Everyone knows that the Philadelphia Phillies were a shoe-in for the playoffs. After capturing the NL East they waited back to see who their opponent would be in the NLDS. It turns out to be the Brewers. With solid firepower throughout their lineup the Phillies now have to be concerned with a health issue. Outfielder Pat Burrell is expected to miss Game 1 due to back problems. For a heavy hitter with over 25 homeruns this season his bat will be missed. They need as much offense as they can get facing Sheets and Sabathia. The pitching on sides may be fairly well matched up, but the offense I think will make an impact for the Phillies.
Ryan Howard and Chase Utley are coming stellar back-to-back seasons and will be the ones to lead the charge in the postseason. Much of the starting pitching effort will be relied upon Cole Hamels (14-10). His durability will be a big plus. The Phils give the ball to Les Walrond (1-1) who square off with the Brewers' Odalis Perez (7-12). Despite the issue with Burrell may be available off the bench I like the Phillies chances in this series. That doesn't mean it won't be tough. Their experience and explosive lineup make them one of the best teams in the NL. Plus when Howard catches fire and starts launching the ball into the bleachers it's hard to beat this team. Game 1 will be the preparation contest as the real fun won't start into the last 2 games of the series.
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