The Marlins and Reds play a make-up game this afternoon as Florida tries to keep their wild card hopes alive. They send Rickey Nolasco against Aaron Harang. Nolasco is undefeated in day games, 4-0 with a 2.18 ERA. I guess he does well against half-awake batters. :-) If Harang win, his 2007 record of 16-6 will be turned completely around as he'll go to 6-16. He's finally put it together in September with a 1.82 ERA.

Cleveland comes to Boston as the Red Sox can clinch a playoff berth. The Indians are tied with the Phillies for the best record in the majors since August 17th, 23-10. Boston, however, is tied for third at 20-12. The pitching matchup favors a Red Sox victory as Josh Beckett takes on Zach Jackson. Zach came over from Milwaukee in the Sabathia deal. He doesn't walk batters, but the balls in play against him usually fall for hits. Like last season, the time off for Beckett made him stronger as he's posted an 0.95 ERA in September, striking out 21 in 19 innings pitched.

The Cubs visit the Mets in a possible NLDS preview. If the playoffs started today, these teams would be facing each other in Chicago. Jason Marquis faces Jonathon Niese. Niese has a nice number of strikeouts so far, 9 in 11 innings, but his six walks leave something to be desired. Marquis should be tough on the Mets switch hitters as lefties bat about 45 points lower against Marqius than righties do.

Finally, Brandon Webb goes for his 22nd win against the reeling Cardinals. Todd Wellemeyer stands in opposition. Webb only struck out 10 so far in 20 September innings. Todd's great year is partially due to his .173 BA allowed with runners in scoring position.

Enjoy!

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