Sox and Sox still sexy

While everyone loves the Angels and the Rays right now, something tells me the Red Sox-White Sox battle this weekend could be a preview of the American League Championship Series. Just a hunch.

Boston certainly handled its business in the first meeting between the two teams, whipping the White Sox 8-0. Daisuke Matsuzaka was nearly flawless against a sometimes potent, sometimes impotent Chicago offense, working eight innings and striking out seven while not allowing a run.

The Red Sox lineup produced perfectly. Leadoff man Jacoby Ellsbury scored a run even without a hit. Second and third hitters Dustin Pedroia and David Ortiz combine for seven hits and five runs between them. Fourth and Fifth hitters Kevin Youkilis and Jason Bay eached knocked in three RBI. Newly acquired Mark Kotsay batted sixth and tallied his first RBI. It was exactly how Terry Francona drew it up.

Boston might sit behind Tampa in the East. They might lose Josh Beckett for an extended period of time. Something tells me they're still the team to beat in the division. As for Chicago, the White Sox have Minnesota nipping at their heels just a game behind. I'm shocked the Twins are even in the running, honestly. I know they're a trendy pick, but like all fads, this one will fizzle before we hit the final week of the regular season.