Friday, October 17, 2008

Bo-Sox in drivers seat?

I've heard several people say the Red Sox comeback win against the Rays last night puts them in the drivers seat in the ALCS.

I don't think so.

Granted, there is the danger of the Sox getting in Tampa Bay's head...with all the past come from behind series wins, but here are three reasons I think the Rays will pull it out.

1. Home field. The Red Sox have to win two at the Trop. No easy task. That makes it a little different dynamic than going home to finish out a series. The Rays battled all season to win the AL East and earn home field, and this is where it pays off.

2. Ray resilience. The Rays have battled back all year. All year people have expected them to fold under pressure. Most recently, in the final stretch when Boston had virtually moved into a tie for first. The Rays responded and took two from the Bo-Sox, after getting wacked in the first game of the set. This team has proven it can respond to adversity and I think they will again.

3. A bold coaching move. Joe Madden shuffling his pitching rotation to start Kazmir last night proved brilliant on two levels. First, Kazmir threw a gem...6 innings of shutout ball. Secondly, it allowed Sheilds to rest. He will pitch at the Trop in game six instead of Fenway. in Boston, Shields is 0-3 with a 10.12 ERA in his career, but 19-8 with a 3.25 ERA at home.

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