A brief look at the Boston Red Sox and Houston Astros and how they match up as they begin their postseason. Expect more from BSI leading up to Game One of the ALDS.
When you measure a team’s chance you must divorce emotion from the process and somehow concentrate on facts and facts usually mean a healthy dose of statistical evidence. The Boston Red Sox will now face off against Houston, the team with the second-best record in the American League. Just how do the Red Sox measure up? What are their chances?
This will be a breakdown of the key components for each team and how they compare. Houston is most certainly the favorite with fans, media and those that set the betting odds. I can’t argue with that. If I was a neutral fan, I would clearly say the Astros will easily dismiss Boston and move on to face the Indians.
Below the surface is a few interesting items that give Boston an advantage. Will they be a factor? Is there the possibility of a minor upset? Will they be a player who suddenly rises to the occasion and has an impact series?
In baseball, I tend to dismiss head-to-head competition. Houston looked great at Fenway Park and not so great when they faced the Boston Red Sox at beautiful Minute Maid Park. This is like 2007 when the Colorado Rockies looked impressive in a three-game series at Fenway Park and then a dud in the World Series. That said the stats can give a look at a team’s strengths and weaknesses. Now for a look and mire will follow on BSI as we head to the first game of the ALDS.