2026 ALDS Game 1 & 2

Before we head to Chicago and New York for Game three, let’s check in on the American League Division Series.

Chicago White Sox @ Cleveland Guardians

The White Sox led the AL Central for much of the season, but once again, Steven Vogt’s Guardians chased down a division rival to take the crown for the third consecutive year. And just like each of the previous years, they will have to face that division rival in the playoffs. Cleveland will have the pitching advantage heading in, as AL ROY favorite Parker Messick will get the ball in game one, with AL strikeout leader Gavin Williams following in game two.

Will Venable’s squad is unafraid of this moment, and they are quite familiar with Cleveland. It isn’t always pretty, but there boys just keep finding a way. And if Japanese slugger Munetaka Murikami can rediscover his powerful stroke, look out! The Southside is dangerous!

CHW Radio WMVP - Len Kasper and Darrin Jackson

CLE Radio WTAM - Tom Hamilton and Jim Rosenhaus

New York Yankees @ Tampa Bay Rays

The Yanks are flying high after trouncing the Red Sox, but they’ll have their work cut out for them against the Rays. Kevin Cash’s club ran away with the division and the AL’s best record, and what they lack in star power, they more than make up for in execution. But don’t get it twisted, Junior Caminero is an absolute stud, Drew Rasmussen is a bonafide ace, and for the first time perhaps ever, the Trop is BUMPING! These guys will not be intimidated.

TBR Radio WDAE 620 AM - Andy Freed and Neil Solondz

NYY Radio WFAN - Dave Sims and Suzyn Waldman

As always, shout out to Baseball Reference and MLB.tv for box scores, statistics, audio clips, and much, much more.

Catch you next time,

Jolly Orange Giant