It is only fitting that the Boston Red Sox and Tampa Bay Rays meet to determine who will represent the American League in this year’s World Series.  And having already created a growing rivalry between the teams with a great pennant chase and via a brawl which occurred earlier this summer, this series will surely be eventful.  

Both teams finished under .500 on the road and dominant at home, thus making home field a very important aspect and advantage for the Rays.  The Rays also have advantages in that they are fearless and have possibly destiny on their side.  On the flip side, the Red Sox have the experience in postseason, a better offense and the decisive difference maker in Josh Beckett all on their side.  Consequently, the overall edge goes to the Red Sox in what should be a very competitive ALCS.  

Pitching Matchups:  (First four games listed)

Daisuke Matsuzaka vs James Shields

Josh Beckett vs Scott Kazmir

Matt Garza vs Jon Lester

Andy Sonnanstine vs Tim Wakefield

Season Series: …

Here is the first-ever Hot Stove Player of the Week. Every week we’ll (ok, me) pick the New York player who performed the best over those seven days. With only three games to choose from this time (one Giants and two Rangers), the decision wasn’t all that hard. The lucky winner will be the recipient of some old expired coupons from Beefsteak Charlie’s that I found in my wallet. The presentation will take place in my backyard tomorrow when I finish mowing my lawn (travel expenses to be paid by the winner if he chooses to participate).
Winner 
Eli Manning: The Giants quarterback led a beatdown on Seattle that hadn’t been seen since Frank the Tank kicked James Carville’s ass in the great debate of 2003. The win was a total team effort, but Manning was particularly great. He completed 76% of his passes (19 for 25), including …