There will be a SoxandPhils World Series

We just have to wait until 2009. But it will be a clash of the 2007 and 2008 champions.

Meantime, we have this little 2008 World Series to get through.

Four days after the Phillies clinched the National League title, they finally know who they will face this week: It will be a PhilsandRays World Series.

That's right, a thrilling seven-game American League Championship Series ended with the better team winning. The Red Sox ran out of pixie dust and, for the first time since 2003, found themselves unable to win a seven-game playoff series.

Jon Lester pitched well, but Matt Garza was better. He dominated a Red Sox team that had several quality at-bats but couldn't score. Rays 3, Red Sox 1. Series: Rays 4, Red Sox 3.

So now the Phillies pit their 28-year championship drought against a team that's only been around for a decade. I think the teams are equally pitted; each one is talented and having a magical season.

Historically, the Phillies haven't fared well against the Rays. Their all-time record against the Rays (then known as the Devil Rays) is 5-10. They haven't faced each other since 2006 after playing each year from 1998 to 2001.

There aren't many connections between the two franchises. Only 21 players have played for each team. The notables include Travis Lee, Kevin Stocker, Roberto Hernandez and Cory Lidle.

We have two days to delve into the history and stats before Game 1 in Tampa on Wednesday. I'm already sick of the cowbell. Christine is confident because the Rays celebrated tonight as if they won it all. I think it's going to be a tough series, but I'll hope with Christine that the Phillies end it in five. That has nothing to do with the fact we have tickets to Game 5 (if it's necessary).

Go Phils!

[Photo credit: Getty Images]