Thank you New York for winning because the little kids you have picked on for 86 years are backed, buffed up and prepared to punk the mean bully. This time, there are reasons to believe that the outcome may differ from before.
A lot of animosity has built in the most heated rivalry in baseball, but it has grown to a larger level in the past few years. This year though, the Red Sox won the regular season series 11-8 and may have what it takes to get by the Yanks. Here is a breakdown of the matchup ahead.
Pitching. The Red Sox have a clear advantage here this season. With Pedro Martinez and Curt Schilling, they have two guys that are dependable in the big games. Schilling won in the ALDS to improve his record to 6-1 lifetime in the postseason. For the Yankees, it comes down to whether Kevin Brown can pitch like he did at the beginning of the year and if Mike Mussina can still come up big in the playoffs.
Hitting. I think that the Red Sox have a slight advantage here because of their ability to not only hit the long ball, but the way they can manufacture runs by singles and good baserunning. Manny Ramirez and David Ortiz also offer great power in the middle of the lineup. For the Yankees, they rely mainly on the long ball. Alex Rodriguez, Gary Sheffield and Jorge Posada have been better power hitters that hitters for average.
Fielding. The Yankees have the advantage here, but Boston has improved greatly this year and has almost pulled even. Derek Jeter, Rodriguez and Kenny Lofton are money and always make the big plays.
Intangibles. Yankees win big here. Jeter is Mr. Playoffs and step up to another level when the spotlight shines its brightest. He will be the reason for at least one win himself.
Outcome. My prediction is that Boston will finally get revenge on the Yankees and win in six. Curt Schilling will be the most valuable player and will play the St. Louis Cardinals in the World Series.

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