2009 MLB Preview and Predictions

Mike AndersonApr 8, 2009

The 2009 season is upon us and this year the Phillies look to retain their title. The season seems to be wide open with a very even playing field among the teams. Let's take a look at each division.

I will predict the order of each division with some analysis. After that I will look at how I think the playoffs will play out along with award winners at the end of the season. I'd love to hear some feedback and hope everyone enjoys the article and the season.

LET'S PLAY BALL!!!

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NL EAST

This division is one of the best in baseball. There are four teams who could easily win this division. Phillies of course are the favorites coming in as the World Champions. Mets and Braves both made off-season moves to improve their clubs and the Marlins are one of the better young teams in baseball.

The Nationals have made some improvements also but are probably a few years away yet.

1. New York Mets

Although I do believe the Mets need a starting pitcher other than Santana to step it up, I think this team is just to talented to break down for the third straight year. The Mets have three of the best all around players in baseball with David Wright, Jose Reyes, and Carlos Beltran.

Carlos Delgado is getting up there in age but if he can have a season like last year the Mets will be very happy. Murphy and Church could be sleepers in the outfield as well. There is really no doubt that Johan Santana will perform but what about the rest of the rotation. I think they will be better than people think.

Maine, Pelfrey, and Perez have all shown flashes of great stuff but have been inconsistent. I look for all to take a step forward this year. The reason Mets have had so much trouble the past couple of years is because of the bullpen.

Well they made sure that wouldn't be a problem this year by bringing in closer Francisco Rodriguez and converted setup man J.J. Putz. Look for the Mets to be a very formidable team this year.

2. Atlanta Braves

The Braves went from question marks all season last year to the best rotation in the NL East. The additions of Lowe and Vazquez give them veteran leadership at the top. Youngster Jair Jurrjens looks like a star in the making.

The back of the rotation will be a mix of pitchers all of whom should be successful. Kawakami isn't a young rookie but one who brings a fresh new look to the team. Glavine is reliable and the biggest asset he brings is his leadership.

The wild-card in the rotation is rookie Tommy Hanson. Although he starts the season in the minors, he will no doubt be brought up sooner rather than later and could be the next in a line of great pitchers for the Braves. The lineup lacks power but makes up for it with smart baseball.

Chipper Jones is still an MVP type player who won the batting title last year. Brian McCann is the best all around catcher in the league. I look for Jeff Francoeur to bounce back in a big way as well.

Rookie Jordan Schafer makes the outfield much stronger this year and gives them speed at the top of the lineup. Braves should be back to their winning ways this year and the playoffs might be in their sights.

3. Philadelphia Phillies

I think this ranking proves how good the NL East is, as I could easily see the Phillies actually winning the division again. The reason I have them ending in third is the pitching. People question the Mets rotation but I believe the Phillies have more question marks.

Hamels is a quality ace but is dealing with elbow injuries, not something you want to hear about a pitcher. I do believe he'll bounce back but past Hamels the rotation is a bit of a question. Which Brett Myers will Philly get? The first half who couldn't seem to buy a win or the second half who seemed unhittable.

His inconsistency isn't what a team needs from their No. 2 pitcher. Moyer and Blanton are average pitchers but pretty much need their offense to perform for them every time out.

Park is washed up and Philly may look at trading to get a better fifth pitcher. The bullpen should be strong but they can only do so much. The lineup is still one of if not the best with MVP candidates Ryan Howard, Chase Utley, and Jimmy Rollins.

The loss of Pat Burrell was offset by the addition of Raul Ibanez. Phillies have a great team and should contend until the end but I look for the pitching to come up a little short for them this season.

4. Florida Marlins

The Marlins are an up and coming team who could emerge this year. Florida once again has put together a group of young players who have some amazing talent. The lineup is strong lead by superstar Hanley Ramirez.

Ramirez could make a case for the best player in baseball, his blend of speed and power is unmatched. Besides Ramirez the Marlins have some great power in Uggla, Cantu, and Ross. Cameron Maybin will finally get his chance this year and should be a great player for years to come.

The rotation is young but impressive none the less. Ricky Nolasco and Josh Johnson form a strong one-two punch at the top that could be considered the best in the next couple years.

The back of the rotation seems to have some guys who could become stars in their own rights with Chris Volstad, Anibal Sanchez, and Andrew Miller. The bullpen is a little shaky but if fastball master Matt Lindstrom can become a shutdown closer this team could be a dark-horse.

The Marlins should be a fun team to watch this year but I think they may be a year or two away from being back on top.

