Quick and simple here it goes
AL MVP: Adrian Gonzalez
AL CY Young: C.C. Sabathia
NL MVP: Carlos Gonzalez
NL CY Young: Ubaldo Jimenez
Monday, March 21, 2011
World Series
Philadelphia Phillies vs. Boston Red Sox
The best two teams all season will duke it out in the Fall Classic with one team prevailing over the other like usual. An east coast feel to this one. Whose color of red will fly higher? Well I'm here to give you that opinion. I look at both teams and talent pops out. The brilliant Boston bats versus the powerful Philadelphia pitching. I see the pitching being too overwhelming for the bats. Halladay, Lee, Oswalt, Hamels, and Blanton. 5 names that are going to be heard throughout the year will resonate in homes everywhere as they pull out the victory. And it won't be as close as what it seems. The Phillies pitchers have all come together for one reason and that is to win a championship. There is no way that even this potent lineup is going to stop them: Phillies in 6
The best two teams all season will duke it out in the Fall Classic with one team prevailing over the other like usual. An east coast feel to this one. Whose color of red will fly higher? Well I'm here to give you that opinion. I look at both teams and talent pops out. The brilliant Boston bats versus the powerful Philadelphia pitching. I see the pitching being too overwhelming for the bats. Halladay, Lee, Oswalt, Hamels, and Blanton. 5 names that are going to be heard throughout the year will resonate in homes everywhere as they pull out the victory. And it won't be as close as what it seems. The Phillies pitchers have all come together for one reason and that is to win a championship. There is no way that even this potent lineup is going to stop them: Phillies in 6
Championship Series'
ALCS
Boston Red Sox vs New York Yankees
For me this is easy. I find that the Red Sox are by far the best team in the American League and I don't think that this series will prove my thoughts. The Red Sox have more pieces and deeper pitching than that have the Yankees. While the Yankees do have the experience to win I don't think that experience alone is enough to win a championship. The Red Sox on the other hand have the talent and depth to overcome what they Yankees bring. Once again A-Rod falls in the playoffs but this time it's going to be more personal. The Yankees will keep it close but in the end the Red Sox prevail: Red Sox in 6
NLCS
Philadelphia Phillies vs. San Francisco Giants
In a rematch of last years NLCS, the two best pitching staffs in the majors go head to head in highly fierce and competitive series. The better offense will prevail most likely but I think that the Phillies pitching staff is better and more experience to overcome whatever offense the Giants throw at them. The Giants come close but do not repeat as World Series Champs: Phillies in 7
Boston Red Sox vs New York Yankees
For me this is easy. I find that the Red Sox are by far the best team in the American League and I don't think that this series will prove my thoughts. The Red Sox have more pieces and deeper pitching than that have the Yankees. While the Yankees do have the experience to win I don't think that experience alone is enough to win a championship. The Red Sox on the other hand have the talent and depth to overcome what they Yankees bring. Once again A-Rod falls in the playoffs but this time it's going to be more personal. The Yankees will keep it close but in the end the Red Sox prevail: Red Sox in 6
NLCS
Philadelphia Phillies vs. San Francisco Giants
In a rematch of last years NLCS, the two best pitching staffs in the majors go head to head in highly fierce and competitive series. The better offense will prevail most likely but I think that the Phillies pitching staff is better and more experience to overcome whatever offense the Giants throw at them. The Giants come close but do not repeat as World Series Champs: Phillies in 7
Divisional Series'
ALDS
AL East: Boston Red Sox
AL Central: Chicago White Sox
AL West: Texas Rangers
AL Wild Card: New York Yankees
1. BOS
2. CHI
3. TEX
4. NYY
Chicago White Sox vs. New York Yankees
Although the Yankees are the Wild Card Team they are going to, in my opinion, post the second best record in the American League. I think the Yankees will win this series but it is going to be closer because the Yankees have poor pitching and the White Sox have solid. The Yankees offense is just a little more powerful and experienced than the White Sox. The Yankees will make it back to the ALCS for the second straight year. Yankees in 4
Boston Red Sox vs. Texas Rangers
The Red Sox will get the homefield advantage in AL because of the off-season movement that they have done has really improved them. The pitching ex extremely deep and I like the way they look. On the other hand, the Texas Rangers are in the playoffs on a technicality that is called the AL West. If they were in another division I don't believe they would have had enough to make it. Red Sox get the rival Yankees in the ALCS: Red Sox in 3
NLDS
NL East: Philadelphia Phillies
NL Central: Cincinnati Reds
NL West: San Francisco Giants
NL Wild Card: Colorado Rockies
1. PHI
2. SF
3. CIN
4. COL
San Francisco Giants vs. Cincinnati Reds
The Giants are looking defend their title and the Reds are looking to get one. The Giants to me feel like they have what it takes to breeze through the Reds and that is saying something since the Reds would have to put up one of the best records to get here.since I believe that the NL Central is the most competitive division in baseball. In the end the experience and great pitching is going to help the Giants blow by the Reds in this series: Giants in 3
Philadelphia Phillies vs. Colorado Rockies
This is interesting to me seeing that I am a Rockies fan but I truly believe that they have what it takes and are very underrated. Yet they aren't experienced enough to get past the ultra heavy Phillies and the pitching staff. The Phillies will get they're hardest test of the season so far in this series. It will be overwhelming when Carlos Gonzalez and Troy Tulowitzki play as good of ball as seen by anyone but it won't be enough for the young Rockies to overcome: Phillies in 4
AL East: Boston Red Sox
AL Central: Chicago White Sox
AL West: Texas Rangers
AL Wild Card: New York Yankees
1. BOS
2. CHI
3. TEX
4. NYY
Chicago White Sox vs. New York Yankees
Although the Yankees are the Wild Card Team they are going to, in my opinion, post the second best record in the American League. I think the Yankees will win this series but it is going to be closer because the Yankees have poor pitching and the White Sox have solid. The Yankees offense is just a little more powerful and experienced than the White Sox. The Yankees will make it back to the ALCS for the second straight year. Yankees in 4
Boston Red Sox vs. Texas Rangers
The Red Sox will get the homefield advantage in AL because of the off-season movement that they have done has really improved them. The pitching ex extremely deep and I like the way they look. On the other hand, the Texas Rangers are in the playoffs on a technicality that is called the AL West. If they were in another division I don't believe they would have had enough to make it. Red Sox get the rival Yankees in the ALCS: Red Sox in 3
NLDS
NL East: Philadelphia Phillies
NL Central: Cincinnati Reds
NL West: San Francisco Giants
NL Wild Card: Colorado Rockies
1. PHI
2. SF
3. CIN
4. COL
San Francisco Giants vs. Cincinnati Reds
The Giants are looking defend their title and the Reds are looking to get one. The Giants to me feel like they have what it takes to breeze through the Reds and that is saying something since the Reds would have to put up one of the best records to get here.since I believe that the NL Central is the most competitive division in baseball. In the end the experience and great pitching is going to help the Giants blow by the Reds in this series: Giants in 3
Philadelphia Phillies vs. Colorado Rockies
This is interesting to me seeing that I am a Rockies fan but I truly believe that they have what it takes and are very underrated. Yet they aren't experienced enough to get past the ultra heavy Phillies and the pitching staff. The Phillies will get they're hardest test of the season so far in this series. It will be overwhelming when Carlos Gonzalez and Troy Tulowitzki play as good of ball as seen by anyone but it won't be enough for the young Rockies to overcome: Phillies in 4
NL West
I've been getting restless as of late, especially when I try to continue my baseball preview. I've hit March Madness Fever and won't to write about it so some changes have been made. I'm going to finish up baseball as soon as I can starting with the end of the team by team today. Just so you know my friend Nick Clason told me this would happen.
Arizona Diamondbacks
The Diamondbacks have been the lowlifes of the West for the past two seasons and now they have lost their slugger in Mark Reynolds to Baltimore. Young pieces surround the offense like, Stephen Drew, Chris Young, and Justin Upton mixed with some Vets like Xavier Nady and Melvin Mora solidify the offense. The offense was one of the most powerful in the NL last season but without Reynolds the team will take a hit.
The weakness to Arizona is the pitching. Between them and the Pirates, the worst of the pitching stats were complete. Even with pitchers who can perform like Ian Kennedy and Joe Saunders but the rest of the staff is shaky. Andres Galarraga has the ability since we've seen him pitch what should have been a perfect game last year. The bullpen acquired J.J. Putz from Chicago and he should be the closer.
