My NLCS Prediction

Now that I've seen all the numbers, here's my prediction, assuming no changes in my matchups listed below:

Game 1: Astros beat the Cards bullpen, Astros 2-1 (Astros lead 1-0)
Game 2: Mulder mystifies the Astros, Cards 5-0 (Series tied 1-1)
Game 3: Astros bullpen saves day, Astros 7-5 (Astros lead 2-1)
Game 4: Cards wallop Backe, Cards 11-4 (Series tied 2-2)
Game 5: Carpenter shuts out Astros, Cards 2-0 (Cards lead 3-2)
Game 6: Clemens comes up HUGE, Astros 4-1 (Series tied 3-3)
Game 7: Oswalt does his best but runs out of gas, Edmonds takes Gallo yard in 8th, Cards 5-3 (Cards win series 4-3)

In the end, I think that the series will be decided by the matchup of the Big Bats v. the Bullpen. If LaRussa can use Ray King to neutralize Lance Berkman (assuming he's not already lifted for a pinch runner), then that will be a HUGE advantage for the Cards because Gallo/Wandy will be forced to deal with Walker and Edmonds, and I think that advantage gets the Cards to the World Series, only to be bulldozed (again) by the AL Champ.