Five Potential Surprise MLB Teams: 2009

In 2008, the Tampa Bay Rays were one of the biggest MLB surprises of all time. They had never won more than 71 games. In 2008, they won over 90.

There are a few teams looking to do something similar this year. Here are my top five potential surprise teams.

1. Kansas City Royals

Reason: The Royals have underrated starting pitching led by Gil Meche and Zach Greinke and an underrated closer in Joakim Soria. Their lineup is one that plays hard every inning.

Potential Downfall: The Royals have a pretty big history of bad teams. They will need to get over that mindset to turn things around. Also, they need a little more power on offense.

2. Atlanta Braves

Reason: The Braves did a makeover on their pitiful rotation. If the rotation can stay healthy, they can be one of the best in baseball. Also, their young and talented lineup is a year older and hopefully a lot better.

Potential Downfall: Injuries killed the Braves last year. If they have a slew of them this year, they will have the same result. The Braves' lack of power might keep them down this season. If they can acquire a player with good power, even in a platoon situation, that will greatly help the team.

3. San Fransisco Giants

Reason: The Giants have a good starting rotation. If Zito becomes even half the player he was in Oakland, it could be a great rotation. Also, the addition of Edgar Renteria should help on offense.

Potential Downfall: As with most teams on this list, the Giants lack power. Their pursuit of a power bat in the offseason failed miserably. They will need to acquire one to have any chance of contending. Also, Brian Wilson has to be more consistent. He did have 41 saves, but his ERA was terrible.

4. Baltimore Orioles

Reason: Their offense should be much improved this season. Nick Markakis, Brian Roberts, Aubrey Huff, and Melvin Mora lead an underrated offense. If Felix Pie and Adam Jones reach their potential quickly, the Orioles will get better in a hurry. Also, George Sherrill is an underrated closer.

Potential Downfall: Their starting pitching is not very good, at least on paper. Someone has to step up to help this rotation in a hurry.

5. Cincinnati Reds

Reason: The Reds should have a good offense in 2009. Jay Bruce, Joey Votto, Edwin Encarnacion, and Brandon Phillips are just a few of the talented players on the Reds roster.

The addition of catcher Ramon Hernandez is big. He can hit and play solid defense. Lastly, Dusty Baker is a wonderful manager. Pretty soon, things will click for him.

Potential Downfall: Playing at Great American Ballpark is similar to playing at Coors Field or Rangers Ballpark in Arlington. It's not fair to pitchers. If the pitching holds its own at home, they could be a surprise team. If not, it could be another long year for the Reds.