Betfair.net

It seems that it is the norm that the Red Sox and the Angels meet in the first round of the playoffs. This season will mark the third consecutive time this has happened. It also seems normal that the Red Sox eliminate the Angels from the playoffs. The Red Sox have ended three of the past five Angels' seasons.

It has been complete dominance lately for the Red Sox when they meet the Angels in the postseason. The Red Sox have won 12 of the past 13 postseason games against the Angels. The Angels' sole win during those 13 games was an extra inning affair last season. The Red Sox certainly seem to have the Angels' number.

The Red Sox will go into Los Angeles on a bit of a roll, having won four straight to end the regular season.

Jon Lester will take the hill for the Red Sox in game one. Lester was one of the hottest pitchers in baseball down the stretch. The Red Sox have won eight of the last nine games the southpaw has started. Lester is most deserving of the game one start as he has had another fine regular season. The 25-year old went 15-8 with a 3.41 ERA.

John Lackey will take the ball for the Angels. Lackey was 11-8 with a 3.83 ERA on the season. Just like Lester, Lackey was unhittable in late August and early September. Lately he has been very hittable. Combined in his last two starts, both at home, Lackey allowed 14 hits and eight earned runs in seven innings of work.

Presently on Betfair, odds are virtually even on this one. Considering the pitching advantage, the Red Sox's recent domination of the Angels, and the fact that the Red Sox traveled out to Los Angeles Tuesday to get accustomed to the time change, I think there is value on the Red Sox here.