After seeing the rest of the teams in the division I don't see how the Diamondbacks could compete with the other teams: 5th in the NL West
Lineup
1. CF Chris Young
2. RF Justin Upton
3. SS Stephen Drew
4. 3B Melvin Mora
5. LF Xavier Nady
6. 2B Kelly Johnson
7. 1B Juan Miranda
8. C Miguel Montero
Colorado Rockies
Here comes some partiality. The Rockies are one of my favorite teams in all of baseball and I may show some bias here. Just a warning.
After a stellar year, Carlos Gonzalez and Troy Tulowitzki lead a talented young team into title contention. CarGo could easily win the triple crown and Tulo is all around one of the best players in the league. Behind the leadership of first baseman Todd Helton, this team is primed to make a deep run this season. The pieces they lost are replaced by just as good young players. Dexter Fowler is easily the quickest player in the NL. One of the top offenses in 2010 will be at it again.
Ubaldo Jimenez was the breakout pitcher of 2010 posting 19 wins and an ERA under 3. When it comes to pitching though the team was average at best. Jeff Francis going to the Royals opens up the door for Esmil Rogers to take the fifth spot. Huston Street finished last season strong and if he stays healthy it should carry over in to this year.
The Rockies are the sleeper when it comes to this division. They have been in the hunt for the title for the last few seasons and are coming on strong still: 2nd in the NL West
Lineup
1. CF Dexter Fowler
2. 2B Jose Lopez
3. LF Carlos Gonzalez
4. SS Troy Tulowitzki
5. 1B Todd Helton
6. 3B Ian Stewart
7. RF Seth Smith
8. C Chris Ianetta
Los Angeles Dodgers of Los Angeles
The Dodgers struggled offensively in the 2010 season. With the Manny issues and eventual trade the team just never had the fire power to sustain a run. Loney, Kemp, and Ethier look to lead a team that needs to score some runs in order to get a good position. It looks bleak but they need some to step up and get at least some runs to help out the pitching.
That brings me to the pitching. Two young slingers for this team make up the large part of the staff. Lefty Clayton Kershaw and righty Chad Billingsley head up a solid staff that includes Ted Lilly, Jon Garland, and Hiroki Kuroda. Kershaw only had 13 wins but had an ERA under 3 while Billingsley had 12 wins. At the end of games there is closer Jonathon Broxton, who can get saves if they team puts him in position.
The underlying question for this team is whether the offense can produce enough to compete and in my opinion they won't: 3rh in the NL West
1. SS Rafael Furcal
2. 2B Juan Uribe
3. 1B James Loney
4. CF Matt Kemp
5. RF Andre Ethier
6. 3B Casey Blake
7. LF Jay Gibbons
8. C Rod Barajas
San Diego Padres
The San Diego Padres traded away their biggest piece in Adrian Gonzalez this off-season. They received 4 prospects in return but it looks as if the Padres are back to rebuilding once again. With Ryan Ludwick the only power in the lineup there isn't much to go off now especially with an offense that was one of the worst in the NL even with Gonzalez. They acquired Brad Hawpe to try to fill the hole but his offense is not near Adrian's. Chase Headley is the other part of this team that could do some damage but don't expect much from this offense this year.
On the pitching side of things Matt Latos is the go-to-guy for the staff. Two new guys in Aaron Harang and Dustin Mosely while Charles Richard is coming off a 14 win season. Heath Bell is the brightest spot outside of Latos. He dropped 47 saves last year as the Padres finished second in the highly contested division.
Look for some spark but not much. The Padres drop again: 4th in the NL West
Lineup
1. CF Cameron Maybin
2. 2B Orlando Hudson
3. 3B Chase Headley
4. LF Ryan Ludwick
5. 1B Brad Hawpe
6. SS Jason Bartlett
7. RF Will Venable
8. C Nick Hundley
San Francisco Giants
Defending World Series Champs. Enough Said.
Key Loss: World Series MVP Edgar Renteria
Key Acquisition: Miguel Tejada
Besides this change the team looks exactly the same if not better than last year and that means danger for the rest of the league. Buster Posey is primed for another great year. Pablo Sandoval is slimmer and down 240 lbs. Aubrey Huff is coming off one the best years of his career. Same with Cody Ross. The Giants are finding ways to make lesser names champions.
The Giants also return one of the best pitching staffs in the NL from a year ago. Tim Lincecum is a perennial Cy Young Candidate and Matt Cain is getting there as well. Lincecum: 16 wins, Cain: 13 wins, Sanchez: 13 wins, and Baumgarner has 7 wins in 18 starts. Putting these guys together make for something special that isn't being noticed because of the "Phab Phillies." In the bullpen the word is still "Fear the Beard." Brian Wilson is coming of a breakout season where he posted 48 saves and 93 strikeouts on his way to helping the Giants win it all.
The season looks up for the Giants and look at them to be a World Series contender again: 1st in the NL West
Lineup
1. CF Andres Torres
2. RF Cody Ross
3. C Buster Posey
4. 1B Aubrey Huff
5. 3B Pablo Sandoval
6. SS Miguel Tejada
7. LF Pat Burrell
8. 2B Freddy Sanchez
Monday, March 14, 2011
NL Central
Today I decided to do something a little different. The NL Central is the most interesting division in all of baseball to me. It's going to be such a good race that I need to look at the top four teams at the same time. I'm surrounded by fans of those top four teams. Living in the Cincy area, Reds fans are crazy around here. I know about 5 people from Chicago who are huge on the Cubs fans. Bryan McFarland loves the Cards and Nick Clason is all for the Brewers this season. This post is going through all the teams in this division (yes even the Astros and Pirates....). This will take me through the week so look for this to be last post until Saturday when I get into the NL West.
Chicago Cubs
The Cubs have made strives to improve themselves in this division and the offense looks solid. They gave up Derrek Lee last season but have acquired Carlos Pena to take his spot. Aramis Ramirez is power. Starlin Castro is a star. Marlon Byrd is getting older but improving. The Cubs look as if they have the perfect mix of speed and power to compete in a power hungry division. The defense can be shabby at times. Soriano is still someone who can be feared both at the plate and on the paths. Tyler Colvin has a large upside but is mixed in with a veteran outfield. He should take the RF position sooner rather than later.
The pitching staff got a big addition in Matt Garza. He helped the Rays to two division titles in the last three years. To go along with Garza there is Ryan Dempster and Carlos Zambrano who have always pitched well. Randy Wells is still young and can pitch well and Andrew Cashner is on the up. The Cubs have one of the most solid staffs in the NL. The reacquiring of Kerry Wood adds depth to the bullpen that features Sean Marshall, John Grabow, and (Notre Dame football standout) Jeff Samardzija. The closer at the end of this is Carlos Marmol who delivered 38 saves in 2010.
I see bright things for the Cubs and they will get enough production to jump two spots in this tough and rough division: 3rd in the NL Central
Lineup
1. 2B Jeff Baker
2. SS Starlin Castro
3. CF Marlon Byrd
4. 3B Aramis Ramirez
5. 1B Carlos Pena
6. LF Alfonso Soriano
7. C Geovany Soto
8. RF Kosuke Fukudome
Cincinnati Reds
The Cincinnati Reds were last year's pennant winner and made the playoffs in stride. Too bad they couldn't fight hard enough and were ousted in the divisional series by the Phillies. This team looks just as good, if not better than last season, in my opinion. The MVP, Joey Votto, is back and looks for another strong year and I expect him to lead an offense who desires to win. Jay Bruce is a slugger and Brandon Phillips still has potential to be great.
The pitching staff could be greatly improved come midseason if Aroldis Chapman can make up. He has a cannon and if he can learn to control his speed he can be great. He's going to be starting at a relief role but can make it to starter with time. The starters look to be Volquez, Cueto, and Arroyo along with youngsters Homer Bailey and Travis Wood. Francisco Cordero is at the end the end of the rotation and he claimed 40 saves last season and was a huge reason for the success of the Reds.
Look for this team to really want to win and they will. In a tough division they know what it takes to win and have the skills needed to do it: 1st in the NL Central
Lineup
1. CF Drew Stubbs
2. 2B Brandon Phillips
3. 1B Joey Votto
4. RF Jay Bruce
5. 3B Scott Rolen
6. LF Jonny Gomes
7. C Ramon Hernandez
8. SS Paul Janish
Houston Astros
I'm gonna be honest. I don't know much about the Astros. The got 4th in the division last year but I don't feel like they did much to improve and if anything they've taken a step backwards while everyone is fighting for the playoffs. Carlos Lee is the main guy here and is consistently great. Pence and Bourn bring speed to the lineup while both Hall and Barmes can be solid. Beyond that, the offense is very unknown to me.
