PHOENIX — Get ready for more big-time pitching in the National League Championship Series.

        In Game 1 today, two of baseball's best will provide a stark contrast in styles — powerful Randy Johnson against the master of control, Greg Maddux.

Diamondbacks' Luis Gonzalez takes batting practice at Bank One Ballpark in Phoenix Monday. (AP photo/Kevork Djansezian) | ZOOM |

        “My old broadcast buddy, Tim McCarver, how did he put it: With Randy, you dread the intimidation, and with Maddux, you dread the inevitable,” Arizona manager Bob Brenly said.

        Despite their impressive career statistics, neither Johnson nor Maddux has had great postseasons.

        Johnson has lost a major league record seven playoff games in a row and is 2-7 overall. Maddux is 10-11, including 4-6 in the NLCS.

        Asked why Maddux has a losing postseason record, Atlanta manager Bobby Cox said, “I couldn't answer that no more than I could answer why Randy Johnson hasn't won every game in the playoffs that he pitches.”

        With Tom Glavine and John Burkett waiting to start and John Smoltz anchoring what Cox calls “the best bullpen we've had,” the Braves, as usual, are going as far as their arms will take them.

        “There's no secret why they're here for the 10th straight year,” Arizona's Matt Williams said after the team worked out at Bank One Ballpark on Monday. “That's been the strength of their team for years and years and years.”

        At first glance, this looks like playoff perennials against newcomers. Atlanta has won 10 consecutive division titles. Arizona is in the NLCS in just its fourth season of existence. The characterization couldn't be more misleading.

        The Diamondbacks are among baseball's oldest teams, a roster full of 30-plus-somethings.

        “Both teams are old,” Arizona's Mark Grace said. “Both teams have plenty of experience. They've got more experience as far as championships, but I'll take this team.”

        The Diamondbacks won five of seven against the Braves in the regular season, including a three-game sweep in Atlanta Aug. 10-12 to start a season-best nine-game winning streak.

        Maddux hasn't pitched since allowing three runs on four hits and a no decision in Atlanta's 7-4 victory over the Astros last Tuesday.

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