Editor Adam Adkins and News Editor Taurin Hickman answer the hot questions concerning the upcoming 2011 Major League Baseball season: How will the Reds do? Who wins the World Series?
The big story so far in 2011 has been Albert Pujols’ contract situation. What uniform will he be wearing in 12 months?
Taurin: I think Pujols will be leaving for a big market. The Yankees said they are happy with Mark Teixeira’s production but with a chanceto get one of the best players ever will they stick to that? I think he will go to Boston honestly. How about you?
Adam: What about Adrian Gonzalez? Boston dealt some serious talent to San Diego to land him.
Taurin: True. But I think Adrian would be more than likely to move to DH rather than Tex. But can you imagine the Yankees infi eld? Alex Rodriguez makes $33 million, Derek Jeter $24 million and Pujols would
probably make over $30 million! Ridiculous.
Adam: It wouldn’t be cheap, obviously. And the positions don’t line up. That said, if the Steinbrenners watch the Red Sox win a World Series, don’t put it past them to sign Pujols.
The 2010 Cincinnati Reds surprised most by winning the NL Central. Can they repeat?
Taurin: Why not? Name me a team who you can say with confidence that can stop them?
Adam: Milwaukee. Substantially better pitching, and a lineup that could be excellent.
Taurin: Even with [newly acquired starting pitcher] Zack Greinke starting the year on the disabled list? I’m not sold on the lineup. There is talent, but can they put it together?
Adam: Possibly so. But I’m not betting on anyone. The division overall is so weak.
Taurin: True, I think the Reds have it set. I would of said the Cardinals before Wainwright’s elbow injury.But like you said in a weak division anything can happen.The Pirates may surprise people and win…OK maybe not. But they can dream.
Who will be in the Fall Classic come October, and who will take home the gold?
Adam: The consensus seems to be Phillies versus Red Sox. But, I’m not a man for consensus. For some reason, I believe the Braves will make the World Series, and I believe they will face the Twins. I do not know why. The Braves will win the World Series.
Taurin: I say the Yankees vs. Cardinals in a 4-0 sweep for the Cards. And… now back to reality.
Adam: I’m not sure anyone can believe in that reality.
Taurin: I know Adam, not even the Cards. I see the Phillies vs. Yankees (I know, I know) and the Phillies with all that pitching and just enough hitting will win the 2011 World Series.