Oct. 22, 2019: MLB Daily Postseason Primer

The World Series begins today and it is the second time that two expansion teams are playing in it. Both teams changed names and in one case, changed locations.

The Astros began as the Houston Colt 45s but they changed their name to reflect their move to the Astrodome in 1965. The Houston Astros would be part of the National League until the end of the 2012 season. They joined the American League West in 2013.

The Nationals were born as the Montreal Expos in 1969. They were part of the second wave of expansion teams that would also see the end of just one league race for the pennant. The East and West divisions were created for the 1969 season and there was also the first League Championship Series prior to the 1969 World Series.

Ultimately, MLB would be the custodian of the Expos in the 2000s and the team moved to Washington for the 2005 season.

The Astros did win their first pennant in 2005 while a member of the National League. This is the first World Series appearance for the Nationals franchise.

Here’s a breakdown of interesting facts about this World Series

Will today be a Taco Tuesday?

Strikeouts might be a common sight in this World Series.

It is generally accepted that Game 2’s starters will be Justin Verlander and Stephen Strasburg and that the Astros will have Zack Greinke on the mound for Game 3. As for the Nationals, no announcement as yet for Game 3.

And with this being the 100-year anniversary of the 1919 Black Sox World Series, what’s the odds look like for this series.

Finally, at least we know that Joe Buck has a sense of humor

Tuesday’s schedule

5:08 p.m. PT: Nationals (Max Scherzer) @ Astros (Gerrit Cole) (Fox)