American League Championship Series - Games One and Two
(3) Seattle Mariners (90-72) vs. (1) Toronto Blue Jays (94-68)
For the first time in 24 years, the Mariners have reached the ALCS. After outlasting the Detroit Tigers in an epic 15 inning fifth game, Seattle looks to continue their magical season and secure their first ever American League Pennant. MVP candidates Cal Raleigh and Julio Rodriguez provided plenty of spark in the ALDS, but it was veteran infielder Jorge "Top Gun" Polanco who came up with the clutch hits, not only the series clinching walk-off, but also two homers off of likely Cy Young Tarik Skubal. Manager Dan Wilson’s electric pitching staff will have their hands full with the Blue Jays hitters, who have been the best in baseball since May. Vladdy, Jr. led the way in a dominant performance against the Yankees. Toronto’s pitching may be a bit of a question mark heading into this series, but they did the job versus New York. Rogers Centre should be raring to go for game one.
Toronto Radio SN 590 - Ben Shulman and Chris Leroux
Seattle Radio KIRO - Rick Rizzs and Aaron Goldsmith
National League Championship Series Games One and Two
(3) Los Angeles Dodgers (93-69) vs. (1) Milwaukee Brewers (97-65)
Despite being the reigning World Series Champions and boasting a record shattering payroll, the Dodgers don’t want to view this series as a “David vs. Goliath” matchup. The Brewers may be a small market team without notable superstars, but they were the best team in baseball for a reason. They play hard, they battle, and they force you to execute as an opponent. Still, the pure talent the Dodgers possess is imposing. With 3 MVPS in the lineup, a 2X Cy Young Winner on the hill, and then one of the best Japanese pitchers to ever come over stateside going in game two, it’s no wonder Pat Murphy views this series as a challenge. It should be a great one.
Los Angeles Radio AM570 - Stephen Nelson and Rick Monday
Milwaukee Radio WTMJ - Jeff Levering, Lane Brindle, and Josh Maurer
Audio clips from MLB.tv
As always, thank you to Baseball Reference and SABR for statistics, box scores, background information, and much, much more.
Catch you next time,
P.C.O.
