Well it's everyone's favorite time of year! Let's face it, who doesn't like to predict the outcome of the Major League Baseball Season? I know I love it. Baseball is maybe the best sport of all time to follow, and it all begins at the beginning. Keep in mind that I put a ton of painstaking research into this preview.....what do you mean don't believe me? Fine suit yourself. Well I don't want to keep you waiting, so here are my picks (predicted 2010 record in parentheses, * denotes playoff team):
AL EAST
1. New York Yankees (99-63)*The defending champs had a busy offseason, acquiring All-Star centerfielder Curtis Granderson from the Tigers and pitcher Javier Vazquez from the Braves. They have an excellent lineup anchored by A-Rod and Mark Teixeira. They have a great rotation with CC Sabathia at the head. And they have the greatest closer of all time in Mariano Rivera. Not to mention they finished 5th in the American League in fielding percentage last season. The thing about the Yankees is that they don't have any glaring weaknesses, and on paper are simply the best team in all of baseball. I will now go for a swim in a vat of boiling water.
2. Boston Red Sox (94-68)*Try not to be a homer, try not to be a homer...Okay, for starters, the Red Sox are an enigma offensively. There are more questions in this lineup than on an episode of Jeopardy. Will Papi produce? What will Adrian Beltre contribute offensively? If Mike Lowell is still on the team by the start of the year, what will his role in the lineup be? Will J.D. Drew spend an extended period of time on the DL with a broken eyelash? And is a mid-season deal for Adrian Gonzalez destined to happen? All are pressing matters. However, if the offense can hold its own and be fairly productive, the starting rotation is shaping up to be brilliant. The Big Three of Josh Beckett, John Lester, and free agent addition John Lackey along with Clay Buchholz and Tim Wakefield and Dice-K make for possibly the deepest rotation in the game. Oh, and they have Jonathan Papelbon in the 9th. They also shored up the defense by signing Marco Scutaro and Mike Cameron to two year deals. If the offense can steadily produce, it should be a good year for the Sox.
3. Tampa Bay Rays (89-73)After the impossible 2008 season that saw them win 97 games and make their first World Series appearance ever, Tampa Bay fell back to earth a bit in 2009. They are a very good team, but how they do this season, as always, depends on how the young guys do. If players like B.J Upton and David Price rebound from their disappointing 2009, then the Rays will almost certainly be in the playoff hunt. But if those guys are inconsistent and struggle, it could be a season that never quite lives up to its potential. The biggest move that the Rays made was the signing of Alfonso Soriano to bolster the relief corps and give them the true closer that they lacked last year. The Rays are a playoff caliber team, but unfortunately they play in the same division as New York and Boston.
4. Baltimore Orioles (74-88)
They have some excellent young positional players such as Nick Markakis, Adam Jones, and Matt Wieters, but their rotation leaves a lot to be desired. Sure, they brought in Kevin Millwood, but honestly the O's don't have the firepower to contend in this stacked division, at least not this year. I did enjoy the signing of Miguel Tejada though.
5. Toronto Blue Jays (66-96)By trading away Roy Halladay, the Jays officially declared that they were in rebuilding mode. There really isn't anything to get excited about on this roster. There's no ace, no real slugger other than Adam Lind, not much of anything. Jays fans better look to the future, because the present is anything but pleasant.
AL CENTRAL
1. Chicago White Sox (88-74)*Two words: Jake Peavy. What, you forgot about that trade too? You weren't alone. After spending most of 2009 on the DL, Jake is back in action. The White Sox have a deep rotation that features Peavy, Mark Buerhle, Gavin Floyd, and John Danks; as well as one of the better closers in the game in Bobby Jenks (who also possessed the craziest facial hair since Scott Spiezio decided it would be a good idea to dye his soul patch bright red). They might struggle to score runs at times, but I feel like they're the most rounded team in the division.
2. Detroit Tigers (87-75)I have a feeling that Miguel Cabrera is going to have a huge year. Even more massive than his usual .320/30/110 that he puts up year after year. After a 2009 where he hit .324 with 34 homers and 103 RBI, as well was inducted into the Wife Beater Hall Of Fame (along with fellow 2009 inductee Shawne Merriman), I'm predicting huge numbers from Miggy in 2010. As for the rest of the Tiger team, they have an ace in Justin Verlander, but traded away last season's #2 Edwin Jackson. They also dealt away starting center fielder Curtis Granderson. All in all, i just don't see this team making the playoffs this year unless Rick Porcello has a great year and gives them a 1-2 punch at the top of that rotation.