The starters are a little more solid. Wandy Rodriguez is the number one. Brett Myers and J.A. Happ, the pieces from Philadelphia in the Roy Oswalt trade, are good starters but are not great. They strive when they can be behind better starters than they. Lopez and Lyon headline the bullpen and will be key if the Astros want anything
In my opinion, digression is key: 5th in the NL Central
Lineup
1. CF Michael Bourn
2. RF Hunter Pence
3. LF Carlos Lee
4. 3B Chris Johnson
5. SS Clint Barmes
6. 1B Brett Wallace
7. 2B Bill Hall
8. C Humberto Quintero
Milwaukee Brewers
The Brewers are much improved since last season, at least when it comes to pitching. The offense didn't need much work with Hart, Braun, and Fielder in the middle of the order. 3 perennial All-Stars who know how to play. Not to mention Casey McGehee hit 23 homeruns last year right after that and Ricky Weeks, who is the lead-off man, had 29. Power and skill resonates from this offense and yet there is a sense of speed. Weeks, Gomez, and even Hart and Braun run the bases extremely well. The edition of Betancourt coming off arguably his best season is huge. This could possibly be Fielder's last year in Milwaukee unless he gets a reason to stay.
Next, to the pitching and I think it's obvious that the Brewers are looking playoffs because they traded for one of the best arms in the game, Zack Greinke. Unfortunately Greinke cracked a rib playing basketball and will start the year on the DL but it won't be that big of hurt, especially when you look at the rest of this staff. Yovani Gallardo, Shawn Marcum, Randy Wolf, and Chris Narveson. All they needed was a legitimate ace and the staff would take off and they get him in Greinke. If there is one slow spot with the Brewers, in my opinion it would be the bullpen. Top two relievers are up in years, LaTroy Hawkins and Takashi Saito. Zack Braddock on the other hand is just starting. So a mix of age and inexperience in this 'pen. John Axford will be the closer after he had 24 saves last season.
On a side note, Miller Park is hands down the (2nd) best ballpark in the majors behind THE JAKE (it will always be THE JAKE). I love the slide and for the longest time in my life I wanted to be a mascot. If I didn't get in as Brutus Buckeye I was going to Milwaukee to be a sausage and slide down the coolest slide ever. What other place has a huge slide?! It also features North America's only fan-shaped convertible roof, which can open and close in less than 10 minutes. Large panes of glass allow natural grass to grow. When I saw this place in person it was like the best thing I ever saw.
With all that said, the Brewers look great, enough said: 2nd in the NL Central
Lineup
1. 2B Rickie Weeks
2. RF Corey Hart
3. LF Ryan Braun
4. 1B Prince Fielder
5. 3B Casey McGehee
6. SS Yuniesky Betancourt
7. CF Carlos Gomez
8. C Jonathon Lucroy
Pittsburgh Pirates
You know how I said I didn't really know the Houston Astros? Well the Pirates I know even less. So here this goes. They were miserable last season. 57-105 with 40 of those wins coming at home. Maybe if they played every game at PNC Park they could be sub-.500. I don't really think they need much discussion so here it is.
6th in the NL Central
Lineup
1. CF Andrew McCutchen
2. 2B Neil Walker
3. RF Garrett Jones
4. 1B Lyle Overbay
5. C Chris Snyder
6. 3B Pedro Alvarez
7. LF Jose Tabita
8. SS Ronny Cedeno
9. P Paul Maholm
St. Louis Cardinals
Everyone is always so high on the Cardinals but I'm not. I see this team going downhill quick. I have a feeling that it's going to be the last year in Missouri for Albert Pujols and then after that the team is back to rebuilding. They have a good team but I'm just not sold that they are what they once were. A lot of small time players who have been living in Pujols' shadow and with the pending contract their going to have to show that the Cardinals are a team that is worth Albert's time. Matt Holliday is solid but beyond that the team gets shaky. Lance Berkman was brought in to help that cause but how big of an impact can a one-year-contract-man truly provide. Yadier Molina has been a staple for the team but behind that there are many players sitting back for the ride. It's time for them to pick it up if they want to keep their big man around; Rasmus, Schumaker, and Freese. Ryan Theriot has never been able to settle on one team.
The pitching has taken a big hurt as the ace, Adam Wainwright, is out for the year. Christ Carpenter will not be able to return to the form he ahd a few years back and he's going to have to try hard but it's going to be tough. Jake Westbrook is next and he is nothing but a 3 man at best. Jaime Garcia is young talent but it may not be enough for this year. In closing, Rich Franklin has had 65 saves in the last two years and is primed for another good year if he can get to the mound.
The Cardinals are falling from the powerhouse that they were and I don't think that they have what was once there. I think the pieces behind Pujols and Holliday are just oo weak to carry a team like that of the other 3 teams in the division: 4th in the NL Central
Lineup
1. 2B Skip Schumaker
2. CF Cody Rasmus
3. 1B Albert Pujols
4. LF Matt Holliday
5. RF Lance Berkman
6. SS Ryan Theriot
7. C Yadier Molina
8. 3B David Freese
Chicago Cubs
The Cubs have made strives to improve themselves in this division and the offense looks solid. They gave up Derrek Lee last season but have acquired Carlos Pena to take his spot. Aramis Ramirez is power. Starlin Castro is a star. Marlon Byrd is getting older but improving. The Cubs look as if they have the perfect mix of speed and power to compete in a power hungry division. The defense can be shabby at times. Soriano is still someone who can be feared both at the plate and on the paths. Tyler Colvin has a large upside but is mixed in with a veteran outfield. He should take the RF position sooner rather than later.
The pitching staff got a big addition in Matt Garza. He helped the Rays to two division titles in the last three years. To go along with Garza there is Ryan Dempster and Carlos Zambrano who have always pitched well. Randy Wells is still young and can pitch well and Andrew Cashner is on the up. The Cubs have one of the most solid staffs in the NL. The reacquiring of Kerry Wood adds depth to the bullpen that features Sean Marshall, John Grabow, and (Notre Dame football standout) Jeff Samardzija. The closer at the end of this is Carlos Marmol who delivered 38 saves in 2010.
I see bright things for the Cubs and they will get enough production to jump two spots in this tough and rough division: 3rd in the NL Central
Lineup
1. 2B Jeff Baker
2. SS Starlin Castro
3. CF Marlon Byrd
4. 3B Aramis Ramirez
5. 1B Carlos Pena
6. LF Alfonso Soriano
7. C Geovany Soto
8. RF Kosuke Fukudome
Cincinnati Reds
The Cincinnati Reds were last year's pennant winner and made the playoffs in stride. Too bad they couldn't fight hard enough and were ousted in the divisional series by the Phillies. This team looks just as good, if not better than last season, in my opinion. The MVP, Joey Votto, is back and looks for another strong year and I expect him to lead an offense who desires to win. Jay Bruce is a slugger and Brandon Phillips still has potential to be great.
The pitching staff could be greatly improved come midseason if Aroldis Chapman can make up. He has a cannon and if he can learn to control his speed he can be great. He's going to be starting at a relief role but can make it to starter with time. The starters look to be Volquez, Cueto, and Arroyo along with youngsters Homer Bailey and Travis Wood. Francisco Cordero is at the end the end of the rotation and he claimed 40 saves last season and was a huge reason for the success of the Reds.
Look for this team to really want to win and they will. In a tough division they know what it takes to win and have the skills needed to do it: 1st in the NL Central
Lineup
1. CF Drew Stubbs
2. 2B Brandon Phillips
3. 1B Joey Votto
4. RF Jay Bruce
5. 3B Scott Rolen
6. LF Jonny Gomes
7. C Ramon Hernandez
8. SS Paul Janish
Houston Astros
I'm gonna be honest. I don't know much about the Astros. The got 4th in the division last year but I don't feel like they did much to improve and if anything they've taken a step backwards while everyone is fighting for the playoffs. Carlos Lee is the main guy here and is consistently great. Pence and Bourn bring speed to the lineup while both Hall and Barmes can be solid. Beyond that, the offense is very unknown to me.