5. Washington Nationals

Once again I look for the Nationals to be a the bottom of the division. The offense seems to be on the rise with a good mix of veterans and youngsters. Adam Dunn brings some much needed power to the lineup. Ryan Zimmerman has dealt with injuries in his young career but if he can stay healthy he should blossom into a great player.

If youngsters Lastings Milledge and Eljah Dukes can break out this year than the Nationals run production may surprise some. Although the offense is much improved the pitching is still a huge question from top to bottom.

They brought in veterans Scott Olsen and Daniel Cabrera, both of whom have shown good stuff but neither seem to be a true ace.

Rookie Jordan Zimmerman has impressed and the team believe he could be the ace of the future.

The back of the rotation is question mark city with John Lannan having one good season and unproven Collen Banister. The bullpen is as much as a question as the starters with no great relievers to speak of. Nationals need better pitching before they will compete but at least the offense might give fans some fun games.

NL CENTRAL

The central seems to be pretty even every year with the one constant being the Pirates ending in last. This year shouldn't be any different with each team bringing their own strengths to the table.

Last year both the Cubs and Brewers made the playoffs but fell flat in the playoffs. I think this division is the hardest to predict at least first and last place. Nos. 2-5 could all switch around as I believe they are very equal.

1. Chicago Cubs

The Cubs should be able to win the division pretty easily again this year. They have one of the most balanced teams in all of baseball. The big question is whether they can win in the playoffs and finally win a title.

The starting rotation is what makes this team so deadly. Carlos Zambrano fell off a bit last year but should be his dominant self once again. Ryan Dempster and Ted Lilly aren't flashy but get the job done.

Rich Harden may be the most talented pitcher in baseball but he has never been able to stay healthy, if he does the rest of the division better watch out. The bullpen is one of the best with Aaron Heilman, Carlos Marmol and Kevin Gregg.

The lineup is aging but should still produce a lot of runs. Reigning rookie of the year Geovany Soto should only improve. Derek Lee isn't what he was three years ago but is still solid. Aramis Ramirez is under appreciated for what he brings to the team and might be the most important player in the lineup.

Alfonso Soriano can bring headaches with his streakiness but when he is hot he is as good as any. The Cubs brought in a much needed left-handed hitter in Milton Bradley.

Throughout his career Bradley has struggled to stay healthy but when he is he is very productive and could push this team over the top. The Cubs should be there in October and have a very good chance of having their first title in 100 years.

2. Cincinatti Reds

If there was any team that could be this year's Tampa Bay Rays I would say it's the Reds. The pitching staff makes this team a very scary opponent.

Aaron Harang had a rough year last year but his career numbers show that he should bounce back. Last years breakout player Edison Volquez has some of the most electric stuff in baseball and could have 200+ strikeouts.

Bronson Arroyo isn't spectacular but brings consistency to the middle of the rotation. Johnny Cueto is very young and unpolished but many believe he could be better than Volquez.

The rotation ends with Micah Owings who could still be a great pitcher if he can just produce over a full year. If he doesn't work out than rookie Homer Bailey still has a chance of becoming a front line starter.

The bullpen isn't quite as good as it was last year but Francisco Cordero seems to get it done every year even though it isn't always pretty. The lineup is one of the youngest in baseball but has some players who could be stars. Joey Votto and Jay Bruce both had very good rookie seasons last year and should improve greatly this year.

This year the Reds hope rookie Chris Dickerson can have the same impact as Votto and Bruce did last year.

Veterans Brandon Phillips and Edwin Encarnacion bring some pop to the lineup along with newly acquired catcher Ramon Hernandez. Reds also brought in some much needed speed in Willy Taveras.

Overall the Reds might be a bit too young to put it together this year but something tells me that this team will start winning sooner rather than later.

3. Milwaukee Brewers

The Brew-Crew lost their best first half pitcher in Ben Sheets and their best second half pitcher in CC Sabathia. Where does that leave them? With lots of questions. The offense should still be good with the same lineup as last year.

Ryan Braun and Prince Fielder are two of the best young players in baseball and anchor the talent around them. Corey Hart and J.J. Hardy aren't well known but bring a lot to the team. Rookies Mat Gamel and Angel Salome are waiting in the wings and could make this lineup even better.

So the lineup isn't a worry but the pitching could doom this team. Yovani Gallardo is coming off a season in which he barely pitched due to injury, he could be an ace but that is a lot of pressure for such a young player.

Manny Parra seems to be a decent young player but projects more as a back of the rotation arm as opposed to the No. 2 slot.

Jeff Suppan, Dave Bush, and Braden Looper are all serviceable but none are above average. The bullpen may have gotten a little better with the signing of Trevor Hoffman but age is creeping up on him and he may not be the savior they are looking for.

