Bleacher Report - Articles by Jonathan Goodman

MLB Previews: American League East

Jonathan Goodman — Sun, 05 Apr 2009 15:21:40 -0400

AMERICAN LEAGUE EAST

TORONTO BLUE JAYS

LINEUP

1. Marco Scutaro | SS | .267 | 7 HR | 60 RBI

2. Aaron Hill | 2B | .263 | 2 HR | 20 RBI

3. Alex Rios | RF | .291 | 15 HR | 79 RBI

4. Vernon Wells | CF | .300 | 20 HR | 78 RBI

5. Adam Lind | DH | .282 | 9 HR | 40 RBI

6. Lyle Overbay | 1B | .270 | 15 HR | 69 RBI

7. Scott Rolen | 3B | .262 | 11 HR | 50 RBI

8. Rod Barajas | C | .249 | 11 HR | 49 RBI

9. Travis Snider | LF | .301 | 2 HR | 13 RBI

PITCHING STAFF

1. Roy Halladay | 20-11 | 2.78 ERA | 206 K | 1.05 WHIP

2. Jesse Litsch | 13-9 | 3.58 ERA | 99 K | 1.23 WHIP

3. David Purcey | 3-6 | 5.54 ERA | 58 K | 1.48 WHIP

4. Ricky Romero |

5. Scott Richmond | 1-3 | 4.00 ERA | 20 K | 1.26 WHIP

CL B.J. Ryan | 32 SV | 2.95 ERA | 58 K | 1.28 WHIP

KEY BENCH PLAYERS

Kevin Millar | .234 | 20 HR | 72 RBI

Jose Bautista | .238 | 15 HR | 54 RBI

The Blue Jays have been stuck in the AL East for far too long if you’re a Blue Jays fan. They have the hitting to compete with the rest of the division, but they don’t have the pitching. Outside of Halladay, it is Mediocre City in Toronto. Luckily, Jesse Litsch seems to be emerging and could possibly give the Blue Jays a boost in the pitching staff. However, the other three must have good years to pull off a “TB Rays.” The Blue Jays are still a team to watch out for, and if a couple teams don’t have the seasons they were expecting, they could slip up into a playoff contender.

OVERALL GRADE: B-

BALTIMORE ORIOLES

LINEUP

1. Brian Roberts | 2B | .296 | 9 HR | 57 RBI

2. Cesar Izturis | SS | .263 | 1 HR | 24 RBI

3. Nick Markakis | RF | .306 | 20 HR | 87 RBI

4. Aubrey Huff | 1B | .304 | 32 HR | 108 RBI

5. Melvin Mora | 3B | .285 | 23 HR | 104 RBI

6. Luke Scott | DH | .257 | 23 HR | 65 RBI

7. Gregg Zaun | C | .237 | 6 HR | 30 RBI

8. Adam Jones | CF | .270 | 9 HR | 57 RBI

9. Felix Pie | LF | .241 | 1 HR | 10 RBI

PITCHING STAFF

1. Jeremy Guthrie | 10-12 | 3.63 ERA | 120 K | 1.23 WHIP

2. Koji Uehara |

3. Mark Hendrickson | 7-8 | 5.45 ERA | 81 K | 1.47 WHIP

4. Alfredo Simon | 0-0 | 6.23 ERA | 8 K | 1.38 WHIP

5. Adam Eaton | 4-8 | 5.80 ERA | 57 K | 1.64 WHIP

CL George Sherrill | 31 SV | 4.73 ERA | 58 K | 1.50 WHIP

KEY BENCH PLAYERS

Ty Wigginton | .285 | 23 HR | 58 RBI

Ryan Freel | .298 | 0 HR | 10 RBI

The Baltimore Orioles have the same problems that Toronto has, essentially. The only difference between the O’s and the Jays is the Jays have a guy named Roy Halladay. I like the O’s lineup and depth, but the fact that they’re in the AL East is the downer for this team. You can never count out a team like the Orioles considering what happened last year with the Rays, but nevertheless it looks like another long season for the O’s in the AL East.

OVERALL GRADE: C

TAMPA BAY RAYS

LINEUP

1. B.J. Upton | CF | .273 | 9 HR | 67 RBI

2. Carl Crawford | LF | .273 | 8 HR | 57 RBI

3. Evan Longoria | 3B | .272 | 27 HR | 85 RBI

4. Carlos Pena | 1B | .247 | 31 HR | 102 RBI

5. Pat Burrell | DH | .250 | 33 HR | 86 RBI

6. Dioner Navarro | C | .295 | 7 HR | 54 RBI

7. Gabe Gross | RF | .238 | 13 HR | 40 RBI

8. Akinori Iwamura | 2B | .274 | 6 HR | 48 RBI

9. Jason Bartlett | SS | .286 | 1 HR | 37 RBI

PITCHING STAFF

1. James Shields | 14-8 | 3.56 ERA | 160 K | 1.15 WHIP

2. Scott Kazmir | 12-8 | 3.49 ERA | 166 K | 1.27 WHIP

3. Matt Garza | 11-9 | 3.70 ERA | 128 K | 1.24 WHIP

4. Andy Sonnanstine | 13-9 | 4.38 ERA | 124 K | 1.29 WHIP

5. Jeff Niemann | 2-2 | 5.06 ERA | 14 K | 1.63 WHIP

CL Troy Percival | 28 SV | 4.53 ERA | 38 K | 1.23 WHIP

KEY BENCH PLAYERS

Matt Joyce | .252 | 12 HR | 33 RBI

Willy Aybar | .253 | 10 HR | 33 RBI

The Tampa Bay Rays surprised the nation last season when they burst through the AL East and then went to the World Series. The question in 2009 is: will they repeat what they did last season? I think it is very possible for this team to repeat their 2008 performance. They have a lot of young talent mixed with veteran talent. David Price will probably make his way up from AAA before June, which will help the pitching staff. Also, I cannot see Percival being the closer for an entire season. Whether he gets hurt or not, I think Balfour or Wheeler will get that role by the end of the season.

OVERALL GRADE: B+

BOSTON RED SOX

LINEUP

1. Jacoby Ellsbury | CF | .280 | 9 HR | 47 RBI

2. Dustin Pedroia | 2B | .326 | 17 HR | 83 RBI

3. David Ortiz | DH | .264 | 23 HR | 89 RBI

4. Kevin Youkilis | 1B | .312 | 29 HR | 115 RBI

5. Jason Bay | LF | .286 | 31 HR | 101 RBI

6. J.D. Drew | RF | .280 | 19 HR | 64 RBI

7. Mike Lowell | 3B | .274 | 17 HR | 73 RBI

8. Jason Varitek | C | .220 | 13 HR | 43 RBI

9. Jed Lowrie | SS | .258 | 2 HR | 46 RBI

PITCHING STAFF

1. Josh Beckett | 12-10 | 4.03 ERA | 172 K | 1.19 WHIP

2. Daisuke Matsuzaka | 18-3 | 2.90 ERA | 154 K | 1.32 WHIP

3. Jon Lester | 16-6 | 3.21 ERA | 152 K | 1.27 WHIP

4. Tim Wakefield | 10-11 | 4.13 ERA | 117 K | 1.18 WHIP

5. Brad Penny | 6-9 | 6.27 ERA | 51 K | 1.63 WHIP

CL Jonathan Papelbon | 41 SV | 2.34 ERA | 77 K | 0.95 WHIP

KEY BENCH PLAYERS

Rocco Baldelli | .263 | 4 HR | 13 RBI

Brad Wilkerson | .220 | 4 HR | 28 RBI

The Boston Red Sox of 2009 look top-to-bottom like the best team in the majors to me. Their lineup has great balance and depth, their starting rotation is very good (with Clay Buchholz waiting in the wings in case Wakefield or Penny get injured), and their bullpen is one of the best in the league. It is scary to imagine Beckett back to his 2007 form because no one has a chance to beat this team if that is the case, at least not until the playoffs.

