2011 MLB Playoff Predictions; Divisional Round ALDS NLDS

American League Division Series
New York Yankees vs. Detroit Tigers
The Yankees face the Tigers in possibly the best match up in the first round. Both teams have game changers on offense and defense, but who is setup better to win the series? In a shortened series, I would tend to take the Detroit Tigers over the New York Yankees, but there is much more to think about in this game then simply the lineups and overall pitching staffs. Jim Leyland has implied that his pitching lineup is in stone and Verlander would only pitch twice in the series if there was a fifth game, while Girardi will pitch Sabathia in a potential ALDS Game 4. Sabathia has been very effective on short rest, and will outmatch Porcello, the probably starter for the Tigers. Splitting the first four would mean the Tigers would be back in Yankee Stadium for a game 5 with Verlander on the mound. With a solid bullpen and rock solid closer, I like the Tigers to pull off the victory in an exciting 5 game series.
Tigers Win 3-2

Texas Rangers vs. Tampa Bay Rays
Two hot teams will meet in this battle that also could go the distance. I believe that this series is a complete toss up, but will go with the Rangers who are the defending AL Champions. The Rangers have a slightly more consistent rotation, and a more explosive top to bottom offense.
Rangers Win 3-1

National League Division Series
Philadelphia Phillies vs. St. Louis Cardinals
The Phillies are the best team in all of baseball, but the Cardinals are just as hot if not hotter over the last few weeks of the regular season. The Cardinals actually lead the season series over the Phillies as well. The issues are in the shortened series rotation for the Cardinals. Halladay will face Lohse in game one while Cliff Lee will face Edwin Jackson in game two. Phillies will end the series in a three game sweep when Cole Hamels comes out to face Carpenter in game three. St. Louis had to use all of their guns just to get to the postseason, they may have used up all of their firepower a little too soon.
Phillies Win 3-0

Milwaukee Brewers vs. Arizona Diamondbacks
The Diamondbacks never get any respect, but can they really beat the Brewers in a 5 game series? The short answer is no. The Brewers have Ryan Braun who might be the overall best hitter in baseball, and one of the best sluggers in Prince Fielder. Add to their offense A very strong pitching staff, and you have all the makings of a true contender in the Brewers.
Brewers Win 3-1