Does Teixeira trade make Angels the ultimate World Series favorite?
Posted on 7/31/2008 3:51:35 PM
By T.J. Kendrick
Angels World Series futures
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How much impact will Teixeira have on L.A.'s lineup?
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Do the Angels have the pitching to win in the postseason?
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Which American League teams stand in their way?
Wow. That's pretty much all that can be said of the Mark Teixeira-to-Los Angeles deal. Sure, it's been rumored to varying degrees in MLB circles for some time. But now that it's completed, the online wagering community is wondering how it will affect betting on baseball.
Certainly, Los Angeles had to have been considered a great favorite to win the World Series this year. The team has been on a brilliant run, presently owning the best record in baseball (66-40) and going 17-6 in July.
One of L.A.'s potential flaws was a lack juice in the middle of the lineup. Vladimir Guerrero can still swat the ball effectively but he and Torii Hunter are about the only truly frighting players in the heart of the order. Teixeira changes that.
The imposing switch-hitter has already clubbed 20 homers this season. He's been very consistent throughout his short career and has averaged 34 bombs a season since his debut in 2003. Throw in a lifetime .286 average and you've got some bona fide slugging power.
Does that add up to a World Series title? Maybe. The Angels are sixth in the American League with a respectable 3.88 ERA but some would question whether they have a true “ace” in the rotation.
Youngsters Ervin Santana (11-5, 3.57 ERA) and Joe Saunders (13-5, 3.10 ERA) have been excellent, however it remains to be seen whether they can maintain their paces, especially under the bright lights of the postseason.
But critics complaining about the lack of a No. 1 pitcher should look no further than John Lackey (9-2). Lackey has been excellent over the years and just because he's flown under the radar shouldn't overshadow his results. This season he has a 2.93 ERA and 1.06 WHIP, and he won 19 games last season. His presence makes betting on baseball a little easier.
Closer Francisco Rodriquez has been a little nerve-wracking this season, however. He's having a fine campaign. In fact, he could very well break the Major League Baseball saves record for a single season – but “K-Rod” hasn't felt like a sure thing all season. He's come close to blowing numerous games and has rarely been asked to hold onto a one-run lead or make up four outs. What are they odds that holds up?
That said, the Angels are still playing excellent all-around baseball. Currently, it doesn't appear many teams can stand in their way. Los Angeles owns Boston and has beaten the Red Sox in seven straight tries. The Yankees can't seem to maintain any sort of consistency. Nobody is giving AL Central teams a shot right now.
Tampa Bay might have a realistic shot at shaking up the American League. The Rays are winning the AL East and are 4-2 against L.A. in their last six meetings, though the Angels have won two straight. At this stage, it's tough to not to like their chances when evaluating the Angels.
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T.J.
Kendrick is the biggest baseball nut and a brilliant MLB handicapper. His love
of the game borders on obsession, and he takes every chance he gets to make
excellent predictions, frequently contributing to industry handicapping sites
as well as BetOnline.com. Thoughts or questions? Email
Comments@BetOnline.com.