OVERALL GRADE: A-

NEW YORK YANKEES

LINEUP

1. Derek Jeter | SS | .300 | 11 HR | 69 RBI

2. Johnny Damon | LF | .303 | 17 HR | 71 RBI

3. Alex Rodriguez | 3B | .302 | 35 HR | 103 RBI

4. Mark Teixeira | 1B | .308 | 33 HR | 121 RBI

5. Xavier Nady | RF | .305 | 25 HR | 97 RBI

6. Hideki Matsui | DH | .294 | 9 HR | 45 RBI

7. Robinson Cano | 2B | .271 | 14 HR | 72 RBI

8. Jorge Posada | C | .268 | 3 HR | 22 RBI

9. Brett Gardner | CF | .228 | 0 HR | 16 RBI

PITCHING STAFF

1. CC Sabathia | 17-10 | 2.70 ERA | 251 K | 1.11 WHIP

2. A.J. Burnett | 18-10 | 4.07 ERA | 231 K | 1.34 WHIP

3. Chien-Ming Wang | 8-2 | 4.07 ERA | 54 K | 1.32 WHIP

4. Andy Pettitte | 14-14 | 4.54 ERA | 158 K | 1.41 WHIP

5. Joba Chamberlain | 4-3 | 2.60 ERA | 118 K | 1.26 WHIP

CL Mariano Rivera | 39 SV | 1.40 ERA | 77 K | .67 WHIP

KEY BENCH PLAYERS

Cody Ransom | .302 | 4 HR | 8 RBI

Nick Swisher | .219 | 24 HR | 69 RBI

Melky Cabrera | .249 | 8 HR | 37 RBI

The 2008 New York Yankees failed to make the playoffs. I guess that was what it took for Steinbrenner to go out and get some pitchers. With addition of Sabathia and Burnett, this Yankees squad is looking pretty good. It was a lock for the Yankees to make the playoffs after those acquisitions; however, Alex Rodriguez (the most LOVED Yankee) had some offseason troubles.

First, it was the steroids dilemma and then his injury that will most likely keep him out until June. Whether Yankee fans want to admit it or not, that really hurts the New York Yankees of ’09. If the Yanks struggle out the gate and get behind, it might be tough to climb their way back in the tough AL East.

OVERALL GRADE: B

This is by far the best division in the American League and it will prove it throughout the season. I think the BoSox are the best team in this division, and with the injury of A-Rod, they might have a comfortable lead that no one will be able to come back from. Either way, I think it will be an interesting year in the East and it should be quite a battle for the American League crown, which I think it will come down to two AL East opponents once again.

1. Boston Red Sox (98-64)

2. New York Yankees (90-72)

3. Tampa Bay Rays (90-72)

4. Toronto Blue Jays (83-79)

5. Baltimore Orioles (74-88)

MLB Preview of the National League West

Jonathan Goodman — Sat, 04 Apr 2009 22:56:52 -0400

NATIONAL LEAGUE WEST

ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS

LINEUP

1. Stephen Drew | SS | .291 | 21 HR | 67 RBI

2. Felipe Lopez | 2B | .283 | 6 HR | 46 RBI

3. Mark Reynolds | 3B | .239 | 28 HR | 97 RBI

4. Conor Jackson | LF | .300 | 12 HR | 75 RBI

5. Chad Tracy | 1B | .267 | 8 HR | 39 RBI

6. Chris Young | CF | .248 | 22 HR | 85 RBI

7. Justin Upton | RF | .250 | 15 HR | 42 RBI

8. Chris Snyder | C | .237 | 16 HR | 64 RBI

9. PITCHER

PITCHING STAFF

1. Brandon Webb | 22-7 | 3.30 ERA | 183 K | 1.20 WHIP

2. Dan Haren | 16-8 | 3.33 ERA | 206 K | 1.13 WHIP

3. Doug Davis | 6-8 | 4.32 ERA | 112 K | 1.53 WHIP

4. Jon Garland | 14-8 | 4.90 ERA | 90 K | 1.51 WHIP

5. Max Scherzer | 0-4 | 3.05 ERA | 66 K | 1.23 WHIP

CL Chad Qualls | 22 H | 2.81 ERA | 71 K | 1.07 WHIP

KEY BENCH PLAYERS

Eric Byrnes | .206 | 6 HR | 23 RBI

Miguel Montero | .255 | 5 HR | 18 RBI

The DBacks have the best pitching rotation in the NL West by far. It helps that Brandon Webb and Dan Haren head that rotation. If you remember, last season the DBacks got off to a really good start and then faltered down the stretch.

With the disappointing seasons from Chris Young and Justin Upton, the Arizona Diamondbacks fell out of first place in the West and could not reclaim it from the Dodgers. I still like this team, especially if Young and Upton play to their capabilities.

OVERALL GRADE: B-

LOS ANGELES DODGERS

LINEUP

1. Rafael Furcal | SS | .357 | 5 HR | 16 RBI

2. Orlando Hudson | 2B | .305 | 8 HR | 41 RBI

3. Manny Ramirez | LF | .332 | 37 HR | 121 RBI

4. Andre Ethier | RF | .305 | 20 HR | 77 RBI

5. Russell Martin | C | .280 | 13 HR | 69 RBI

6. James Loney | 1B | .289 | 13 HR | 90 RBI

7. Matt Kemp | CF | .290 | 18 HR | 76 RBI

8. Casey Blake | 3B | .274 | 21 HR | 81 RBI

9. PITCHER

PITCHING STAFF

1. Hiroki Kuroda | 9-10 | 3.73 ERA | 116 K | 1.22 WHIP

2. Chad Billingsley | 16-10 | 3.14 ERA | 201 K | 1.34 WHIP

3. Clayton Kershaw | 5-5 | 4.26 ERA | 100 K | 1.50 WHIP

4. Randy Wolf | 12-12 | 4.30 ERA | 162 K | 1.38 WHIP

5. James McDonald |

CL Jonathan Broxton | 14 SV | 3.13 ERA | 88 K | 1.17 WHIP

KEY BENCH PLAYERS

Juan Pierre | .283 | 1 HR | 28 RBI

Blake DeWitt | .264 | 9 HR | 52 RBI

The Los Angeles Dodgers of 2009 look as good as the 2008 team entering the playoffs last season. However, they are one injury away of being that 2008 team before the All-Star Break.

They do not have depth at pitching and the young arms they do have in the rotation right now are inexperienced. They have two vets in Wolf and Kuroda, although Kuroda has only been in the American Majors for one season.

This could be the fall of the Dodgers. If Manny is able to make the hitters behind him better, i.e. Ethier, Martin, Loney, Kemp, the Dodgers should win this mediocre NL West division.

OVERALL GRADE: B

SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS

LINEUP

1. Fred Lewis | LF | .282 | 9 HR | 40 RBI

2. Edgar Renteria | SS | .270 | 10 HR | 55 RBI

3. Randy Winn | RF | .306 | 10 HR | 64 RBI

4. Bengie Molina | C | .292 | 16 HR | 95 RBI

5. Pablo Sandoval | 3B | .345 | 3 HR | 24 RBI

6. Aaron Rowand | CF | .271 | 13 HR | 70 RBI

7. Travis Ishikawa | 1B | .274 | 3 HR | 15 RBI

8. Emmanuel Burriss | 2B | .283 | 1 HR | 18 RBI

9. PITCHER

PITCHING STAFF

1. Tim Lincecum | 18-5 | 2.62 ERA | 265 K | 1.17 WHIP

2. Randy Johnson | 11-10 | 3.91 ERA | 173 K | 1.24 WHIP

3. Matt Cain | 8-14 | 3.76 ERA | 186 K | 1.36 WHIP

4. Barry Zito | 10-17 | 5.15 ERA | 120 K | 1.60 WHIP

5. Jonathan Sanchez | 9-12 | 5.01 ERA | 157 K | 1.45 WHIP

CL Brian Wilson | 41 SV | 4.62 ERA | 67 K | 1.44 WHIP

KEY BENCH PLAYERS

Juan Uribe | .247 | 7 HR | 40 RBI

Rich Aurilia | .283 | 10 HR | 52 RBI

The 2009 San Francisco Giants are an intriguing team that is being praised by many experts. They have some key parts for the future and also some veterans that might just keep them in the race for the West if the Dodgers and DBacks wane at some point in the season. They have a pretty decent pitching staff along with a mediocre offense.

However, if Pablo Sandoval turns out to be the power hitter the Giants desperately need, that offense turns into a pretty good one. I would look for Sandoval to get the three or four spot if he starts hot.

