Friday, August 30 - Los Angeles Angels at Milwaukee Brewers
This is a game that doesn't figure to draw many people, as both teams will struggle to win 75 games. The Angels have been playing better lately but they are just finishing a disappointing season. Jered Weaver faces Wily Peralta, two pitchers who typify what went wrong for both teams. Weaver isn't having a bad season, but after three consecutive top 5 Cy Young finishes, his ERA+ of 109 hasn't been good enough when you consider Joe Blanton and Tommy Hanson have been terrible. For the Brewers to contend, Peralta, a top 100 prospect, was going to have to post an ERA like the 2.48 he had last year in a cameo appearance. His WAR (wins above replacement) is -1.4, meaning you can find someone who can do better on a minor league roster. There may be some rain, but Miller Park has a retractable roof. I'm good.
Saturday, August 31 - Philadelphia Phillies at Chicago Cubs
Another game that has no playoff implications. It does mark new Phillies manager Ryne Sandberg's return to Chicago, for the team he had a Hall of Fame career. Chris Rusin faces Cliff Lee. Rusin has been impressive since he was added to the rotation and Lee is having a Cliff Lee season. So those are bright spots for both teams. The weather figures to be warm, but no rain.
Sunday, September 1 - Cleveland Indians at Detroit Tigers
Finally a battle of contenders. The Indians chances of winning this division don't hinge on this series, but they certainly could be greatly helped or hurt. Former Cy Young winner Justin Verlander faces Indian phenom Danny Salazar. That's a reflection of the two teams. The first place Tigers have the established star and the Indians are relying on an up and comer. There's a chance of thunderstorms. I'm packing an umbrella, but it'd suck to have the game rained out.
Monday, September 2 - Baltimore Orioles at Cleveland Indians
If the Indians don't win the division they'll be trying for the Wild Card. So are the Orioles. So both teams need this. Indians ace Justin Masterson goes up against Bud Norris. The Indians were 9-4 in their last 13 before dropping two this week to Atlanta, while the Orioles have been treading water. There's also a chance of rain for this game. Yuck.
Tuesday, September 3 - St. Louis Cardinals at Cincinnati Reds
The Cardinals recently recaptured first place and the Reds want it. Both teams figure to make the playoffs regardless, but if you can avoid that Wild Card game, you want to do it. Joe Kelly goes up against Mat Latos in another premium match-up. It figures to be cooler but there's no chance of rain.
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