July 15 Ganchalysis

[Ganchrow]

Mets 54% - The Mets will field a powerful lineup for this game. Glavine knows how to win, and chose not to go to the All-Star game in order to get some rest. At his age, it's not clear how that rest will affect him, but he could well return to the very effective form he showed at the beginning of the year. Assuming Zambrano's elbow bruise is a non-issue, he could well throw a good game, as he is well rested and has traditionally done well in day games at Wrigley. Still, in a close game, the Mets' lineup and pen seem to have a very strong edge over the Cubs' lineup and pen.

Toronto 66% - Halladay should have a strong game here, and the Seattle offense, which can be effective vs lesser starters, should be held down by Halladay's efficiency. Moyer, on the other hand, could be vulnerable to getting hit here, even though Toronto's offense is cooling off a bit. Moyer is much better suited to pitching in pitcher-friendly parks than he is in places like the Rogers Center. Still, the Toronto lineup is coming back down to earth, and if Halladay does give up a few runs, Moyer could keep pace with him.

[Ganchrow]

Florida 53% - Pettitte had a very strong second half last season, but caution is advised before expecting a repeat this season. He should throw a good game here, but not a dominant one. Johnson has had bouts of wildness, but should throw a similar outing to Pettite here. Florida rates an edge at home with a bullpen showdown looming.

[Ganchrow]

Detroit 72% - Kansas City gave away the first 2 games in this series, and this game hinges greatly on the quality and duration of Verlander's start. Jones and Zumaya have both appeared twice in a row, and if Verlander has a short outing, the erratic but at times capable Kansas City lineup will have a shot at the back end of the Detroit bullpen. Gobble is sub-par of course, but he could keep Kansas City in the game in spacious Comerica. The long rest period he has had is likely to benefit Verlander, but it could backfire on him as well. This game has a high degree of uncertainty.

Boston 61% - Schilling's elbow injury from his last start is probably ok or he wouldn't be going, but it is still a concern, and adds a major element of doubt to this game. Haren is capable of throwing a quality start, and the oakland bullpen has a new depth to it. Still, in a close game Boston will have a solid edge in the later innings.