The 2014 MLB postseason has already brought plenty of intrigue, with several wild finishes taking place. With both matchups on Saturday having their respective Game 1s decided by a single run, expect more of the same.
Insanity ensued on the diamond between the St. Louis Cardinals and Los Angeles Dodgers, with the Cardinals holding on late for a 10-9 win. That victory came against Clayton Kershaw, as ESPN Stats & Info notes:
In the other National League Division Series, the San Francisco Giants jumped out to an early series lead against the Washington Nationals on the road. The Giants now have a chance to begin another long playoff run, but the Nats have a plethora of talent to contend.
Before the Saturday slate gets underway, here's a look at predictions for both crucial games. An updated bracket for both division series can be viewed at MLB.com.
San Francisco Giants at Washington Nationals
Tim Hudson vs. Jordan Zimmermann. Yet another big matchup on the mound between a young Nats pitcher and veteran Giants hurler.
But what many fans will be watching for is another potential tape-measure home run from Bryce Harper. The young phenom put his stamp on the series already, blasting a solo shot that was a career long for him, per ESPN Stats & Info:
Unfortunately, the Nationals' one through five hitters went a total of 2-for-17 ahead of Harper. In order to change their postseason fate, the offense will need to back up the strong pitching staff.
The Nationals have a wealth of young talent but not a ton of postseason experience. That's where the Giants have the edge. But even with an early victory for San Francisco, Washington has a chance to turn things around on Saturday.
Expect a more consistent game from the Nats offense and a great game from Zimmermann to push the series to 1-1 heading to the West Coast.
Prediction: Nationals 5, Giants 3
St. Louis Cardinals at Los Angeles Dodgers
Much like the other NLDS, this is a matchup of one team that has experienced multiple deep runs in the playoffs against a franchise that hasn't reached the World Series since 1988. Even with the best pitcher in baseball on the mound, the Dodgers are still 0-1 against the Cardinals.
When the two teams match up again on Saturday night, Zack Greinke will be looking to even the series against Lance Lynn. Scott Miller of Bleacher Report noted the struggles for Greinke against the Cardinals:
Dynamic offenses for both teams mean the two hurlers might have a cushion, but it's obvious the Cardinals have the mental edge after taking Game 1. Even with a sensational performance by Greinke, St. Louis has the veteran leadership to stage another rally.
Look for another high-scoring game with Lynn holding a 4.81 ERA in the postseason during his career. But if the bats show up for the Cards again, St. Louis will head home with a 2-0 lead and looking to clinch.
Prediction: Cardinals 7, Dodgers 5
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