Some quick predictions about the upcoming playoff games--with some fun shots at whom might be the unsung hero of each series.

ALDS:

Angels vs. Red Sox
Prediction: Red Sox 3-1.
Comment:
As dominannt as the Angels have been over the Yankees in the regular and post seasons in recent years, they are equally as bad against the Red Sox. They have played sub-.500 ball against the Sox over the last 4 years. The Red Sox will see Cy Young candidate John Lackey in Games 1 and, if necessary, Game 5--and Lackey has been flatout awful against the Red Sox throughout his career. Outside of Lackey, the Angels pitching is either wounded or has broken down recently. For the Red Sox, they will need Manny in the lineup (I've not heard hide nor hare about The Great Disappearing Player).
Potential Unlikely Playoff Hero:
Julio Lugo. Overpaid and underachieving schlub hasn't done squat all year. A perfect time to go from schlub to stud.

Yankees vs. Indians
Prediction: Yankees in 5
Comment:
Per usual, the Yankees have come alive when they need to--at playoff time. Their pitching remains shaky, at best, but their hitting--led by the clear AL MVP, Alex Rodriguez--is enough, perhaps, to make up for it. However, the Indians with 2--count 'em 2--potential Cy Young candidates in CC Sabathia and Fausto Carmona. The Indians lineup can mash the ball, too. The entire series could be a high scoring affair. So given the Indians clear edge in pitching, why am I picking the Yankees? I tell you: Because it's the Yankees. And it's the post-season.
Potential Unlikely Playoff Hero: Melkey Cabrera. Who's Johnny Damon? See? You don't have to pay a gazillion dollars to get a good player.

ALCS: Red Sox vs. Yankees

Rockies vs. Phillies
Prediction: Phillies in 5.
Comment:
It's nearly impossible to predict a winner considering the magic both teams are experiencing now. Match-ups are nearly identical in every position, but a slight edge goes to the Phillies starting pitching and relief. Rockies get a slight edge in hitting, IF leading MVP candidate Holliday is OK to play. But Rollins, Utley, Howard and Rowand will be pose a test for the Baby Rocks pitching staff. Ballparks will be a HUGE factor. Clearly Coors is a launching pad, but so is Citizens Bank Ballpark, so look for oodles of runs to be scored. Because the Phils will play 3 at home with their rabid fans, edge goes to the Phils in 5.
Potential Unlikely Playoff Hero: Ubaldo Jimenez. Who? A kid wth nasty (and wild) stuff, that's who. If Rockies take the series, he'll be a BIG reason why.

Cubs vs. Diamondbacks
Prediction: Arizona in 5.
Comment:
Cubbies fans won't like me for this prediction, but they can take solace in knowing that I don't make this pick easily. One player that is going to show just why he might repeat as Cy Young and will be a deciding factor in the series will be: Brandon Webb. The Cubs' Carlos Zambrano will face him in Game 1 and, if necessary, Game 5. That is a very, very tall order. Webb does not give up runs. Period. BUT, quick name one guy from D-Backs starting lineup. Give up? You're not alone. That edge goes to the Cubs with Alfonso Soriano, Derek Lee and Aramis Ramirez.
Potential Unlikely Playoff Hero: Micah Ownings. He's a pitcher AND he can hit (4 HRs this year).

NLCS: Phillies vs. Diamondbacks