[EmpireWF]

The 2006 MLB Playoffs kick off this afternoon with a matinee match-up between the Oakland Athletics and Minnesota Twins. Game one in Minnesota will see two lefty ace's lead their teams into October. Barry Zito for Oakland and Johan Santana (AL Cy Young Candidate) for Minnesota.

Most every pundit (no, not the GTG poster) seems to love Minnesota and everything they bring to the table. However, most do see this series going near the five-game distance. With two great pitchers on the mound can either team find their bats in time?

My prediction for Game 1 will be as close to a pitchers duel as you can imagine. Minnesota wins by a score of 3-1.

I must admit, I'm a mild fan of the Twins this post-season.

[MJHMarc]

Close prediction.

Actual Score:3-2 OAK
W:Zito
L:Santana
S:Street
HR:2Thomas (OAK), White (MIN)

[EmpireWF]

I was surprised Zito was as dominant as he was. I guess he really turned it up. Santana not being able to pick up the W must really be a hit on the Twins in such a short series.