If you take a look at the MLB standings right now you'll notice that both Chicago teams are at the top of their respective divisions. In a division in which Detroit and Cleveland were BOTH popular picks to go to the World Series, the White Sox have come out of nowhere to lead the division. As for the Cubbies, the boys in blue were the favorite to win the NL Central, and with the best record in the national league, they've got north siders believing. Lets take a closer look at these two divison leaders.
Chicago White Sox
Carlos Quentin's play is a BIG reason for the south siders' success
Why They'll Be Playing In October...
Pitching. Back in 2005 the White Sox had the best pitching in the Major League, thats what helped them capture the title, and if they plan to make a run at the pennant, Pitchin will be the reason they do. The amazing thing about their pitching staff this year is WHO their doing it with. Vazquez has been the only consistent starter for Chicago over the past few years, while Buehrle and Contreares are making huge strides after sub-par years. John Danks seems to have tapped into potention and rookie Gavin Floyd is not 8-3 after yesterdays victory. As for the Bullpen, Bobby Jenks is one of the top closers in todays game, and Kenny William's investment in Octavio Dotel & Scott Linebrink have definately paid off. If their pitchers don't have a fallout, the Sox will no doubt be playing in October.
... And Why They May Not
Batting, the other side of the plate. Since the days of Frank Thomas the Sox have always loved the longball, making 2005 all the more strange. Last year the white siders were at the bottom of the league in Batting, surprising after having such a prolific offense in '06. This year they've stepped it up but almost every member of the Sox has had their own extended hitting slump. In addition to hitting, the entire team is very streaky, something that can be both good and bad depending on when they get hot.
What To Expect
The A.L. Central has underachieved as a whole and without any serious competition the Sox will look to run away with the decision. As of current standing, Chicago would have to match-up with Boston, and if that's the case, expect a first round exit for this team.
Chicago Cubs
Despite Soriano's injury, the Cubs are still playing great ball
Why They'll Be Playing In October...
Hitting. The Cubs currently boast the MLB's best offense, and with SEVEN hitters in the top 40 for batting average, the Cubbies are a team you'll have to beat in a shootout, something many teams may not be able to do. In addition to their hitting, the Cubs boast a lot of star power and they've got a THREE guys who are currently leading their positions in all star voting; Alfonso Soriano, Kosuke Fukudome, and Giovanni Soto. The Cubs have gotten every break this season, with Fukudome and Dempster both panning out, Soto's emergence, and Kerry Wood's terrific play at closer, and when things go like this, it may just mean their time has come.
Hitting. The Cubs currently boast the MLB's best offense, and with SEVEN hitters in the top 40 for batting average, the Cubbies are a team you'll have to beat in a shootout, something many teams may not be able to do. In addition to their hitting, the Cubs boast a lot of star power and they've got a THREE guys who are currently leading their positions in all star voting; Alfonso Soriano, Kosuke Fukudome, and Giovanni Soto. The Cubs have gotten every break this season, with Fukudome and Dempster both panning out, Soto's emergence, and Kerry Wood's terrific play at closer, and when things go like this, it may just mean their time has come.
... And Why They May Not
Slumping, the better you do, the harder it is to keep it up. Ain't that the truth, take a look at 2006, Detoit was arguably the best team in the MLB that year, but they just slumped at the worst time, succumbing to the Cardinals in the World Series. It may not work out like that but after playing so good to start off the season, the Cubs better not fall out of pace, or they might find that it's even harder to get back in a groove. As for a more realisitc threat, its the Bullpen. Don't get me wrong, they've been great so far, but the Cubs bullpen have logged the most innings in the League, and unless they bring in another throwing arm, their bullpen may fatigue come October.
Slumping, the better you do, the harder it is to keep it up. Ain't that the truth, take a look at 2006, Detoit was arguably the best team in the MLB that year, but they just slumped at the worst time, succumbing to the Cardinals in the World Series. It may not work out like that but after playing so good to start off the season, the Cubs better not fall out of pace, or they might find that it's even harder to get back in a groove. As for a more realisitc threat, its the Bullpen. Don't get me wrong, they've been great so far, but the Cubs bullpen have logged the most innings in the League, and unless they bring in another throwing arm, their bullpen may fatigue come October.
What To Expect
World Series... AT LEAST. Take a look at the National League standings Cubs fans, do you see any team that scares you? You shouldn't. That's right, your the team to beat. When I think about how the White Sox went through 2005, I realize its exactly how the Cubs are doing it now, everyone is waiting for them to have a fallout, but they keep on winning. I guess well have to wait and see...
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