MLB Power Rankings: Where All 30 Teams Stack Up 1 Week from Opening Day
It was an exciting MLB offseason with no shortage of big-money signings and blockbuster trades, but at this point, it's fair to assume everyone is ready for the regular season to finally get underway.
Things officially kick off this coming Sunday with the Chicago Cubs and St. Louis Cardinals meeting on Sunday Night Baseball, with the rest of the league getting underway the following day.
So as we get set to usher in another new season, it's time for one last look at how all 30 teams stack up heading into 2015.
These power rankings are based on how the teams look heading into the start of the season, and also on expectations for the season as a whole. That said, these are not necessarily predictions of where everyone will be when the 2015 season wraps up, but instead an overview of how things look right now.
For a look at my complete win-loss predictions for 2015, I'll direct you to an article from last week.
Essentially, this was the last chance for some entirely subjective shuffling on my part before the regular season begins and we have some actual results to determine who moves where in the rankings.
Note: Included is my projected 25-man roster for each team. Players not currently on the 40-man roster are noted in italics, while players with rookie eligibility (per Baseball-Reference) are indicated with an (R).
30. Philadelphia Phillies
1 of 30
Team Outlook
It's going to be a long season for the Philadelphia Phillies, but at least they've finally accepted the long-overdue need to begin rebuilding the roster.
The starting rotation behind Cole Hamels is a mess, and even more so now that Cliff Lee is sidelined indefinitely. Don't be surprised if they scoop up a veteran who is cut loose by another team in the final days of spring.
The addition of dynamic Rule 5 pick Odubel Herrera and the eventual arrival of top prospects Maikel Franco and Aaron Nola should provide some hope for the future. The late-inning relief with be a strength once again, but this looks like a 100-loss team.
Final 25-Man Roster Predictions
| C Carlos Ruiz | LHP Cole Hamels |
| 1B Ryan Howard | RHP Aaron Harang |
| 2B Chase Utley | RHP David Buchanan |
| 3B Cody Asche | RHP Jerome Williams |
| SS Freddy Galvis | Bullpen |
| LF Ben Revere | RHP Jeanmar Gomez |
| CF Odubel Herrera (R) | LHP Andy Oliver (R) |
| RF Grady Sizemore | RHP Phillippe Aumont |
| Bench | RHP Luis Garcia |
| C Cameron Rupp | RHP Justin De Fratus |
| 1B/OF Darin Ruf | LHP Jake Diekman |
| IF/OF Cesar Hernandez | RHP Ken Giles |
| OF Brian Bogusevic | RHP Jonathan Papelbon |
| OF Jeff Francoeur |
DL: SP Cliff Lee, SP Chad Billingsley, RP Mario Hollands, LF Domonic Brown
29. Colorado Rockies
2 of 30
Team Outlook
After leading the National League in runs scored last season (755), the Colorado Rockies should once again be able to pile up the runs offensively in 2015.
The trouble is, so will their opponents, as their rotation looks like it has a good chance of being the worst in baseball. No disrespect to Kyle Kendrick, who has been a solid innings-eater, but he has no business pitching on Opening Day.
Keeping Troy Tulowitzki and Carlos Gonzalez healthy would go a long way, and the eventual arrival of top pitching prospect Jon Gray will help, but this team simply doesn't have the arms to contend for anything beyond fourth in the NL West.
Final 25-Man Roster Predictions
| C Nick Hundley | RHP Kyle Kendrick |
| 1B Justin Morneau | RHP Jordan Lyles |
| 2B DJ LeMahieu | LHP Tyler Matzek |
| 3B Nolan Arenado | RHP Chad Bettis |
| SS Troy Tulowitzki | RHP Christian Bergman |
| LF Corey Dickerson | Bullpen |
| CF Charlie Blackmon | LHP Christian Friedrich |
| RF Carlos Gonzalez | RHP Brooks Brown |
| Bench | LHP Boone Logan |
| C Michael McKenry | RHP John Axford |
| C/1B Wilin Rosario | RHP Adam Ottavino |
| IF Daniel Descalso | LHP Rex Brothers |
| OF Brandon Barnes | RHP LaTroy Hawkins |
| OF Drew Stubbs |
DL: SP Jorge De La Rosa, SP Tyler Chatwood, SP David Hale, SP Eddie Butler
28. Minnesota Twins
3 of 30
Team Outlook
The Minnesota Twins have had the worst starting pitching in baseball each of the past two seasons, and while it's still not one of their strengths by any means, their staff should be improved this year.
