The Providence Journal / Bob Breidenbach

OFFENSE

The Red Sox were second in the American League in runs scored and have a more balanced attack than the Angels. The Sox battled injuries in the last month, but so did the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. The Angels won’t have Gary Matthews Jr. (ankle) for this series, and Vladimir Guerrero (triceps) isn’t at full strength, further widening the gap between the teams.

SPEED

The Sox stole more bases than they have in more than a decade and have three legitimate stolen-base threats on the roster (Coco Crisp, Julio Lugo and Jacoby Ellsbury). Still, they’re no match for the Angels, who run all the time and build their offense around

aggressive baserunning.

STARTING PITCHING

This category might have favored the Angels if Bartolo Colon were healthy, but not as things stand now. Even if John Lackey and Josh Beckett are a near wash, the Angels don’t have another starter with Curt Schilling’s

postseason experience.

DEFENSE

Once more, injuries are a factor. Guerrero and Matthews are both plus defenders when healthy, but Matthews is out and Guerrero won’t play the outfield tonight. The Sox have the edge at second base and third base, while Angels are better at short.

MIDDLE RELIEF

The Angels have a more experienced set-up crew with Scot Shields and Justin Speier. Conversely, Eric Gagne’s value has dipped considerably over the last two months.

CLOSER

Jonathan Papelbon may be the game’s most dominant closer as the postseason begins, though Francisco Rodriguez is no slouch.

BENCH

Yet again, injuries play a role here. If the Angels don’t have to use Reggie Willits or Juan Rivera, they might warrant the edge. But with Matthews gone and Guerrero iffy, their depth is depleted. Ellsbury could be a wild card.

MANAGER

Even. Both Terry Francona (2004) and Mike Scioscia (2002) have managed their

respective teams to world championships. Scioscia is more active in-game because of his personnel, but Francona is underrated when it comes to running a game. Both managers have the utmost respect of their players.

SCOUTING REPORT BY SEAN McADAM