It is well known that I fully believe the Nationals will win the 2013 World Series.  But I have recently realized they just may face an even less likely team in that matchup.  I am convinced the Kansas City Royals will have a legit shot to make a run.  So, as we are counting down the days for this weekend when pitchers and catchers report for the 2012 Spring Training, I figured I would give a prediction…for the 2013 World Series.  I am calling it a year in advance; the Nationals will beat the Royals in the Fall Classic.  Now granted, this will be the least watched World Series ever, but will be loaded with future stars.  We all know Ryan Zimmerman, Bryce Harper, and Steven Strasburg, but Jason Werth will settle in to the second spot of the Nationals line-up and live up to his contract.  Jordan Zimmerman is the best pitcher in the league that wouldn’t be recognized in his own home town.  In Kansas City, Mike Moustakas will finally live up to the hype, Alex Gordon will continue his stellar comeback as a power hitting outfielder.  Erik Hosmer will be one of the best power hitting first baseman in the league in 2013.  Mike Montgomery and Danny Duffy will make for a studly one-two combination at the top of the rotation, and one Jonathon Broxton will rediscover himself as a dominating closer for the Royals.  Below are my starting line-ups for the series, pitching staffs, and predictions.  I have included a couple of signings based on the 2013 free agent market.

Nationals beat the Royals 4 games to 2.

Nats starting lineup

1) Ian Desmond – SS

2) Jason Werth – CF

3) Bryce Harper – RF

4) Mike Morse – LF

5) Ryan Zimmerman –3B

6) Anthony Rendon – 1B

7) Danny Espinosa – 2B

8) Wilson Ramos – C

9) Pitchers Slot

DH) Rick Ankiel (or sign Carlos Quentin)

Pitchers – Strasburg, Zimmerman, Gio, and the newly signed Zach Grienke

Royals starting lineup

1) Alicedes Escobar – SS

2) Mike Moustakas – 3B

3) Erik Hosmer – 1B

4) Bubba Starling – CF

5) Alex Gordon – LF

6) Will Myers – RF

7) Billy Butler – DH

8) Salvador Perez – C

9) Johnny Giavotella – 2B

Starting Pitchers: Mike Montgomery, Danny Duffy, Luke Hochevar, and John Lamb or newly signed Edwin Jackson

Surprise contributors: Bernardina makes a Dave Roberts type steal and Lombardozzi comes through with a pinch hit game winner. 

WS MVP: Jason Werth with two steals, three home runs, and 7 RBI in the series