Jayson Stark Previews The World Series Before Game 1
Game 1 of The World Series is finally here. And to preview what we may see over the next week and change with the Phillies facing the Astros, “The Best Show Ever?” talked to Hall of Fame Baseball writer Jayson Stark. How will the Astros approach Bryce Harper? What does he think of tonight’s pitching matchup? Jayson Stark discussed that and more. Here is some of what he had to say.
On Keeping Bryce Harper in the 4 Hole
I would have done what they thought about and flipped Bryce and JT. Hit Bryce 3rd, and JT 4th. But I do understand that Rob Thomson is one of those guys where if it ain’t broke, we are in the World Series, and I ain’t going to fix it yet. I also think it is true that no one protects Bryce Harper. But I would have done that. Because Nick Castellanos is hitting behind Bryce. The Houston Astros would prefer to face Nick 1000 times out of 1000. Even if he went 999 for 999. I am not sure how many strikes they will throw Bryce. The Braves and Padres threw Bryce a shocking amount of pitches in the strike zone.
He doesn’t want to walk. He is in swing mode. I think the Astros will try to make him chase. And try to make him chase off speed outside the strike zone.
On Tonight’s Pitching Match-up
“Aaron Nola has never allowed a run to the Astros, he has faced them twice in his career. Justin Verlander has more starts than any pitcher in history and has never won a game in the World Series. But it is worth reminding ourselves Justin Verlander is great. Had a 1.70 ERA this year. He is going to win the Cy Young. I think it is very important that Aaron Nola be great tonight. The Phillies’ formula to win is to follow the script of the 2019 Nationals. Which is their best pitchers need to pitch as many of these innings as they are capable of pitching.”
Listen to the full interview with Jayson Stark below…
