World Series Phillies/Yankees

Playoffs +29.35

ALDS +26.75 units, ALCS +1.5 units, NLDS +1.1 units

I look at this series in just two simple ways. The oddsmaker is making the Yankees a hugh fav because they are a public team and because they think the Yanks won't lose at home. I think the Phils have a legit shot to take Game 1 (layoff may affect them) and definitely Game 2 in NY. Over Philly's last 5 playoff series they have amassed a 7-4 road record against the best MLB has to offer. The Yankees have one very good pitcher, 1 very good closer, and a bunch of average pitchers at best. The Phils have also taken care of business at home.

I like Phillies pitching staff because they throw alot of off-speed stuff. The Yankee's offense is designed to smash the fastball, which they excel at. I'm not impressed thus far with many of the Yankee hitters but the Angels pitching staff is similar to Phillies except Phillies is better. The Yankees have been on the favorable side of many questionable calls and there is no debate on that! Lidge is a concern, in fact a major concern. As I stated above the Yankees excel at hitting hard throwing pitchers.

Philadelphia Phillies +170 4 units 4/6.8 units

I think once this series is complete we need to start talking about dynasty. Philly in 5 or 6

GL

Should read

 I'm not impressed thus far with many of the Yankee hitters but the Angels pitching staff had alot to do with it and they are similar to Phillies except Phillies is better.

Wow, nonsensicasl "dynasty" talk after just a pair of world championships?  You should send your resume to ESPN because they love guys like you.

Besides I'm just keeping my word when I promised my buddy I would use Philly and dynasty in the same sentence when he ushered me and another friend around Citizens Bank Park last spring.

good call, chilitokid.

Game 2

I will not have any action on this game except the series play I already placed.

From an experience factor alone Pedro is the play tonight. He is good enough at this stage in his career to give 5 solid innings while surrendering only a couple of runs. He also has a multitude of pitches and will not hesitate going high and insuide on anyone. Off hand I don't think AJ Burnett has been in this type of spotlight. It's difficult looking down the barrel of 0-2 and players know the NY media and fans will be relentless because of the Yankee's payroll. The pressure is squarely on NY.

Most Yankee fans will justify a bet on Pettite in Game 3 but not Pedro tonight and the reasons will be exactly the same. Pedro is a better pitcher than Pettite and has always been IMO.

In tonight's game I can almost guarantee an implosion by Burnett. If Burnett is able to escape the big inning the Yankees have a shot but if he doesn't the Yankees will get pummelled, yes pummelled. I think AJ Burnett is an over-rated average pitcher who is vastly overpaid. I rate Pettite as better than Burnett but the only reason Pettittte is going in Game 3 is because its on the road. IMO Game 2 goes over.

GL