3. Minnesota Twins (86-76)
"Never count out the Twins." That has been the defining quote of this franchise over the past decade. They just seem to scratch and scratch and almost always seem to be in the hunt. They have one of the best 3-4 tandems in all of baseball in Joe Mauer (who is the best left handed hitter in the game) and Justin Morneau (2nd in the majors in RBI since 2006). They also have one of my favorite players, Denard Span, and acquired Orlando Hudson and J.J. Hardy to shore up their middle infield. My biggest problem with this team is that they don't have a true ace, and their rotation seems pedestrian at that. Plus, Joe Nathan is likely out for the year, meaning that Jon Rauch will be closing out games. Watching the 2003 and 2005 seasons that the Red Sox submitted really showed me the importance of a dominant closer. Jon Rauch will have a tough time filling Nathan's shoes.
4. Kansas City Royals (74-88)
The Royals really aren't all that good, but they do have a few young stars to watch in Zach Grienke and Billy Butler. This is also a make or break year for third baseman Alex Gordon, who has yet to live up to his billing coming from the minors. He better rebound quickly from an injury plagued 2009 or else he could be one of the biggest busts in recent memory. All in all, the Royals are getting closer, but are still a ways away from being an actual contender.
5. Cleveland Indians (64-98)Not much could have been more disappointing for Cleveland fans than having to sit through Game One of last year's World Series. Watching Cliff Lee and CC Sabathia face off in the championship in uniforms with the cities "New York" and "Philadelphia" must have been heart-wrenching to watch. And this year, they don't have much to look forward to. Other than Grady Sizemore and prospect Matt Laporta, there's no point in even watching this team this year. Looks like another year in transition for the Indians.
AL WEST
1. Seattle Mariners (92-70)*They might have the best 1-2 combination out of any team at the top of their rotation with Felix Hernandez and Cliff Lee. It wouldn't surprise me if King Felix wins the Cy Young this year. The Mariners are also great defensively. If this team does have a weakness, however, it is their offense. They did bring in the super-versatile leadoff man Chone Figgins in the offseason to tag team with Ichiro at the top of the lineup. But who's driving those guys in? Jose Lopez? Franklin Guitierrez? The ghost of Ken Griffey Jr.? I just don't see it. Milton Bradley is the only true threat in this lineup, and he's one of the most unpredictable players in the league (and that's a dramatic understatement). However, the Hernandez/Lee combo is too juicy to pass up. I might be horribly wrong on this one, but my gut tells me I'm right.
2. Texas Rangers (89-73)
Man oh man this team can hit the baseball. Ian Kinsler, Michael Young, Josh Hamilton, Nelson Cruz, and newcomer Vladimir Guerrero should be the main parts of one of the best lineups in the league. Unfortunately, it doesn't look like they have the pitching to balance their offense. If you're counting on Scott Feldman to be your ace, and Rich Harden to stay healthy and be your #2, you are going to have pitching issues. Not to mention this team has a habit of fading and fading fast once the calendar turns to August. Texas also has the most coked up manager in the league, for what it's worth. They will contend, but I'm not sure the have the pitching to make it to the post-season.
3. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, California, USA, on planet Earth (88-74)Like the Twins, this team has the experience but is missing too many parts to win the division. They lost Vlad Guerrero, Chone Figgins, and John Lackey, and replaced them with Hideki Matsui, Brandon Wood, and Joel Pinero. While this is the most balanced team in the division, they are also a team in transition. The lineup is anchored by Kendry Morales, who will have to replicate his MVP caliber season if the Angels are to win this division. Brian Fuentes is "closing" out games this year, but he is treading on thin ice. The Angels should compete, but will fall short this season.
4. Oakland Athletics (63-99)Oh, where to start with this team. The days of Moneyball are long gone. The lineup has little to no pop (or average, for that matter). Come to think of it, they have the worst lineup in the American League. And they don't have nearly the pitching to bail them out. The A's signed Ben Sheets to a one year deal to be the ace. Really? Ben Sheets? The guy has had more elbow injuries than a teenager who has his own laptop with Internet access! (Related side note: Andrew Bailey was just diagnosed with tennis elbow. Highest of high comedy) This could get ugly very quick.
