It always starts with pitching, and the Rays are going with their left-hander Scott Kazmir. Tonight's game might be the chess-matches of all chess-matches.  Kazmir vs. patient Philly hitting.  Kaz must keep the ball down because this Phillies lineup has power, all the way through the top six spots in their lineup.

    On the flip side, Cole Hamels is the Phillies true ace.  With the questionable back end of their rotation, Hamels finds himself in an almost must-win situation.  What concerns me is the speed of the Phillies.  If their lineup gets humming, they can steal bases somewhat comparable to the Rays.  That will be an intangible the Rays haven't faced yet in the postseason.  However, the Phillies have not done a very good job themsleves keeping their opponents in check on the base paths.....I would think Rays Manager Joe Maddon will test the Phillies early there when given the chance.

      The X-factor: Phillies week off between series.  Will it be an advantage or disadvantage? Baseball people are so superstitious to begin with, I'm guessing the lore of too much time off will linger in the Phillies minds until Game 1 gets going. 

  KEYS for the Rays in game one:  Don't give up the long ball.  Get to Hamels early to cast doubt.  Use their speed, and be patient at the plate.  Would like to see Rays go with same lineup they did in Game Seven against Boston. 

      Nonetheless, Hamels gives the Phillies the advantage in Game One.  However, if the Rays win this one, this series could be over quick.  

     Tom Korun