MLB post season comes alive with dramatic, competitive series.
The 2012 MLB Wold Series goes on through the month of October. Artwork by Tori Wallace
The playoffs are underway in Major League Baseball, and that of course means, its time for some predictions. With such intriguing matchups, the playoffs are sure to produce some dramatic results and some interesting games. A new addition to this year’s tournament is the one game playoff in the Wild Card Round. Who knows how this change will affect the outcome of the season. This is my first ever set of predictions so you’ll excuse me if I’m a bit out of form.
AL Wild Card- Baltimore Orioles vs. Texas Rangers
The Baltimore Orioles shocked the baseball world this season. Their rapid climb from the depths of the league to the Playoffs has captured the hearts of fans around the country. There is a reason for their successes this year: consistency. This trait will prove important in the playoffs, as teams have to come ready to play every day. In this new one game wild card format, its either win or go home. With the AL leader in saves, Jim Johnson, and defensive star Adam Jones, the Orioles are poised to go deep in the playoffs this year.
The Decision: Orioles
AL Division Series- Oakland Athletics vs. Detroit Tigers
The Oakland A’s are the darling team of the MLB. 12 of their team members make the league minimum salary. The powerhouse Detroit Tigers, however, have an ace up their sleeve: Miguel Cabrera. He is on pace to become the first Triple Crown winner since Carl Yastrzemski. This slugging dominance and defending MLB Justin Verlander on the mound, the Tigers are poised to contend for a championship.
The Decision: Tigers in four
NL Wild Card- Atlanta Braves vs. St. Louis Cardinals
After last years embarrassing collapse, the Atlanta Braves will be looking for redemption this year. Wily Veteran Chipper Jones and young buck Jason Heyward look to make an impact for Atlanta. The only problem is, the defending champion St. Louis Cardinals stand in their way. Despite losing star slugger, Albert Pujols and manager, Tony LaRussa, the Cards still have redeeming qualities. Their offense is impregnable, their defense is impenetrable and their team chemistry is among the best in the league.
The Decision: Cardinals
NL Division Series- Cincinnati Reds vs. San Francisco Giants
If you are a Rockies fan, you are well acquainted with the San Francisco Giants. Their pitching is legendary with aces like Matt Cain, Tim Lincecum, and Madison Bumgarner rounding out the rotation. Buster Posey, who leads the National League in batting average, reinforces their previously weak batting. The Reds should challenge the Giants, and I fully expect the series to go down to the wire, but in my eyes, San Francisco will get the job done.
The Decision: Giants in 5
