In an offseason that the best got better (Phillies, Red Sox), who would’ve picked the Rangers (6-0) and Reds (5-0) to make the World Series? That would be me, and neither team has lost through a week of play.
Meanwhile, the all-mighty Red Sox join the Rays and Astros as the only winless teams in baseball. [Full standings]
Perhaps I’m getting a bit too excited — OK, I am — but it’s still cool to see the Red Sox and Rays winless after a week.
Speaking of odd predictions looking good right now: one commenter said to watch out for the Orioles this year. The Orioles, really? Yeah, well they’re in first place and have looked great under Buck Showalter’s management.
Now it’s time to explain my surprising World Series picks.
I picked the Reds to beat the Rangers in the World Series in six games. The key factor both teams share: lots and lots of young talent.
For the Reds, hitters like Joey Votto, Jay Bruce and Drew Stubbs, and pitchers like Mike Leake, Travis Wood, Edinson Volquez and Aroldis Chapman are
Right now, the Reds’ offense is just on fire. They’re hitting .339 as a team and lead the majors in runs with 43 — one more than the Rangers.
The Rangers don’t have Cliff Lee anymore, but they still have plenty of young guns: C.J. Wilson, Matt Harrison and Neftali Feliz, and their key offensive weapons are still in place: Josh Hamilton, Nelson Cruz and Ian Kinsler. In addition, they acquired a big bat in the offseason named Adrian Beltre.
Watch out for both these teams this season, especially these young guys.