OVERALL GRADE: C+

SAN DIEGO PADRES

LINEUP

1. Jody Gerut | CF | .296 | 14 HR | 43 RBI

2. David Eckstein | 2B | .265 | 2 HR | 27 RBI

3. Adrian Gonzalez | 1B | .279 | 36 HR | 119 RBI

4. Kevin Kouzmanoff | 3B | .260 | 23 HR | 84 RBI

5. Brian Giles | RF | .306 | 12 HR | 63 RBI

6. Chase Headley | LF | .269 | 9 HR | 38 RBI

7. Luis Rodriguez | SS | .287 | 0 HR | 12 RBI

8. Henry Blanco | C | .292 | 3 HR | 12 RBI

9. PITCHER

PITCHING STAFF

1. Jake Peavy | 10-11 | 2.85 ERA | 166 K | 1.18 WHIP

2. Chris Young | 7-6 | 3.96 ERA | 93 K | 1.29 WHIP

3. Cha Seung Baek | 6-10 | 4.79 ERA | 92 K | 1.34 WHIP

4. Kevin Correia | 3-8 | 6.05 ERA | 66 K | 1.71 WHIP

5. Walter Silva |

CL Heath Bell | 23 H | 3.58 ERA | 71 K | 1.21 WHIP

KEY BENCH PLAYERS

Cliff Floyd | .268 | 11 HR | 39 RBI

Scott Hairston | .248 | 17 HR | 31 RBI

It is hard to see this team being any good at any point during the season. The only time they will appear like an actual professional baseball team is when Peavy and Young are on the mound.

Frankly, I feel sorry for Adrian Gonzalez because he is the only one worth watching on this team. Kouzmanoff can produce at times and Giles is on the downslide of his career. Peter Gammons still believes Peavy will join the Cubs at some point in the season, so if he is correct then it will only get worse.

This season will be about developing the young talent, like Headley and Rodriguez.

OVERALL GRADE: C-

COLORADO ROCKIES

LINEUP

1. Clint Barmes | 2B | .290 | 11 HR | 44 RBI

2. Troy Tulowitzki | SS | .263 | 8 HR | 46 RBI

3. Garrett Atkins | 3B | .286 | 21 HR | 99 RBI

4. Todd Helton | 1B | .264 | 7 HR | 29 RBI

5. Chris Iannetta | C | .264 | 18 HR | 65 RBI

6. Brad Hawpe | RF | .283 | 25 HR | 85 RBI

7. Ryan Spilborghs | CF | .313 | 6 HR | 36 RBI

8. Seth Smith | LF | .259 | 4 HR | 15 RBI

9. PITCHER

PITCHING STAFF

1. Aaron Cook | 16-9 | 3.96 ERA | 96 K | 1.34 WHIP

2. Ubaldo Jimenez | 12-12 | 3.99 ERA | 172 K | 1.43 WHIP

3. Jorge De La Rosa | 10-8 | 4.92 ERA | 128 K | 1.46 WHIP

4. Jason Marquis | 11-9 | 4.53 ERA | 91 K | 1.45 WHIP

5. Franklin Morales | 1-2 | 6.39 ERA | 9 K | 1.78 WHIP

CL Huston Street | 18 SV | 3.73 ERA | 69 K | 1.21 WHIP

KEY BENCH PLAYERS

Ian Stewart | .259 | 10 HR | 41 RBI

Yorvit Torrealba | .246 | 6 HR | 31 RBI

Jeff Baker | .268 | 12 HR | 48 RBI

The Colorado Rockies will try to get back to their 2007 form when they rolled their way through to the World Series. There’s a lot I like about this team. For example, they have a lot of players that can fill in for their normal starters.

Manager Clint Hurdle will have a tough time figuring out ways to get his bench players involved throughout the season. However, if he can, I can see the Rockies being in the hunt for the top spot in the NL West along with the Dodgers and DBacks.

OVERALL GRADE: B-

Although I would love to say the Dodgers don’t pull it off, I cannot say that. At least, in the preseason, I can’t say it.

I do think it will be a dog fight down the stretch and I look forward to watch the scoreboards in September. I do think the D-Backs and Rockies have a legitimate case for first place in the West, but for now I like the Dodgers.

1. Los Angeles Dodgers (87-75)

2. Arizona Diamondbacks (84-78)

3. Colorado Rockies (81-81)

4. San Francisco Giants (78-84)

5. San Diego Padres (68-94)

MLB Preview: NL EAST (Revised)

Jonathan Goodman — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 21:43:00 -0400

NATIONAL LEAGUE EAST

ATLANTA BRAVES

LINEUP

1. Kelly Johnson | 2B | .287 | 12 HR | 69 RBI

2. Yunel Escobar | SS | .288 | 10 HR | 60 RBI

3. Chipper Jones | 3B | .364 | 22 HR | 75 RBI

4. Brian McCann | C | .301 | 23 HR | 87 RBI

5. Casey Kotchman | 1B | .272 | 14 HR | 74 RBI

6. Garret Anderson | LF | .293 | 15 HR | 84 RBI

7. Jeff Francoeur | RF | .239 | 11 HR | 71 RBI

8. Jordan Schafer | CF |

9. PITCHER

PITCHING STAFF

1. Derek Lowe | 14-11 | 3.24 ERA | 147 K | 1.13 WHIP

2. Jair Jurrjens | 13-10 | 3.68 ERA | 139 K | 1.37 WHIP

3. Javier Vazquez | 12-16 | 4.67 ERA | 200 K | 1.32 WHIP

4. Kenshin Kawakami |

5. Tom Glavine | 2-4 | 5.54 ERA | 37 K | 1.64 WHIP

CL Mike Gonzalez | 14 SV | 4.28 ERA | 44 K | 1.19 WHIP

KEY BENCH PLAYERS

Matt Diaz | .244 | 2 HR | 14 RBI

Omar Infante | .293 | 3 HR | 40 RBI

I like what the Braves have done this offseason. They are going back to their successful ways in having quality pitching. Their lineup is balanced; however, they lack a dependable, power hitter.

If Chipper can stay healthy for the majority of the year, I would expect the 2009 Atlanta Braves to be competitive.

OVERALL GRADE: B-

FLORIDA MARLINS

LINEUP

1. Cameron Maybin | CF | .500 | 0 HR | 2 RBI

2. John Baker | C | .299 | 5 HR | 32 RBI

3. Hanley Ramirez | SS | .301| 33 HR | 67 RBI

4. Jorge Cantu | 1B | .277 | 29 HR | 95 RBI

5. Jeremy Hermida | LF | .249 | 17 HR | 61 RBI

6. Dan Uggla | 2B | .260 | 32 HR | 92 RBI

7. Cody Ross | RF | .260 | 22 HR | 73 RBI

8. Emilio Bonifacio | 3B | .243 | 0 HR | 14 RBI

9. PITCHER

PITCHING STAFF

1. Ricky Nolasco | 15-8 | 3.52 ERA | 186 K | 1.10 WHIP

2. Josh Johnson | 7-1 | 3.61 ERA | 77 K | 1.35 WHIP

3. Chris Volstad | 6-4 | 2.88 ERA | 52 K | 1.33 WHIP

4. Anibal Sanchez | 2-5 | 5.57 ERA | 50 K | 1.57 WHIP

5. Andrew Miller | 6-10 | 5.87 ERA | 89 K | 1.64 WHIP

CL Matt Lindstrom | 14 H | 3.14 ERA | 43 K | 1.45 WHIP

KEY BENCH PLAYERS

Wes Helms | .243 | 5 HR | 31 RBI

Alfredo Amezega | .264 | 3 HR | 32 RBI

Another young squad from the Florida Marlins. The only thing that differentiates the Marlins from other young teams is the productive stats they receive from their young guns.

I will be excited to see this young team throughout the season; I expect they will play a big role as a spoiler.

OVERALL GRADE: C

NEW YORK METS

LINEUP

1. Jose Reyes | SS | .297 | 16 HR | 68 RBI

2. Daniel Murphy | LF | .313 | 2 HR | 17 RBI

3. Carlos Beltran | CF | .284 | 27 HR | 112 RBI

4. David Wright | 3B | .302 | 33 HR | 124 RBI

5. Carlos Delgado | 1B | .271 | 38 HR | 115 RBI

6. Gary Sheffield | RF | .225 | 19 HR | 57 RBI

7. Luis Castillo | 2B | .245 | 3 HR | 28 RBI

8. Brian Schneider | C | .257 | 9 HR | 38 RBI

9. PITCHER

PITCHING STAFF

1. Johan Santan | 16-7 | 2.53 ERA | 206 K | 1.15 WHIP

2. Mike Pelfrey | 13-11 | 3.72 ERA | 110 K | 1.36 WHIP

3. Oliver Perez | 10-7 | 4.22 ERA | 180 K | 1.40 WHIP

4. John Maine | 10-8 | 4.18 ERA | 122 K | 1.35 WHIP

5. Livan Hernandez | 13-11 | 6.05 ERA | 67 K | 1.67 WHIP

CL Francisco Rodriguez | 62 SV | 2.24 ERA | 77 K | 1.29 WHIP

KEY BENCH PLAYERS

Fernando Tatis | .297 | 11 HR | 47 RBI

Ryan Church | RF | .276 | 12 HR | 49 RBI

I know that Gary Sheffield shouldn’t make that much a difference, but I only had the Phillies winning the division by two games.