All in all the Brewers still have a good team but one that might take a bit of a step backwards his season.

4. St. Louis Cardinals

The Cardinals success could hinge on one arm. That is the arm of Chris Carpenter. Carpenter has been out of the rotation for the better part of two seasons and looks to regain his form this year.

If Carpenter can be the pitcher he was before his injury than this team could sneak into the playoffs. Along with Carpenter the top of the rotation should be strong with Adam Wainwright leading them. Wainwright seems to be the second coming of Carpenter and is an ace in the making.

The rest of the rotation is solid with Kyle Lohse, Todd Wellemeyer, and Joel Pinero. They don't strike fear into the heart of opponents but can get the job done. The offense is a bit of a question.

Albert Pujols is probably the best player in baseball but beyond him they have no proven players. Troy Glaus is a nice powerful bat but will start on the DL and may have trouble getting his power back.

Rick Ankiel and Ryan Ludwick are sleepers but Ludwick broke out at such a late age that I look for him to take a step back. If rookie Colby Rasmus can be the player that he is expected to be than he might be the compliment that Pujols needs.

All in all the Cards could be a very good team but until Carpenter proves he is healthy and until hey find someone else besides Pujols to help the offense than I believe this team will just behind in the division race.

5. Houston Astros

Another team with a very good lineup and a very shaky pitching staff. Roy Oswalt is one of the best pitchers around but he can only pitch every five or six days. Beyond Oswalt, the 'Stros are very weak in the rotation. Wandy Rodriguez has improved every year but never to the point where he has proven he is anything special.

Mike Hampton makes his return but does anyone really believe he has anything left? Beyond that the rotation is a mix of unproven youngsters and burnt out veterans. The bullpen is solid with Jose Valverde closing out games but getting them can be a problem.

The lineup is still one of he best with Lance Berkman and Carlos Lee forming a strong force in the middle. Youngster Hunter Pence should keep taking steps forward and projects to multiple All Star appearances.

Miguel Tejada has a lot of question surrounding him this year but may feel he has something to prove same as his new teammate Ivan Rodriguez. I look for this team to score a lot of runs but be scored on just as much. Until they get someone besides Roy Oswalt in that rotation than Houston won't compete.

6. Pittsburgh Pirates

No team has as many consecutive losing seasons as the Pirates and that streak should keep going this year. Although the Pirates have some good young pieces they just don't have what it takes to compete. Breakout star Nate McLouth leads the offense and should prove that he wasn't a one-year wonder.

Ryan Doumit is underrated and could put up some great numbers. The Pirates need youngsters Andy LaRoche, Andrew McCutchen, and Steve Pearce to mature quickly if they are going to have any chance of not coming in last place once again. The pitching isn't horrible but it isn't anything to write home about either.

Ian Snell and Paul Maholm are both good pitchers but neither have ace stuff. Zack Duke seems to keep getting chances but never seems to make much of them. The back of the rotation should rotate throughout the year as Pittsburgh will look for a sleeper to emerge. The brightest spot on this team is the bullpen.

Matt Capps is a very underrated closer who seems to always get the job done. Tyler Yates isn't well known but is a great reliever for the Pirates. Although Pirates are still rebuilding they need to put it together quickly otherwise that losing streak is going to keep on getting bigger and bigger.

NL WEST

This is probably the weakest of the National League division but that's not to say it doesn't have some good team. I think Los Angeles proved last year that they should be taken seriously and Arizona is a young team that is ready to break through.

San Francisco would be very good if their offense could give any run support to that stellar rotation. Colorado is on two years removed from a World Series and could be a darkhorse while San Diego needs to start rebuilding quickly.

1. Arizona Diamondbacks

The rotation is as good as any with Brandon Webb and Dan Haren as the best one-two punch in all of baseball. Either pitcher could win the Cy Young. Rookie flamethrower Max Scherzer starts off on the DL but if he comes back healthy he could have close to 200 strikeouts as his stuff is filthy.

New comer Jon Garland give them a good steady middle of the rotation talent along with Doug Davis. The bullpen is a bit of a question after the departure of Brandon Lyon but Chad Qualls and Tony Pena could be better than most expect. The lineup is very young but are right on the verge of breaking out.

Outfielders Justin Upton and Chris Young are great all around talents that just need to cut down on their strikeouts. Conor Jackson and Stephen Drew are both quality players who bring a lot of smart to the team. Mark Reynolds has tons of power but with that come lots of strikeouts.

The D-Backs will hope for a healthy return from Eric Byrnes the leader of this lineup. Although the Diamondbacks are rough around the edges, their pitching staff and the possibility of the young talent finding their game make this team one of the best around.