The starters are a little more solid. Wandy Rodriguez is the number one. Brett Myers and J.A. Happ, the pieces from Philadelphia in the Roy Oswalt trade, are good starters but are not great. They strive when they can be behind better starters than they. Lopez and Lyon headline the bullpen and will be key if the Astros want anything
In my opinion, digression is key: 5th in the NL Central
Lineup
1. CF Michael Bourn
2. RF Hunter Pence
3. LF Carlos Lee
4. 3B Chris Johnson
5. SS Clint Barmes
6. 1B Brett Wallace
7. 2B Bill Hall
8. C Humberto Quintero
Milwaukee Brewers
The Brewers are much improved since last season, at least when it comes to pitching. The offense didn't need much work with Hart, Braun, and Fielder in the middle of the order. 3 perennial All-Stars who know how to play. Not to mention Casey McGehee hit 23 homeruns last year right after that and Ricky Weeks, who is the lead-off man, had 29. Power and skill resonates from this offense and yet there is a sense of speed. Weeks, Gomez, and even Hart and Braun run the bases extremely well. The edition of Betancourt coming off arguably his best season is huge. This could possibly be Fielder's last year in Milwaukee unless he gets a reason to stay.
Next, to the pitching and I think it's obvious that the Brewers are looking playoffs because they traded for one of the best arms in the game, Zack Greinke. Unfortunately Greinke cracked a rib playing basketball and will start the year on the DL but it won't be that big of hurt, especially when you look at the rest of this staff. Yovani Gallardo, Shawn Marcum, Randy Wolf, and Chris Narveson. All they needed was a legitimate ace and the staff would take off and they get him in Greinke. If there is one slow spot with the Brewers, in my opinion it would be the bullpen. Top two relievers are up in years, LaTroy Hawkins and Takashi Saito. Zack Braddock on the other hand is just starting. So a mix of age and inexperience in this 'pen. John Axford will be the closer after he had 24 saves last season.
On a side note, Miller Park is hands down the (2nd) best ballpark in the majors behind THE JAKE (it will always be THE JAKE). I love the slide and for the longest time in my life I wanted to be a mascot. If I didn't get in as Brutus Buckeye I was going to Milwaukee to be a sausage and slide down the coolest slide ever. What other place has a huge slide?! It also features North America's only fan-shaped convertible roof, which can open and close in less than 10 minutes. Large panes of glass allow natural grass to grow. When I saw this place in person it was like the best thing I ever saw.
With all that said, the Brewers look great, enough said: 2nd in the NL Central
Lineup
1. 2B Rickie Weeks
2. RF Corey Hart
3. LF Ryan Braun
4. 1B Prince Fielder
5. 3B Casey McGehee
6. SS Yuniesky Betancourt
7. CF Carlos Gomez
8. C Jonathon Lucroy
Pittsburgh Pirates
You know how I said I didn't really know the Houston Astros? Well the Pirates I know even less. So here this goes. They were miserable last season. 57-105 with 40 of those wins coming at home. Maybe if they played every game at PNC Park they could be sub-.500. I don't really think they need much discussion so here it is.
6th in the NL Central
Lineup
1. CF Andrew McCutchen
2. 2B Neil Walker
3. RF Garrett Jones
4. 1B Lyle Overbay
5. C Chris Snyder
6. 3B Pedro Alvarez
7. LF Jose Tabita
8. SS Ronny Cedeno
9. P Paul Maholm
St. Louis Cardinals
Everyone is always so high on the Cardinals but I'm not. I see this team going downhill quick. I have a feeling that it's going to be the last year in Missouri for Albert Pujols and then after that the team is back to rebuilding. They have a good team but I'm just not sold that they are what they once were. A lot of small time players who have been living in Pujols' shadow and with the pending contract their going to have to show that the Cardinals are a team that is worth Albert's time. Matt Holliday is solid but beyond that the team gets shaky. Lance Berkman was brought in to help that cause but how big of an impact can a one-year-contract-man truly provide. Yadier Molina has been a staple for the team but behind that there are many players sitting back for the ride. It's time for them to pick it up if they want to keep their big man around; Rasmus, Schumaker, and Freese. Ryan Theriot has never been able to settle on one team.
The pitching has taken a big hurt as the ace, Adam Wainwright, is out for the year. Christ Carpenter will not be able to return to the form he ahd a few years back and he's going to have to try hard but it's going to be tough. Jake Westbrook is next and he is nothing but a 3 man at best. Jaime Garcia is young talent but it may not be enough for this year. In closing, Rich Franklin has had 65 saves in the last two years and is primed for another good year if he can get to the mound.
The Cardinals are falling from the powerhouse that they were and I don't think that they have what was once there. I think the pieces behind Pujols and Holliday are just oo weak to carry a team like that of the other 3 teams in the division: 4th in the NL Central
Lineup
1. 2B Skip Schumaker
2. CF Cody Rasmus
3. 1B Albert Pujols
4. LF Matt Holliday
5. RF Lance Berkman
6. SS Ryan Theriot
7. C Yadier Molina
8. 3B David Freese
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Washington Nationals
The Nationals have a bright future but, once again, this season seems bleak. Phenom Stephen Strasburg gave in to Tommy John Surgery last fall and will probably miss most if not all of this year. As for the rest of the pitching, Livan Hernandez looks to be the number one this staff. Jason Marquis and Tom Gorzelanny will be there to provide some stability. Jordan Zimmerman, will be taking over Strasburg's role in the rotation. As for the bullpen, Tyler Clippard looks to be the first guy out of the bullpen and look for Drew Storen to be the closer.There is huge upside for Storen. He landed 5 of 7 saves after Matt Capps was traded to Minnesota. Look to him to be solid for the Nats.
The offense also has a bright future. Youngster Bryce Harper will be starting in the minor leagues but could make his way to the majors this year. He's only 18 and has a lot of years in front of him so there isn't much hurry now but he could be called up. Besides that there is Ryan Zimmerman who has been the go to guy for this offense and is a huge bat in a weak lineup. The loss of Adam Dunn hurts the middle of the order and newly signed Jayson Werth will need to do what he can to fulfill that spot.
The Nationals are young and have a bright future but don't look for anything in 2011: 5th in the NL East
Lineup
1. CF Nyjer Morgan
2. SS Ian Desmond
3. 3B Ryan Zimmerman
4. RF Jayson Werth
5. 1B Adam LaRoche
6. LF Michael Morse
7. C Ivan Rodriguez
8. 2B Danny Espinosa
The offense also has a bright future. Youngster Bryce Harper will be starting in the minor leagues but could make his way to the majors this year. He's only 18 and has a lot of years in front of him so there isn't much hurry now but he could be called up. Besides that there is Ryan Zimmerman who has been the go to guy for this offense and is a huge bat in a weak lineup. The loss of Adam Dunn hurts the middle of the order and newly signed Jayson Werth will need to do what he can to fulfill that spot.
The Nationals are young and have a bright future but don't look for anything in 2011: 5th in the NL East
Lineup
1. CF Nyjer Morgan
2. SS Ian Desmond
3. 3B Ryan Zimmerman
4. RF Jayson Werth
5. 1B Adam LaRoche
6. LF Michael Morse
7. C Ivan Rodriguez
8. 2B Danny Espinosa
Friday, March 11, 2011
Philadelphia Phillies
I think it's very obvious what the power of this team is but why not explore other parts (:
In my opinion, you can write Chase Utley off for at least the beginning of the year as his knee is going to be more of a hassle than they think but there's more to this lineup than him. The veteran offense is being heavily over shadowed by the great pitching staff. Ryan Howard, Jimmy Rollins, Shane Victorino, and Raul Ibanez to name a few. And the best part is that they don't have to score that many runs due to the fact that the pitching staff won't allow that many. So even without Utley the lineup will do well. If he is just out early then look for the team to use utility man Wilson Valdez at second. If it is extensive look for the Phillies to sign a free agent like David Eckstein.
Now on to the pitching. What's to say? Historic rotation. May be the best 5 man team ever. Halladay, Lee, Hamels, Oswalt, and Blanton. The first for guys would be number one on most of the teams in the majors where Blanton could be a number 2 or 3. The body of work here is amazing and I think it's obvious what makes them so great. 553 career wins combined. 3 Cy Young Awards and 13 All Star appearances. The numbers speak for themselves. The bullpen is also overlooked because of the starters as well. While they are getting old they can and will produce. Danys Baez, Ryan Madsen, Jose Contreras, and Brad Lidge headline a solid relief team.