NL EAST
1. Atlanta Braves (95-67)*
I like this team. A lot. To the point where I firmly believe that they will be one of the top 3 teams in the National League. Don't believe me? First, check out their rotation. Derek Lowe, Tim Hudson, and 2009 "Best Name in the Bigs" award winner Jair Jurrjens head one of the deepest rotations in the National League. Plus they have the highly touted Tommy Hanson, who pitched well in his rookie year and should build on that success. Billy Wagner proved that he could still pitch effectively in his stint with the Red Sox last year, and he will be taking over the closing duties. The Braves are no slouch offensively this year either. Nate McClouth has emerged as a solid everyday player. Chipper Jones continues to get even better with age. Brian McCann is possibly the best hitting catcher not named Mauer. They also signed Troy Glaus who will provide them with some pop at first base. And Melky Cabrera is a quality addition. I would be very surprised if they didn't make the playoffs, and I expect a ton of success from Atlanta this season.
2. Philadelphia Phillies (93-69)*The back-to-back defending National League champs return as one of the front runners again in the league. They have basically the same lineup, with the addition of Placido Polanco and his massive head as the only new impact player. The biggest change made in Philadelphia was made early in the offseason when they acquired Roy Halladay from the Blue Jays. While they lost Cliff Lee in the blockbuster trade, I still think they made an upgrade here by bringing in one of the top 5 pitchers of the decade. The rest of their rotation is solid, but the Phillies are counting on Cole Hamels to rebound from a disappointing 2009. The Phillies are returning with a similar roster, and it should translate into more success.
3. New York Mets (80-82)
The Mets made a big splash by signing leftfielder Jason Bay to a 4 year deal. Unfortunately, Citi Field showed a tendency to kill home-runs (just ask David Wright), which is Bay's strongest attribute. The aforementioned David Wright needs to step up his power game, which took a big hit last year. But the success of this team hinges on one player: Johan Santana. If he is healthy, the Mets have a shot. But if he continues to has elbow problems, then it will be another disappointing year in New York.
4. Florida Marlins (78-84)
I don't know how they manage to be somewhat competitve almost every year despite having a $5 payroll, but they do it. Last season the Marlins were right in the thick of things all season long. This year they don't look spectacular on paper (with the exception of Hanley Ramirez, who looks spectacular both on paper and on the field), but you never really can tell. The Marlins will be on the fringe of the playoff race this season.
5. Washington Nationals (62-100)
The Nats were god awful last season. God awful. 103 losses netted them "Baseball Jesus" Stephen Strasburg. Newly acquired catcher Ivan Rodriguez (how the mighty have fallen. This is clearly the baseball gods getting revenge for Rodriguez stealing the AL MVP award from Pedro in 1999) claimed that Strasburg's stuff is "on the level of Nolan Ryan". Washington better hope so, because they really aren't much better than last year.
NL CENTRAL
1. St. Louis Cardinals (94-68)*Without a doubt, they are the best team in this divison. Unless you've been living under a rock the past ten years, you know that the team is built around super-slugger Albert Pujols. The guy is incredible. You can pencil him in for .330/40/120 every single season. The Cards brought back Matt Holliday to give Pujols the protection that he deserves in this lineup. They also have a good rotation headed by Chris Carpenter and Adam Wainwright. Carpenter is the key to the season. He needs to stay healthy (something he's had problems with in his career) because when he's not on the DL, he's one of the top 5 righthanded pitchers in the game. The Cards have a good balance of offense and pitching, and should take this division rather easily.
2. Milwaukee Brewers (88-74)Prince Fielder and Ryan Braun are quite possibly the best 3/4 combination in all of baseball. Unfortunately, the rest of the team really isn't anything spectacular. Let's face it, any team that signs Greg Zaun to be their starting catcher probably isn't making the playoffs. The rotation does feature some talent in Yovanni Gallardo (who is going to be sensational this season, mark my words). But overall, the Brewers don't really blow me away with anything after Braun and Fielder. Except for Jeff Suppan's contract. Jeff Suppan sucks. I hate that guy.
3. Cincinatti Reds (79-83)
Now that I got my unprovoked shots at Suppan out of the way we can focus on more important things......like Cincinatti's decision to spend $30 million on unproven Cuban pitcher Aroldis Chapman. Somehow I don't think that is going to turn out too good. Cincy does have a decent rotation with Aaron Harang and Bronson Arroyo, and one of the better closers in baseball in Francisco Cordero, however they just don't have the bats or the depth in their pitching staff to be serious contenders.
4. Chicago Cubs (76-86)
In 2008 the Cubs won 97 games. They are falling fast. And the culprits? Bad contracts that would make even Mike Dunleavy blush. The Soriano signing from a few years back is turning out to be one of the all-time terrible contracts. Zambrano hasn't lived up to his huge deal. And since signing an extension with the Cubs, While the Cubs do have some talent, they just aren't that good. They can't win the division the way they are currently constructed. The curse of the billy goat lives on for another season.
