Albert Pujols was hot during the regular season, hot during the division series and hot during the championship series. Why stop now?
Red Sox
While David Ortiz starred, Manny Ramirez hit the quietest .300 in ALCS history, failing to drive in a run. This time they'll switch roles.
MOST LIKELY GOAT
Cards
Julian Tavarez lent a big hand from the bullpen even after breaking his left hand in an immature temper tantrum. He might have a tougher time keeping his emotions in this setting.
Red Sox
Derek Lowe pitched so poorly at the end of the regular season that he lost his job in the rotation, then pitched so well in the ALCS he won it back for the Series. Now it could go the other way.
WHAT'S HE DOING HERE?
Cards
The Rays took a look at utility man Hector Luna during 2003 spring training as a Rule 5 draft pick and sent him back to the Indians organization. After a solid year at Double A, he was drafted by the Cardinals, and they've kept him around all year.
Red Sox
Mike Myers was going along quietly as a middle reliever for the last-place Mariners, known mostly for being durable. Then the Red Sox acquired him in an early August trade.
EX-RAYS FILE?
Cards
INF Marlon Anderson spent last season with the Rays, hit six homers with 67 RBIs, and was let go.
Red Sox
None
TAMPA BAY TIES
Cards
Manager Tony La Russa grew up in West Tampa, graduated from Jefferson High and has a degree in industrial management from USF.
Closer Jason Isringhausen lives in Tarpon Springs.
Red Sox
Pitcher Bronson Arroyo graduated from Hernando High and lives in Brooksville.
Reliever Mike Timlin lives in Oldsmar.
HE SAID IT
"Everyone in the clubhouse knows that for us, that was World Series No. 1. This is World Series No. 2."
- GABE KAPLER, Red Sox outfielder on playing the Cardinals after the Yankees.
WEATHER REPORT
Cloudy at game time with temperatures in the upper 40s, with a wind-chill factor in the low 40s.
