The American League Championship Series begins tonight when the Texas Rangers host the New York Yankees. Despite looking quite different at first glance, the two ball clubs may be more similar than you think.

Does one team have the edge? Let’s take a deeper look.

The Yankees come into this series with the playoff experience and know what it takes to win. The Rangers meanwhile are a bit less experienced in this situation but are playing with a lot of heart and passion.

Rangers manager Ron Washington has gotten through to his players and the team is playing sound baseball. This is a team that is talented and hungry, a dangerous combination.

The Yankees have a mix of veterans that have been here and done that, as well as some younger players that are taking leadership roles. Joe Girardi has his team focused and healthy as they continue to defend their World Series title from 2009.

The two teams have split the season series, each winning four games. Despite both teams being loaded offensively, it’s been solid pitching that has been the determining factor.

The Yankees will start  CC Sabathia, Phil Hughes, Andy Pettitte and A.J. Burnett. Texas will counter with a rotation of C.J. Wilson, Colby Lewis, Cliff Lee and Tommy Hunter.

Continue to full article at Double G Sports.

Read more MLB news on BleacherReport.com