I think it's obvious that this team is good and there isn't much more to say: 1st in the NL East
Lineup
1. CF Shane Victorino
2. 3B Placido Polanco
3. SS Jimmy Rollins
4. 1B Ryan Howard
5. LF Raul Ibanez
6. RF Ben Francisco
7. C Carlos Ruiz
8. 2B Wilson Valdez
In my opinion, you can write Chase Utley off for at least the beginning of the year as his knee is going to be more of a hassle than they think but there's more to this lineup than him. The veteran offense is being heavily over shadowed by the great pitching staff. Ryan Howard, Jimmy Rollins, Shane Victorino, and Raul Ibanez to name a few. And the best part is that they don't have to score that many runs due to the fact that the pitching staff won't allow that many. So even without Utley the lineup will do well. If he is just out early then look for the team to use utility man Wilson Valdez at second. If it is extensive look for the Phillies to sign a free agent like David Eckstein.
Now on to the pitching. What's to say? Historic rotation. May be the best 5 man team ever. Halladay, Lee, Hamels, Oswalt, and Blanton. The first for guys would be number one on most of the teams in the majors where Blanton could be a number 2 or 3. The body of work here is amazing and I think it's obvious what makes them so great. 553 career wins combined. 3 Cy Young Awards and 13 All Star appearances. The numbers speak for themselves. The bullpen is also overlooked because of the starters as well. While they are getting old they can and will produce. Danys Baez, Ryan Madsen, Jose Contreras, and Brad Lidge headline a solid relief team.
I think it's obvious that this team is good and there isn't much more to say: 1st in the NL East
Lineup
1. CF Shane Victorino
2. 3B Placido Polanco
3. SS Jimmy Rollins
4. 1B Ryan Howard
5. LF Raul Ibanez
6. RF Ben Francisco
7. C Carlos Ruiz
8. 2B Wilson Valdez
Thursday, March 10, 2011
New York Mets
Not much bad to say about the offense. If Carlos Beltran can stay healthy it will improve this team that much more. David Wright is always solid and Jason Bay provides power and stability in the middle of the order. Jose Reyes is still the shortstop that can steal 30 bases. Around these core guys are young players who can learn to be solid from the example the veterans can supply. Daniel Murphy needs to improve defensively since he is going to be taking over the second base position after a season off but don't look for to struggle too much offensively. Ike Davis his potential to be powerful.
The pitching is headlined by Johan Santana but he is injured and isn't supposed to pitch until close to the All-Star break. Look for Mike Pelfrey to be the number one until then and maybe after. Jon Neise is improving after a 9-10 season last year and his improving his location. R.A. Dickey won 11 games a season ago and is ready. Dillon Gee and Chris Young are going to be the two pitchers fighting for the fifth spot until Santana returns. Whoever turns the better first half gets that spot. In the bullpen they have a huge name: Francisco Rodriguez aka K-Rod. His numbers have gone down slightly his two years in NY but is still feared and look for him to put up 30 saves.
The Mets always appear to be a good team on paper and then somehow in the season they can't get it done. Don't look for that to change this year: 4th in the NL East
Lineup
1. CF Angel Pagan
2. SS Jose Reyes
3. RF Carlos Beltran
4. 3B David Wright
5. LF Jason Bay
6. 1B Ike Davis
7. 2B David Murphy
8. C Josh Thole
The pitching is headlined by Johan Santana but he is injured and isn't supposed to pitch until close to the All-Star break. Look for Mike Pelfrey to be the number one until then and maybe after. Jon Neise is improving after a 9-10 season last year and his improving his location. R.A. Dickey won 11 games a season ago and is ready. Dillon Gee and Chris Young are going to be the two pitchers fighting for the fifth spot until Santana returns. Whoever turns the better first half gets that spot. In the bullpen they have a huge name: Francisco Rodriguez aka K-Rod. His numbers have gone down slightly his two years in NY but is still feared and look for him to put up 30 saves.
The Mets always appear to be a good team on paper and then somehow in the season they can't get it done. Don't look for that to change this year: 4th in the NL East
Lineup
1. CF Angel Pagan
2. SS Jose Reyes
3. RF Carlos Beltran
4. 3B David Wright
5. LF Jason Bay
6. 1B Ike Davis
7. 2B David Murphy
8. C Josh Thole
Florida Marlins
The Marlins have always had the potential to be good but have not been able to get over the hump. Hanley Ramirez has consistently been one of the best offensive shortstops in the League and his production will need to go up after they traded Dan Uggla. Omar Infante will attempt to fill his position but he will be surely missed. Youth pops out all over the offense when I look at it. Mike Stanton is 21 and Logan Morrison is 23. Look for these guys to be key for this offense. Hanley is the main piece but the others will come around him. The team has potential.
The starting pitching looks good. Johnson will be the number one but behind him is Javier Vasquez who they signed this off-season, Ricky Nolasco, Chris Volstad, and Anibal Sanchez, who has thrown a no-hitter in his career. The staff is solid to go with the other good pitching in the NL East. The downfall to a good starting is always a weak bullpen and this is just that case. Hensley was the setup man for Nunez but the closer struggled and Hensley had to take over going 7 for 7 in saves. He'll start at setup again but could fall if Nunez struggles again. Nunez had 30 saves but had an awful August with a 9.31 ERA and 3 blown saves in the month. Hopefully he can turn it around.
A top heavy division could get some real heat from the other three teams here but the bottom won't quite make it. Now from those three teams, Marlins, Mets, and Nationals, look for it to be closer than what you would think it to be. Florida is the top team from those teams: 3rd in the NL East
Lineup
1. CF Chris Coughlin
2. 2B Omar Infante
3. LF Logan Martin
4. SS Hanley Ramirez
5. RF Mike Stanton
6. 1B Gaby Sanchez
7. 3B Wes Helms
8. C Joe Buck
The starting pitching looks good. Johnson will be the number one but behind him is Javier Vasquez who they signed this off-season, Ricky Nolasco, Chris Volstad, and Anibal Sanchez, who has thrown a no-hitter in his career. The staff is solid to go with the other good pitching in the NL East. The downfall to a good starting is always a weak bullpen and this is just that case. Hensley was the setup man for Nunez but the closer struggled and Hensley had to take over going 7 for 7 in saves. He'll start at setup again but could fall if Nunez struggles again. Nunez had 30 saves but had an awful August with a 9.31 ERA and 3 blown saves in the month. Hopefully he can turn it around.
A top heavy division could get some real heat from the other three teams here but the bottom won't quite make it. Now from those three teams, Marlins, Mets, and Nationals, look for it to be closer than what you would think it to be. Florida is the top team from those teams: 3rd in the NL East
Lineup
1. CF Chris Coughlin
2. 2B Omar Infante
3. LF Logan Martin
4. SS Hanley Ramirez
5. RF Mike Stanton
6. 1B Gaby Sanchez
7. 3B Wes Helms
8. C Joe Buck
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Atlanta Braves
Wild Card bound again? Time will tell. Last season the Braves got back to form when they were able to make the last playoff spot in the NL. This year a few key losses will be the story at the start. Derrek Lee to the Orioles and Soriano to the Yankees. A key bat that was acquired mid season last year and really helped and a solid closer who has moved on. Two tough spots to replace. Three other starting positions as well including two in the outfield. Omar Infante to the Marlins for Uggla. Matt Diaz to the Pirates. Rick Ankiel to the Nationals.
After losing Lee the team acquired Dan Uggla from division rival Florida and should provide some spark in the lineup. Brian McCann is one of the best catchers in the league and look for him to be an anchor to this team. They have some young players who are ready to make an impact. Jason Heyward, who already has made a huge impact, and Freddie Freeman are both only 21 and going to be starting for the Braves this season. The offense looks solid but Chipper is on the down and the same to Alex Gonzalez.
The pitching looks solid as well, at least the starters do. Derek Lowe and Tim Hudson are the staples to the staff while Jair Jurrjens is solid at the end of the rotation. The starters are going to be relied on to make it deep into games this year as the bullpen looks slim. Losing a 40 save guy like Rafael Soriano will hurt any team but it doesn't seem that they replaced him. While they have Billy Wagner, he is getting old and won't be able to do much. The closer looks to be Craig Kimbrel, a 23 year old that has a 15.00 ERA so far in spring training causing the Braves to have to start thinking.
