For Series XX, we'll see the
Chicago American Giants (featured in
Series VI) visit the
New York Gothams (
Series II and
Series XIV).
#Chicago American Giants
Chicago comes into Series XX 10 games over .500, but 4 games behind Baltimore, who lead the
Cum Posey Division. The story for the American Giants remains the same: one of the best and deepest offenses in the league trying to carry a thoroughly mediocre pitching staff.
New additions
Hoyt Wilhelm and
Don Newcombe are trying to help with the latter, while
Freddy Parent was brought in to address the one weakness--SS--in the starting lineup. Their best two starters--
Ben Sheets and
Tricky Nichols--will see action in the series, so Chicago needs to capitalize to hold pace with the Black Sox.
Chicago has juggled much of its bench, and early returns are not encouraging: the quartet of
Jackie Hayes,
José Abreu,
Magglio Ordóñez, and
Tom Brookens needs to do more to hold onto their roster spots, although none of them have more than 38 PA's (Ordóñez).
#New York Gothams
The Gothams continue to cling to a slim lead--one game--over Detroit in the
Bill James Division. They're doing it with offense and their bullpen: like Chicago, the starters have been sufficient, but little more than that.
Willie Mays and
Buster Posey continue to lead the way for the Gothams, and
Wes Westrum has yet to cool off, slashing an impressive 327/410/654 and earning some more regular playing time in the process. The Gothams largely stood pat at the break, adding
Don Sutton to their staff, initially in a long relief role, but clearly Sutton is on hand should one of the current starters falter.
#Pitching Matchups
Don Newcombe (2-9, 6.15) @
Pete Donohue (2-0, 4.11)
Ben Sheets (6-4, 3.66) @
Christy Mathewson (8-6, 4.82)
Mark Buehrle (5-7, 4.46) @
Sad Sam Jones (6-5, 4.20)
Tricky Nichols (8-3, 3.71) @
Juan Marichal (7-3, 4.99)
Clearly the Sheets v Mathewson matchup stands out.
#Predictions
It's a close series. When in doubt, side with the offense. Chicago, 3-1.