Obviously, a strong starting rotation is critical for success on the diamond. However, without a strong bullpen it often goes for naught. There's no more disheartening way to lose than to have your starter go 7 strong innings only to have the bullpen **** it away in the later stages of the game. There are two formulas for victory....either beat the other team into ********** by scoring a bunch of runs or be able to outpitch them in a close game. Sure, the Tigers and Dodgers (and maybe the A's) have really dominant starting pitching but without the bullpen to back them up, they remain highly vulnerable. The key to beating them is to stay close late.
I can't recall the last time things seemed so wide-open in almost every division. There seems to be no obviously-superior team as we steam toward the end of the season. Whoever gets hot at the right time and can maintain good pitching all the way through their staff will have the edge. Right now, I don't know who that might be. It's great, isn't it?? I love baseball....especially this time of year.