Kansas City Royals vs. Anaheim Angels: Predicting the Final Score of ALDS Game 1
By Pete Schwichtenberg
@schwick26_pete
Getty Images
During the second half of the MLB season, the Kansas City Royals and the Los Angeles Angels had identical 41-27 records and were two of the hottest teams in the American League. The Angels went from being a team that had an insurmountable lead on the first wild card spot, to a team that ran away with the highly competitive AL West. The Royals, on the other hand, went from a team that had an outside shot of making it to the playoffs, to a team that contended for a division title until the season’s final day. Both teams have had playoff hopes for years, and have finally come through. After the Royals’ heart-stopping victory in their wild card matchup, here is how Game 1 of the ALDS will turn out.
Although the Royals will be riding high coming off of their thrilling victory, they will run into a buzz-saw on the mound, facing Jered Weaver. Weaver was not only the league leader in wins with 18 victories, but is a playoff-tested pitcher. Jason Vargas, who has overachieved all year, will start for the Royals. While he has exceeded expectations all season, the pesky Angel lineup will be too imposing to beat; expect a short outing from the left-hander.
As it will be all postseason, Mike Trout will be the player to watch with the Angels. While he has had an incredible start to his career, this October will be his his welcome to the baseball world. With Derek Jeter recently retired, Trout has the skills to step in and become the next generation’s October star. Just like he dominated during his rookie season, Trout will have a monster game in his postseason debut.
The Royals proved there is no quit in their team, but they will not be able to overcome the Angels in Game 1. Trout will keep the Angels bats going early and often and Weaver will hold the Royals bats at bay. It will be a rowdy atmosphere in Los Angeles as the Angels cruise to a 5-1 victory.
Pete Schwichtenberg is an MLB writer for Rantsports. Follow @schwick26_pete, Like him on Facebook or add him to your Google Network.
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