We'll be honest. It's been a rough month of predictions for the USA TODAY Sports baseball crew.
Our writers and editors were unanimous in picking the Tampa Bay Rays to beat the Texas Rangers and the Milwaukee Brewers to knock off the Arizona Diamondbacks. Some social media accounts rightfully dunked on us.
Then, not one of us picked the victorious Rangers or Diamondbacks to even reach the World Series.
But here we are, back for more.
The Rangers are one of six current MLB franchises to have never won the Fall Classic (the others: Colorado, Milwaukee, San Diego, Seattle, Tampa Bay). Could this be the year?
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USA TODAY Sports writers and editors offer their picks for the 2023 World Series:
Diamondbacks in 7: It’s ridiculous, right? The Texas Rangers are deeper, more talented, more experienced, have a Hall of Fame manager with three World Series rings, and if home-field advantage means anything these days, they have that too. Well, nothing else this postseason has made sense, so why not pick the preposterous? The D-backs stun the world, and party like it’s 2001.
Rangers in 5: Sure, pitching wins championships, but the depth of the Rangers’ lineup, 1 through 9, is just too challenging for even the greatest clubs to navigate. Someone will eventually get you.
Rangers in 6. The Rangers were the American League’s highest-scoring team during the regular season and they’ve continue to mash in the playoffs, averaging nearly six runs per game. Their lineup is a meat grinder from top to bottom and will outlast the weary Diamondbacks bullpen that’s been the key to their string of playoff upsets.
Rangers in 5: The resilient Rangers will finally win their first World Series championship in franchise history thanks to their powerful lineup. The offense is propelled by Adolis García, the ALCS MVP, who has seven homers and 20 RBI this postseason, and rookie outfielder Evan Carter, who has remained poised and provided huge boost.
Rangers in 6: This Fall Classic is a toss-up, but the Rangers’ offense gives them the edge. Texas second baseman Marcus Semien (.192, 2 XBH in 52 AB) hasn’t contributed much of anything at the plate so far, but a home run or two from the $175 million man should tilt this series in his team’s favor.