The Braves have it tough because they are in the division with the best pitching staff ever in Philadelphia. While the Braves will be solid I don't think it will be enough to compete for the division. They will fight for a Wild Card spot but I believe they will be out-shined by the improving teams in the West, Rockies and Dodgers, and Central, Brewers and Cubs, and won't make the playoffs: 2nd in the NL East
Lineup
1. CF Nate McClouth
2. RF Jason Heyward
3. 2B Dan Uggla
4. C Brian McCann
5. 3B Chipper Jones
6. SS Alex Gonzalez
7. 1B Freddie Freeman
8. LF Martin Prado
After losing Lee the team acquired Dan Uggla from division rival Florida and should provide some spark in the lineup. Brian McCann is one of the best catchers in the league and look for him to be an anchor to this team. They have some young players who are ready to make an impact. Jason Heyward, who already has made a huge impact, and Freddie Freeman are both only 21 and going to be starting for the Braves this season. The offense looks solid but Chipper is on the down and the same to Alex Gonzalez.
The pitching looks solid as well, at least the starters do. Derek Lowe and Tim Hudson are the staples to the staff while Jair Jurrjens is solid at the end of the rotation. The starters are going to be relied on to make it deep into games this year as the bullpen looks slim. Losing a 40 save guy like Rafael Soriano will hurt any team but it doesn't seem that they replaced him. While they have Billy Wagner, he is getting old and won't be able to do much. The closer looks to be Craig Kimbrel, a 23 year old that has a 15.00 ERA so far in spring training causing the Braves to have to start thinking.
The Braves have it tough because they are in the division with the best pitching staff ever in Philadelphia. While the Braves will be solid I don't think it will be enough to compete for the division. They will fight for a Wild Card spot but I believe they will be out-shined by the improving teams in the West, Rockies and Dodgers, and Central, Brewers and Cubs, and won't make the playoffs: 2nd in the NL East
Lineup
1. CF Nate McClouth
2. RF Jason Heyward
3. 2B Dan Uggla
4. C Brian McCann
5. 3B Chipper Jones
6. SS Alex Gonzalez
7. 1B Freddie Freeman
8. LF Martin Prado
Monday, March 7, 2011
Texas Rangers
The Rangers are coming off a tremendous 2010 season. AL Champs if you couldn't remember. A lot of this was because of the offense. They lost Vlad but got Adrian Beltre instead, who is younger and still worth the money. The only issue with the offense this season is Michael Young. He's given so much for this organization. Moving to third so Andrus could play his natural position, SS, and now he's being forced to DH. How that scrummage will turn out we can only wait. If Young stays this offense is potent as ever. If not the offense is still enough. Hamilton, Kinsler, and Cruz.
The team lost Cliff Lee but if you don't remember they were in first place and on the way to the playoffs without him. He may have helped them in the playoffs and that's where it'll hurt but not during the season. C.J. Wilson will be the number one and hopefully Brandon Webb can stay healthy to bolster the staff. Arthur Rhodes can still setup and Neftali Feliz is a great closer. 40 saves last season on way to winning the AL Rookie of the Year.
Even without Lee the Rangers are still atop the AL West. I don't see this changing no matter how much the Angels do improve: 1st in the AL West
Lineup
1. SS Elvis Andrus
2. 2B Ian Kinsler
3. LF Josh Hamilton
4. DH Michael Young
5. 3B Adrian Beltre
6. RF Nelson Cruz
7. 1B Mitch Moreland
8. C Yorvit Torrealba
9. CF Julio Bourbon
The team lost Cliff Lee but if you don't remember they were in first place and on the way to the playoffs without him. He may have helped them in the playoffs and that's where it'll hurt but not during the season. C.J. Wilson will be the number one and hopefully Brandon Webb can stay healthy to bolster the staff. Arthur Rhodes can still setup and Neftali Feliz is a great closer. 40 saves last season on way to winning the AL Rookie of the Year.
Even without Lee the Rangers are still atop the AL West. I don't see this changing no matter how much the Angels do improve: 1st in the AL West
Lineup
1. SS Elvis Andrus
2. 2B Ian Kinsler
3. LF Josh Hamilton
4. DH Michael Young
5. 3B Adrian Beltre
6. RF Nelson Cruz
7. 1B Mitch Moreland
8. C Yorvit Torrealba
9. CF Julio Bourbon
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Oakland Athletics and Seattle Mariners
The A's have added pieces to the offense this year that can improve on what they had from last season. These pieces being David DeJesus, Josh Willingham, and Hideki Matsui. To go along with this there is Mark Ellis, Kevin Kouzmanoff, and Daric Barton. They have names but no power. The most homeruns from a single player on this roster is 21 by Matsui but that was with the Angels. If the A's are going to get anywhere they have to get big run productivity from somewhere. Recognizable names but nothing solid. No consistency will hurt the A's and it will show in the end.
Dallas Braden will attempt to prove that his perfect game and 2010 season was not a fluke. He'll want to come back strong and try to lead this team. He will be the number one. Behind him is Rich Harden and some lofty young guns will be out to show something. This will be the weakness for this team beyond all the rest. The bullpen picked Brian Fuentes who has been moved around lately but will be a good setup man for Andrew Bailey. Bailey has been a strong closer his two years ans could become even better if he can stay healthy.
Overall there is too much inconsistency with this team to really strive for a playoff push. With that said that A's will not get far: 4td in the AL West
Lineup
1. CF Coco Crisp
2. LF David DeJesus
3. 2B Mark Ellis
4. 3B Kevin Kouzmanoff
5. DH Hideki Matsui
6. RF Josh Willingham
7. 1B Daric Barton
8. C Kurt Suzuki
9. SS Cliff Pennington
Ichiro is the staple to the Seattle Mariners. One of the only reasons that people even know that they still exist. The Mariners have had a lot of talent in recent years but hasn't been able to capitalize on any of it. The offense was awful last season. They couldn't score runs. Acquiring Jack Cust should bring a little more productivity but it won't be enough to move much. Justin Smoak was acquired in the Cliff Lee trade and he has loads of potential. Ichiro is going to get you 200 hits but that is the only consistent part in the lineup. This team doesn't need to score 6 runs but at least 3 would be good.
Pitching: King Felix. Enough said. 24 years old and he is already called a king. The interesting thing will be the rest of the staff behind him. Erik Bedard is a respectable 2 or 3. With Hernandez you don't need much behind but something has to do. The pitching revolves around him and we'll see how it turns out.
Overall this team is still growing but it needs something fast, especially if they want to keep Felix around. Look for improvement but not enough to break through: 3rd in the AL West
Lineup
1. RF Ichiro
2. 3B Chone Figgins
3. DH Jack Cust
4. 1B Justin Smoak
5. CF Franklin Gutierrez
6. SS Jack Wilson
7. LF Michael Saunders
8. C Miguel Olivo
9. 2B Brendan Ryan
Dallas Braden will attempt to prove that his perfect game and 2010 season was not a fluke. He'll want to come back strong and try to lead this team. He will be the number one. Behind him is Rich Harden and some lofty young guns will be out to show something. This will be the weakness for this team beyond all the rest. The bullpen picked Brian Fuentes who has been moved around lately but will be a good setup man for Andrew Bailey. Bailey has been a strong closer his two years ans could become even better if he can stay healthy.
Overall there is too much inconsistency with this team to really strive for a playoff push. With that said that A's will not get far: 4td in the AL West
Lineup
1. CF Coco Crisp
2. LF David DeJesus
3. 2B Mark Ellis
4. 3B Kevin Kouzmanoff
5. DH Hideki Matsui
6. RF Josh Willingham
7. 1B Daric Barton
8. C Kurt Suzuki
9. SS Cliff Pennington
Ichiro is the staple to the Seattle Mariners. One of the only reasons that people even know that they still exist. The Mariners have had a lot of talent in recent years but hasn't been able to capitalize on any of it. The offense was awful last season. They couldn't score runs. Acquiring Jack Cust should bring a little more productivity but it won't be enough to move much. Justin Smoak was acquired in the Cliff Lee trade and he has loads of potential. Ichiro is going to get you 200 hits but that is the only consistent part in the lineup. This team doesn't need to score 6 runs but at least 3 would be good.
Pitching: King Felix. Enough said. 24 years old and he is already called a king. The interesting thing will be the rest of the staff behind him. Erik Bedard is a respectable 2 or 3. With Hernandez you don't need much behind but something has to do. The pitching revolves around him and we'll see how it turns out.
Overall this team is still growing but it needs something fast, especially if they want to keep Felix around. Look for improvement but not enough to break through: 3rd in the AL West
Lineup
1. RF Ichiro
2. 3B Chone Figgins
3. DH Jack Cust
4. 1B Justin Smoak
5. CF Franklin Gutierrez
6. SS Jack Wilson
7. LF Michael Saunders
8. C Miguel Olivo
9. 2B Brendan Ryan
Friday, March 4, 2011
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
First off before I start, I've always wanted to complain about how stupid that name change was and so here it is. Just be from LA or Anaheim, not both!
