2012 MLB Predictions: Underrated Teams That Will Earn Playoff Berths

Hope would be the only word to accurately describe the start of every MLB season. Fans of teams across the league believe, at least for a few weeks, that this will finally be the year their favorite squad turns things around and makes the postseason.

Let's take a look at three teams that aren't getting a whole lot of respect right now, but the grueling 162-game will prove they belong in the playoffs.

Toronto Blue Jays

The Blue Jays looked like a solid sleeper pick even before a strong showing in spring training. Brett Lawrie should emerge as one of the game's best young hitters in his first full season, and a rebound year from Colby Rasmus will give Toronto one of the AL's top offenses.

They also have a rock-solid bullpen led by Sergio Santos. Casual fans might not recognize some of the names, but just check out the team's Opening Day game for the evidence. The relievers pitched 11 scoreless innings, leading to a victory over the Cleveland Indians.

Ricky Romero and Brandon Morrow give the Jays a solid one-two punch atop the rotation. If another starter or two steps up—and there are plenty of candidates—Toronto will benefit from the new Wild Card spot added for 2012.

Atlanta Braves

Everybody remembers Atlanta's epic collapse in September last season, but it's important to note that the Braves were one of the best teams in all of baseball before that. One terrible month doesn't suddenly make them an afterthought in the playoff race.

They still have an elite pitching staff that will only get better when Tim Hudson returns from injury. Brandon Beachy should also continue to improve as he gains more experience. Paired with a dominant bullpen, the Braves will be the masters of keeping runs off the board.

Former top prospect Jason Heyward, who's still just 22 years old, should bounce back from a brutal sophomore season, and the offense will also benefit from a full season of Michael Bourn. That should be more than enough for them to earn a playoff spot.

Colorado Rockies

The Rockies are coming off a disappointing campaign that saw injuries derail a promising season, leading to the team's worst record since 2005. They shouldn't have much problem getting back into the thick of things with some better injury luck.

Troy Tulowitzki and Carlos Gonzalez are one of the most dynamic young duos in the league, and they should provide a bulk of the offense. Overlooked additions like Michael Cuddyer and Ramon Hernandez will also help Colorado's ability to score runs.

Rafael Betancourt headlines a steady bullpen, making the starting rotation the biggest concern. Jorge De La Rosa will provide a nice boost when he gets healthy, and look for Jhoulys Chacin and Juan Nicasio to step up, leading the Rockies back to the playoffs.