If the Playoffs Started Today – MLB Week 23

By John in MLB, Red Sox ⋅ September 12, 2011 at 12:25pm ⋅ Post a comment

Phillies vs Yankees: Week 23's prediction for the World Series

With less than 20 games and two-and-a-half weeks left in the season, it’s getting down to the wire if teams want to make a move. Tampa and St. Louis are doing their parts, but there’s still a ways to go. The Phillies and Yankees are still holding sway, while the White Sox and Indians are fading rather fast. There’s still plenty of exciting games to watch that will do a lot down the home stretch, so let’s look at what would happen if the playoffs started as of Monday, September 12, before the day’s games:

National League

#1 Philadelphia Phillies vs #3 Arizona Diamondbacks

Philadelphia just got through with something that virtually no other team has been able to do this season; get to the Brewers in Milwaukee. Despite Arizona‘s sizable lead over San Fran, Philadelphia’s pitching will just be too much.

#2 Milwaukee Brewers vs #W Atlanta Braves

Milwaukee lost three of four against Philadelphia, which had them on a five-game losing streak. Another AL East team could be difficult, but as long as Milwaukee has Zack Greinke and Yovanni Gallardo going at home, Atlanta should fall eventually.

American League

#1 New York Yankees vs #3 Texas Rangers

New York recently got over a four-game losing streak, including two to the lowly Orioles. Their pitching staff still isn’t nearly what it has to be to win the World Series. While Texas‘ staff isn’t exactly made up of legends either, it is more stable, and their explosive offense could easily be enough to blow New York away, unless the Yanks can put together some solid performances first.

#2 Detroit Tigers vs #W Boston Red Sox

When New York was struggling, Boston couldn’t take advantage. And it seemed Boston was struggling so much worse. They’re only 2-9 in September, and just can’t seem to get anything together. With Justin Verlander leading the way, Detroit should be able to mop up the mess without too much trouble.

What Might Change Next Week:

If Boston’s struggles continue epically, Tampa could march into Fenway on Thursday through Sunday and take over the Wildcard.
With one slip-up by Milwaukee, their half-game lead over Arizona for home-field advantage in the first round could bid adieu.

Tags: Arizona Diamondbacks, Atlanta Braves, Boston Red Sox, Detroit Tigers, Milwaukee Brewers, MLB Playoffs, New York Yankees, Philadelphia Phillies, Texas Rangers