Now on to baseball.
One thing should stand out about the Angels this off-season. Vernon Wells to the outfield. Big acquisition that puts 3 center fielders in that outfield. Besides that the team doesn't look that much different than last season which can't be a good thing seeing as they were taken over by the Rangers for the division. They lost two players for one, even though Vernon Wells is worth it, which will bring some instability to the team. Hunter, Wells, and Abreu will lead and hopefully every one else will follow. They have speed but not much power. Someone has to step up to be that guy.
The pitching staff looks solid with Weaver as the number one. Put Dan Haren, Ervin Santana, Scott Kazmir, and Joel Pineiro as the other four starters behind him and then you have one of the most stable staffs in the league. Any of those guys could be the number two or even the ace. The bullpen throws in Francisco Rodney and mixing this all together will bring success.
The AL West is a two horse race. Offense vs pitching. The Rangers have a great offense and the Angels have the pitching. I think that the offense for the Angels is too unstable still to overcome the Rangers, even without Cliff Lee. A close race: 2nd in the AL West
Lineup
1. 2B Howard Kendrick
2. SS Erick Aybar
3. LF Vernon Wells
4. RF Torii Hunter
5. DH Bobby Abreu
6. 1B Kendry Morales
7. C Jeff Mathis
8. 3B Maicer Izturis
9. CF Peter Bourjos
Now on to baseball.
One thing should stand out about the Angels this off-season. Vernon Wells to the outfield. Big acquisition that puts 3 center fielders in that outfield. Besides that the team doesn't look that much different than last season which can't be a good thing seeing as they were taken over by the Rangers for the division. They lost two players for one, even though Vernon Wells is worth it, which will bring some instability to the team. Hunter, Wells, and Abreu will lead and hopefully every one else will follow. They have speed but not much power. Someone has to step up to be that guy.
The pitching staff looks solid with Weaver as the number one. Put Dan Haren, Ervin Santana, Scott Kazmir, and Joel Pineiro as the other four starters behind him and then you have one of the most stable staffs in the league. Any of those guys could be the number two or even the ace. The bullpen throws in Francisco Rodney and mixing this all together will bring success.
The AL West is a two horse race. Offense vs pitching. The Rangers have a great offense and the Angels have the pitching. I think that the offense for the Angels is too unstable still to overcome the Rangers, even without Cliff Lee. A close race: 2nd in the AL West
Lineup
1. 2B Howard Kendrick
2. SS Erick Aybar
3. LF Vernon Wells
4. RF Torii Hunter
5. DH Bobby Abreu
6. 1B Kendry Morales
7. C Jeff Mathis
8. 3B Maicer Izturis
9. CF Peter Bourjos
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Kansas City Royals and Minnesota Twins
Not much to say on the Royals. Lineup is not as strong as it was last year and just as inexperienced. Best hitter is Billy Butler which unless you know baseball isn't really saying that much. I pay attention to baseball and I don't know the majority of the guys on this roster. Young and inexperienced is not going to really get you anywhere in a division that is top heavy with experience.
The same thing goes with the pitching staff. The ace is Jeff Francis who pitched well in Colorado but he definitely is not a number one. The one staple of this team is Joakim Soria. The closer is the best known player on this team and the best player. Don't look at this to change.
The Royals are weak and have much room for improvement but it won't come over night. Look at them to be right where they were last year: 5th in the AL Central
Lineup
1. SS Alcides Escobar
2. 3B Mike Aviles
3. DH Billy Butler
4. RF Jeff Francoeur
5. CF Melky Cabrera
6. 1B Kila Ka'aihue
7. LF Alex Gordan
8. C Jason Kendall
9. 2B Chris Getz
On the to the Minnesota Twins
The Twins always have a strong offense and don't look for that to change. One huge thing is if Justin Morneau can come back from injury and stay healthy. He has been a tad injury prone lately and he his a huge bat in the middle of the lineup. Joe Mauer is always an elite player and will continue to be the best catcher in the league. The offense is just as potent as ever with names like Cuddyer and Kubel who can afford to fly under the radar when they hit behind big bats such as Morneau and Mauer. The rest of the team is in the same boat. When two stars come together it doesn't take much for the lesser ones to align.
The pitching staff is also solid with Carl Pavano looking like he could be the opening day starter especially with the talks that Liriano is suspect to the Yankees. If Francisco gets traded the twins need Baker and Slowey to fill his spot. If he is not traded then this becomes one of the most solid staffs in the American League. The bullpen is again looking good. Joe Nathan is back from Tommy John where he missed all of 2010. He is slated to be the setup man for Matt Capps right now but that could change.
This team is a perennial playoff team but it will be interesting to see how they overcome the good off-season's that the Red Sox and White Sox had. It will be a close divisional race between these guys and Chicago but look at the much improved White Sox to be the lone divisional postseason team: 2nd in the AL Central
Lineup
1. CF Denard Span
2. SS Alexi Casilla
3. C Joe Mauer
4. 1B Justin Morneau
5. RF Michael Cuddyer
6. DH Jason Kubel
7. LF Delmon Young
8. 3B Danny Valencia
9. 2B Tsuyoshi Nishioka
The same thing goes with the pitching staff. The ace is Jeff Francis who pitched well in Colorado but he definitely is not a number one. The one staple of this team is Joakim Soria. The closer is the best known player on this team and the best player. Don't look at this to change.
The Royals are weak and have much room for improvement but it won't come over night. Look at them to be right where they were last year: 5th in the AL Central
Lineup
1. SS Alcides Escobar
2. 3B Mike Aviles
3. DH Billy Butler
4. RF Jeff Francoeur
5. CF Melky Cabrera
6. 1B Kila Ka'aihue
7. LF Alex Gordan
8. C Jason Kendall
9. 2B Chris Getz
On the to the Minnesota Twins
The Twins always have a strong offense and don't look for that to change. One huge thing is if Justin Morneau can come back from injury and stay healthy. He has been a tad injury prone lately and he his a huge bat in the middle of the lineup. Joe Mauer is always an elite player and will continue to be the best catcher in the league. The offense is just as potent as ever with names like Cuddyer and Kubel who can afford to fly under the radar when they hit behind big bats such as Morneau and Mauer. The rest of the team is in the same boat. When two stars come together it doesn't take much for the lesser ones to align.
The pitching staff is also solid with Carl Pavano looking like he could be the opening day starter especially with the talks that Liriano is suspect to the Yankees. If Francisco gets traded the twins need Baker and Slowey to fill his spot. If he is not traded then this becomes one of the most solid staffs in the American League. The bullpen is again looking good. Joe Nathan is back from Tommy John where he missed all of 2010. He is slated to be the setup man for Matt Capps right now but that could change.
This team is a perennial playoff team but it will be interesting to see how they overcome the good off-season's that the Red Sox and White Sox had. It will be a close divisional race between these guys and Chicago but look at the much improved White Sox to be the lone divisional postseason team: 2nd in the AL Central
Lineup
1. CF Denard Span
2. SS Alexi Casilla
3. C Joe Mauer
4. 1B Justin Morneau
5. RF Michael Cuddyer
6. DH Jason Kubel
7. LF Delmon Young
8. 3B Danny Valencia
9. 2B Tsuyoshi Nishioka
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Detroit Tigers
The Detroit Tigers have a solid team but will the chemistry and work ethic be there is the true question. Solid mix of young and old in the lineup will be a good sign for this team. Cabrera has off-the-field issues but will they carry into the clubhouse is a major concern. Ordonez is getting up in years as well. Young players like Raburn, Jackson, and Avila are going to need to play hard and keep up the work ethic
The pitching is going to be solid with Justin Verlander leading the way. Behind him is Matt Scherzer, Rocky Porcello, Brad Penny, and Phil Coke who are all solid at their spots. The bullpen is powerful with Joaquin Benoit and Joel Zumaya setting the way for Jose Valverde.
The key to the Tigers is the chemistry and the distractions that do and will take place. They've had work ethic problems in the past under Jim Leyland and I don't think they will be able to overcome it that much this year: 4th in the AL Central.
