hope that Brian Wilson doesn't do another awful Taco Bell commercial if he wins another ring.

"I'm Black Ops."

No, you aren't Brian. No, you aren't.