World Series Open Thread and Ichthyomancy (Game One)

(Note: I'm sorry about the lack of post today but the day job is getting big time in the way.)

The World Series steps up to the plate for the first time in the 2008 season and it begins in Florida.  Albeit in the wrong city for my taste, but Florida nonetheless.

The Phillies will finally see live action for the first time in just under a week.  The Rays have had a couple of days to nurse any injuries and, if they felt the need, to adjust the pitching rotation.

Game one: Phillies ( Hamels) at Rays (Kazmir), 8:35 p.m.

Personally given all the pre-game hoopla I will be surprised if the first pitch is thrown by 8:35 p.m.  I could be wrong, I have been many times in my life, but that is the way I'm betting.

Hamels is a quality start throwing machine.  However, he has never pitched in the Trop during his entire professional career.  In fact, his only start against the Rays was in 2006 and that one didn't go so well.  Hamels is about the same on the road as he is at home.  In other words, he is consistent.

Kazmir has been a little all over the map recently.  Sometimes he pitches a gem and other times he is lucky to make it through five.  If recent history is any indicator, he won't pitch more than six innings.  Kazmir has been much more effective at home than on the road.  His home ERA is 2.90.

So tonight is the battle of the lefties.  Southpaws rejoice.

Unfortunately the game is on Fox which means the announcers will be Joe Buck and Tim McCarver.  Oh, the humanity.

Best of Luck to You!