2. Los Angeles Dodgers

The Dodgers will have Manny Ramirez for a whole year this year which is great for the offense but the offense isn't the concern. The pitching has some great young talent but unproven as well. Chad Billingsley and Clayton Kershaw could both be stars but might have too much pressure on them to be the top-two guys.

Hiroki Kuroda was a nice surprise last year but one who may take a step backwards. Randy Wolf is a good veteran but doesn't seem to stay healthy long enough to really help a team. James McDonald looks like he will be rushed into starting as Jason Schmidt once again will not be ready for the season.

The bullpen lost some key players last year but Jonathan Broxton projects to be a very good closer. As far as the lineup goes, they shouldn't have nearly as much trouble scoring runs this year with Manny and Casey Blake in the lineup for the whole season.

Matt Kemp looks like a star waiting to bust out and a 30-40 season is very realistic. The health of middle infielders Orlando Hudson and Rafael Furcal is a concern but if they can beat the injury bug than they form a nice duo.

Russell Martin is one of the most versatile catchers in baseball but unless they give him more time off this year I look for the injuries to start hitting. James Loney and Andre Ethier are both talented players that will benefit greatly from Manny being in the lineup.

The Dodgers have a very good chance of winning the division again this year but only if their pitching can hold up the whole season.

3. San Francisco

Where's the offense? That is the big question for the Giants, with no real power bats to speak of this team will rely on a mix of young unproven players and veterans who may or may not be past their prime.

Randy Winn, Edgar Renteria, Bengie Molina, and Aaron Rowand are all good players but are aging and have never been the superstar type. Pablo Sandoval and Travis Ishikawa may have to mature quickly this year if the Giants are going to have a chance.

The rotation for San Francisco is excellent with reigning Cy Young winner Tim Lincecum, underrated Matt Cain, and crafty veteran Randy Johnson. Each could easily win 15 or more games if the offense could give them any run support. Giants are hoping that Barry Zito will finally live up to his contract and perform like his former self.

Jonathan Sanchez is still raw but showed some great stuff last year and is one of the better No. 5 pitchers in baseball. If the Giants could put up any runs this year than watch out because that pitching staff in unforgiving.

4. Colorado Rockies

Which team will show up? The team from two years ago that looked like a team of destiny? Or the team from last year that just couldn't put it together? I think it will be a mixture of the two.

I believe the offense is still very formidable even with the lose of Matt Holliday. Garrett Atkins and Brad Hawpe are prime candidates for bounce back seasons. Troy Tulowitzki had trouble coming back from injuries but a clean bill of health this year could mean breakout city.

Chris Iannetta finally lived up to his hype last year and his bat a whole year will help ease the lose of Holliday.

Ian Stewart, Seth Smith, and Ryan Spilborghs are anything but polished player but each has shown reason to believe they will be the real deal. Also look for rookie Dexter Fowler to make an impact some time this year. The pitching is once again the problem for Colorado.

Ace Jeff Francis is out for the year which leaves this team with some question marks as to who will lead the staff. Aaron Cook had a nice year last year but his career shows that it might have been a fluke. Ubaldo Jimenez looks to be a strong force but pitching stars can fade quickly in Coors Field.

Jason Marquis and Jorge De La Rosa are stop gap pitchers that will struggle mightily in Colorado. On the plus side the bullpen looks to be strong even after the lose of Brian Fuentes.

Newly acquired Huston Street will be the closer and Manny Corpas will set him up. Rockies are gonna have to find some answers to their pitching woes before they become World Series contenders again.

5. San Diego Padres

If I had to bet on which team would have the worst record in baseball my vote would be for these guys. The offense has one of the best players in the league in Adrian Gonzalez but beyond him there are lots of question marks.

Chase Headley and Kevin Kouzmanoff where highly touted prospects and could break out but playing at Petco park isn't great for a young hitter. San Diego may have the worst middle infield with David Eckstein and Luis Rodriguez, neither is a real starter and don't bring much to the table. Brian Giles is on the downside of his career.

Nick Hundley and Jody Gerut are serviceable player but neither seem to be anything but stopgaps. The pitching looks good at first with Jake Peavy and Chris Young, but after that there is not much. Peavy is still one of the best around but most believe he will be gone by trade deadline.

Young has flashed great stuff but has never stayed healthy. The rest of the rotation looks like shambles with anyone having a chance from Wade LeBlanc to Cha Seung Baek to former standout Mark Prior. The bullpen doesn't look a whole lot better with loss of Trevor Hoffman.

Heath Bell projects to be a decent closer but has never been great when given the opportunity. Padres have new ownership which might be what this team needs but don't look for much from this team this year.

