Playoff Predictions

The way the playoff picture has shaped up saddens me that several teams who were in contention in the final week are eliminated. The Phillies, Reds, and Astros all had a good shot, but blew it. This proves a theory: teams are sometimes destined to flop and land our asses when everything is riding on the line. Coming down to the final day, it was extremely close though as the Padres and Cardinals (bunch of pansies) clinched their division today. Honestly, how pathetic is that for contenders?

Minnesota claimed the AL Central title with a 5-1 win over the White Sox. They had actually worked their way back in the division and went neck-and-neck with the Tigers the final two weeks. Both teams earned spots in the playoffs. Their work will be cut out for them as the join the Yankees and Athletics in the upcoming postseason showdown. I expect the Twins to advance to the second round and play at least 5 games in the ALCS. Most of the weight will be on Johan Santana and Francisco Liriano. With Joe Mauer winning the AL batting title he will be expected to deliver in the clutch too.

Even though I despise the Yankees they'll find a way to advance into the second round by either knocking out the Tigers or Athletics in the 4 or 5 games. Whether Randy Johnson is 100% or not New York is still strong overall. A sporadic injury to Derek Jeter or Jason Giambi would cost them significantly and make the series interesting. Of course the Yankees will have home field advantage and that will give them perhaps a psychological edge (Once those wild fans get in an opposing player's head, it's hard not for them to start feeling the pressure and lose focus).

In the National League the Mets are bound and determined to make an impact in the postseason (that's because they make rare appearances and get tired of hearing to the booing at Shea Stadium). They, however will have to succeed without Pedro Martinez who is undergoing surgery and will miss the postseason and possibly half of next season. What a devastating blow! You can count on the high-powered lineup to do their share of damage, lead by an all-star cast which includes Carlos Delgado, Carlos Beltran, David Wright, and Cliff Floyd. They defend their turf and take care of the Cardinals. It may go to 6 games, but I doubt it. Then they have a challenge with the Padres or Dodgers. Their best bet will be face San Diego and pray Jake Peavy doesn't shut down their offense. I say come on Mets and screw everyone else.