5. Houston Astros (73-89)
Houston has fallen on some tough times. Gone are the days when they were a serious contender in the National League. This is a team rebuilding. Roy Oswalt is on the back 9 of his career, and while they have some stars in Oswalt, Lance Berkman, Hunter Pence, and Carlos Lee, the 'Stros don't have enough of a supporting cast to be any better than a 75 win team at best. But on the bright side, they do have Humberto Quintero. I don't what that means either.
6. Pittsburgh Pirates (61-101)
Reasons to like this team: Andrew McCutchen. Other than that, there's nothing else to really look forward to, with the exception of third base prospect Pedro Alvarez. Pittsburgh has had a total of 17 straight seasons with a losing record. Not even the Detroit Lions have a streak that long. It's really a shame.
NL WEST
1. Los Angeles Dodgers (93-69)*
The Dodgers are definitely the best team in the division. After staving off a late run by the Rockies, LA went to the NLCS where they were defeated by the Phillies (again) and Pedro's jehri curls. While I'm convinced that this is the best all around team in the division, especially if Chad Billingsly can return to his 2008 numbers after a disappointing 2009, I do have a problem with the major moves that they made this offseason. Mainly, there were none. After failing to get past the Phils for a second straight year, Los Angeles reloaded by signing...wait for it...Reed Johnson and Ronnie Belliard. Yeah, I'm just as confused as you are. Fortunately they have enough firepower both hitting and pitching to win this division, but I'm more than worried about the lack of new talent and how well Manny Ramirez does in his first season off the juice.
2. San Fransisco Giants (84-78)
I'm going to ignore the fact that the only offensive threat on this team is Pablo "Kung Fu Panda" Sandoval, and just say that I think that the Giants are a legitimate contender simply because of their pitching staff. Tim Lincecum and Matt Cain are electric at the top, and they have Jonathan Sanchez (the guy who threw the no hitter last year) and Barry Zito too. But seriously, they did make some adjustments to their lineup, bringing in Mark DeRosa and Aubrey Huff to add some pop. While they have some great pitching, I just don't think they have enough offense to get them into the postseason this year.
3. Colorado Rockies (81-81)
Colorado captured lightning in a bottle for the second time in three years in 2009, riding the momentum from the firing of manager Clint Hurdle and his orange head to a wild card berth. They are a solid team, but they lack a true ace. While Ubaldo Jimenez has shown flashes, I'm not sure he is really #1 starter material. The biggest problem with this team is that there are just too many question marks, too many "potential (insert role here)". Obviously if everything goes their way the Rockies are a bona fide playoff team, but not everything will go their way.
4. Arizona Diamondbacks (79-83)
The Diamondbacks have some serious questions about Brandon Webb's health. When he's healthy, he's the perfect 1A to Dan Haren's 1. But Webb missed most of last year and still hasn't fully recovered going into this year. Arizona also traded for starter Edwn Jackson who is coming off a career year in Detroit. But the question with this team lies in their lineup. Justin Upton is the best hitter (and the leader of my fantasy team), and Mark Reynolds is a serious power threat, but there are tons of question marks after that. Conor Jackson hasn't progressed as they thought he would. Same with Chris Young. Also, I can't trust Chad Qualls as the closer.
5. San Diego Padres (58-104)
Let's see...they have the worst lineup in the league even with Adrian Gonzalez. They also have the worst pitching staff in the league. The only reason I'm even bothering to write anything about them is because I reaaaaaaaaaaaaaally hope that Gonzalez ends up in a Red Sox uniform by July 31. Also, you can seriously ask the question of just how bad this team will be if they actually end up trading Gonzalez. I feel really bad for new GM Jed Hoyer right now.
Now that I've blown you all away with my rundown of the MLB, I'm going to attempt to boldly go where few have dare to go before: I'm going to predict the postseason without having seen one pitch of the regular season. I know, I know, this is crazy, but someone's gotta do it.
DIV. SERIES
Yankees over White Sox 3-1 (Yanks are most complete team in the bigs)Red Sox over Mariners 3-1 (Mariners aren't nearly as balanced as the Sox)Braves over Cardinals 3-2 (Braves continue strong regular season)
Phillies over Dodgers 3-1 (Dodgers lose to the Phillies again!)
CHAMP. SERIES
Yankees over Red Sox 4-3 (I hate this pick. Let's just not talk about it)
Braves over Phillies 4-3 (In the battle of NL East Titans, Braves come out on top)
WORLD SERIES
Braves over Yankees 4-3 (Only because I hate the Yankees)
WS MVP: JAIR JURRJENS (Just kidding. But not really.)