AL EAST

The AL East might have the three best teams in baseball. Which is terrible news for whoever ends in third. The Yankees, Red Sox, and Rays are all extremely talented teams who have a great chance of hoisting the trophy.

Blue Jays and Orioles have the bad luck of being in the division with these juggernauts but are respectable teams in their own rights.

1. Boston Red Sox

There probably isn't a better pitching staff in baseball. The depth the Sox have in the rotation and the bullpen is outstanding. Josh Beckett, Daisuke Matsuzaka, and Jon Lester are all 20 win possibilities. Each one has flaw in their games but nothing that their talent doesn't make up for.

At the back of the rotation you have veteran leader Tim Wakefield who can be effective as a starter or a reliever.

Newly Acquired Brad Penny looks like he is healthy and was once and Ace pitcher. John Smoltz won't pitch until at least May but when he comes back there is no reason to think he won't dominate like he has throughout his entire career. Boston also has Clay Buchholz waiting in the wings and he may be just as good as Jon Lester.

The bullpen is just as impressive as the rotation with Takashi Saito, Justin Masterson, and Hideki Okajima setting the table for save collector Jonathan Papelbon. The offense is very good as well this year. There are a few question marks like will David Ortiz be healthy and how will the team do without Manny.

But there is no reason to think that this team won't produce. Kevin Youkilis and Dustin Pedroia are two of the toughest players around and will give their all every day. Jason Bay brings some great talent to the team as well.

Youngsters Jacoby Ellsbury and Jed Lowrie look to be the real deal and veterans J.D. Drew, Mike Lowell, and Jason Varitek still may have some juice left in them. All around this may be the most talented team in baseball.

2. Tampa Bay Rays

The Cinderella story of last year won't take anyone by surprise this year, but don't think that they are a one-year wonder. This team was so good last year because they built their farm systems and the young players all meshed and produced at the same time. Scott Kazmir and James Shields are dynamite and form a strong duo at the top of the rotation.

Matt Garza was overlooked last year but had an outstanding breakout season and should just get better. Andy Sonnanstine isn't spectacular but he is consistent and brings some variety to the team. David Price will start off in the minors but could be the most talented pitcher on the team and looks like he will be their ace of the future.

The bullpen doesn't posses a typical power closer but mixes some great talent with Troy Percival, Dan Wheeler, and ultra talented Grant Balfour. On the other side of the ball Tampa boasts some of the best young talent around with Evan Longoria and B.J. Upton.

Longoria is outstanding as a hitter and fielder and looks like the second coming of Mike Schmidt. Upton was hampered by injuries last year but showed his potential in the playoffs hitting seven home runs.

Carl Crawford, Carlos Pena, and Dioner Navarro are spectacular players who are still in the prime of their careers. Jason Bartlett and Akinori Iwanmura are exactly what you want in middle infielders. This year the Rays brought in Pat Burrell to be their DH and he is only going to make this stellar lineup better.

Newly acquired Matt Joyce might surprise some as he showed some nice pop last year with Detroit. Will Tampa fall off after an amazing run? I don't see that happening, There is just too much talent and skill on this team.

3. New York Yankees

The Yankees were back to their old spending ways signing arguably the three best free agents in CC Sabathia, A.J. Burnett, and Mark Teixeira. There is no doubt that this team will compete but the blend of talent may not be enough to keep up with Boston and Tampa in the end.

Sabathia might be the best pitcher over the past two years but you have to start to wonder when all those innings are going to get to him. Burnett has great stuff but he only seems to really show up in contract years. Chien-Ming Wang and Andy Pettitte are steady veterans who will be very important to the success of the team.

The wild card in the rotation in Joba Chamberlain. Some feel he isn't ready for the rotation yet but I believe he may be the most talented on the team. The bullpen is strong as always with sandman Mariano Rivera almost guaranteeing a save every time he pitches.

The lineup is strong but needs to perform well together. Alex Rodriguez starts on the DL and will have to face the scrutiny of fans and media when he gets back. I still look for him to hit about 35 homers and 100 RBI. Mark Teixeira should fit in nicely and gives them another talented hitter to hit behind A-Rod.

Robinson Cano is streaky but is still one of the better second basemen around. Jorge Posada, Derek Jeter, Johnny Damon, and Hideki Matsui are on the downside of their careers and could see their numbers drop soon, this could hurt the team if players like Xavier Nady and Brett Gardner don't step it up.

This team has the talent to win it all but in the end I think they will fall just short of making the playoffs.

4. Toronto Blue Jays

Toronto is a team that is a bit of a mystery, many believe they would be a playoff team if they played in a different division.

