Getting Dustin Pedroia hitting again will be a key for the Red Sox, who should have an offensive edge in this series.

The Providence Journal / Bob Breidenbach

This matchup has all the makings of a classic ALCS. The Rays won the regular-season series and of their 10 wins, nine of them came by one or two runs. Tampa dominated Boston at Tropicana Field in 2008, posting an 8-1 mark. Despite losing the regular-season series, the Red Sox outscored the Rays, 87-67.

The Red Sox kept the Rays at bay at Fenway Park, so winning two games here will be crucial for Tampa.

STARTING PITCHING

This is a tough category to rate, because health comes into play. If Josh Beckett, who has been hampered by injuries for the majority of the season, can regain his dominating postseason form, the Red Sox have the edge. But if he can’t, the Rays’ staff is so balanced that it would seem superior.

The Rays’ James Shields has the advantage over Daisuke Matsuzaka in Game 1. Due to Beckett’s recent oblique strain, Tampa’s Scott Kazmir has the edge in Game 2. For Game 3 Jon Lester no doubt has the advantage over Matt Garza, especially at Fenway Park. In Game 4 the Rays’ Andy Sonnanstine has the slight edge over Tim Wakefield.

 All four of Tampa’s starters are good, but the Rays are missing a true No. 1 guy in the rotation. It is a tough rotation to face, because all four Rays pitchers come right at you.

 EDGE: Rays

OFFENSE

 The Red Sox finished third in the majors with a team average of .280, while the Rays, who are not a great offensive team, finished 21st with a .260 average. The key for Boston will be Dustin Pedroia and David Ortiz. If Mark Kotsay can chip in, he could be the x-factor.

 EDGE: Red Sox

SPEED

 The Rays led the majors in stolen bases (142) and had a 74-percent success rate. Unlike the Red Sox, the Rays have a lot of different guys who can steal a base. Boston ranked seventh in the majors with 120 swipes.

 Edge: Rays

DEFENSE

 Overall the Rays have an outstanding defensive team, one of their biggest strengths. But the Red Sox have more depth and postseason experience from their young players.

 Edge: Red Sox

MIDDLE RELIEF

 If there’s an overwhelming winner in any category, it’s this one. Tampa’s bullpen is outstanding, especially Grant Balfour, who was one of the best relievers in the game this season.

Edge: Rays

CLOSER

 This one is easy. Jonathan Papelbon is the game’s premiere closer. The Rays have had to rely on Warwick’s Dan Wheeler, since Troy Percival has battled injuries this season.

 Edge: Red Sox

BENCH

 The Red Sox have the depth, both offensively and defensively, coming off the bench. The Rays rely on their starting lineup for nine innings every game.

 Edge: Red Sox

 MANAGER

The Rays’ Joe Maddon is a hard-nosed guy who has gotten the most out of his players. Unlike the Sox’ Terry Francona, Maddon isn't afraid to discipline his players publicly and has earned respect in the clubhouse. Maddon likes to play fundamental baseball and isn’t afraid to be aggressive on the base paths. He has managed his club very well, especially when it was hit with injuries to key players such as Carl Crawford and Troy Percival. Francona has the edge with his incredible postseason experience and success.

Edge: Red Sox

CONCLUSION

 The Rays are not a great offensive team, but they are consistent with their pitching and defense. No matter if it’s Game 1 or Game 7 of the series, Tampa will be the same team every game. There are no surprises with the Rays.

 In order for Tampa to have a shot in this series, winning the first two games at home will be crucial. The Red Sox are built for the postseason, but injuries could play a factor for Boston. This series has the potential to go seven games.

POSITION BY POSITION

1B: Mark Kotsay vs. Carlos Pena. Edge: Rays

2B: Dustin Pedroia vs. Akinori Iwamura. Edge: Red Sox

3B: Kevin Youkilis vs. Evan Longoria. Edge: Rays

SS Jed Lowrie vs. Jason Bartlett. Even

LF: Jason Bay vs. Carl Crawford. Edge: Red Sox

CF: Jacoby Ellsbury vs. B.J. Upton. Edge: Rays

RF: J.D. Drew vs. Eric Hinske/Fernando Perez/ Gabe Gross. Edge: Red Sox

C: Jason Varitek vs. Dioner Navarro. Edge: Rays

DH: David Ortiz vs. Rocco Baldelli/Cliff Floyd. Edge: Red Sox

jmcdonal@projo.com