Defending the title

The big key in the Los Angeles/Boston matchup was pitching--sound familiar? The offenses were so evenly matched that it was a complete wash. Boston had a much better lineup on paper and Los Angeles simply didn't have the firepower to blowout the Red Sox, even with Teixeira. If they were to win, they were going to have to contain the Red Sox and pull out a few runs. They succeeded in part 1, part 2 was another story.

Jon Lester was a stud in this series and it started in game 1. Seven innings with no earned runs is exactly what you want from your starter. Boston has an excellent defensive staff, but they weren't really needed with Lester mowing down batters. I was pleased with Jason Bay's ability to deliver, especially under the pressure of his first postseason AND replacing a cornerstone of Boston's last two world championships. Lackey had an excellent showing also, just not as good as Lester's. Papelbon threw down the gauntlet by striking out the side in the ninth. K-Rod did not get a chance to answer back.

While game 1 featured an excellent pitching matchup with two solid performances from the starters, game 2 was a battle of who was worse. DiceK gave up three runs in only five innings of work, but Ervin Santana showed his inconsistency by allowing five over five and a third. Jason Bay delivered again, insuring a couple more jersey sales. The big moment for me was the showdown between Papelbon and KRod. Papelbon pitched two scoreless, added another K to his tally, and didn't allow a baserunner. KRod gave up a two run shot and let four men on. Advantage: Paps.

Game 3 started out the same as game 2: subpar starting pitching. However, this game turned into an excellent late-inning affair. Los Angeles showed the depth of their pen for the series by bringing in Jered Weaver, who probably could have thrown three or four more innings if necessary. KRod again looked fairly bad, giving up a hit and walking two. Papelbon added another two innings of scoreless work, tallied up another three strikeouts, and allowed his first two baserunners. Mike Napoli was excellent in this game, but showcased the big problem with LA's offense: they are too poor of a hitting team to play smallball, but lack the power to go for a shootout.

The big story of game 4 was shoddy management by Mike Scioscia. A squeeze play in the top of the ninth with one out?!? You have two chances to score ONE run with the speedy Reggie Willits and you decide to play aggressive? I was actually rooting for LA to win this series, but after that call I changed my mind. The game itself was excellent with another gem for Jon Lester and another excellent showing by John Lackey. I could watch Lackey-Lester matchups all day after this series.

My prediction: Los Angeles in 4, Actual results: Boston in 4
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