After another long season, the World Series is finally here! It’s a somewhat surprising matchup. In one corner a battle-tested, experienced team (Astros) against a retooled Braves squad perhaps a year ahead of schedule.
Sure, Atlanta has been knocking on the door. They won the NL East four years straight and came within one game of the Fall Classic last season. However, when Ronald Acuña Jr. went down, few could have predicted the magical run they’ve gone on.
Houston is back in the World Series for the third time since 2017 and is reveling in their villain role. They know many fans aren’t happy they’re in this spot again. Houston also seems to be emboldened by the boos of the crowds and eager to prove themselves once again.
Here are some things to look for as the series gets underway Tuesday night.
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Monster Mash
Both teams feature fearsome lineups that can be nightmares for opposing pitchers. The Braves boast a collection of hitters led by Freddie Freeman, Ozzie Albies, and Austin Riley. The Astros counter with a gauntlet featuring Jose Altuve, Carlos Correa, and Michael Brantley.
It’s the depth of these teams that’s so impressive. Besides their infield boppers, Atlanta has Adam Duvall, Jorge Soler, and Joc Pederson. Not to mention NLCS MVP Eddie Rosario, who is seemingly hitting everything in sight.
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Houston’s cast of hitters who could see good pitches includes Alex Bregman, Yuli Gurriel, and Kyle Tucker. Not to be forgotten is Yordan Alvarez, who helped vanquish the Red Sox and captured the ALCS MVP.
Pitching Prowess
With all of the powerful bats in this series, outs will be at a premium. The starting pitching hasn’t been great for either team and both bullpens have been relied upon heavily. Charlie Morton and Framber Valdez are set to start Game 1 for the Braves and Astros respectively.
Relief pitchers Tyler Matzek and Ryan Pressly could play a huge role. Both hurlers will be relied upon heavily to get key outs and close-out games.
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Atlanta will likely feature the same three-man rotation that worked against the Dodgers. After Morton, it’ll be Max Fried and Ian Anderson. Houston will go with Luis Garcia and Jose Urquidy. Zack Greinke could get the ball in Game 4 but only lasted 1.1 innings in his last start.
Prediction Time
If you had told me three months ago that the Atlanta Braves would be in the World Series, I would’ve called you crazy. But, here they are, having ousted Milwaukee and Los Angeles in their way. I think they’re a team of destiny, and will win their first World Series championship since 1995.
