Who will break the World Series curse? Because the Chicago Cubs haven’t won the World Series since 1908, there is a lot of excitement in the World of Baseball. On the other hand, the Cleveland Indians haven’t won since 1948. The Cleveland Indians drought is the second longest in baseball.
World Series Curse
So 1908 versus 1908. Who will win? Two great teams playing for the World Series.
Chicago Cubs
While leading all of baseball with 103 wins, they also had the lowest ERA of 3.15. Two of their starters were ranked first and second. In the first place, Kyle Hendricks with an ERA of 2.13 and Jon Lester with an ERA of 2.44 were first and second overall. Additionally, Jake Arrieta and John Lackey were among the top 25 in ERA.
Cleveland Indians
The Indian’s Pitching Staff is 7th best in the majors. Their ERA was 3.84 in the regular season. Since the postseason, their ERA has been 1.77 in eight games. Their three best pitchers have combined for an ERA in the post season of 0.048. Because their bullpen has been dominant, they have been unstoppable in the post season. Andrew Miller is one of the most dominant relievers in baseball. Is he being overworked? Moreover, Corey Kluber has been dominant in the postseason with an ERA of 0.098. Kluber is set to pitch in game 4 and in game 7. Will he be okay on short rest? Will the Cubs offense figure him out?
Terry Francona
Francona has been unbelievable in the postseason. Also, he knows when to take out a pitcher or bring a relief pitcher in. Francona has done a great job this year. Terry Francona broke the 86 year drought with the Red Sox. Will he break the 67 year drought with Cleveland? Because Francona has won three pennants and two World Series, he is on the way to Baseballs Hall of Fame.
Joe Maddon
Maddon is known for his fun and quirky style. Joe Maddon pushes the envelope and is able to get a lot out of his clubhouse. Maddon is considered a great communicator and is well respected in baseball. His thick rimmed glasses have become a statement in the baseball community.
Predictions
So many questions remain. Good pitching wins. What will we make of the Cubs offense? Who has the better bullpen? Of course, game one, the Indians had the advantage. Cleveland outhit the Cubs. What can we expect if Kluber pitches in game 4 and 7? To summarize, there are so many Red Sox connections to the World Series. One team will break the curse. In other words, we can expect to see champagne flowing soon.
In conclusion, I pick the Chicago Cubs in seven.