Game Five

One game five down, one to go.

The Cardinals were not threatened in Game five last night.  Adam Wainwright was pretty solid, and the Cardinals came up timely hits from David Freese, John Jay, Matt Adams, and Pete Kozma.  They draw a hot Dodger team who has had time to cool off.  We've seen this a couple times in the recent past: one team sweeps, waits for the opponent to battle it out, and they cool off while waiting.  See last year's World Series as a prime example.

I'm not sure the Dodgers are that team.  They clinched the Division early, coasting through the last week of the season.  They things they do to win games, especially the pressure they place defensively on their opponent, don't require the timing and skill that a team reliant on timely hitting or solid pitching need.  Clayton Kershaw on your side isn't bad either.

The Cardinals have momentum on their side, as well as a lot of experience.  I still like Yadier Molina's quiet leadership and their timely hitting.  If this series goes a long way, even the full 7 games, the Cardinals have an advantage.  A sweep is more likely to go to the Dodgers, thanks to their blitzkrieg style.

The Tiger and the A's have a game five of their own tonight with the same intriguing matchup from Saturday night.  Justin Verlander, current King of Pitchers working through an off year, faces Sonny Gray, an heir apparent to  the throne.  The Tigers look like a determined team, but the A's have shown every bit of resolve.  I believe it could be a classic duel.  I'd like to see each starter go deep, another ton of strikeouts, and a hero with a bat.  It could be memorable.

So...am I off base?