Baseball: A Two-Way Player

Chapter 703 35: Bloody Battle in October (5,000-Word Chapter – Happy New Year) (Part 2)

As for the two wildcard teams from the National League West, the Arizona Diamondbacks and the Colorado Rockies, although they were suppressed by the runaway Dodgers in the division, they each have their own highlights.

The former thoroughly strengthened their batting lineup after acquiring J.D. Martinez from the Tigers, and "Z Monster" Zack Greinke broke out of his slump from last season, achieving an impressive 17 wins, 7 losses, and a 3.20 ERA. Their problem lies in an unstable bullpen, which could lead them to lose games in high-tension situations.

As for the Rockies from the mountains, their fierce batting lineup is enough to create miracles in the playoffs, provided they first solve the problem of insufficient starting pitcher suppression—since they are behind in wins, they don't need to duel with the Diamondbacks' heavy hitters in Coors Field, the notorious "pitcher's graveyard," which might be one of the few good news.

"So, Jessica, Aaron, it's time for our predictions—" Dan Shulman naturally took over the conversation again, steering the topic to predictions for the National League champion, "Who do you think is the most likely team to win the championship here in the National League?"

Jessica Mendoza smiled slightly and replied, "I'm a California native, so without a doubt, the Los Angeles Dodgers, there's no other answer."

Aaron Boone lowered his head and thought for a while. After some hesitation, he gave his answer: "Although I played for the Nationals in my career, truthfully, I find it hard to imagine this Dodgers team, which has few weaknesses in both pitching and batting, losing—so, Dan, I choose the Dodgers."

"It seems that everyone in our show has made the same prediction…" Dan Shulman smiled slightly, "Yes, my final choice is also the Dodgers—the past few years of consistently missing the National League Championship make this year their best chance to reach the World Series!"

After discussing the National League, Dan Shulman pointed to the other side of the screen and slowly began, "Now that we've finished with the NL, folks, let's talk about the more complicated situation in the American League…"

"Which team was in the best form at the end of the season? I think this question should have no suspense." Shulman smiled, then continued, "With an unbeatable streak of 22 consecutive wins, the Cleveland Indians successfully topped the AL, and a 102-60 record was their second hundred-win season since 1995."

"Carlos Carrasco missing the World Series last season due to injury is considered a key reason for the Indians' dramatic turn of events. This season, he returned in excellent shape, and with Kluber, they form a double ace combo, both achieving 18 wins;

with Trevor Bauer and Mike Clevinger supporting the back-end rotation, and Andrew Miller and Cody Allen making up the setup and closure, this unique winning formula of the Indians has yet to be fully cracked by any team.

In terms of batting, Edwin Encarnacion, who joined during the offseason, continued to contribute vigorously, leading the team with 107 RBIs and 38 home runs; with both Ramirez and Lindor having breakout seasons, the goal of this team is very clear, that is, to make up for last year's regret and secure the championship trophy for Cleveland!"

"In the AL West, the Houston Astros also surpassed 100 wins, ultimately losing to the Indians by just one win." Jessica Mendoza looked at the content on the teleprompter and read word for word, "The Astros thrive on powerful batting firepower, standing out in the league with all their stats, including hits, RBIs, and batting average, except for home runs where they fall short of the Yankees—with star second baseman Jose Altuve a strong candidate for season MVP with a .346 batting average and 204 hits."

"On the other hand, pitching is the weak spot of the Astros: apart from 2015 Cy Young winner Dallas Keuchel, they hardly have any starters who can withstand the intensity of the playoffs; fortunately, they paid a hefty price to acquire 'King of the Tigers' Justin Verlander from the Detroit Tigers before the waiver trade deadline on August 31. Though aging, this MVP, Cy Young winner, and pitching triple crown winner of 2011 seems to be having a second spring after joining the Astros, performing remarkably well."

"However…" Jessica Mendoza smiled and then switched the topic, "In the best-of-five division series and the best-of-seven league championship series, whether the remaining Astros' starters can hold on and whether their bullpen, which lacks suppression, can maintain the lead, remains a part that requires foresight."

"The next team, I'd like to hand over to our good friend Aaron to introduce…" Dan Shulman had a peculiar smile as he looked mischievously at Aaron Boone beside him, "After all, you are 'Aaron Fucking Boone,' 'beloved' by Boston fans, hahaha—" (Note 1)

Called out, Aaron Boone smiled a bit helplessly before starting his work: "The situation here in the AL East is somewhat complicated: although the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees both won 93 games, the Red Sox ultimately clinched the AL East title based on a 10-9 record in 19 head-to-head matches."

"In terms of pitching rotation, Chris Sale accomplished the 300K season achievement, being one of only two pitchers in the league to do so this season. However, the fact that several consecutive starts at the end of the season were hit hard by opponents is worth noting;