With the offseason additions of K-Rod and J.J. Putz, the Mets have bolstered up the bullpen.

Now, with the addition of Sheffield, they have a little bit more depth considering Ryan Church will be a bat on the bench and a guy that with play for Sheff when Manuel decides to give him a day off.

OVERALL GRADE: A-

PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES

LINEUP

1. Shane Victorino | CF | .293 | 14 HR | 58 RBI

2. Jimmy Rollins | SS | .277 | 11 HR | 59 RBI

3. Chase Utley | 2B | .292 | 33 HR | 104 RBI

4. Ryan Howard | 1B | .251 | 48 HR | 146 RBI

5. Jayson Werth | RF | .273 | 24 HR | 67 RBI

6. Raul Ibanez | LF | .293 | 23 HR | 110 RBI

7. Pedro Feliz | 3B | .249 | 14 HR | 58 RBI

8. Carlos Ruiz | C | .219 | 4 HR | 31 RBI

9. PITCHER

PITCHING STAFF

1. Cole Hamels | 14-10 | 3.09 ERA | 196 K | 1.08 WHIP

2. Brett Myers | 10-13 | 4.55 ERA | 163 K | 1.38 WHIP

3. Joe Blanton | 9-12 | 4.69 ERA | 111 K | 1.40 WHIP

4. Jamie Moyer | 16-7 | 3.71 ERA | 123 K | 1.33 WHIP

5. Chan Ho Park | 4-4 | 3.40 ERA | 79 K | 1.40 WHIP

CL Brad Lidge | 41 SV | 1.95 ERA | 92 K | 1.23 WHIP

KEY BENCH PLAYERS

Eric Bruntlett | .217 | 2 HR | 15 RBI

Matt Stairs | .252 | 13 HR | 49 RBI

The 2008 World Series Champion Phillies bring back the bulk of their championship team.

There are a lot of things I like about the Phils. The lineup is very good considering Citizens Bank Park, and the depth is pretty good and has a chance to get better if they decide to add Sheffield.

The one thing that worked for the Phillies last year was the pitching. Somehow, someway, a Phillies pitcher stepped up down the stretch. When you look at the rotation, it is not good; you have a quality ace and then four mediocre pitchers behind him.

If Moyer pitches as well as he did last season and if Myers and Blanton pitch to their capabilities, the Phils should be fine in 2009.

OVERALL GRADE: B+

WASHINGTON NATIONALS

LINEUP

1. Lastings Milledge | CF | .268 | 14 HR | 61 RBI

2. Christian Guzman | SS | .316 | 9 HR | 55 RBI

3. Nick Johnson | 1B | .220 | 5 HR | 20 RBI

4. Ryan Zimmerman | 3B | .283 | 14 HR | 51 RBI

5. Adam Dunn | LF | .236 | 40 HR | 100 RBI

6. Elijah Dukes | RF | .264 | 13 HR | 44 RBI

7. Anderson Hernandez | 2B | .333 | 0 HR | 17 RBI

8. Jesus Flores | C | .256 | 8 HR | 59 RBI

9. PITCHER

PITCHING STAFF

1. John Lannan | 9-15 | 3.91 ERA | 117 K | 1.34 WHIP

2. Scott Olsen | 8-11 | 4.20 ERA | 113 K | 1.31 WHIP

3. Daniel Cabrera | 8-10 | 5.25 ERA | 95 K | 1.61 WHIP

4. Jordan Zimmerman |

5. Shairon Martis | 1-3 | 5.66 ERA | 23 K | 1.45 WHIP

CL Joel Hanrahan | 9 SV | 3.95 ERA | 93 K | 1.36 WHIP

KEY BENCH PLAYERS

Ronnie Belliard | .287 | 11 HR | 46 RBI

Josh Willingham | .254 | 15 HR | 51 RBI

Austin Kearns | .217 | 7 HR | 32 RBI

Well, there is not much to say about the Nats other than to say that they have young, undeveloped players on their roster. The good thing about the Nationals is they have a lot of young depth that can be intermingled into the lineup on any given day.

They have a young, inexperienced pitching staff and an average at best bullpen. Most likely, Nick Johnson will be exiting Washington before the deadline, which will make room for the outfielders to play (Dunn would move to first permanently).

Nonetheless, pitching has always been an important key for success and the Nats just don't have it.

OVERALL GRADE: D+

The NL East is going to come down to another crazy two weeks between the Mets and Phils. I think the Mets actually have what it takes to get it done this season.

1. New York Mets (95-67)

2. Philadelphis Phillies (91-71)

3. Atlanta Braves (84-78)

4. Florida Marlins (75-87)

5. Washington Nationals (64-98)

MLB Preview: NL CENTRAL

Jonathan Goodman — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 14:07:46 -0400

NATIONAL LEAGUE CENTRAL

HOUSTON ASTROS

LINEUP

1. Michael Bourn | CF | .229 | 5 HR | 29 RBI

2. Ivan Rodriguez | C | .276 | 7 HR | 35 RBI

3. Lance Berkman | 1B | .312 | 29 HR | 106 RBI

4. Carlos Lee | LF | .314 | 28 HR | 100 RBI

5. Miguel Tejada | SS | .283 | 13 HR | 66 RBI

6. Hunter Pence | RF | .269 | 25 HR | 83 RBI

7. Geoff Blum | 3B | .240 | 14 HR | 53 RBI

8. Kazuo Matsui | 2B | .293 | 6 HR | 33 RBI

9. PITCHER

PITCHING STAFF

1. Roy Oswalt | 17-10 | 3.54 ERA | 165 K | 1.18 WHIP

2. Wandy Rodriguez | 9-7 | 3.54 ERA | 131 K | 1.31 WHIP

3. Mike Hampton | 3-4 | 4.85 ERA | 38 K | 1.42 WHIP

4. Brian Moehler | 11-8 | 4.56 ERA | 82 K | 1.35 WHIP

5. Russ Ortiz | 2-3 | 5.51 ERA | 27 K | 1.57 WHIP (2007 Stats)

CL Jose Valverde | 44 SV | 3.38 ERA | 83 K | 1.18 WHIP

KEY BENCH PLAYERS

Jeff Keppinger | .266 | 3 HR | 43 RBI

Darin Erstad | .276 | 4 HR | 31 RBI

For some reason, I like the Houston Astros. I think their pitching is decent with Oswalt and Rodriguez at the top and Valverde closing. Their lineup is bolstered by Berkman and Lee and they have versatile players like Bourn and Pence. The one hole this team has is depth: whether it be their pitching or their bench, they do not have much depth. We will see what is in store for them in 2009, but if Hampton, Moehler, and Ortiz can step up and pitch well for an ENTIRE season, keep your eyes on the Astros.

OVERALL GRADE: C+

MILWAUKEE BREWERS

LINEUP

1. Rickie Weeks | 2B | .234 | 14 HR | 46 RBI

2. J.J. Hardy | SS | .283 | 24 HR | 74 RBI

3. Ryan Braun | LF | .285 | 37 HR | 106 RBI

4. Prince Fielder | 1B | .276 | 34 HR | 102 RBI

5. Corey Hart | RF | .268 | 20 HR | 91 RBI

6. Mike Cameron | CF | .243 | 25 HR | 70 RBI

7. Bill Hall | 3B | .225 | 15 HR | 55 RBI

8. Jason Kendell | C | .246 | 2 HR | 49 RBI

9. PITCHER

PITCHING STAFF

1. Yovani Gallardo | 0-0 | 1.88 ERA | 20 K | 1.25 WHIP

2. Dave Bush | 9-10 | 4.18 ERA | 109 K | 1.14 WHIP

3. Jeff Suppan | 10-10 | 4.96 ERA | 90 K | 1.54 WHIP

4. Manny Parra | 10-8 | 4.39 ERA | 147 K | 1.54 WHIP

5. Braden Looper | 12-14 | 4.16 ERA | 108 K | 1.31 WHIP

CL Trevor Hoffman | 30 SV | 3.77 ERA | 46 K | 1.04 WHIP

KEY BENCH PLAYERS

Craig Counsell | .226 | 1 HR | 14 RBI

Tony Gwynn Jr. | .190 | 0 HR | 1 RBI

The Brewers’ lineup did not take a hit in the offseason, but their pitching staff took two big hits. Losing CC was probable and unfortunate, but Ben Sheets is the real loss even though Sheets will be out until June or July. I would look for the Brewers to sign him back if they struggle in the first few months. Hoffman is going to be their closer, but not for the first few week which I don’t think will hurt them a lot, considering Villanueva slipping into the role. I still like the Brewers in 2009, but I think that their pitching needs to step up if they are going to compete with the Cards and Cubs.

