Ace Up Your Sleve

There's nothing like being able to play an Ace. And Justin Verlander and CC Sabathia showed up why over the last two evenings. They both went the distance in deciding game 5's and lead their respective teams to the ALCS. And While things didn't work out so well for Adam Wainwright this evening, it's hard to argue, if not impossible, to downplay the importance of a dominant pitcher. Like a stellar goaltender in hockey, it gives the entire team an extra boost of confidence. They know he's got their back if they make a mistake and they can play a less nervous game. They have complete faith knowing that each and every time out he gives you an opportunity to win. In contrast he often gets into the head of your opponent leading to the exact opposite reaction where every move is over analyzed and you over think instead of react. This is shaping up to be a great series and will likely come down to whose Ace has the better stuff. I think Detroit has more pitching depth with Schurzer and Fister, but it will be interesting to see who handles the pressure better. The benching of A-Rod adds another bit of intrigue that will no doubt be pondered endlessly until there is some sort of resolution. The series is set to kick of in NY tomorrow, Play ball!