Game 2: The Return of P-Dub

A bold prediction perhaps,

but I truly believe that this will be Preston Wilson's night. I say this not knowing for certain what the lineup is, but I presume Wilson will occupy the 2 hole in front of Pujols. Rogers can be a tricky lefthander, but he's not going to mess around with Wilson, who has not done much in the playoffs so far. That will tempt Rogers to come into the zone and try to get a strikeout, with Pujols and the suddenly-hot bats of Rolen and Emonds to follow. I'm looking for a line of 2-3 with a double, 2 RBI, and 2 runs scored from Preston.

Weaver will have to stick to his game plan against the Tigers. I'm a little worried that facing his old team in the series could result in him challening hitters a little bit too much. Hopefully Yadier helps Weaver remember what has gotten him through the postseason thus far - changing location and dropping the hook in for strikes.

What hasn't been talked about is how a cold rain could affect the game. (Or maybe it has and I missed it.) Both pitchers depend heavily on off-speed pitches (Rogers moreso), which could be affected by a wet ball and cold hands. I also would be more concerned about 41 year old joints than 30 year old joints, so advantage Weaver.

Final score? I think it's going to be close, and if I were a betting man I'd bet on Detroit 5-4. But since I'm not, I'll take St. Louis in a 4-3 back and forth affair.