Early MLB Surprises: Are They Flukes or For Real?

Looking at the standings right now (just eight to 10 games into the season) is a complete waste of time. That being said, it's impossible not to notice some of the teams that have gotten off to suprisingly good starts this season.

How have they done it? And more importantly, are they for real?

Toronto Blue Jays (7-3)

Why: Offense. Offense. Offense.

As a team, the Blue Jays lead the American League in team batting average (with an amazing .313), total bases, hits, doubles, and are tied for first in the AL in home runs, with 17. Vernon Wells, Adam Lind, and Scott Rolen have all gotten off to amazing starts at the plate, and that's jump-started the offense.

For Real?: I say no.

The Blue Jays are playing in the best division in the Major League, and eventually, their lack of starting pitching depth will haunt them once the offense cools down.

Verdict: Fluke

Seattle Mariners (7-2)

Why: Pitching. Pitching. Pitching.

Through the first eight games, the Mariners pitching staff is leading the AL in ERA (2.96), runs given up (22), and shutouts (2). The rotation, led by Felix Hernandez, Jarrod Washburn, and the resurgent Erik Bedard, has been fantastic.

And hey, even Carlos Silva has not been totally terrible...only a 6.00 ERA!

For Real?: I say no, but I will admit that the Mariners have looked very good thus far.

If the pitching staff holds up, the Mariners could surprise some people and actually compete in the AL West, especially if the Angels pitching staff cannot get healthy.

But the M's offense leaves much to be desired, even with Ichiro Suzuki returning last night. This order still cannot get on base consistently, hit with lots of power, or produce a high enough batting average to adequately supplement the pitching staff.

Verdict: Fluke

Florida Marlins (7-1)

Why: Over the first eight games of the season, the Marlins have gotten a wonderful mix of quality starting pitching and fantastic offense.

Their pitching staff ranks fourth in the National League with a 3.25 ERA, and the offense has been downright scary. Emilio Bonifacio looks like the second coming of Jose Reyes right now; can he keep it up?

To boot, Hanley Ramirez has developed into a lethal No. 3 hitter, and Josh Johnson is looking beastly.

For Real?: I say yes.

Sure, the Marlins have some weaknesses (namely in the bullpen and on defense), but this team is too talented not to make some noise. In the end, the Marlins might not have the intangibles needed to make the postseason, but they sure as hell can scare the living crap out of the Mets and Phillies.

If the Fighting Fish can improve their bullpen and defense, watch out. This club is dangerous.

Verdict: For Real

San Diego Padres (6-3)

Why: Another case of superb pitching. The Padres' staff, led by Jake Peavy, Chris Young, and Heath Bell, has been fantastic so far, as they rank third in the National League in ERA (3.15 ERA).

If they Padres can keep up this kind of production, especailly at PETCO Park, then San Diego will be better than expected.

For Real?: Hell no.

The Padres offense is one of the worst in all of baseball, and it doesn't help that the club plays in one of the most pitcher-friendly ballparks in all of baseball.

Even with the incredible Adrian Gonzalez, the Padres simply do not have enough offensive depth to come anywhere close to competing.

Verdict: Fluke

Like my picks? Think I'm crazy? Make your voice heard in the comments!