Lineup
1. CF Austin Jackson
2. LF Ryan Raburn
3. 1B Miguel Cabrera
4. RF Magglio Ordonex
5. 2B Carlos Guillen
6. DH Victor Martinez
7. SS Jhonny Peralta
8. C Alex Avila
9. 3B Brandon Inge
To go along with what I've said I worked with Bryan McFarland to come up with what we both thought would be ideal for these teams. Here is the link to his thoughts:
http://thebestofme618.wordpress.com/2011/03/02/detroit-tigers/
The pitching is going to be solid with Justin Verlander leading the way. Behind him is Matt Scherzer, Rocky Porcello, Brad Penny, and Phil Coke who are all solid at their spots. The bullpen is powerful with Joaquin Benoit and Joel Zumaya setting the way for Jose Valverde.
The key to the Tigers is the chemistry and the distractions that do and will take place. They've had work ethic problems in the past under Jim Leyland and I don't think they will be able to overcome it that much this year: 4th in the AL Central.
Lineup
1. CF Austin Jackson
2. LF Ryan Raburn
3. 1B Miguel Cabrera
4. RF Magglio Ordonex
5. 2B Carlos Guillen
6. DH Victor Martinez
7. SS Jhonny Peralta
8. C Alex Avila
9. 3B Brandon Inge
To go along with what I've said I worked with Bryan McFarland to come up with what we both thought would be ideal for these teams. Here is the link to his thoughts:
http://thebestofme618.wordpress.com/2011/03/02/detroit-tigers/
Chicago White Sox and Cleveland Indians
I know I'm late again but here goes it.
The White Sox lineup is going to be just as strong this year as it was last if not even better. The addition of Adam Dunn gives a big boost to an already potent middle of the order. He will give you 35 HR and 100 RBI. Konerko had the best season of his career las year but don't look for him to put up the same numbers since he is getting up there in years. Mark Teahen should be the starter at 3rd at the beginning of the year but look for youngster Brent Morel to take his spot soon. not many changes means that you should look at this team to be a force for the playoffs.
The pitching staff is solild even if Jake Peavy isn't healthy. Gavin Floyd, John Danks and Edwin Jackson are all solid starters to back up the ace Mark Buerhle (if you've been keeping up with me you know that I'm not a big fan of this guy). He is the ace and will be the ace for the White Sox. He has proven himself time and again that he can do it. The bullpen is hurt with the loss of Bobby Jenks to Boston so look to the starters to carry this team. Thornton is a stable closer that will show signs of good. If I had to choose a weakness on this team though, it would be the bullpen.
Look for the White Sox to contend with the Twins for the AL Central. They are strong and experience and can handle the teams they need to handle. My prediction: 1st in the AL Central
Lineup
1. LF Juan Pierre
2. SS Alexei Ramirez
3. DH Adam Dunn
4. 1B Paul Konerko
5. RF Carlos Quentin
6. CF Alex Rios
7. C A.J. Pierzynski
8. 3B Mark Teahen
9.2B Gordan Beckham
Now on the the Cleveland Indians.
I am from Ohio and have been an Indians fan for all my life so this one is special to me and may have a little bias in it, just to warn you
Cleveland is very interesting to me. The lineup is young and potent but not proven. If they can stay healthy then this team is going to be good. Most of the players are under the radar and because of the team that they play for have not got the the recognition they deserve. The main guy is Shin-Soo Choo. In 2010 he quietly hit 300 with 22 homeruns and 22 stolen bases while logging 90 RBI's. Most of this was done without the nation knowing him. Grady Sizemore has been hurt after putting up four monster years in a row for the Tribe and is not likely to start on opening day but if he can stay healthy heads will be turned. Matt Laporta was the main piece to the C.C. deal and this is a make or break year for him. The one guy to look out for is Carlos Santana. He's young and had a wonderful rookie campaign until he broke his leg. Look for him to rebound and have a great season.
The pitching staff is also under the radar and young. Carmona will need to lead a young team with not that much experience but he sure knows how to win knotching 19 victories in 2007. He has to be a leader for this staff that consists of Justin Masterson who pitched well last year, Jeanmar Gomez, 23, Carlos Carrasco, 24, and Josh Tomlin, 27. This staff can turn heads. Once again the main weakness comes with the bullpen. A lot of no name guys who can perform but haven't really done anything to prove that point. Chris Perez is not a closer but he is the best thing that the Indians have right now.
After watching the Indians for years and seeing the potential that they truly have I think it is fair to say that they will have a much better season than last. They won't compete with the division but they will be close to 500. The Tigers are on the downhill slope giving place for the Tribe: 3rd in the AL Central
Lineup
1. SS Asdrubal Cabrera
2. CF Grady Sizemore
3. C Carlos Santana
4. RF Shin-Soo Choo
5. DH Travis Hafner
6. 1B Matt LaPorta
7. 2B Orlando Cabrera
8. 3B Jayson Nix
9. CF Michael Brantley
To go along with what I've said I worked with Bryan McFarland to come up with what we both thought would be ideal for these teams. Here is the link to his thoughts:
http://thebestofme618.wordpress.com/2011/03/01/daily-double-weekend-pt2-cleveland-and-chicago-sox/
The White Sox lineup is going to be just as strong this year as it was last if not even better. The addition of Adam Dunn gives a big boost to an already potent middle of the order. He will give you 35 HR and 100 RBI. Konerko had the best season of his career las year but don't look for him to put up the same numbers since he is getting up there in years. Mark Teahen should be the starter at 3rd at the beginning of the year but look for youngster Brent Morel to take his spot soon. not many changes means that you should look at this team to be a force for the playoffs.
The pitching staff is solild even if Jake Peavy isn't healthy. Gavin Floyd, John Danks and Edwin Jackson are all solid starters to back up the ace Mark Buerhle (if you've been keeping up with me you know that I'm not a big fan of this guy). He is the ace and will be the ace for the White Sox. He has proven himself time and again that he can do it. The bullpen is hurt with the loss of Bobby Jenks to Boston so look to the starters to carry this team. Thornton is a stable closer that will show signs of good. If I had to choose a weakness on this team though, it would be the bullpen.
Look for the White Sox to contend with the Twins for the AL Central. They are strong and experience and can handle the teams they need to handle. My prediction: 1st in the AL Central
Lineup
1. LF Juan Pierre
2. SS Alexei Ramirez
3. DH Adam Dunn
4. 1B Paul Konerko
5. RF Carlos Quentin
6. CF Alex Rios
7. C A.J. Pierzynski
8. 3B Mark Teahen
9.2B Gordan Beckham
Now on the the Cleveland Indians.
I am from Ohio and have been an Indians fan for all my life so this one is special to me and may have a little bias in it, just to warn you
Cleveland is very interesting to me. The lineup is young and potent but not proven. If they can stay healthy then this team is going to be good. Most of the players are under the radar and because of the team that they play for have not got the the recognition they deserve. The main guy is Shin-Soo Choo. In 2010 he quietly hit 300 with 22 homeruns and 22 stolen bases while logging 90 RBI's. Most of this was done without the nation knowing him. Grady Sizemore has been hurt after putting up four monster years in a row for the Tribe and is not likely to start on opening day but if he can stay healthy heads will be turned. Matt Laporta was the main piece to the C.C. deal and this is a make or break year for him. The one guy to look out for is Carlos Santana. He's young and had a wonderful rookie campaign until he broke his leg. Look for him to rebound and have a great season.
The pitching staff is also under the radar and young. Carmona will need to lead a young team with not that much experience but he sure knows how to win knotching 19 victories in 2007. He has to be a leader for this staff that consists of Justin Masterson who pitched well last year, Jeanmar Gomez, 23, Carlos Carrasco, 24, and Josh Tomlin, 27. This staff can turn heads. Once again the main weakness comes with the bullpen. A lot of no name guys who can perform but haven't really done anything to prove that point. Chris Perez is not a closer but he is the best thing that the Indians have right now.
After watching the Indians for years and seeing the potential that they truly have I think it is fair to say that they will have a much better season than last. They won't compete with the division but they will be close to 500. The Tigers are on the downhill slope giving place for the Tribe: 3rd in the AL Central
Lineup
1. SS Asdrubal Cabrera
2. CF Grady Sizemore
3. C Carlos Santana
4. RF Shin-Soo Choo
5. DH Travis Hafner
6. 1B Matt LaPorta
7. 2B Orlando Cabrera
8. 3B Jayson Nix
9. CF Michael Brantley
To go along with what I've said I worked with Bryan McFarland to come up with what we both thought would be ideal for these teams. Here is the link to his thoughts:
http://thebestofme618.wordpress.com/2011/03/01/daily-double-weekend-pt2-cleveland-and-chicago-sox/
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