Nick Cafardo's Sox-Rays ALCS matchups breakdown

Lineups, continued The Sox have power in David Ortiz, Jason Bay, J.D. Drew, and Kevin Youkilis, while the Rays get it from Carlos Pena (four homers and 12 RBIs vs. Sox this season), Evan Longoria, and Cliff Floyd (3 for 24 vs. Sox). The Rays have a superior offensive catcher in Dioner Navarro (two game-winning RBIs against the Sox), who is also very good with the young pitching staff. Both teams have intangible players -- and they both play second base. Dustin Pedroia (pictured) had an MVP-caliber season for the Sox, and he won't be dismayed by his 1-for-16 showing in the ALDS. The Rays' Akinori Iwamura is one tough out -- he batted .319 with four homers and 8 RBIs vs. the Sox. Both teams are very good defensively, especially in the outfield. And last, but not least, both teams play their best at home. Edge: Red Sox

Lineups, continued

The Sox have power in David Ortiz, Jason Bay, J.D. Drew, and Kevin Youkilis, while the Rays get it from Carlos Pena (four homers and 12 RBIs vs. Sox this season), Evan Longoria, and Cliff Floyd (3 for 24 vs. Sox). The Rays have a superior offensive catcher in Dioner Navarro (two game-winning RBIs against the Sox), who is also very good with the young pitching staff. Both teams have intangible players -- and they both play second base. Dustin Pedroia (pictured) had an MVP-caliber season for the Sox, and he won't be dismayed by his 1-for-16 showing in the ALDS. The Rays' Akinori Iwamura is one tough out -- he batted .319 with four homers and 8 RBIs vs. the Sox. Both teams are very good defensively, especially in the outfield. And last, but not least, both teams play their best at home.

Edge: Red Sox

(Reuters Photo)