Epic World Series?
By: mbohn
Through the first two games of the 2009 World Series, we have seen four good starting pitching performances. Even in the losing efforts, C.C. Sabathia and Pedro Martinez turned in solid starts that may have been wins if the guy starting for the other team was not wearing a cape. Do not get me wrong, here at The Sports Idiot we are not comparing A.J. Burnett to Cliff Lee. What Cliff Lee did in Game One was the stuff legends are born from. John Smoltz was not John Smoltz until the 1992 World Series, and Cliff Lee just became Cliff Lee. See what I did there?Back on track. Burnett was stellar last night, putting the ball exactly where he wanted it and outsmarting the Phillies lineup. Pedro was almost just as good, fooling Yankee hitter after Yankee hitter. There really is not anything bad we can say about what either guy did on the mound last night.Which brings us to the point of this entry. Is this going to be one of those epic World Series’, like the previously referenced 1992 slate between the Twins and Braves? Right now it certainly looks like it has the potential, but there are some key missing pieces.Where in the hell are Ryan Howard and Alex Rodriguez? Headed into the WS there was no doubt that these dudes were having statement postseasons. Through two games in the WS, however, they are a combined two for 17 with 12 Ks. Yes, that is correct, and those two lone hits were both Howard doubles, giving him and his monstrous one RBI the edge in the matchup. If this series is going to be one of legend, then both of these guys are going to have to figure it out.Another missing piece, and what could be their eventual downfall, is the bully for the Yankees. Mariano Rivera may be the best closer in the history of ever, but he can not pitch two innings every night. If the Yankees do not get solid work from at least two more members of the bully, they do not stand a chance at winning this series.Going into this thing we said Phillies in six. Hopefully we are wrong, for the mere fact that a Game Seven would be epic. In order to make that happen, either ARod or Howard are going to have to show up. Whichever one decides to first, may just be wearing the championship uniform.And now a word from our sponsors:“Sports betting online has never been easier. Join now the most secureonline sportsbook with best bonuses and promotions!”