8 Hours and Counting

First pitch of game one to take place at 8:35



Now, we can move on from the build-up, the ESPN simulated games, and the sub-plots and finally get this series underway.

The Phils, coming off a week-long hiatus will take on a Rays team that has had just a three-day break. This will certainly factor in tonight's match-up, so expect that offense to take some time "warming up."

Looks like the Phils may catch a break tonight though, with Rays' ace Scott Kazmir reportedly banged up. His fastball is only hitting around 91-92 (as opposed to the high 90's) and unlike Josh Beckett, he's not somebody that can out-duel you when his fastball isn't on.

Look for the Phils to take game one and nullify the ridiculous homefield advantage that was granted by the All-Star game.

Can Bud Selig finally wake the F up and get rid of this ridiculous rule which awards homefield advantage to the winning team of the All-star game? If the NBA salary cap is the worst thing in sports, then this rule has to be a very close 1a.

I'm predicting the Phillies win this thing in seven games. I'm going out on a limb here and for once being positive.

I hope they don't let me down! No matter what though, you have to be on drugs to think the Phils will sweep the Rays. They will not get swept with a starting rotation like that-even with Scott Kazmir at 80%.

Hamels will take the hill against Kazmir tonight at 8:35.