World Series preview

NO. 2 STARTER

Rays: James Shields

The fact that the right-hander won’t pitch in Citizens Bank Park is probably a good thing — as the 52 homers he has given up in the last two seasons will attest. But the impressive right-hander is almost always a lock to give his team six or seven innings.

Phillies: Brett Myers

Which Myers will show up? He has been wildly inconsistent all year but showed up in a stellar outing in Game 2 of the NLDS against the Brewers. How he performs in Game 2 of the World Series could be a key.

Edge: Rays

NO. 3 STARTER

Rays: Matt Garza

The star of the ALCS is drawing comparisons to John Smoltz for the way he unflinchingly challenges hitters, and he might be the pitcher best equipped to silence a rabid Philadelphia crowd during the city’s first World Series home game in 15 years.

Phillies: Jamie Moyer

Much was made of Moyer’s ability to take advantage of the Dodgers’ young lineup with his still-precise command, but the 45-year-old was hit around in Game 3 of the NLCS, the only one the Phillies lost. However, Tampa Bay hasn’t seen him before.

Edge: Rays

NO. 4 STARTER

Rays: Andy Sonnanstine

The only member of the Rays’ staff that can’t be called a power pitcher, Sonnanstine is nonetheless good enough to give Tampa Bay a chance in Game 4, especially if he can change speeds effectively.

Story Continues →