Ervin Santana was the big addition of the offseason, but the team will also have a full season of Tommy Milone and boasts depth in the form of young arms like Alex Meyer and Trevor May.
Offensively, they should be solid once again, but they're still awaiting the arrival of top prospects Miguel Sano and Byron Buxton. The future looks promising in Minnesota, but they still look to be a couple of years away from making a return to contention at this point.
Final 25-Man Roster Predictions
| C Kurt Suzuki | RHP Phil Hughes |
| 1B Joe Mauer | RHP Ervin Santana |
| 2B Brian Dozier | RHP Ricky Nolasco |
| 3B Trevor Plouffe | RHP Kyle Gibson |
| SS Danny Santana | LHP Tommy Milone |
| LF Oswaldo Arcia | Bullpen |
| CF Jordan Schafer | RHP Mike Pelfrey |
| RF Torii Hunter | RHP J.R. Graham (R) |
| DH Kennys Vargas | RHP Tim Stauffer |
| Bench | RHP Blaine Boyer |
| C Josmil Pinto | LHP Brian Duensing |
| IF Eduardo Escobar | RHP Casey Fien |
| IF/OF Eduardo Nunez | LHP Glen Perkins |
| OF Shane Robinson |
DL: None
27. Arizona Diamondbacks
4 of 30
Team Outlook
The Arizona Diamondbacks are a work in progress at this point, as the new front-office tandem of Dave Stewart and Tony La Russa continue to rework the roster after taking the reins last season.
The offense has a chance to make some noise, as Yasmany Tomas, Mark Trumbo and Paul Goldschmidt could be among the most dangerous middle-of-the-order trios in the league and A.J. Pollock looks like a breakout candidate in the leadoff spot.
However, their pitching staff is still lacking in front-line caliber arms, with Josh Collmenter set to take the ball on Opening Day. The return of Patrick Corbin and arrival of Archie Bradley will help, but they simply don't have the overall talent to contend right now.
Final 25-Man Roster Predictions
| C Tuffy Gosewisch | RHP Josh Collmenter |
| 1B Paul Goldschmidt | RHP Jeremy Hellickson |
| 2B Aaron Hill | RHP Chase Anderson |
| 3B Jake Lamb (R) | RHP Rubby De La Rosa |
| SS Chris Owings | RHP Trevor Cahill |
| LF Yasmany Tomas (R) | Bullpen |
| CF A.J. Pollock | RHP Randall Delgado |
| RF Mark Trumbo | RHP Daniel Hudson |
| Bench | RHP Enrique Burgos (R) |
| C Gerald Laird | RHP Evan Marshall |
| IF Cliff Pennington | LHP Oliver Perez |
| OF Ender Inciarte | RHP Brad Ziegler |
| OF David Peralta | RHP Addison Reed |
| OF Cody Ross |
DL: SP Patrick Corbin, SP Bronson Arroyo, RP David Hernandez, C Oscar Hernandez
26. Houston Astros
5 of 30
Team Outlook
For the first time since they began rebuilding, the Houston Astros found themselves in a position to add some veteran pieces this offseason.
The bullpen figures to be the most improved area, with Joe Thatcher, Pat Neshek and Luke Gregerson all added to a relief corps that finished dead last in the league with a 4.80 ERA in 2014. Evan Gattis, Jed Lowrie, Colby Rasmus, Luis Valbuena and Hank Conger were added to the mix on offense, but the big difference there could be a full, healthy season from budding star George Springer.
The Astros are a team on the rise, but they still look to be at least a year away with an average rotation and place-fillers at a number of everyday positions.
