Lots of negativity in these threads, not sure when that became the norm... This should be a great series, maybe we can discuss its potential, examine the issues, etc?
I can speak well to the Sox, will need others to help with the Cards. The issue of Craig was brought up above, is there any other point of discussion for them?
For the Sox, here's a couple:
-Rotation: I think it goes Lester/Lackey/Buch/Peavey. Buch/Peavey back to back has a chance to tax the bullpen but so be it... It is possible Lackey and Buch flip, but I doubt it
-Roster: Morales did not exactly cover himself in glory. I think he is off the roster, replaced by Thornton. I also hope to never see Thornton make an appearance
-Starting 9: First, Bogaerts is the new 3B. You may see Middlebrooks on late as a defensive replacement, but the rookie has claimed the starting spot. Drew will remain at short throughout, his glove has saved plenty of runs to cover up his noodle bat.
-1B in the NL: Ortiz will start all 3 games I expect, facing righties, Napoli to the bench.
Comparing the two:
-The Sox have a decent edge I think with home-field advantage and a legit DH who is healthy. Craig may play, but you have to assume he will be at least a little rusty at best. That is a pretty good advantage.
-Cards have the better catcher, no doubt. I think the Sox will need to back off their steal / hit&run attempts or they will be running into too many outs
-Boston's bench is *much* deeper than St Louis, and this could really show itself in the NL park with the pitcher changeouts.
Just as in the ALCS, I think the home field advantage is important, and I like the Sox to win in 6.