So there you have it. Your 2010 World Series Champions will be the Atlanta Braves, their first title in 15 years. Wait, why are you laughing? I'm serious! Stop! Fine you'll see! Just you wait.
Seriously it's not that funny.
AL EAST
1. New York Yankees (99-63)*The defending champs had a busy offseason, acquiring All-Star centerfielder Curtis Granderson from the Tigers and pitcher Javier Vazquez from the Braves. They have an excellent lineup anchored by A-Rod and Mark Teixeira. They have a great rotation with CC Sabathia at the head. And they have the greatest closer of all time in Mariano Rivera. Not to mention they finished 5th in the American League in fielding percentage last season. The thing about the Yankees is that they don't have any glaring weaknesses, and on paper are simply the best team in all of baseball. I will now go for a swim in a vat of boiling water.
2. Boston Red Sox (94-68)*Try not to be a homer, try not to be a homer...Okay, for starters, the Red Sox are an enigma offensively. There are more questions in this lineup than on an episode of Jeopardy. Will Papi produce? What will Adrian Beltre contribute offensively? If Mike Lowell is still on the team by the start of the year, what will his role in the lineup be? Will J.D. Drew spend an extended period of time on the DL with a broken eyelash? And is a mid-season deal for Adrian Gonzalez destined to happen? All are pressing matters. However, if the offense can hold its own and be fairly productive, the starting rotation is shaping up to be brilliant. The Big Three of Josh Beckett, John Lester, and free agent addition John Lackey along with Clay Buchholz and Tim Wakefield and Dice-K make for possibly the deepest rotation in the game. Oh, and they have Jonathan Papelbon in the 9th. They also shored up the defense by signing Marco Scutaro and Mike Cameron to two year deals. If the offense can steadily produce, it should be a good year for the Sox.
3. Tampa Bay Rays (89-73)After the impossible 2008 season that saw them win 97 games and make their first World Series appearance ever, Tampa Bay fell back to earth a bit in 2009. They are a very good team, but how they do this season, as always, depends on how the young guys do. If players like B.J Upton and David Price rebound from their disappointing 2009, then the Rays will almost certainly be in the playoff hunt. But if those guys are inconsistent and struggle, it could be a season that never quite lives up to its potential. The biggest move that the Rays made was the signing of Alfonso Soriano to bolster the relief corps and give them the true closer that they lacked last year. The Rays are a playoff caliber team, but unfortunately they play in the same division as New York and Boston.
4. Baltimore Orioles (74-88)
They have some excellent young positional players such as Nick Markakis, Adam Jones, and Matt Wieters, but their rotation leaves a lot to be desired. Sure, they brought in Kevin Millwood, but honestly the O's don't have the firepower to contend in this stacked division, at least not this year. I did enjoy the signing of Miguel Tejada though.
5. Toronto Blue Jays (66-96)By trading away Roy Halladay, the Jays officially declared that they were in rebuilding mode. There really isn't anything to get excited about on this roster. There's no ace, no real slugger other than Adam Lind, not much of anything. Jays fans better look to the future, because the present is anything but pleasant.
AL CENTRAL
1. Chicago White Sox (88-74)*Two words: Jake Peavy. What, you forgot about that trade too? You weren't alone. After spending most of 2009 on the DL, Jake is back in action. The White Sox have a deep rotation that features Peavy, Mark Buerhle, Gavin Floyd, and John Danks; as well as one of the better closers in the game in Bobby Jenks (who also possessed the craziest facial hair since Scott Spiezio decided it would be a good idea to dye his soul patch bright red). They might struggle to score runs at times, but I feel like they're the most rounded team in the division.
2. Detroit Tigers (87-75)I have a feeling that Miguel Cabrera is going to have a huge year. Even more massive than his usual .320/30/110 that he puts up year after year. After a 2009 where he hit .324 with 34 homers and 103 RBI, as well was inducted into the Wife Beater Hall Of Fame (along with fellow 2009 inductee Shawne Merriman), I'm predicting huge numbers from Miggy in 2010. As for the rest of the Tiger team, they have an ace in Justin Verlander, but traded away last season's #2 Edwin Jackson. They also dealt away starting center fielder Curtis Granderson. All in all, i just don't see this team making the playoffs this year unless Rick Porcello has a great year and gives them a 1-2 punch at the top of that rotation.
