Can C.J. Wilson steal a win to support the rest of rotation?
Rarely is the staff ace considered the weak link. Wilson was horrible in the American League division series opener against the Rays and is just 1-3 with a 4.91 ERA with seven home runs allowed in four career postseason starts. As the top free agent, he has a lot at stake. Another meltdown could scare off big-market teams such as the Yankees and Red Sox. If Wilson can outpitch Justin Verlander onceVerlander has been mortal this postseason — the Rangers will have a big advantage. The rest of their staff had a 3.19 ERA in the first round. Derek Holland hasn’t lost since Aug. 21, Colby Lewis is quietly a big-game pitcher, and Matt Harrison has swing-and- miss stuff. The Tigers will counter, in order, with Verlander, Max Scherzer (on short rest after a relief appearance), Doug Fister and Rick Porcello.
Will Justin Verlander regain his dominance?
Verlander had singular innings against the Yankees that were so stone cold they brought back memories of Eric Gagne’s heartless saves vs. National League West opponents. But Verlander hasn’t put together a signature performance yet this fall. He has had success against the Rangers and is 3-0 with a 1.29 ERA at the Ballpark in Arlington. This could be the series where the nation sees why Verlander might win AL MVP honors.
Which team’s lineup will produce more runs?
The Rangers have the type of offense the Yankees were supposed to have. With Tampa Bay’s lefties out of the way, Texas will roll out a dominant left-handed hitting lineup, bringing David Murphy into play. While Josh Hamilton and Adrian Beltre draw the most attention, don’t sleep on catcher Mike Napoli. He has hit .378 since July 4, has improved as a catcher and clearly is a guy that would have helped the Rockies, who had concerns, like many, about his defense. Look for the Tigers to pitch carefully to Miguel Cabrera and Victor Martinez. If Austin Jackson reaches base consistently, the Tigers are going to the World Series.
SPOTLIGHT ON . . .
Tigers’ Jose Valverde, RHP
Everything about Valverde is big. His outs, his belly, his ninth-inning celebration. He turned necks last week when he guaranteed a series victory over the Yankees. Valverde is Mr. Perfect this season with 51 saves in 51 chances. It is a remarkable number for a man who lives dangerously. Brad Lidge pulled off a year without a blemish during the Phillies’ 2008 title run. With all due respect, I can’t see Valverde escaping unscathed. One blown save could be the difference in a series that’s evenly matched and good for everything but TV ratings.
Prediction
Rangers in six. They have established themselves as the AL’s best team over the past two seasons. Their rotation is deep, their bullpen is loaded with Alexi Ogando now in a setup role, and they are capable of outhitting anyone.
