Chicago not Second City in this Series

It seems like the White Sox are the team of destiny in this Series after all. Everything's going right, although the umpires bad calls do seem to be balancing out, the Astros are just not cashing in on thier opportunities, unless the umps rule the ball over the fence in error. If it makes any sense, I would say this is the most evenly matched 3-0 series, I think I've ever seen. Think about it, this could be 2-1 Astros, 2-1 White Sox, maybe not 3-0 Astros but there really doesn't seem to be much separating these two teams. White Sox are getting more timely hitting and better bullpen help lately.

Some questions:

Is it just me or do we now need to look closely at American League domination in both the World Series and the now-meaningful All-Star game? I think the DH may have at least some role in this and now is the time for MLB to address the issue. Either both leagues play with the DH, or both leagues play without it. You know, level playing field and all.

But does the presence of the DH in the AL lead to the leagues better hitters being drawn to the AL over th NL? Does having to pitch to a more stout lineup throughout the year lead the AL pitchers to become more prepared to pitch later in the year? When was the last time a pitcher went from the NL to the AL and dominated?

And speaking of level playing fields, is it just me or does it seem as if the $85-90 million dollar and under payrolls all reside in the NL? While the $100 million dollar plus payrolls are all in the American League. Again, level the playing field.

The Mets, Philies, Dodgers, Braves and Giants who probably could spend some bucks, do not. The Diamondbacks reached thier credit card limit, so they're spent out. The Rockies don't seem willing to join the fray. In the AL, the Yankees, Red Sox, Angels and Orioles all spend like they have the keys to the printing press at the U.S. Treasury. Both factors are leading to a World Series where the NL is on the brink of being swept for the second year in a row. That can't be good for the ratings. And the All-Star games result is getting to be fairly predictable lately.

There just seems to be a de-facto salary cap in the National League lately. Or maybe my conspiratorial juices are flowing again. Next, I'll be speculating about the recent trend of Bud's cronies (Red Sox, Marlins, White Sox) winning the World Series the last coule of years and the link to MLB taking over control of the umpires from the two individual leagues. If the Brewers win next year, I'll know I'm on to something. But that's for another rant.