I think the Cardinals are going to win the 2013 World Series, because when the Cardinals have faced the Red Sox in years before in the World Series, they have won more games. The Cardinals have won two match-ups and the Red Sox have won only one. When breaking down each position, it shows why I think Cardinals are going to win.
Catchers: Yadier Molina vs. Jarrod Saltalamacchia
Molina is good at catching fast balls and when people are stealing, he gets them out really easily. He has a good arm and a strong defensive catcher.
Saltalamacchia is a good hitter but he doesn't get in front of the ball when he is behind the plate.
Between these two catchers, I believe Yadier Molina is a better catcher.
Advantage: Cardinals
First Base: Matt Adams vs. Mike Napoli
Matt Adams is a fine first baseman and can stretch but Mike Napoli is a really strong power hitter. Adams is young and Napoli has had plenty of playoff experience, so Napoli is a better first baseman. Advantage: Red Sox
Second Base: Matt Carpenter vs. Dustin Pedroia
Carpenter is the lead-off hitter for the Cardinals and is a utility player. He started off the season hot, but hasn't been very consistent throughout the year. Pedroia is one of my favorite players and he is a solid all-around player.
Advantage: Red Sox
Third Base: David Freese vs. Will Middlebrooks/Xander Bogearts
Freese is good when he has to dive for the ball and make the throw to first. He is a so-so hitter but plays well in the playoffs. For the Red Sox, Middlebrooks starts but Bogearts comes in to finish the game. My choice for third base is David Freese, although it is a close call.
Advantage: Cardinals
Shortstop: Pete Kosma vs. Stephan Drew
Kosma is a really strong fielder but I see him struggling with the bat during this series. I could probably write the exact same thing about Stephan Drew. Kosma is a better fielder so he has the advantage.
Advantage: Cardinals
Left Field: Matt Holliday vs. Jonny Gomes
Matt Holliday is a power hitter and a really good player. He struggled hitting at the beginning of the playoffs, but came on strong in the past few games. Gomes has a hot bat right now, but with Holliday's latest streak, he has the advantage.
Advantage: Cardinals
Center Field: Jon Jay vs. Jacoby Ellsbury
Jon Jay is a strong defensive player but not that good with the bat. Jacoby Ellsbury is super fast which helps on the bases and on the field. He is a strong lead-off and he sets the table for the offense. Ellsbury has the a strong advantage in center field.
Advantage: Red Sox
Right Field: Carlos Beltran vs. Shane Victorino
I caught a ball from Carlos Beltran at a Cardinal's game this summer, so I really like him. He is also really good on the defensive end. Beltran is also a good hitter. Shane Victorino is also pretty good, but Beltran is a better hitter.
Advantage: Cardinals
Pitching Staff
The starting pitching staff for both teams is about equal but the depth and the closers for the Red Sox are stronger which give Boston an advantage.
Advantage: Red Sox
With these predictions, I think the world series will go to seven games, with the Cardinals winning it all.
I am wondering how you would break down the managers of each team. Do you think coaching will have an impact on the outcome of the World Series?
ReplyDeleteExcellent job going through each position and breaking it down, but you forgot to include Big Papi into the mix. He can play some 1B still and is a very dangerous DH. I think the cardinal pitching has been hot lately but the Red Sox are up for the challenge. It should be a good World Series but I will be hoping for the Red Sox in 7.
ReplyDeleteDrew, I am impressed with your analysis of all of the positions. Since both teams wear read and blue, I can't pick by colors. I will just have to follow my heart. I also agree with your uncle, Papi may be old, but he is mighty. I believe the beards and the group cohesiveness will make a big impact on the series. This is definitely a different Red Sox team than we have seen....way back since your buddy Manny played. I also predict that you should buy a chocolate bar now before the Halloween shoppers have cleared the aisles......It's not gonna be easy, but Red Sox will do this!!!
ReplyDeleteDrew, nice job going through and hitting each position! I think that Yadi gives the Cardinals the biggest advantage. He is hands down the best defensive/pitch calling catcher in the league (Really hard to say as a Cubs fan!). I see Holliday having a big series at the plate as well. However, I think that it is his defense that could be the X-Factor. What impact do you see Ortiz having? He has been huge this postseason for Boston. I always say good pitching will always beat good hitting-exactly what this series has! Should be a lot of fun to watch. Nice job!
ReplyDeleteGreat analysis of the match-up between these two teams - I appreciate you sharing your expertise! Since I am not a big fan of either team as you know, your break-down of each position helps me to get ready for the series. Grandpa Steve will be in a better mood if the Red Sox win! The question for me is... What wins out? Does better pitching shut down better hitting? Or, does better hitting shut down better pitching? What do you think?
ReplyDeleteI think it will come down to hitting.
DeleteDrew, Did you fall out of bed and bump your head? The Red Sox totally dominated the Tigers, probably the second best team in major league baseball this year. I hope the Cardinals can hang in there and at least make it an interesting series. Go Sox!
ReplyDelete