Playoff Preview

American League:

The first round matchup between Arizona and Cleveland should be a toss-up.  The Sand Pirates may have a slight edge with the duo of Benny Saturria and Dennis Inouoe, but their pitching falls off sharply after that.  Of course the winner of this series would then have to face San Juan in the division series, so a series win would be somewhat bitter sweet.  Expect Cleveland to win in 5.

The matchup between Trenton and Helena should be a good one as well.  The loss of Ebenezer Hooper is a huge blow for the Trash Heap.  The Trappers need their bats to produce, especially 30-30 man Francis Robinson, who comes into the playoffs on an 18 game hitting streak.   Expect Helena to win in 4.

ALCS prediction:  San Juan over Philadelphia in 5 games.

National League:

Buffalo vs San Diego should be a low-scoring series, where the first team to 2 runs has a hell of a chance to win.  The winner of this series has a great chance of making a long run in these playoffs.  Expect San Diego to win in 5.

Rochester vs Charleston is a completely different matchup from the other NL tangle.  Here, we have two teams that can put some runs on the board.  The question here is whether the River Dogs are too reliant on Deacon Smith.  If he can produce, then the Dogs will be barking into the next round.  If the Haze are able to pitch through or around him, they'll have a great shot.  Expect Rochester to win in 4.

NLCS prediction:  Fresno over Charlotte in 6 games, after the Hornets have to go the distance to beat the their division series opponent.

World Series prediction: San Juan defeats Fresno in 5 games to bring the trophy back to the AL.