That could be but with the division that they are in and with the talent the have I think fourth place is set just for them. Roy Halladay may be the best right-handed pitcher in baseball but beyond him they have question in the rotation especially with the injuries of Shawn Marcum and Dustin McGowan.

Jesse Listch and David Purcey have shown good stuff but are they ready to take the next step? The bullpen had the best numbers last year but still don't strike fear into the hearts of opponents. B.J. Ryan has apparently lost some velocity but will still be the closer, we'll see if he has the stuff to be a dominant closer still. The lineup shows some promise.

Up and coming sluggers Adam Lind and Travis Snider join Vernon Wells and Alex Rios to form a strong middle lineup. Scott Rolen and Lyle Overbay have been disappointments over the past couple years but if they bounce back than this offense may be scarier than people realize.

Unfortunately for the Blue Jays they are in a very difficult division and have a hard road ahead of them.

5. Baltimore Orioles

The O's have been on the decline for years now but may finally be on their way up. The offense is impressive with Nick Markakis leading the way. Markakis may be the most underrated player in baseball and isn't the only good player on the team. Brian Roberts, Aubrey Huff, and Melvin Mora are good veterans who get it done.

So the Orioles have a star, some veterans, but not only that they have two young players who may be stars very soon. Adam Jones roams center-field and has speed and power that may project to a 30-30 season. Matt Wieters may be the best prospect in baseball.

The catcher is compared to Joe Mauer but with power, if that is true than every team better watch out. So the offense is good but the pitching is still one of the worst in the game. Jeremy Guthrie looks to be a quality starter at the top but beyond that no one knows what will happen.

Koji Uehara could be a sleeper but that is a big if. Adam Eaton and Mark Hendrickson can be decent at times but not players to rely on. The bullpen may be a little better with George Sherrill breaking through last year. If Chris Ray can bounce back than that could be a great set up closer combination.

Baltimore is on their way up but I don't look for them to compete this year.

AL CENTRAL

The AL central isn't the best division in baseball but it is the most even from top to bottom. Any one of the five teams could possibly win the division and any one of the teams could come in last.

1. Detroit Tigers

Yes I look for this team to rebound from last to first. Let's not forget that they were picked by many to win the World Series last year. The lineup could be the best in baseball.

Miguel Cabrera is truly a star and may be the best player in the AL. Magglio Ordonez, Placido Polanco and Carlos Guillen are getting up there in age but every year hit close to or over .300. Marcus Thames gets his chance at DH and could hit close to 40 home runs.

Curtis Granderson makes this team go and he starts the year healthy, look for him to improve again this year with a good possibility of hitting 30 homers and stealing 30 bases. They also improved their defense tremendously by adding Gerald Laird and Adam Everett and moving Brandon Inge to third and Carlos Guillen to Left.

The pitching is a bit of a question. I look for Justin Verlander to have a bounce back year and get back to ace status. Edwin Jackson was brought in after a break out year last year and could be the answer this team needs as a No. 2 pitcher.

Jeremy Bonderman and Dontrelle Willis were once two of the best up and coming pitchers and if they bounce back than this rotation all of a sudden becomes one of the best around. Rookie phenom Rick Porcello gets his chance this year and could be a savior for the Tigers.

The weakest part of this team is their bullpen. Fernando Rodney was named closer but has never produced in that role. Brandon Lyon was also brought in but isn't the reliever the Tigers were really looking for.

Joel Zumaya is once again on the DL and Detroit really need him to be healthy this year. I feel that if the Tigers struggle again this year the main reason will be the bullpen, if the bullpen matures quickly then watch out.

2. Chicago White Sox

The Sox have a good chance of winning the division again and have a very balanced team. The offense is powerful but aging in places. Jim Thome, A.J. Pierzynski, Jermaine Dye, and Paul Konerko can all still produce but part of their games have fallen off.

Carlos Quentin may have been the MVP of the AL before his injury and Chicago needs him to be the player he was last year.

Alexi Ramirez might be the player that makes this team go as his intensity is exciting to watch. Youngsters Chris Getz and Josh Fields will get their chance to make an impact as well.

The rotation isn't spectacular but gets the job done. Mark Buehrle has been one of the most consistent pitchers of the past 10 years and should keep it going.

John Danks and Gavin Floyd broke out last year but they still have some question marks, Floyd is in the mold of Buehrle and had unbelievable run support last year so don't be surprised if he takes a step back. Danks is a power pitcher who may not have the control but I look for him to keep it going.