Final 25-Man Roster Predictions
| C Jason Castro | LHP Dallas Keuchel |
| 1B Chris Carter | RHP Scott Feldman |
| 2B Jose Altuve | RHP Collin McHugh |
| 3B Luis Valbuena | LHP Brett Oberholtzer |
| SS Jed Lowrie | RHP Roberto Hernandez |
| LF Colby Rasmus | Bullpen |
| CF Jake Marisnick | RHP Samuel Deduno |
| RF George Springer | LHP Joe Thatcher |
| DH Evan Gattis | LHP Kevin Chapman |
| Bench | LHP Tony Sipp |
| C Hank Conger | RHP Pat Neshek |
| IF Marwin Gonzalez | RHP Chad Qualls |
| OF Robbie Grossman | RHP Luke Gregerson |
| OF Alex Presley |
DL: SP Brad Peacock, RP Josh Fields
25. Texas Rangers
6 of 30
Team Outlook
Decimated by injuries last season, the Texas Rangers were dealt a huge blow out of the gate when ace Yu Darvish was lost for the season to Tommy John surgery.
A full season from Derek Holland will help the pitching situation, but the team is again lacking in starting pitching depth, while the bullpen has potential but is a largely unproven group.
The team figures to be most improved on offense, provided they can stay healthy. Prince Fielder is back, Shin-Soo Choo is a rebound candidate and young outfielders Ryan Rua, Jake Smolinski and Delino DeShields provide some much-needed youth.
That said, they figure to be battling for fourth in the AL West as opposed to a playoff spot.
Final 25-Man Roster Predictions
| C Robinson Chirinos | RHP Yovani Gallardo |
| 1B Prince Fielder | RHP Colby Lewis |
| 2B Rougned Odor | LHP Ross Detwiler |
| 3B Adrian Beltre | RHP Nick Martinez |
| SS Elvis Andrus | LHP Derek Holland |
| LF Ryan Rua | Bullpen |
| CF Leonys Martin | RHP Roman Mendez |
| RF Shin-Soo Choo | LHP Sam Freeman |
| DH Mitch Moreland | RHP Keone Kela (R) |
| Bench | LHP Alex Claudio (R) |
| C Carlos Corporan | RHP Kyuji Fujikawa |
| IF Adam Rosales | RHP Jon Edwards (R) |
| OF Delino DeShields (R) | RHP Neftali Feliz |
| OF Jake Smolinski |
DL: SP Yu Darvish, SP Matt Harrison, SP Martin Perez, RP Shawn Tolleson, RP Tanner Scheppers, 2B Jurickson Profar
24. Tampa Bay Rays
7 of 30
Team Outlook
At some point, the Tampa Bay Rays figure to feature one of the best starting rotations in baseball, but with Alex Cobb, Drew Smyly and Alex Colome sidelined to begin the season and Matt Moore not expected back until midseason, it's a patchwork staff at this point.
That's significant considering the pitchers will have to do most of the heavy lifting for an offense that features superstar Evan Longoria and little else in the way of proven impact talent.
The Rays have found ways to outperform their talent in years past, but with general manager Andrew Friedman and manager Joe Maddon gone, new bench boss Kevin Cash looks to have his work cut out for him in his first year at the helm.
Final 25-Man Roster Predictions
| C Rene Rivera | RHP Chris Archer |
| 1B James Loney | RHP Jake Odorizzi |
| 2B Logan Forsythe | RHP Nate Karns (R) |
| 3B Evan Longoria | RHP Matt Andriese (R) |
| SS Asdrubal Cabrera | LHP Mike Montgomery (R) |
| LF Desmond Jennings | Bullpen |
| CF Kevin Kiermaier | RHP Steven Geltz |
| RF Steven Souza (R) | RHP Kirby Yates |
| DH John Jaso | RHP Ernesto Frieri |
| Bench | LHP Jeff Beliveau |
| C Curt Casali (R) | RHP Brad Boxberger |
| IF Tim Beckham | RHP Kevin Jepsen |
| OF David DeJesus | RHP Grant Balfour |
| OF Brandon Guyer |
DL: SP Alex Cobb, SP Drew Smyly, SP Matt Moore, SP Alex Colome, RP Jake McGee, 2B Nick Franklin
23. Atlanta Braves
8 of 30
Team Outlook
A rough 7-18 record in September kick-started a rebuilding effort for the Atlanta Braves this offseason. They added an impressive collection of young talent, and the future looks bright, but the 2015 season could be a long one.