OVERALL GRADE: B-

ST. LOUIS CARDINALS

LINEUP

1. Skip Schumaker | 2B | .302 | 8 HR | 46 RBI

2. Yadier Molina | C | .304 | 7 HR | 56 RBI

3. Albert Pujols | 1B | .357 | 37 HR | 116 RBI

4. Rick Ankiel | CF | .264 | 25 HR | 71 RBI

5. Ryan Ludwick | RF | .299 | 37 HR | 113 RBI

6. Chris Duncan | LF | .248 | 6 HR | 27 RBI

7. David Freese | 3B |

8. PITCHER

9. Khalil Greene | SS | .213 | 10 HR | 35 RBI

PITCHING STAFF

1. Adam Wainwright | 11-3 | 3.20 ERA | 91 K | 1.18 WHIP

2. Chris Carpenter | 0-1 | 1.76 ERA | 7 K | 1.30 WHIP

3. Kyle Lohse | 15-6 | 3.78 ERA | 119 K | 1.30 WHIP

4. Todd Wellemeyer | 13-9 | 3.71 ERA | 134 K | 1.25 WHIP

5. Joel Pineiro | 7-7 | 5.15 ERA | 81 K | 1.45 WHIP

CL Jason Motte | 4 H | 0.82 ERA | 16 K | .73 WHIP

KEY BENCH PLAYERS

Brendan Ryan | .244 | 0 HR | 10 RBI

Colby Rasmus |

The St. Louis Cardinals of 2008 surprised a lot of people with the success they had without pitching ace, Chris Carpenter. This season, the Cards have Carpenter back to presumably full strength. The Cards have two young guns that could start for the bulk of the season. Colby Rasmus and David Freese are being raved about and could be a key part of this team. With Freese taking Glaus’s spot, the Cardinals look to maintain the mojo from last season and challenge the Cubs for the NL Central.

OVERALL GRADE: B

CHICAGO CUBS

LINEUP

1. Alfonso Soriano | LF | .280 | 29 HR | 75 RBI

2. Ryan Theriot | SS | .307 | 1 HR | 38 RBI

3. Derrek Lee | 1B | .291 | 20 HR | 90 RBI

4. Milton Bradley | RF | .321 | 22 HR | 77 RBI

5. Aramis Ramirez | 3B | .289 | 27 HR | 111 RBI

6. Geovany Soto | C | .285 | 23 HR | 86 RBI

7. Kosuke Fukudome | CF | .257 | 10 HR | 58 RBI

8. Mike Fontenot | 2B | .305 | 9 HR | 40 RBI

9. PITCHER

PITCHING STAFF

1. Carlos Zambrano | 14-6 | 3.91 ERA | 130 K | 1.29 WHIP

2. Ryan Dempster | 17-6 | 2.96 ERA | 187 K | 1.21 WHIP

3. Rich Harden | 10-2 | 2.07 ERA | 181 K | 1.06 WHIP

4. Ted Lilly | 17-9 | 4.09 ERA | 184 K | 1.23 WHIP

5. Sean Marshall | 3-5 | 3.86 ERA | 58 K | 1.27 WHIP

CL Kevin Gregg | 29 SV | 3.41 ERA | 58 K | 1.28 WHIP

KEY BENCH PLAYERS

Aaron Miles | .317 | 4 HR | 31 RBI

Reed Johnson | .303 | 6 HR | 50 RBI

Micah Hoffpauir | .342 | 2 HR | 8 RBI

The 2009 Chicago Cubs are the most talented team in the NL Central and arguably the best team in baseball. The Cubs seem to have no holes in their team. They have a strong lineup with depth and they have a quality pitching staff with depth in the rotation and bullpen. What can wrong? Well, let’s not forget, it is the Chicago Cubs. A big key for the Cubs is starting pitcher, Rich Harden; if Harden can stay healthy for most of the season, the Cubs are going to win the NL Central without much contest. I look for Aramis Ramirez to have a big season and Big Z to have an ace-like season (also I see a few broken bats over his thigh).

OVERALL GRADE: A-

PITTSBURGH PIRATES

LINEUP

1. Nyjer Morgan | LF | .294 | 0 HR | 7 RBI

2. Freddy Sanchez | 2B | .271 | 9 HR | 52 RBI

3. Nate McLouth | CF | .276 | 26 HR | 94 RBI

4. Ryan Doumit | C | .318 | 15 HR | 69 RBI

5. Adam LaRoche | 1B | .270 | 25 HR | 85 RBI

6. Andy LaRoche | 3B | .166 | 5 HR | 18 RBI

7. Brandon Moss | RF | .246 | 8 HR | 34 RBI

8. Jack Wilson | SS | .272 | 1 HR | 22 RBI

9. PITCHER

PITCHING STAFF

1. Paul Maholm | 9-9 | 3.71 ERA | 139 K | 1.28 WHIP

2. Ian Snell | 7-12 | 5.42 ERA | 135 K | 1.76 WHIP

3. Zach Duke | 5-14 | 4.82 ERA | 87 K | 1.50 WHIP

4. Ross Ohlendorf | 1-4 | 6.46 ERA | 49 K | 1.87 WHIP

5. Jeff Karstens | 2-6 | 4.03 ERA | 23 K | 1.34 WHIP

CL Matt Capps | 21 SV | 3.02 ERA | 39 K | .97 WHIP

KEY BENCH PLAYERS

Eric Hinske | .247 | 20 HR | 60 RBI

Craig Monroe | .202 | 8 HR | 29 RBI

Oh, dear. The Pittsburgh Pirates will begin yet another losing season on Monday. Although it seems like they are beginning to get better, they still have lots to do to get this team back to the playoffs, or even a winning record for that matter. They have a young, young pitching staff and young players in the field. The emergence of Nate McLouth helps the Pirates somewhat, but the problem is he has no help. Sadly, it looks as though the Pirates will finish dead last in the NL Central yet again.

OVERALL GRADE: C-

CINCINNATI REDS

LINEUP

1. Willy Taveras | CF | .251 | 1 HR | 26 RBI

2. Jay Bruce | RF | .254 | 21 HR | 52 RBI

3. Joey Votto | 1B | .297 | 24 HR | 84 RBI

4. Brandon Phillips | 2B | .261 | 21 HR | 78 RBI

5. Edwin Encarnacion | 3B | .251 | 26 HR | 68 RBI

6. Ramon Hernandez | C | .257 | 15 HR | 65 RBI

7. Chris Dickerson | LF | .304 | 6 HR | 15 RBI

8. Alex Gonzalez | SS | .272 | 16 HR | 55 RBI (2007)

9. PITCHER

PITCHING STAFF

1. Aaron Harang | 6-17 | 4.78 ERA | 153 K | 1.38 WHIP

2. Edinson Volquez | 17-6 | 3.21 ERA | 206 K | 1.33 WHIP

3. Bronson Arroyo | 15-11 | 4.77 ERA | 163 K | 1.44 WHIP

4. Johnny Cueto | 9-14 | 4.81 ERA | 158 K | 1.41 WHIP

5. Micah Owings | 6-9 | 5.93 ERA | 87 K | 1.39 WHIP

CL Francisco Cordero | 34 SV | 3.33 ERA | 78 K | 1.41 WHIP

KEY BENCH PLAYERS

Jerry Hairston Jr. | .326 | 6 HR | 36 RBI

OVERALL GRADE: C+

It is easy to see that the Cubs have complete control over their destiny. They have the best lineup, the best pitching staff, the best bullpen in all of the Central, arguably of course (but not really). The experts are keeping their eyes on the Reds in '09, which I can see. It is possible for the Cubs to falter down the stretch, so it isn't a shoe-in that the Cubs will win the Central, but i believe the only team that can beat them is indeed the St. Louis Cardinals.

1. Chicago Cubs (98-64)

2. St. Louis Cardinals (86-76)

3. Milwaukee Brewers (82-80)

4. Houston Astros (79-83)

5. Cincinnati Reds (78-84)

6. Pittsburgh Pirates (69-93)

MLB Preview: NL East

Jonathan Goodman — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 19:57:41 -0400

Note: The lineups and rotation order are done by my discretion. The projected lineups are done the way I would have them if I was the team's manager.

