The Philadelphia Phillies win the World Series if...
2008 Brad Lidge comes out of the bullpen.
In the ALCS, the balance of power shifted to New York when Brian Fuentes failed to close out the Yankees in Game 2. The Phillies have to win the games that are there to be won. Lidge needs to continue his perfect postseason.
The Phillies speedsters run wild.
The Twins never got out of the starting gate and the Angels stole a handful bases that had little to no effect. So far, it's much ado about nothing. The Phillies are known for stealing bases at a high percentage, but they'd be wise to push the envelope with Andy Pettitte likely starting just one game in the series.
Cliff Lee outpitches CC Sabathia.
Charlie Manuel should match Lee with CC in Games 1, 4 and 7. He is their best and he needs to be at his best. Remember, Lee spoiled the Yankees stadium opener by beating them and Sabathia back in April with the Indians. He needs to be the World Series MVP.
The New York Yankees win the World Series if...
Derek Jeter gets the pie-face.
Of the Yankees regulars, only the Captain did not come through with a walk-off hit and the whipped cream spoils this season. Mr. November gets another shot at his favorite month. The Yankees lived off late comeback wins all season. How could they win the World Series without an A.J. Burnett special delivery?
Mark Teixeira is the hitting hero.
Alex Rodriguez will cool off or the Phillies will walk him. Either way, he won't be able to dominate this series. Hideki Matsui will be neutralized by the no-DH rule, while Jorge Posada is not streaky enough to carry the load. The Yanks need Tex to break out in a big way.
They relax and enjoy themselves.
The 90's Yankees were a great World Series team. In fact, they won an unheard of 14 straight World Series games. How? They always felt pressure to win the pennant, but played relaxed baseball against the National League. The Phillies are a worthy competitor, but they don't bring the anxiety of a Red Sox ALCS or the Angels who "own the Yankees." I expect the Yankees to play their best ball of the season.
Final Analysis
Game 1 is key. If the Yankees hold serve, they'll handle Pedro Martinez in Game 2. If not, wise Pedro could prey on their anxiety. But I believe in CC Sabathia. He has been the ultimate horse all season and he should give them a chance to win every time he takes the ball. Joba Chamberlain will step into the set-up role in front of the great Mariano Rivera. Teixeira showed signs in the last two ALCS games that he's primed to explode. And, Jeter will have his moment.
Prediction
New York Yankees in 6