The back of the rotation is questionable with veterans Jose Contreras and Bartolo Colon and also young arm Clayton Richard. If one or more of those guys steps up than that could solidify the team. The bullpen is one of the best in baseball and is probably the best part of the team.

Chicago could be the Central champs again but I think the pitching will take a small step backwards and Chicago will just miss out on the playoffs.

3. Minnesota Twins

The Twins seem to be one of those teams that always finds a way to win. This year they need some hitters to develop if they are going to win the division. Justin Morneau and Joe Mauer are two of the best around but right now it looks like that could be their only offense.

They have some players who look like they could breakout in Denard Span, Delmon Young, Alexi Casilla, and Carlos Gomez but no one really knows how much of an impact they can have. They brought in veteran Joe Crede to try an add some power but he has never been able to stay healthy.

Twins are hoping that Michael Cuddyer can come back from injury since his presence is greatly missed when he's not in the lineup. The rotation is young but very talented.

Francisco Liriano is back and if he can be what he was his rookie season then they have one of the best pitchers in baseball. Scott Baker and Kevin Slowey don't get a lot of recognition but are very effective pitchers. Nick Blackburn and Glen Perkins won't wow anyone but they are perfect pitchers for the Nos. 4 and 5 spots.

The bullpen is still strong and it needs to be as the Twins aren't one for blowing team out. Joe Nathan is a top five closer and is as reliable as anyone. Twins pitching will lead them but the offense may keep them from making a playoff run.

4. Cleveland Indians

The Indians are one of those teams that are caught in-between the win now stage and the rebuilding stage. Last year they were a disappointment but made strides as the season progressed.

The pitching has been overhauled over the past few years and looks like it has a chance to be strong but just as easily could fall apart. Reining Cy Young winner Cliff Lee needs to be successful again which is very possible but it seems unrealistic to expect him to put up the same numbers.

Fausto Carmona is a bit of a mystery, he started his career horribly but his second year was amazing. Last year he dealt with injuries and never seemed to regain his form.

The middle and back of the rotation is a gamble with Carl Pavano trying to make a comeback and young guns Anthony Reyes and Scott Lewis taking the last two spots. The bullpen has improved with the addition of Kerry Wood and looks the best it has in years.

The offense could carry this team if players like Travis Hafner and Victor Martinez can bounce back.

Grady Sizemore is one of the best in baseball and is an MVP candidate. The addition of Mark DeRosa brings leadership and also versatility. Shin Soo Choo had a monster second half last year and the Indians hope he can keep it going.

Jhonny Peralta, Ryan Garko, and Asdrubel Cabrera are solid players as well. Rookie Matt LaPorta waits in the wings but look for him to be with the team soon, his presence could put the offense over the top.

Indians have a good chance of winning the division but there are just too many "ifs" in the pitching to make them the favorite.

5. Kansas City Royals

The Royals had the best record in baseball in the last month of the season and hope to keep that success heading into this season. The offense is full of player waiting to break out and also steady veterans who can help guide the team.

New additions Coco Crisp and Mike Jacobs bring leadership and consistency to the team while veterans Mark Teahan, David DeJesus, and Jose Guillen all play vital roles in the teams progress.

Billy Butler and Alex Gordon haven't hit their potential as quickly as some thought they would but are still young and could blossom this year. Surprise breakout Mike Aviles brings grittiest to the team and is already a leader after one year in the league.

The rotation is strong at the top with Gil Meche and Zack Grienke pitching at the top of their games. Kyle Davies looks like he may finally be progressing to the talent everyone thought he was.

Luke Hochevar and Brian Bannister were brought up too early last year and will start in the minors this year but if those two can find their stuff than this rotation could be one of the better staffs around.

The bullpen is solid especially after the addition of Juan Cruz. Joakim Soria is a powerhouse at closer and reminds me of Francisco Rodriguez when he first started. The Royals are definitely on the up-rise but may be a couple years away yet.

AL WEST

The west has been dominated by the Angels in recent years but the rest of teams have started to make strides. Each team in the division seem to have some holes in their games but each team also shows promise as well.

1. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim

The Angels should win this division again but only if their pitching can get healthy. John Lackey and Ervin Santana both start on the DL but if both come back healthy than the Angels boast a deadly rotation.

Lackey and Santana are both aces but Joe Saunders and Jered Weaver have shown amazing stuff as well. Nick Adenhart starts the season as the No. 5 guy and could be a breakout if not Kelvim Escobar should be back from injury soon.

All five starters have the talent to win 15 or more games. The bullpen stays strong even after the loss of Francisco Rodriguez. They brought in Brian Fuentes to take over as closer and reliever Jose Arrenjado looks like a closer in the making. Scot Shields may be the best setup man in baseball as well.

