The Tampa Bay Rays Dream Season Continues

Going into this season, I never imagined the Tampa Bay Rays would be in the American League Championship Series against the mighty Boston Red Sox. Now that they are there, who's to say they can't continue their miraculous run? Here are some reasons I think the Rays will take down the mighty Red Sox:

1. Home Field Advantage

In most series, home field advantage doesn't matter quite so much. These teams are different. Boston lost to Tampa Bay only twice at home and Tampa Bay lost to Boston only once at home. I realize there will be quite a few Boston fans in the stands for this one, but that won't matter as much this time around.

2. Magic of a Dream Season

The Red Sox have a ton of postseason experience on their side. Plus, they are the defending World Series champions. However, the Rays have something else on their side. They have magic. I know that sounds really strange, but the Red Sox had that magic back in 2004. No one ever thought the Red Sox would come back from a 3-0 deficit to the Yankees. The Rays keep winning. It will keep happening.

3.  The Rays Are Younger and Have More Athletes

If you are just looking at the stat sheet, there are not too many hitters on the Rays that scare you. One thing the stat sheet doesn't tell is that the Rays are a very athletic team. They make plays when they need to. B.J. Upton had a fantastic ALDS despite having a mediocre season and looks to be putting it all together for the postseason. Carl Crawford came back at the right time. Crawford has definitely given the Rays a boost with his speed. Also, the pitching staff is young and athletic as well. I think this will be a key in this series.

Conclusion:

     I strongly believe the Rays will continue their awesome run. What a fitting conclusion to a fantastic season. If they do not beat the Red Sox, I will be a little disappointed. However, I will be happy at the huge leap this once down trodden organization has made. They will have nothing to be ashamed of.