[Nick Soulis]

Series #4
Preliminary Round



2008 Los Angeles Angels
Record: 100-62
Finish: Lost in ALDS
Manager: Mike Scioscia
Ball Park: Angel Stadium
WAR Leader: Ervin Santana (5.0)
Hall of Famers: (1)
https://www.baseball-reference.com/teams/LAA/2008.shtml

1978 Chicago Cubs
Record: 79-83
Finish: 3rd in NL East
Manager: Herman Franks
Ball Park: Wrigley Field
WAR Leader: Rick Rueschel (5.4)
Hall of Famers: (1)
https://www.baseball-reference.com/teams/CHC/1978.shtml
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Historic Clash: 2008 Los Angeles Angels Sweep 1978 Chicago Cubs in Playoff Showdown

This unique series pitted the modern-day Angels, managed by the esteemed Mike Scioscia, against the Cubs of the late '70s. Despite their historical underperformance, the 2008 Angels swept the series in convincing fashion, marking a stark contrast in baseball evolution.

Game 1: Angels Set the Tone

The series opened at Angel Stadium, where the 2008 Angels quickly established their dominance. Kelvin Escobar took the mound for the Angels and delivered a stellar performance, going the distance with nine innings, allowing only two earned runs on six hits. The Angels' offense provided ample support, led by Chone Figgins, who went 3-for-4 at the plate. A two-run homer by Casey Kotchman and another by Bobby Murcer powered the Angels to a 6-2 victory.

Game 2: Weaver's Brilliance

Game 2 saw Jered Weaver shine for the 2008 Angels. Weaver threw a complete-game shutout, showcasing his pitching prowess as he held the Cubs scoreless while striking out eight. Howie Kendrick's solo home run provided the offensive spark needed for the Angels, and they secured a 2-0 victory.

Game 3: Lackey Takes Control

As the series shifted to Wrigley Field, John Lackey took the mound for the 2008 Angels. Lackey delivered an eight-inning gem, allowing just one earned run on five hits. The Angels' offense, led by a standout performance from Maicer Itturis, who went 3-for-4 with two RBIs, powered the team to a 3-1 victory.

Game 4: Santana Closes the Door

In the series finale, the 2008 Angels continued to demonstrate their superiority, with Ervin Santana on the mound. Santana delivered a dominant performance, striking out nine Cubs batters in eight innings while allowing three earned runs. Vladimir Guerrero provided the offensive punch for the Angels, each contributing a home run. The Angels secured a 3-2 victory to complete the series sweep.

Series MVP: Jered Weaver

Jered Weaver's masterful performance in Game 2 earned him the series MVP honors. Weaver's nine-inning shutout, allowing only five hits and striking out eight, set the tone for the Angels' dominant run through the series. His poise and precision on the mound proved to be the difference-maker.

While this simulated series served as a playful and imaginative exploration of baseball history, it highlighted the remarkable evolution of the sport. The 2008 Angels, with their modern strategies, advanced pitching, and powerful hitting, showcased how baseball has evolved over the decades.

2008 Los Angeles Angels Win Series 4 Games To 0



Series MVP:

(1-0, 9 IP, 5 H, 0 ER, 1 BB, 8 K)