I'm back and the Rays never left

WOW, sorry for the hiatus but certain things could happen to a person that limits his writing capabilities (work and kids). None the less I'm back in action and ready to tackle the situation at hand. It has been months since I last commented on my favorite team but don't think I wasn't paying attention. I like to think I have studied the team from all angles now and I'm pretty sure I have a good idea of what's going on.

We all knew after the last series in Boston that the Rays were destined to make the playoffs and if there was any doubt about there capability in October it was answered after game one against Chicago. Now for the seventh time this year the Sox and the Rays will square off for the ultimate prize, the pennant.

Today the two teams announced their starters with Sheilds facing Dice-K. From a statistical and a fan stand point you have to like the Rays. Jamie is just to strong, especially at home, and K is to inconsistent with his pitch count, not to give the Rays a victory. Maddon has Kazimr two and Garza three witch I do not like. Even though Kaz will throw a hundred pitches in three innings, Matt just can't seem to win on the road. So to be objective I will have the series at 2-1 Rays. Here is where things get tricky. Does Maddon go with Sonny or a fourth starter in general, or with the break will he give the ball back to Sheilds. If you look at the regular season Sonnistine has been just short of perfect against Boston witch freaks me out because you know he should start before Kaz but what are the chances of that happening. In my opinion he will start in enemy territorywhere he has had success and he will pick up a victory. This now brings us back to the Trop where Sheilds will close it out.

Now I haven't brought up offense, defense, or injuries but from a pitching stand point it is hard to argue the Rays win in five.

IS THIS THE END OF THE WORLD?

Wow! I don't know where to start. The Rays are playing out of their minds right now and are looking damn good doing it. In fact they have been playing so well that I haven't had a new post in a week because of the state of shock that I'm just starting to recover from. Yet when looking back at the last couple of weeks the only explanation for their winning ways is that they are just playing good fundamental, baseball. I know that is not the sexiest awnser but it's the truth. The Rays have won 15 of their last 24 but more impressively have won six of their last seven series including three sweeps. But it's the way they have accumulated these wins that has really got the Bay are up in a frenzy.

Since the first day of spring manager Joe Maddon has been serious about installing a winning attitude based on the basics and the team has not only bought this message, they have invested it towards the future. Good pitching, timely hits, and most importantly, stellar defense can be accredited to the teams recent success. As I before mentioned, the attitude is the underlining factor here. This Rays team won't roll over any more when pushed against the wall, cause no one puts C.C. in the corner. This is a scrappy mix of youth and veteran leadership that proves good character and chemistry is the foundation for success. If you don't believe me just recap a few of the victories over the past couple of days.

Percy blows a save, no problem, Navarro will hit a grand slam in the 13th. Bullpen tired, no sweat, Sheilds and Kazmir will pitch deep into the game. Starting pitching having some issues, don't worry Crawford will do it all by himself. Remember it's not how you win, as long as you win. The other teams in the A.L. East have known this day will come, but know the rest of the league is paying witness to a franchise that doesn't let inflated payrolls or egos get in the way of playing the game the right way.