The trio of Julio Teheran, Alex Wood and Shelby Miller atop the rotation will be the team's biggest strength. The overhauled bullpen also has a chance to be improved over last year's group, though that could also go the other way if veterans like Jason Grilli and Jim Johnson falter.
It's the offense, a group that finished 29th in the league in runs scored last year (573), that is most concerning. Freddie Freeman remains one of the game's top young hitters, but outside of him, it's a collection of replacement-level players and inexperienced rookies after the team shipped out Evan Gattis, Jason Heyward and Justin Upton.
Getting Mike Minor and Nick Markakis healthy will make this roster look a little better, but it's hard to see any way this team contends in 2015.
Final 25-Man Roster Predictions
| C Christian Bethancourt (R) | RHP Julio Teheran |
| 1B Freddie Freeman | LHP Alex Wood |
| 2B Jace Peterson (R) | RHP Shelby Miller |
| 3B Chris Johnson | LHP Wandy Rodriguez |
| SS Andrelton Simmons | LHP Eric Stults |
| LF Jonny Gomes | Bullpen |
| CF Eric Young Jr. | RHP Cody Martin (R) |
| RF Nick Markakis | RHP Brandon Cunniff (R) |
| Bench | LHP Josh Outman |
| C A.J. Pierzynski | RHP Jim Johnson |
| 1B/OF Joey Terdoslavich | LHP Luis Avilan |
| IF Alberto Callaspo | RHP Jason Grilli |
| IF/OF Kelly Johnson | RHP Craig Kimbrel |
| OF Todd Cunningham |
DL: CF Melvin Upton, SP Mike Minor, RP Dan Winkler, RP Shae Simmons
22. Milwaukee Brewers
9 of 30
Team Outlook
This may seem like a harsh ranking for a team that sat atop the NL Central standings for the bulk of last season. However, after a red-hot 20-7 start, this was essentially a .500 team (51-48) before their disastrous 11-25 finish.
Trading Yovani Gallardo opened up a rotation spot for young right-hander Jimmy Nelson, but if someone falters, this team is relatively thin on proven starting-pitching options. Nelson's 6.23 ERA so far this spring has not exactly eased concerns about the staff.
Offensively, a healthy Ryan Braun could make a big difference, though it remains to be seen if he'll ever be the MVP-caliber player he once was. The addition of Adam Lind could make the bigger difference offensively, though he remains just a platoon player.
Could they make another surprise run at the division title? Sure, but based on overall talent, the Brewers look like the weakest team in the NL Central heading into the year.
Final 25-Man Roster Predictions
| C Jonathan Lucroy | RHP Matt Garza |
| 1B Adam Lind | RHP Kyle Lohse |
| 2B Scooter Gennett | RHP Wily Peralta |
| 3B Aramis Ramirez | RHP Mike Fiers |
| SS Jean Segura | RHP Jimmy Nelson |
| LF Khris Davis | Bullpen |
| CF Carlos Gomez | RHP Tyler Thornburg |
| RF Ryan Braun | RHP Michael Blazek (R) |
| Bench | LHP Neal Cotts |
| C Martin Maldonado | RHP Jeremy Jeffress |
| 1B/3B Luis Jimenez | LHP Will Smith |
| IF Hector Gomez | RHP Jonathan Broxton |
| OF Gerardo Parra | RHP Francisco Rodriguez |
| OF Logan Schafer |
DL: RP Jim Henderson
21. Cincinnati Reds
10 of 30
Team Outlook
Injuries to Joey Votto and Brandon Phillips and a horrible season from Jay Bruce left the Cincinnati Reds with one of the worst offenses in baseball last season, and it led to a 14-win decline over their 90-win performance in 2013.