The offense relies on speed more than power but this year seems to be a bit of a question mark. Kendry Morales takes over at first but no one is really sure what kind of player he'll be. Chone Figgins and Howie Kendrick are back but neither can stay healthy and may never live up to their potential.

Brandon Wood was expected to start at shortstop but he'll be in the minors to start. The outfield boast some impressive resumes with Bobby Abreu, Torii Hunter, and Vladimir Guerrero. All are still very good players but might be on the downside of their career.

The Angels pitching should lead them to another division title but if they can't stay healthy than the offense might not be strong enough to keep them afloat.

2. Texas Rangers

If this team all of a sudden finds pitching than watch out because this offense is one of the most exciting in baseball. Josh Hamilton was the feel good story of the year last year and is a special talent. If the Rangers make it into the playoffs I predict he will be the AL MVP.

Ian Kinsler isn't far behind in talent, health is a concern but he may be the second coming of Chase Utley. Veterans Michael Young and Hank Blalock are both still productive and thrive in a potent lineup.

Nelson Cruz and Chris Davis bring some serious power to the middle of the lineup. Rookie Elvis Andrus is such a talented player that they moved Young over to third.

If fallen superstar Andruw Jones can find his power stroke again then this offense might just be unstoppable. While the offense is so impressive the rotation is very unimpressive.

They have some prospect that are supposed to be great in Matt Harrison especially but he might not be quite ready.

Kevin Millwood, Vincente Padilla, Brandon McCarthy, and Kris Benson are the rotation, although three of the four have had good seasons in the past none are going to reach into the past and McCarthy has never lived up to his potential.

The bullpen is average with no real standouts. Frank Francisco ended the year on a good note but may not be the closer they need.

Texas has one of the best offenses but one of the worst pitching in the league, they have a chance to make the playoffs but I think the pitching will be too hard to overcome.

3. Seattle Mariners

Seattle had an awful season last year but I look for them to improve this year. The pitching is strong at the top with Felix Hernandez getting better and better. Erik Bedard was a bust last year due to injury but has great stuff and should bounce back nicely.

The back of the rotation is cause for concern with Jarrod Washburn and Carlos Silva both being underachievers.

Ryan Rowland Smith could be a nice surprise but won't be anything spectacular. I look for newcomer Garrett Olson to crack the rotation sometime this year. The bullpen is a bit of a question with no real proven relievers.

They decided to make Brandon Morrow the closer, everyone expected him to start which seems like the better choice but either way he could become an excellent end gamer.

The offense isn't exactly impressive but is solid. Ichiro Suzuki is a special player who is unlike anyone else in baseball, he makes this team go. Veterans Adrian Beltre, Jose Lopez, and Yunieskey Betancourt don't get a lot of attention but each produce every year.

Wladimir Balentin and Franklyn Gutierrez haven't hit their potential yet but are still serviceable outfielders.

Jeff Clement could be a very good power bat if the team can find use of Koji Johjima somewhere other than catcher. Ken Griffey Jr. is back in Seattle which fans are ecstatic about, he isn't exactly the player he was his first time around but he can still produce and will bring some excitement to the team.

Mariners may not compete for the division this year but look for improvements across the board.

4. Oakland Athletics

Many believe that the Athletics could be a surprise team this year and sneak up and win the division. It's a possibility but I don't see it happening. The pitching rotation is filled with young unproven players. Brett Anderson, Trevor Cahill, and Gio Gonzalez could all be aces eventually but it's too early for them this year.

Justin Duchscherer, Dana Eveland, and Dallas Braden are all decent pitchers but aren't enough to carry the team. The rotation looked a lot stronger before Joey Devine went on the 60 day DL but is still solid with Brad Ziegler holding things down.

The offense made vast improvements in the offseason with the additions of Matt Holliday, Jason Giambi, and Orlando Cabrera.

Holliday is by far the best player on the team and will need to have an MVP type season for Oakland to compete. Jason Giambi brings power to the team but just like outfielder Jack Cust won't bring much else. Ryan Sweeney and Daric Barton are average players but don't look like anything special.

Kurt Suzuki and Mark Ellis are veterans who get overlooked but play important roles on the team. Eric Chavez looked like a true star but then injuries hit and he hasn't been able to bounce back, once again Oakland hopes he can his year but history says he probably won't.

The A's might be a darkhorse in the AL but I think the pitching is just too young this year.

PLAYOFFS

First Round

Braves over Cubs

Mets over Diamondbacks

Red Sox over Tigers

Rays over Angels

NL Championship

Mets over Braves

AL Championship

Rays over Red Sox

WORLD SERIES