Despite the potent lineups of each team, the key to this World Series matchup is startinng pitching. The Yankees bring C.C. Sabathia, A.J. Burnett, and Andy Pettitte whereas the Phillies three starters are likely to be Cliff Lee, Pedro Martinez, and Cole Hamels.

Here's what we know--C.C. will perform well. The way I see it, that's the only guarantee. He will pitch against fellow Cy Young award winner and former Indian Cliff Lee. Despite Cliff Lee's success with the Phillies this season and dominance in the playoffs, I'm not convince he can outpitch Sabathia. If you remember, Lee didn't have as much success against American League teams early in the season. Not only will he be facing the AL, but the AL's most powerful team nonetheless. Even if Lee is able to pitch well, I see the Yankees getting more out of him than the Philies will out of C.C. If these guys pitch against each other in both game 1 and game 4, I pick the Yankees to win both.

X-Factors--The number 2 and 3 starters from both teams have had questionable outtings. Burnett is inconsistent, but if he gets two starts, he should have at least one good night. I don't think Pedro Martinez will have much luck. He has pitched pretty well lately, but the experienced Yankees have seen him many times in the past. Now that he's old and way past his prime, the Yankees should have no problem getting to him early and often. The Yanks will win one, if not both games Pedro starts. It's not official yet, but I think the final pitchers matchup will be Andy Pettitte versus Cole Hamels. This entire season, Hamels has had problems duplicating his form from the playoffs last year. I don't see him all of a sudden pitching like the Hamels of old now that he's facing New York. Pettitte is a bit more reliable than Hamels. Pettitte has more playoff pitching experience than anyone in either dugout. He should be good for a quality outting. If C.C. pitches well, the bullpen will be well-rested and able to rescue either Burnett or Pettitte should they need it.

Of course, winning the World Series will not be as simple as I have put it. With two teams having so much power between themselves, almost anything can happen. If Ryan Howard erupts with home run after home run, but Alex Rodriguez gets cold, the Phillies will have an advantage. Despite the Phillies winning the World Series last year, I'm going to give the playoff experience edge to the Yankees. New York is filled with consistent veterans and they will win the World Series.

Prediction--New York Yankees defeat the Philadelphia Phillies, 4-1