If Votto and Bruce can get back on track, breakout stars Devin Mesoraco and Todd Frazier can continue their emergence and newcomer Marlon Byrd can continue to defy father time, this should be a vastly improved offensive attack.
The pitching is now the bigger question mark after the offseason trades of Mat Latos and Alfredo Simon and with Homer Bailey slowly working his way back from elbow surgery. On top of the rotation concerns, there was also little done to improve one of the league's worst bullpens.
The window is quickly closing on this group, but they could make one last push if their rotation falls into place.
Final 25-Man Roster Predictions
| C Devin Mesoraco | RHP Johnny Cueto |
| 1B Joey Votto | RHP Mike Leake |
| 2B Brandon Phillips | RHP Anthony DeSclafani (R) |
| 3B Todd Frazier | RHP Jason Marquis |
| SS Zack Cozart | RHP Raisel Iglesias (R) |
| LF Marlon Byrd | Bullpen |
| CF Billy Hamilton | LHP Tony Cingrani |
| RF Jay Bruce | RHP Burke Badenhop |
| Bench | RHP J.J. Hoover |
| C Brayan Pena | RHP Jumbo Diaz |
| IF/OF Chris Dominguez | LHP Manny Parra |
| IF/OF Kris Negron | RHP Sam LeCure |
| IF/OF Skip Schumaker | LHP Aroldis Chapman |
| OF Brennan Boesch |
DL: SP Homer Bailey, RP Sean Marshall, OF Jason Bourgeois
20. San Francisco Giants
11 of 30
Team Outlook
All due respect to what the San Francisco Giants accomplished in 2014, but it's a new year, and this version of the team could have a tough time finishing better than .500.
It's been said all offseason that their rotation is a weakness, and rightfully so. Madison Bumgarner is a stud at the top, but the rest of the staff is a combination of past-their-prime veterans, an injury returnee and a wildly inconsistent former star.
Offense has never been the driving force behind their success, and that's not suddenly going to change in 2015. Hunter Pence will be sorely missed while he works his way back from a fractured forearm, and it will be up to guys like Brandon Belt, Joe Panik and a healthy Angel Pagan to start hitting.
The Giants know how to win, something that can't be understated, but this group just doesn't have the look of a contender.
Final 25-Man Roster Predictions
| C Buster Posey | LHP Madison Bumgarner |
| 1B Brandon Belt | RHP Tim Hudson |
| 2B Joe Panik | RHP Matt Cain |
| 3B Casey McGehee | RHP Jake Peavy |
| SS Brandon Crawford | RHP Tim Lincecum |
| LF Gregor Blanco | Bullpen |
| CF Angel Pagan | RHP Yusmeiro Petit |
| RF Nori Aoki | RHP Ryan Vogelsong |
| Bench | RHP Jean Machi |
| C Hector Sanchez | LHP Javier Lopez |
| 1B/OF Travis Ishikawa | LHP Jeremy Affeldt |
| IF Ehire Adrianza | RHP Sergio Romo |
| IF Joaquin Arias | RHP Santiago Casilla |
| OF Jusitn Maxwell |
DL: RF Hunter Pence
19. New York Yankees
12 of 30
Team Outlook
Let's call the No. 19 spot cautious optimism for the New York Yankees this coming season. It's an old roster lacking in overall depth, but they enter the season mostly healthy, and if they can stay that way, they could quickly move up these rankings.
That's a big if, though, especially in the starting rotation, where Masahiro Tanaka, Michael Pineda and CC Sabathia are all significant question marks from a durability standpoint. That being said, the bullpen should be one of their biggest strengths, even after David Robertson walked in free agency.
Meanwhile, the five-man group of Alex Rodriguez, Mark Teixeira, Jacoby Ellsbury, Brian McCann and Carlos Beltran will make a combined $98.3 million in 2015. They won't be worth anywhere near that much, but production from those five will be the key to the offense.
This could be a division winner if luck is on their side, but this is just not the kind of roster that avoids the injury bug. A .500 finish looks like a more realistic goal.
