2021 World Series predictions, Astros-Braves picks: Experts split on evenly matched Fall Classic

The Atlanta Braves and Houston Astros will play Sport 1 of the 2021 World Sequence on Tuesday night time in Minute Maid Park. The Astros shall be vying for his or her second championship within the final 5 years, whereas the Braves are attempting to hoist the trophy for the primary time since 1995.

The Astros reached the Fall Basic by defeating the Red Sox in six video games within the ALCS. The Braves, meantime, upset the Dodgers in six video games within the NLCS.

On this collection, the Astros are available in because the consensus favorites. Regardless of taking part in in a more durable division throughout the common season, the Astros bested the Braves by seven video games within the standings and by 71 runs in run differential. As properly, they arrive into this collection with extra days of relaxation, and so they’ll play a possible Sport 7 at house. All that mentioned, baseball is constructed to defy such expectations, and nobody is aware of how it is going to play out.

As for the way it may play out, we 4 CBS Sports activities MLB scribes are right here to supply (theoretically) educated guesses as to who wins the 2021 Fall Basic. Do word that accuracy just isn’t assured.

2021 World Sequence workers picks

R.J. Anderson: The Astros are in all probability the higher crew, however I’ve issues about how Houston’s rotation sans Lance McCullers Jr. matches up towards Atlanta’s lineup. Perhaps it is foolish to get too locked in on that one side — particularly given how bullpen-dependent each groups have been, and the standard of the Astros lineup — nevertheless it’s not like anybody goes to recollect or care about these predictions in 100 years anyway, so we would as properly dwell a little bit. PICK: Braves in seven; World Sequence MVP: Freddie Freeman.

Mike Axisa: I feel the Astros are the higher crew, however the higher crew does not at all times win, and I feel the Braves can match Houston’s offensive firepower in a brief collection. I additionally really feel higher about Atlanta’s rotation now that we all know the Astros shall be with out Lance McCullers Jr. I anticipate an extended collection both manner, and I’ve the Braves because the favorites ever so barely. PICK: Braves in seven; World Sequence MVP: Jorge Soler.

Dayn Perry: I feel Houston’s edge on offense is substantial, and I feel having extra relaxation getting in than the Braves do will profit the Astros’ robust bullpen. The Astros’ rotation could appear a bit unsure proper now, however I am shopping for Luis Garcia’s tweaked mechanics. PICK: Astros in seven; World Sequence MVP: Jose Altuve.

Matt Snyder: No matter adjusting the Astros did with their pitching after ALCS Sport 3 (had been they tipping?) will stick and their offensive firepower proves superior. Dusty Baker lastly will get his ring as a supervisor and retires in type. PICK: Astros in six; World Sequence MVP: Carlos Correa.