3. Minnesota Twins (86-76)
"Never count out the Twins." That has been the defining quote of this franchise over the past decade. They just seem to scratch and scratch and almost always seem to be in the hunt. They have one of the best 3-4 tandems in all of baseball in Joe Mauer (who is the best left handed hitter in the game) and Justin Morneau (2nd in the majors in RBI since 2006). They also have one of my favorite players, Denard Span, and acquired Orlando Hudson and J.J. Hardy to shore up their middle infield. My biggest problem with this team is that they don't have a true ace, and their rotation seems pedestrian at that. Plus, Joe Nathan is likely out for the year, meaning that Jon Rauch will be closing out games. Watching the 2003 and 2005 seasons that the Red Sox submitted really showed me the importance of a dominant closer. Jon Rauch will have a tough time filling Nathan's shoes.
4. Kansas City Royals (74-88)
The Royals really aren't all that good, but they do have a few young stars to watch in Zach Grienke and Billy Butler. This is also a make or break year for third baseman Alex Gordon, who has yet to live up to his billing coming from the minors. He better rebound quickly from an injury plagued 2009 or else he could be one of the biggest busts in recent memory. All in all, the Royals are getting closer, but are still a ways away from being an actual contender.
5. Cleveland Indians (64-98)Not much could have been more disappointing for Cleveland fans than having to sit through Game One of last year's World Series. Watching Cliff Lee and CC Sabathia face off in the championship in uniforms with the cities "New York" and "Philadelphia" must have been heart-wrenching to watch. And this year, they don't have much to look forward to. Other than Grady Sizemore and prospect Matt Laporta, there's no point in even watching this team this year. Looks like another year in transition for the Indians.
AL WEST
1. Seattle Mariners (92-70)*They might have the best 1-2 combination out of any team at the top of their rotation with Felix Hernandez and Cliff Lee. It wouldn't surprise me if King Felix wins the Cy Young this year. The Mariners are also great defensively. If this team does have a weakness, however, it is their offense. They did bring in the super-versatile leadoff man Chone Figgins in the offseason to tag team with Ichiro at the top of the lineup. But who's driving those guys in? Jose Lopez? Franklin Guitierrez? The ghost of Ken Griffey Jr.? I just don't see it. Milton Bradley is the only true threat in this lineup, and he's one of the most unpredictable players in the league (and that's a dramatic understatement). However, the Hernandez/Lee combo is too juicy to pass up. I might be horribly wrong on this one, but my gut tells me I'm right.
2. Texas Rangers (89-73)
Man oh man this team can hit the baseball. Ian Kinsler, Michael Young, Josh Hamilton, Nelson Cruz, and newcomer Vladimir Guerrero should be the main parts of one of the best lineups in the league. Unfortunately, it doesn't look like they have the pitching to balance their offense. If you're counting on Scott Feldman to be your ace, and Rich Harden to stay healthy and be your #2, you are going to have pitching issues. Not to mention this team has a habit of fading and fading fast once the calendar turns to August. Texas also has the most coked up manager in the league, for what it's worth. They will contend, but I'm not sure the have the pitching to make it to the post-season.
3. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, California, USA, on planet Earth (88-74)Like the Twins, this team has the experience but is missing too many parts to win the division. They lost Vlad Guerrero, Chone Figgins, and John Lackey, and replaced them with Hideki Matsui, Brandon Wood, and Joel Pinero. While this is the most balanced team in the division, they are also a team in transition. The lineup is anchored by Kendry Morales, who will have to replicate his MVP caliber season if the Angels are to win this division. Brian Fuentes is "closing" out games this year, but he is treading on thin ice. The Angels should compete, but will fall short this season.
4. Oakland Athletics (63-99)Oh, where to start with this team. The days of Moneyball are long gone. The lineup has little to no pop (or average, for that matter). Come to think of it, they have the worst lineup in the American League. And they don't have nearly the pitching to bail them out. The A's signed Ben Sheets to a one year deal to be the ace. Really? Ben Sheets? The guy has had more elbow injuries than a teenager who has his own laptop with Internet access! (Related side note: Andrew Bailey was just diagnosed with tennis elbow. Highest of high comedy) This could get ugly very quick.
NL EAST
1. Atlanta Braves (95-67)*
I like this team. A lot. To the point where I firmly believe that they will be one of the top 3 teams in the National League. Don't believe me? First, check out their rotation. Derek Lowe, Tim Hudson, and 2009 "Best Name in the Bigs" award winner Jair Jurrjens head one of the deepest rotations in the National League. Plus they have the highly touted Tommy Hanson, who pitched well in his rookie year and should build on that success. Billy Wagner proved that he could still pitch effectively in his stint with the Red Sox last year, and he will be taking over the closing duties. The Braves are no slouch offensively this year either. Nate McClouth has emerged as a solid everyday player. Chipper Jones continues to get even better with age. Brian McCann is possibly the best hitting catcher not named Mauer. They also signed Troy Glaus who will provide them with some pop at first base. And Melky Cabrera is a quality addition. I would be very surprised if they didn't make the playoffs, and I expect a ton of success from Atlanta this season.