ATLANTA BRAVES

LINEUP

1. Kelly Johnson 2B .287 12 HR 69 RBI

2. Yunel Escobar SS .288 10 HR 60 RBI

3. Chipper Jones 3B .364 22 HR 75 RBI

4. Brian McCann C .301 23 HR 87 RBI

5. Casey Kotchman 1B .272 14 HR 74 RBI

6. Garret Anderson LF .293 15 HR 84 RBI

7. Jeff Francoeur RF .239 11 HR 71 RBI

8. Gregor Blanco CF .251 1 HR 38 RBI

9. PITCHER

PITCHING STAFF

1. Derek Lowe 14-11 3.24 ERA 147 K 1.13 WHIP

2. Jair Jurrjens 13-10 3.68 ERA 139 K 1.37 WHIP

3. Javier Vazquez 12-16 4.67 ERA 200 K 1.32 WHIP

4. Kenshin Kawakami

5. Tom Glavine 2-4 5.54 ERA 37 K 1.64 WHIP

CL Mike Gonzalez 14 SV 4.28 ERA 44 K 1.19 WHIP

KEY BENCH PLAYERS

Matt Diaz .244 2 HR 14 RBI

Omar Infante .293 3 HR 40 RBI

I like what the Braves have done this offseason. They are going back to their successful ways in having quality pitching. Their lineup is balanced; however, they lack a dependable, power hitter. If Chipper can stay healthy for the majority of the year, I would expect the 2009 Atlanta Braves to be competitive.

OVERALL GRADE: B-

FLORIDA MARLINS

LINEUP

1. Cameron Maybin CF .500 0 HR 2 RBI

2. John Baker C .299 5 HR 32 RBI

3. Hanley Ramirez SS .301 33 HR 67 RBI

4. Jorge Cantu 1B .277 29 HR 95 RBI

5. Jeremy Hermida LF .249 17 HR 61 RBI

6. Dan Uggla 2B .260 32 HR 92 RBI

7. Cody Ross RF .260 22 HR 73 RBI

8. Emilio Bonifacio 3B .243 0 HR 14 RBI

9. PITCHER

PITCHING STAFF

1. Ricky Nolasco 15-8 3.52 ERA 186 K 1.10 WHIP

2. Josh Johnson 7-1 3.61 ERA 77 K 1.35 WHIP

3. Chris Volstad 6-4 2.88 ERA 52 K 1.33 WHIP

4. Anibal Sanchez 2-5 5.57 ERA 50 K 1.57 WHIP

5. Andrew Miller 6-10 5.87 ERA 89 K 1.64 WHIP

CL Matt Lindstrom 14 H 3.14 ERA 43 K 1.45 WHIP

KEY BENCH PLAYERS

Wes Helms .243 5 HR 31 RBI

Alfredo Amezega .264 3 HR 32 RBI

Another young squad from the Florida Marlins. The only thing that differentiates the Marlins from other young teams is the productive stats they receive from their young guns. I will be excited to see this young team throughout the season; I expect they will play a big role as a spoiler.

OVERALL GRADE: C

NEW YORK METS

LINEUP

1. Jose Reyes SS .297 16 HR 68 RBI

2. Daniel Murphy LF .313 2 HR 17 RBI

3. Carlos Beltran CF .284 27 HR 112 RBI

4. David Wright 3B .302 33 HR 124 RBI

5. Carlos Delgado 1B .271 38 HR 115 RBI

6. Ryan Church RF .276 12 HR 49 RBI

7. Luis Castillo 2B .245 3 HR 28 RBI

8. Brian Scheider C .257 9 HR 38 RBI

9. PITCHER

PITCHING STAFF

1. Johan Santana 16-7 2.53 ERA 206 K 1.15 WHIP

2. Mike Pelfrey 13-11 3.72 ERA 110 K 1.36 WHIP

3. Oliver Perez 10-7 4.22 ERA 180 K 1.40 WHIP

4. John Maine 10-8 4.18 ERA 122 K 1.35 WHIP

5. Livan Hernandez 13-11 6.05 ERA 67 K 1.67 WHIP

CL Francisco Rodriguez 62 SV 2.24 ERA 77 K 1.29 WHIP

KEY BENCH PLAYERS

Fernando Tatis .297 11 HR 47 RBI

Alex Cora .270 0 HR 9 RBI

The Mets have been the fan favorite to win the NL East for the past two seasons now, and in both seasons, they blew their chances of making the playoffs. One of the problems with last year's club was the bullpen. With the offseason additions of K-Rod and J.J. Putz, the Mets have bolstered up the bullpen. The Mets are looking good heading into the 2009 season with almost no hole on their team. I am concerned with the depth of the team, but it seems if everyone stays relatively healthy they will be just fine.

OVERALL GRADE: B+

PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES

LINEUP

1. Shane Victorino CF .293 14 HR 58 RBI

2. Jimmy Rollins SS .277 11 HR 59 RBI

3. Chase Utley 2B .292 33 HR 104 RBI

4. Ryan Howard 1B .251 48 HR 146 RBI

5. Jayson Werth RF .273 24 HR 67 RBI

6. Raul Ibanez LF .293 23 HR 110 RBI

7. Pedro Feliz 3B.249 14 HR 58 RBI

8. Carlos Ruiz C .219 4 HR 31 RBI

9. PITCHER

PITCHING STAFF

1. Cole Hamels 14-10 3.09 ERA 196 K 1.08 WHIP

2. Brett Myers 10-13 4.55 ERA 163 K 1.38 WHIP

3. Joe Blanton 9-12 4.69 ERA 111 K 1.40 WHIP

4. Jamie Moyer 16-7 3.71 ERA 123 K 1.33 WHIP

5. Chan Ho Park 4-4 3.40 ERA 79 K 1.40 WHIP

CL Brad Lidge 41 SV 1.95 ERA 92 K 1.23 WHIP

KEY BENCH PLAYERS

Eric Bruntlett .217 2 HR 15 RBI

Matt Stairs .252 13 HR 49 RBI

The 2008 World Series Champion Phillies bring back the bulk of their championship team. There are a lot of things I like about the Phils. The lineup is very good considering Citizens Bank Park, and the depth is pretty good and has a chance to get better if they decide to add Sheffield. The one thing that worked for the Phillies last year was the pitching.

Somehow, someway, a Phillies pitcher stepped up down the stretch. When you look at the rotation, it is not good; you have a quality ace and then four mediocre pitchers behind him. If Moyer pitches as well as he did last season and if Myers and Blanton pitch to their capabilities, the Phils should be fine in 2009.

OVERALL GRADE: B+

WASHINGTON NATIONALS

LINEUP

1. Lastings Milledge CF .268 14HR 61 RBI

2. Christian Guzman SS .316 9 HR 55 RBI

3. Nick Johnson 1B .220 5 HR 20 RBI

4. Ryan Zimmerman 3B .283 14 HR 51 RBI

5. Adam Dunn LF .236 40 HR 100 RBI

6. Elijah Dukes RF .264 13 HR 44 RBI

7. Anderson Hernandez 2B .333 0 HR 17 RBI

8. Jesus Flores C .256 8 HR 59 RBI

9. PITCHER

PITCHING STAFF

1. John Lannan 9-15 3.91 ERA 117 K 1.34 WHIP

2. Scott Olsen 8-11 4.20 ERA 113 K 1.31 WHIP

3. Daniel Cabrera 8-10 5.25 ERA 95 K 1.61 WHIP

4. Jordan Zimmerman

5. Shairon Martis 1-3 5.66 ERA 23 K 1.45 WHIP

CL Joel Hanrahan 9 SV 3.95 ERA 93 K 1.36 WHIP

KEY BENCH PLAYERS

Ronnie Belliard .287 11 HR 46 RBI

Josh Willingham .254 15 HR 51 RBI

Austin Kearns .217 7 HR 32 RBI

Most likely, Nick Johnson will be exiting Washington before the deadline, which will make room for the outfielders to play (Dunn would move to 1st permanently). Nonetheless, pitching has always been an important key for success and the Nats just don't have it.

OVERALL GRADE: D+

The NL East is going to come down to another crazy two weeks between the Mets and Phils. I cannot go against the World Champs until the Mets prove to me that they can play well down the stretch. As for the rest of the teams, here are my standings.

1. Philadelphia Phillies (93-69)

2. New York Mets (91-71)

3. Atlanta Braves (84-78)

4. Florida Marlins (75-87)

5. Washington Nationals (64-98)

Bracketology: March 2

Jonathan Goodman — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 16:09:47 -0500

Another week has passed, another bracket has been made. Who's in this week?

