(Image source: MLB)

 

BY SAM KOROTKIN

ANCHOR ANA COMPAIN-ROMERO

You're watching multisource sports news analysis from Newsy.

They say legends are born in October. Well, here we are.

The World Series matchup is set, and will begin on Wednesday, as the St. Louis Cardinals will host the Texas Rangers in game 1 of a best of seven series.

After losing in the Series last year, the Rangers are back, riding their powerful offense through the playoffs. SI’s Tom Verducci explains how they got here.

“...they did it with a blue print that not that many teams would want to copy. In ten postseason games, they’ve received only one quality start, and in the ALCS- no wins out of their starting pitchers. Only the 1997 Indians have done that in a best of 7 series in baseball history."

On the other side, the Cardinals haven’t gotten help from their starters either- but they’ve looked to the bullpen to pick up the slack. CBS’ Scott Miller says it’s anybody’s game.

“If the St. Louis Cardinals’ starters pitch this lousy in the World Series… why, they just might stand a puncher’s chance against the Texas Rangers. Go figure.”

Nelson Cruz led the way for the Rangers offense, hitting a postseason series record six home runs in the ALCS. He’s part of the reason why FOX Sports’ Kevin Kennedy has the Rangers winning in six.

“Deepest lineup, number one in baseball, I mean one through nine, and the mixing and matching Ron Washington can do with that lineup is phenomenal. They’ve got speed on the bases, they can beat you with power, they can beat you so many ways offensively.”

The Cardinals were able to rely on their relievers, who combined to pitch the highest percentage of innings ever for a League Championship Series. ESPN’s Eduardo Perez has the Cards winning in six, but says it’s time for the starters to do their job.

“He used the bullpen to get there, now the starting pitching has to come up big, Hannah. If they don’t, they’re going to be in a lot of trouble. They’re exhausted. This is a bullpen that was used, and used well by Tony to get there. That’s what you get paid for.”

The Rangers lost in the World Series last year, and the Cardinals came back from 10.5 games since late August to make the playoffs. MLB’s Anthony Castrovince explains the resiliency of these ballclub’s.

“You don't get this far without a team effort, and both of these teams have come a long way because of their depth, durability and determination. The Rangers have a sense of unfinished business, while the Cardinals hope to complete an unexpected surge.”