2. Philadelphia Phillies (93-69)*The back-to-back defending National League champs return as one of the front runners again in the league. They have basically the same lineup, with the addition of Placido Polanco and his massive head as the only new impact player. The biggest change made in Philadelphia was made early in the offseason when they acquired Roy Halladay from the Blue Jays. While they lost Cliff Lee in the blockbuster trade, I still think they made an upgrade here by bringing in one of the top 5 pitchers of the decade. The rest of their rotation is solid, but the Phillies are counting on Cole Hamels to rebound from a disappointing 2009. The Phillies are returning with a similar roster, and it should translate into more success.
3. New York Mets (80-82)
The Mets made a big splash by signing leftfielder Jason Bay to a 4 year deal. Unfortunately, Citi Field showed a tendency to kill home-runs (just ask David Wright), which is Bay's strongest attribute. The aforementioned David Wright needs to step up his power game, which took a big hit last year. But the success of this team hinges on one player: Johan Santana. If he is healthy, the Mets have a shot. But if he continues to has elbow problems, then it will be another disappointing year in New York.
4. Florida Marlins (78-84)
I don't know how they manage to be somewhat competitve almost every year despite having a $5 payroll, but they do it. Last season the Marlins were right in the thick of things all season long. This year they don't look spectacular on paper (with the exception of Hanley Ramirez, who looks spectacular both on paper and on the field), but you never really can tell. The Marlins will be on the fringe of the playoff race this season.
5. Washington Nationals (62-100)
The Nats were god awful last season. God awful. 103 losses netted them "Baseball Jesus" Stephen Strasburg. Newly acquired catcher Ivan Rodriguez (how the mighty have fallen. This is clearly the baseball gods getting revenge for Rodriguez stealing the AL MVP award from Pedro in 1999) claimed that Strasburg's stuff is "on the level of Nolan Ryan". Washington better hope so, because they really aren't much better than last year.
NL CENTRAL
1. St. Louis Cardinals (94-68)*Without a doubt, they are the best team in this divison. Unless you've been living under a rock the past ten years, you know that the team is built around super-slugger Albert Pujols. The guy is incredible. You can pencil him in for .330/40/120 every single season. The Cards brought back Matt Holliday to give Pujols the protection that he deserves in this lineup. They also have a good rotation headed by Chris Carpenter and Adam Wainwright. Carpenter is the key to the season. He needs to stay healthy (something he's had problems with in his career) because when he's not on the DL, he's one of the top 5 righthanded pitchers in the game. The Cards have a good balance of offense and pitching, and should take this division rather easily.
2. Milwaukee Brewers (88-74)Prince Fielder and Ryan Braun are quite possibly the best 3/4 combination in all of baseball. Unfortunately, the rest of the team really isn't anything spectacular. Let's face it, any team that signs Greg Zaun to be their starting catcher probably isn't making the playoffs. The rotation does feature some talent in Yovanni Gallardo (who is going to be sensational this season, mark my words). But overall, the Brewers don't really blow me away with anything after Braun and Fielder. Except for Jeff Suppan's contract. Jeff Suppan sucks. I hate that guy.
3. Cincinatti Reds (79-83)
Now that I got my unprovoked shots at Suppan out of the way we can focus on more important things......like Cincinatti's decision to spend $30 million on unproven Cuban pitcher Aroldis Chapman. Somehow I don't think that is going to turn out too good. Cincy does have a decent rotation with Aaron Harang and Bronson Arroyo, and one of the better closers in baseball in Francisco Cordero, however they just don't have the bats or the depth in their pitching staff to be serious contenders.
4. Chicago Cubs (76-86)
In 2008 the Cubs won 97 games. They are falling fast. And the culprits? Bad contracts that would make even Mike Dunleavy blush. The Soriano signing from a few years back is turning out to be one of the all-time terrible contracts. Zambrano hasn't lived up to his huge deal. And since signing an extension with the Cubs, While the Cubs do have some talent, they just aren't that good. They can't win the division the way they are currently constructed. The curse of the billy goat lives on for another season.
5. Houston Astros (73-89)
Houston has fallen on some tough times. Gone are the days when they were a serious contender in the National League. This is a team rebuilding. Roy Oswalt is on the back 9 of his career, and while they have some stars in Oswalt, Lance Berkman, Hunter Pence, and Carlos Lee, the 'Stros don't have enough of a supporting cast to be any better than a 75 win team at best. But on the bright side, they do have Humberto Quintero. I don't what that means either.