Play-In Game: Alabama State (17-8) vs. Jacksonville (17-12)

EAST

#1 Connecticut (27-2) vs. #16 Play-In Game

#8 Utah (20-8) vs. #9 Florida (21-8)

#5 UCLA (22-7) vs. #12 UNLV (20-8)

#4 Purdue (22-7) vs. #13 Vermont (23-7)

#6 West Virginia (20-9) vs. #11 Arizona (18-11)

#3 Xavier (23-5) vs. #14 North Dakota State (23-6)

#7 Texas (19-9) vs. #10 Davidson (24-6)

#2 Michigan State (23-5) vs. #15 Arkansas-Little Rock (22-7)

MIDWEST

#1 Pittsburgh (26-3) vs. #16 CS Northridge (14-12)

#8 Tennessee (18-10) vs. #9 Utah State (26-4)

#5 Clemson (22-6) vs. #12 Providence (18-11)

#4 Gonzaga (23-5) vs. #13 VCU (21-9)

#6 Syracuse (21-8) vs. #11 Dayton (24-5)

#3 Kansas (24-5) vs. #14 Buffalo (17-9)

#7 California (21-8) vs. #10 Minnesota (20-8)

#2 Duke (24-5) vs. #15 Tennessee-Martin (21-8)

SOUTH

#1 North Carolina (25-3) vs. #16 Morgan State (19-11)

#8 South Carolina (20-7) vs. #9 Wisconsin (18-10)

#5 Missouri (24-5) vs. #12 Creighton (25-6)

#4 Washington (22-7) vs. #13 Siena (23-7)

#6 Arizona State (21-7) vs. #11 Saint Mary's (24-5)

#3 Marquette (23-6) vs. #14 Cornell (19-9)

#7 Florida State (22-7) vs. #10 Kentucky (19-10)

#2 Memphis (26-3) vs. #15 Robert Morris (21-10)

WEST

#1 Oklahoma (26-3) vs. #16 Radford (18-11)

#8 Ohio State (18-9) vs. #9 BYU (22-6)

#5 LSU (25-4) vs. #12 Penn State (20-9)

#4 Villanova (23-6) vs. #13 Weber State (20-8)

#6 Illinois (23-7) vs. #11 Oklahoma State (19-9)

#3 Wake Forest (22-5) vs. #14 American University (21-7)

#7 Butler (25-4) vs. #10 Boston College (20-9)

#2 Louisville (23-5) vs. #15 Stephen F. Austin (19-7)

Last Four In:

Oklahoma State

Providence

Penn State

UNLV

First Four Out:

Kansas State

Miami (FL)

Virginia Tech

San Diego State

Next Four Out:

New Mexico

Texas A&M

Maryland

Cincinnati

There is the updated bracket. Have any questions about why some teams are/aren't there? Comment me and I will be happy to explain my reasoning. Thanks for reading.

College Basketball Bracketology: Feb. 23

Jonathan Goodman — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 10:24:51 -0500

This is my version of how the brackets would look like had the committee got together and chose the field of 65 this past Sunday.

Play-In Game: Jacksonville (15-11) vs. Alabama State (15-8)

MIDWEST

#1 Pittsburgh (25-2) vs. Play-In Game Winner

#8 Butler (23-4) vs. #9 Kentucky (19-8)

#4 Clemson (22-4) vs. #13 VCU (19-9)

#5 Arizona State (21-5) vs. #12 Creighton (23-6)

#3 Kansas (22-5) vs. #14 Buffalo (17-8)

#6 LSU (23-4) vs. #11 Boston College (19-9)

#2 Duke (22-5) vs. #15 Robert Morris (19-10)

#7 Utah (19-7) vs. #10 Wisconsin (17-10)

WEST

#1 Oklahoma (25-2) vs. #16 Radford (17-10)

#8 South Carolina (19-6) vs. #9 Utah State (25-3)

#4 Purdue (21-6) vs. #13 Vermont (22-7)

#5 Washington (20-7) vs. #12 Siena (22-6)

#3 Villanova (22-5) vs. #14 North Dakota State (21-6)

#6 Illinois (22-6) vs. #11 St. Mary's (22-5)

#2 Louisville (21-5) vs. #15 Stephen F. Austin (17-7)

#7 Florida (21-6) vs. #10 Dayton (23-4)

EAST

#1 Connecticut (25-2) vs. #16 Long Beach State (13-12)

#8 California (20-7) vs. #9 Minnesota (20-7)

#4 Wake Forest (20-5) vs. #13 Weber State (18-8)

#5 Gonzaga (21-5) vs. #12 UNLV (20-7)

#3 Xavier (22-5) vs. #14 American University (19-7)

#6 Florida State (21-6) vs. #11 Penn State (19-8)

#2 Memphis (24-3) vs. #15 Tennessee-Martin (19-7)

#7 Texas (18-8) vs. #10 Arizona (18-9)

SOUTH

#1 North Carolina (24-3) vs. #16 Morgan State (18-10)

#8 Ohio State (17-8) vs. #9 Tennessee (16-10)

#4 Missouri (23-4) vs. #13 Temple (17-9)

#5 West Virginia (19-8) vs. #12 San Diego State (18-7)

#3 Michigan State (21-5) vs. #14 Cornell (18-8)

#6 UCLA (20-7) vs. #11 Davidson (22-6)

#2 Marquette (23-4) vs. #15 Arkansas-Little Rock (20-7)

#7 Syracuse (19-8) vs. #10 BYU (20-6)

There you have it. The 2009 Field of 65 as of Sunday, February 22, 2009. I would enjoy your thoughts and comments about all the seedings and match-ups. Thanks for reading.

Last 4 In: St. Mary's, UNLV, San Diego State, Temple

Last 4 Out: Virginia Tech, Miami (FL), UAB, Providence

Next 4 Out: Maryland, Kansas State, Georgetown, Cincinnati

Life after Tony Dungy: Colts' Search for Head Coach Commences

Jonathan Goodman — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 19:52:33 -0500

With Tony Dungy’s departure, the question entering the minds of Colts fans and football fans nationwide is, “Will the Colts be who they have been for the past seven seasons?” The supposed answer to this question is, “Of course.”

At least, that is what most people believe.

I caught myself thinking, “As long as they have Manning, they’ll be okay.” That is a common thought among most people. However, it is certain that Dungy will be missed in Indy.

The heir-apparent is Associate Head Coach Jim Caldwell, who has been with Dungy for eight seasons (seven years with the Colts, one year with the Bucs). Caldwell has been the Colts' QB Coach and was promoted last offseason to associate head coach.

One thing that will remain with the Colts is continuity. Had the Colts gone elsewhere to look for a coach, i.e. Bill Cowher or Mike Shanahan, I think they may have struggled for at least half of a season.

Cowher is someone that the Colts would have definitely considered because of his defensive presence. Thinking about a Steelers-type defense paired with an offense led by Manning is unfathomable.

What gives the Colts the best opportunity to maintain their success? I think continuity is the very key to that question. By keeping the same staff and the same players along with the same philosophy and game plan, you will be able to keep the success that the Colts have had for the past seven seasons with Dungy.

The Colts do not have many weaknesses to improve upon. However, like all teams, they do have a few, one of them being stopping the run.

The Colts have shown that they have a hard time stopping their opponent’s run game on any given Sunday. And they have shown that a huge key to that is safety Bob Sanders. It is not wise to completely rely on one man to stop the run and it is evident that the Colts need someone in the middle to clog up the lanes.

It is easy to say that if they had a defensive tackle capable of stopping the run, the Colts could have made it to the Super Bowl this season, with a weak AFC (or NFL, really). Their offensive line was a big factor in the Colts' success, or lack thereof, this season. Their offensive line must get better, mainly in the run game.

The Colts were not inept at running the football, and we all know they don’t have a running back to get them a 3rd-and-inches or a 4th-and-goal at the one-yard line. They were 31st in the league in rushing. That is not acceptable for a team aspiring to go to the Super Bowl.

Alright, so is Jim Caldwell the right guy for the job when it comes down to all the key factors? The answer is yes. Caldwell will maintain the excellence of Manning and the Colts, and I expect to see the Colts in the postseason in 2009.

However, for those Colts fans out there who are thinking about another title, there are some things the Colts must address first. The offensive and defensive lines are problems, especially in terms of the run game. This upcoming NFL draft, I expect to see the Colts look for a big DT to plug that running hole every running back seems to be running through when playing the Colts.

As a footnote, I would like to congratulate and thank Tony Dungy. He was a great coach, teacher, role model, etc. I think it is a big loss, not only for the Colts, but for the NFL, to see a great man walk away from the game.

Thank you, Tony, and may God bless you in your pursuit for happiness for you and your family.

NFL Week 10 Preview: Part 1

Jonathan Goodman — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 08:50:13 -0500

Alright, it is week 10 in the NFL; it is the last week of byes for the teams, which means we're approaching the final stretch of the season.

