This year's Major League Baseball playoffs are doomed.

There's no way the 2005 playoffs can match the drama of 2004. And the 2004 World Series was won in a sweep by the Boston Red Sox.

But what led up to that World Series was magical. Both league championship series went seven games.

There are still Red Sox fans sobering up from last year's title.

This year's playoffs are less likely to see a sweep in the World Series though. The teams are too closely matched.

Here's what will happen.

White Sox vs. Red Sox

Small ball against long ball. The White Sox rely on getting runners into scoring position and then needing a key two-out hit to drive runs home. The Red Sox need Manny Ramirez and David Ortiz to go deep. Big bats win.

Red Sox in three.

Angels vs. Yankees

L.A. has better starting pitching. The Yankees have Mariano Rivera in the bullpen.

Yankees in five.

Yankees vs. Red Sox

It would be the third straight time they've met in the ALCS. The first two went seven games. Give the edge to Boston with Ortiz, the best clutch-hitter ever.

Red Sox in seven.

Cardinals vs. Padres

San Diego resembles Minnesota from last year. It's too bad Jake Peavy can't pitch three times for the Padres.

Cardinals in four.

Braves vs. Astros

These two met in the first round of last year's playoffs. The Braves blew it, big time. This year should be different.

Braves in five.

Cardinals vs. Braves

Cardinals fans, Tony LaRussa is your manager.

Braves in five.

World Series

Red Sox vs. Braves

The Red Sox get home field after the AL made it three-for-three under the new format. But the last two Series were won on the road. Boston's bullpen is weak, and Atlanta is due for a World Series.

Braves in six.
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