Nick Cafardo's Sox-Rays ALCS matchups breakdown

Bullpens, continued The Red Sox' bullpen also had some dominating moments against the Angels, none better than Jonathan Papelbon's two overpowering innings in a Game 3 loss in extra innings. The Sox have shown great faith in Justin Masterson (pictured) as their righthanded setup guy, though he allowed six hits and three walks in four innings in the ALDS. Both of the Sox' lefties were unscored upon against the Rays this season, Javier Lopez working 8 2/3 innings and Hideki Okajima 6 2/3. What could hurt the Rays is if Shields and Kazmir can't go deep into games, thus taxing Balfour and Howell. That's the last thing the Rays want. Edge: Rays

Bullpens, continued

The Red Sox' bullpen also had some dominating moments against the Angels, none better than Jonathan Papelbon's two overpowering innings in a Game 3 loss in extra innings. The Sox have shown great faith in Justin Masterson (pictured) as their righthanded setup guy, though he allowed six hits and three walks in four innings in the ALDS. Both of the Sox' lefties were unscored upon against the Rays this season, Javier Lopez working 8 2/3 innings and Hideki Okajima 6 2/3. What could hurt the Rays is if Shields and Kazmir can't go deep into games, thus taxing Balfour and Howell. That's the last thing the Rays want.

Edge: Rays

(Globe Staff Photo / Barry Chin)