What'll it Take For a World Series Ring?

The World Series gets underway at Fenway Park tonight when two well-rounded teams, the Boston Red Sox and St. Louis Cardinals, square off on the diamond for Game 1. Can you believe it, to quote radio broadcaster Joe Castiglione.

The two winningiest teams in their respective leagues are known for playing baseball the right way. Little flash but big on fundamentals like baserunning and hitting the cut-off on throws from the outfield.

Both teams enjoy good team chemistry with their assorted cast of players who take turns getting the job done.

In short both teams grind.

Here we talk to Swampscott High School basbeall coach Jason Calichman, asking him for his thoughts about the series.

1.) You are a proponent of playing baseball the right way, and many people who watch the pro game say the two teams that made it to the 2013 Series do exactly that — they play the game as professionals. What are your thoughts on this topic, on how the Sox and Cardinals play the game the right way?

The Red Sox and the Cardinals are both classic teams.  They both have great traditions and seem to have an emphasis on doing things the "right way".  I expect to see a lot of fundamentally sound baseball, and a lot of hustle.

2.) What will you be looking for as keys to victory for the Red Sox?

They need great pitching and timely hitting.  The same recipe they used to beat the Tigers.

3.) What did you think of the championship series victory over the Tigers?

This was a classic example of why they play the game on the field and don't just determine the winner based on statistics. By all accounts, the Tigers had better starting pitching and a better overall lineup, but the Sox grinding out at bats and played until the last out.  And the bullpen was fantastic.

4.) Who will win the 2013 Series?

I like the Sox in 7!