I want to get this up before the NL gets too far in the playoffs so my predictions seem legit and not based on what's already happened. So, that means it will be more a summary and less stats; and it will be written and not video (don't worry, I'm not done with the videos). Starting from worst chance to best here's my predictions:
4. St. Louis Cardinals
Offense: They've got Pujols, what more do you need? The lineup has a strong middle of Pujols/Berkman/Holliday, but the rest of the lineup is filled with good average guys who don't add a lot in the power or speed department.
Pitching: Lackluster rotation that was hurt a lot when Wainwright went down before the season even started. Dave Duncan keeps these guys going, but don't be fooled by their lucky numbers. Lack of an ace hurts.
Summary: The Cards capitalized on a stagnate Atlanta club to get into this postseason, but don't be fooled. They really have no chance and their lack of strong pitching makes them an easy elimination, for the well armed Phillies, in round 1.
Key Player: Any starting pitcher- someone has to stop these great staffs in the NL.
3. Arizona Diamondbacks
Offense: Not amazing, but decent. Everyone contributes in their own way. Justin Upton is having a fantastic season and don't count out the clout of Miguel Montero. Outside of those two they look average, but if you underestimate them it'll hurt.
Pitching: Really strong underrated rotation. Kennedy had an amazing season, Hudson is a strong number 2, and Saunders had a solid bounce back season. The 'pen is very strong too.
Summary: I love these guys, they really surprised me this season. I think it's a great group and I'd love to see big things, but I just don't think it'll happen this year. The pitching is great and the offense good, but they face the hot hand of the Brewers in round 1 and they're just better.
Key Player: Kirk Gibson- the manager has held this team together all season long and he can't sleep on it now.
2. Philadelphia Phillies
Offense: If their name isn't Victorino or Howard you can relax. They could use a boost from Chase Utley, but he's seemed on his last leg all season. They really aren't too threatening, and rely on power. OBP and speed is lackluster.
Pitching: Do I need to say anything? Their rotation is probably the best out of all playoff teams. The 'pen can be shaky early on, but the 8/9 guys are dominant.
Summary: The pitching is stellar, but the offense is old and lagging. San Francisco proved last October that Halladay isn't immortal and you can beat these guys. Philadelphia will have to power up the bats if they want to return to the World Series.
Key Player: Chase Utley- the pitching is awesome, but they need more contributions on offense. All these rotations are good and they can't rely on low scoring games; Utley has to get his bat back to snuff and put runs on the board.
1. Milwaukee Brewers
Offense: The best of the bunch. They can hurt you 1-9. Braun and Fielder are the best 3/4 combo amongst playoff teams and they will hurt you anyway they can. They have a little bit of everything in the lineup (OBP, speed, power, average); you just can't relax on these guys.
Pitching: I think this rotation can easily go toe-to-toe with the Phils. Gallardo, Greinke, and Marcum have all had good seasons; and, they were at their best down the stretch. The 8/9 combo of K-Rod and Axeford is stifling. They're underrated and a lack of proper preparation will get your lineup mowed down.
Summary: I find Milwaukee the class of the NL. They do everything well. The NL is a pitchers league, but you always need at least 1 run to win a game. Milwaukee is the only team that effectively combines hitting and pitching to create a dynamic and explosive ball club.
Key Player: Rickie Weeks- I honestly think he is the most important guy on this club. His play really sets the tone for the team, whether it's hitting a leadoff home run or turning a critical double play. They need him playing at full tilt to bring out their explosiveness on both sides of the ball.