We start off with the first midseason Thursday night game, the Denver Broncos (4-4) at the Cleveland Browns (3-5). The Denver Broncos have been up and down the entire season and have not played well the past few weeks. While scoring an average of almost 38 points per game the first three weeks, the Broncos have not managed to score more than 19 points the past 5 games. Many of us thought that the week eight bye would help rejuvenate them, instead they threw up 17 against Miami and lost at home.

On the other sideline, the Cleveland Browns just have not been good at all this entire season. Plus, they are introducing sophomore quarterback Brady Quinn on a short week. They are now 1-3 in the conference, with their only win being the Bengals. This could go either way in my opinion, and I am hoping Quinn will do well and Braylon Edwards will actually catch a pass. When it comes down to it, the Broncos have to prove to me that they can still be a high-scoring offense. Browns win this offensive struggle, 23-17.

Next, we have the enticing match-up between the Seattle Seahawks (2-6) at the Miami Dolphins (4-4). The Seahawks, let's face it, have been a major disappointment. They have not played good offensively, defensively, hell, they have played good at any phase of the game. The Seahawks, amazingly, have a 2-1 record in their division, however, they have yet to face the Arizona Cardinals. They have no wide receiver, no quarterback, and what seems like a jelly-strong defense that is giving up 375 yards per game.

The Dolphins have been a pleasant surprise, however.The only thing I can say about this team is that they do a great job against good teams, but fail to play as good against average teams. They have monstrous wins against the Pats, Chargers and the Bills, but they lost to the Texans and the Ravens at home.Nevertheless, I have to go with the 'Phins at home, 26-21.

Now, an actual enticing game–the Green Bay Packers (4-4) on the road against the Minnesota Vikings (4-4). The Packers have consistently played well all season long with a few hiccups every now and then. Aaron Rodgers has proved to his critics (cough cough) that he can be a decent starting QB in the NFL. The Packers defense is going to be key to this game; they rank 27th against the run and, if you don't know, the Minnesota Vikings have some guy name Adrian Peterson.The Packers must contain AD and force Frerotte to pass the ball in order to win this game.

The Vikings, however, have a different situation in this game. The 24-19 loss back in Week 1 put the Vikings in an immediate hole and this week, the Vikes have a shot at getting back to level ground. The big question is: Does Frerotte make up for 5 points? This win would get the Vikings to 2-2 in the division, one game ahead of the Packers, who would be 2-1. This is a game in which the Vikings have to make a statement; if they lose, you pretty much mark them out of the playoffs with a tough NFC this year. I believe, though, that Gus Frerotte does make up 5 points and the Vikings win this battle, 27-20.

Another do-or-die match-up in the NFC, the New Orleans Saints (4-4) go to Atlanta to face the Falcons (5-3). This will be the Saints 3rd divisional game in which they are 1-1. The good thing about the Saints is that their offense is still very much potent, however, while ranking 1st in passing yardage, they rank 29th on the ground.The defense is still not very good giving up nearly 350 yards a game.

The five accumulative wins the Falcons have came against three NFC North opponents while the other two came from the AFC West not named the Chargers and Broncos. The Falcons are 0-2 against the NFC South and have only be able to score nine points in each contest. Now, I can't see the Saints holding the Falcons to less than double-digits, but can the Falcons win a shoot-out? Because of the circumstances this game might come down to, I am going with the veteran QB–Saints, 31-27.

The surprise of the season has to be the undefeated Tennessee Titans (8-0); they face the Bears (5-3) in Chicago this week, trying to advance to 9-0. How can the Titans be 8-0 on their way to 9-0? Simple. It's all about the Titans defense.The Titans are giving up the fewest points per game and are giving up less than 300 yards of total offense per game. By chewing up time and playing hard defense, the Titans have dominated teams on the field, even if the score wouldn't reflect it. As long as Kerry Collins stays away from turnovers, the Titans should win another one this Sunday.

The Bears will have some say in that, however. The Bears offense does not look as bad as they have been the past few years (in fact, they look better than they did when they went to the Superbowl). Nonetheless, Kyle Orton will probably not be out there on Sunday, even though he is staying optimistic. The Bears will have ol' Rexy out there and I cannot imagine how well that will play out. This is a pretty easy one for me, especially with the injury to Orton. Titans will force the boos in Soldier Field, 24-10.

An underestimated game this Sunday is the Baltimore Ravens (5-3) at the Houston Texans (3-5). Baltimore has been playing impressive football this season with rookie quarterback Joe Flacco. The Ravens are about to enter the gauntlet of their schedule, having to face all four NFC East teams, two more divisional games and one against Jacksonville. Their offense has been a refreshing part of this team, making it seem like the Ravens do have some hope before this defense deteriorates from age.

The Texans have been playing well at home and about came back on the Vikings in the Metrodome last week. Although Rosenfels is more mistake-prone, he is an able QB especially when a tall #80 is the receiver he's throwing it to. The fact of the matter is, the Texans are a collapse away from being 4-0 at Reliant Stadium. I am going with the upset in this one, Texans over the Ravens, 34-21.

To wrap up part one, I will depart with the St. Louis Rams (2-6) against the New York Jets (5-3) in the Meadowlands. I do have to hand it to Jim Haslett, the Rams have been playing better football with Haslett under the helm. Even last week was not as bad as it seemed; the Rams gave up 24 of Arizona's 34 points in the 2nd quarter, while turning over the ball twice in the quarter. Outside of that quarter, the Rams didn't really play that bad. Nonetheless, this is a 2-6 team whose offense is sometimes non-existent at times. They are giving up over 400 total yards per game while barely gaining over 250 yards per game.

It should be interesting to see how Brett Favre handles this dreadful Rams defense. Favre has always been susceptible to the interception, yet is always susceptible to the deep pass as well. We will probably see a lot of one and some of the other; that is to be determined, however, I would put my money on Favre having a good game. The Jets should be able to handle their business against the Rams, 30-17.

More Proof the BCS Just Does Not Work

Jonathan Goodman — Sun, 02 Nov 2008 15:47:21 -0500

Another screw-up by the BCS—what a shocker! It is truly unbelievable how terrible this system is.

First, let us thank God that the BCS got something right in this week's standings. That, of course, is the Alabama Crimson Tide at No. 1.

The Alabama Crimson Tide have a pretty easy schedule the rest of the way aside from the LSU game in Baton Rouge. If they get past the Tigers, they should ride all the way to the SEC Championship Game, which could, and probably will be, a Gator-Crimson Tide battle for a chance to play in the championship game.

Now for the complete and utter awfulness that is the BCS. The Texas Tech Red Raiders, whose last-minute efforts did beat the No. 1 Longhorns, climbed all the way to No. 2. The Red Raiders surpassed USC, Oklahoma, and Penn State.

I am perfectly fine with Texas Tech being ranked ahead of USC and Oklahoma, but not Penn State. Let's not forget, the Red Raiders have not played either Oklahoma teams and have only beaten an overrated Kansas Jayhawks team and Texas.

I would consider Penn State's win at Ohio State more impressive than Texas Tech's win over Texas at home. Sure, the Penn State-Ohio State game was not as entertaining, but that was a big, big win at the Horseshoe in Columbus.

At No. 4 is the previous No. 1, Texas, which is probably where they should be. This is where I get confused. At No. 5 are the Florida Gators. Okay, that would be fine had they not jumped a team (cough cough, Oklahoma) who just put up 62 points.

I understand the Gators destroyed a very good Georgia Bulldogs team, but seriously, how do you drop in the rankings after you just murdered a conference opponent by 34 points? Yes, I realize that they would have been losing ground at No. 5, but they lose two spots because of an overrated blowout at a neutral site.

I do not have a problem with Florida jumping over USC, seeing how USC has only beaten one OSU while losing to another. The Oklahoma State Cowboys have an even bigger fight as they gained nothing after their 42-point romp.

Perhaps now is the time to mention the team that surpassed them was Utah. Yes, the Utah Utes, who took it to the New Mexico Lobos (4-6, 2-4) 13-10. Evidently that will get you some respect in the BCS.

I must give the BCS a standing ovation for the wonderful job it is doing—it is truly spectacular!

Not that anyone cares, but this is how my top 25 would have gone instead.

Alabama
Penn State
Texas Tech
Texas
Oklahoma
Florida
USC
Oklahoma State
Utah
Boise State
Ohio State
TCU
Georgia
Missouri
LSU
BYU
Ball State
Michigan State
UNC
Georgia Tech
Florida State
Maryland
California
West Virginia
Northwestern