October 24, 2014

Playoffs Today

Jeremy Guthrie takes the hill for the Royals as the World Series shifts to San Francisco. The Giants send Tim Hudson to the mound.

The Royals had a choice between starting Guthrie or Jason Vargas in game three. They are very similar pitchers, good but not great strikeout and walk rates, and they tend to give up a few too many long balls. The Giants, however, hit a bit better against left-handed pitchers. Since the game three starter will be in line to start a potential game seven, it makes sense to start Guthrie.

Guthrie pitched great in three starts against NL team this season. In 24 2/3 innings, he only struck out 11, but gave up just 18 this and five runs for a 1.82 ERA. He walked a single batter.

Hudson makes the first World Series start of his career in his first season making it past the LDS. He is coming off an excellent start against St. Louis in which he allowed just one run and seven hits in 7 1/3 innings. He has yet to walk a batter in 13 2/3 innings. Hudson did get knocked around by American League teams this season, 1-4 with a 6.21 ERA in 29 innings. Five of the 15 home runs he allowed came in those innings.

Given that both pitchers like to see the ball put into play, there’s a chance of a quicker game tonight.

Enjoy!

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