Pitchers and catchers are packing their bags for spring training, and that means it’s time for us to break down who will be the favorites for the most coveted prize in pitching.

We were dealt an amazing season from a handful of pitchers last season, which means the question is clear going into what should be a fantastic 2012.

Can these aces repeat?

That is the only thing we need to know headed into the new campaign. If Justin Verlander stays the course, there is no other arm around that can touch him.

There is a kid from LA that put a positive spin on an awful Dodgers season last year. However, rest assured, Clayton Kershaw will attempt to put an even better season together this year. That may seem unlikely, but at 23 years of age, anything is possible.

These are not predictions, merely the favorites that are coming out of the gate. We will temper our thoughts and wait for spring training to show us who has their stuff together for 2012. 

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