6. Pittsburgh Pirates (61-101)
Reasons to like this team: Andrew McCutchen. Other than that, there's nothing else to really look forward to, with the exception of third base prospect Pedro Alvarez. Pittsburgh has had a total of 17 straight seasons with a losing record. Not even the Detroit Lions have a streak that long. It's really a shame.
NL WEST
1. Los Angeles Dodgers (93-69)*
The Dodgers are definitely the best team in the division. After staving off a late run by the Rockies, LA went to the NLCS where they were defeated by the Phillies (again) and Pedro's jehri curls. While I'm convinced that this is the best all around team in the division, especially if Chad Billingsly can return to his 2008 numbers after a disappointing 2009, I do have a problem with the major moves that they made this offseason. Mainly, there were none. After failing to get past the Phils for a second straight year, Los Angeles reloaded by signing...wait for it...Reed Johnson and Ronnie Belliard. Yeah, I'm just as confused as you are. Fortunately they have enough firepower both hitting and pitching to win this division, but I'm more than worried about the lack of new talent and how well Manny Ramirez does in his first season off the juice.
2. San Fransisco Giants (84-78)
I'm going to ignore the fact that the only offensive threat on this team is Pablo "Kung Fu Panda" Sandoval, and just say that I think that the Giants are a legitimate contender simply because of their pitching staff. Tim Lincecum and Matt Cain are electric at the top, and they have Jonathan Sanchez (the guy who threw the no hitter last year) and Barry Zito too. But seriously, they did make some adjustments to their lineup, bringing in Mark DeRosa and Aubrey Huff to add some pop. While they have some great pitching, I just don't think they have enough offense to get them into the postseason this year.
3. Colorado Rockies (81-81)
Colorado captured lightning in a bottle for the second time in three years in 2009, riding the momentum from the firing of manager Clint Hurdle and his orange head to a wild card berth. They are a solid team, but they lack a true ace. While Ubaldo Jimenez has shown flashes, I'm not sure he is really #1 starter material. The biggest problem with this team is that there are just too many question marks, too many "potential (insert role here)". Obviously if everything goes their way the Rockies are a bona fide playoff team, but not everything will go their way.
4. Arizona Diamondbacks (79-83)
The Diamondbacks have some serious questions about Brandon Webb's health. When he's healthy, he's the perfect 1A to Dan Haren's 1. But Webb missed most of last year and still hasn't fully recovered going into this year. Arizona also traded for starter Edwn Jackson who is coming off a career year in Detroit. But the question with this team lies in their lineup. Justin Upton is the best hitter (and the leader of my fantasy team), and Mark Reynolds is a serious power threat, but there are tons of question marks after that. Conor Jackson hasn't progressed as they thought he would. Same with Chris Young. Also, I can't trust Chad Qualls as the closer.
5. San Diego Padres (58-104)
Let's see...they have the worst lineup in the league even with Adrian Gonzalez. They also have the worst pitching staff in the league. The only reason I'm even bothering to write anything about them is because I reaaaaaaaaaaaaaally hope that Gonzalez ends up in a Red Sox uniform by July 31. Also, you can seriously ask the question of just how bad this team will be if they actually end up trading Gonzalez. I feel really bad for new GM Jed Hoyer right now.
Now that I've blown you all away with my rundown of the MLB, I'm going to attempt to boldly go where few have dare to go before: I'm going to predict the postseason without having seen one pitch of the regular season. I know, I know, this is crazy, but someone's gotta do it.
DIV. SERIES
Yankees over White Sox 3-1 (Yanks are most complete team in the bigs)Red Sox over Mariners 3-1 (Mariners aren't nearly as balanced as the Sox)Braves over Cardinals 3-2 (Braves continue strong regular season)
Phillies over Dodgers 3-1 (Dodgers lose to the Phillies again!)
CHAMP. SERIES
Yankees over Red Sox 4-3 (I hate this pick. Let's just not talk about it)
Braves over Phillies 4-3 (In the battle of NL East Titans, Braves come out on top)
WORLD SERIES
Braves over Yankees 4-3 (Only because I hate the Yankees)
WS MVP: JAIR JURRJENS (Just kidding. But not really.)
So there you have it. Your 2010 World Series Champions will be the Atlanta Braves, their first title in 15 years. Wait, why are you laughing? I'm serious! Stop! Fine you'll see! Just you wait.
Seriously it's not that funny.
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