Final 25-Man Roster Predictions
| C Brian McCann | RHP Masahiro Tanaka |
| 1B Mark Teixeira | LHP CC Sabathia |
| 2B Stephen Drew | RHP Michael Pineda |
| 3B Chase Headley | RHP Nathan Eovaldi |
| SS Didi Gregorius | RHP Adam Warren |
| LF Brett Gardner | Bullpen |
| CF Jacoby Ellsbury | RHP Chase Whitley |
| RF Carlos Beltran | LHP Chasen Shreve |
| DH Alex Rodriguez | RHP Esmil Rogers |
| Bench | LHP Justin Wilson |
| C J.R. Murphy | RHP David Carpenter |
| 1B/OF Garrett Jones | LHP Andrew Miller |
| IF Brendan Ryan | RHP Dellin Betances |
| OF Chris Young |
DL: 2B Jose Pirela, SP Ivan Nova, SP Chris Capuano
18. Kansas City Royals
13 of 30
Team Outlook
A lot broke right for the Kansas City Royals last year during their surprise run to not only their first AL pennant since 1985, but also their first postseason trip of any sort in 29 years.
Defense, speed and relief pitching were the strengths of last year's roster, and that should ring true once again this coming season. However, with the AL Central looking tough and the departure of workhorse James Shields, it will be an uphill battle to return to the postseason.
A lot will hinge on the health of the starting rotation, which remains solid even without Shields but is incredibly thin beyond their initial five-man staff. They will also need newcomers Alex Rios and Kendrys Morales to provide some offensive punch, and for guys like Eric Hosmer and Lorenzo Cain to prove their postseason success was more than just a hot streak.
The AL Central is going to be a dog fight, and the Royals will certainly be part of that, but a return trip to October would again be a big surprise.
Final 25-Man Roster Predictions
| C Salvador Perez | RHP Yordano Ventura |
| 1B Eric Hosmer | LHP Jason Vargas |
| 2B Omar Infante | RHP Jeremy Guthrie |
| 3B Mike Moustakas | RHP Edinson Volquez |
| SS Alcides Escobar | LHP Danny Duffy |
| LF Alex Gordon | Bullpen |
| CF Lorenzo Cain | RHP Chris Young |
| RF Alex Rios | RHP Louis Coleman |
| DH Kendrys Morales | LHP Franklin Morales |
| Bench | RHP Jason Frasor |
| C Erik Kratz | RHP Kelvin Herrera |
| IF Christian Colon (R) | RHP Wade Davis |
| OF Jarrod Dyson | RHP Greg Holland |
| OF Paulo Orlando (R) |
DL: SP Kris Medlen, RP Luke Hochevar, RP Tim Collins
17. New York Mets
14 of 30
Team Outlook
It's been eight years since the New York Mets last reached the postseason, and for a few years now, the 2015 season has been viewed as the time the drought would end.
The return of Matt Harvey is certainly cause for excitement by itself, though some of that excitement was lost when young pitching star Zack Wheeler was lost for the season to Tommy John surgery. Luckily, they are as deep as any team in the league as far as starting options are concerned.
A healthy Michael Cuddyer and a bounce-back season from David Wright would go a long way in improving the offense, while Travis d'Arnaud is a potential breakout candidate after a strong finish to 2014.
The pieces are starting to fall into place for the Mets, and a winning record is well within reach. That said, they still look like a fringe contender at best.
Final 25-Man Roster Predictions
| C Travis d'Arnaud | RHP Bartolo Colon |
| 1B Lucas Duda | RHP Jacob deGrom |
| 2B Matt Reynolds (R) | RHP Matt Harvey |
| 3B David Wright | LHP Jon Niese |
| SS Wilmer Flores | RHP Dillon Gee |
| LF Michael Cuddyer | Bullpen |
| CF Juan Lagares | RHP Rafael Montero (R) |
| RF Curtis Granderson | LHP Sean Gilmartin (R) |
| Bench | LHP Jerry Blevins |
| C Anthony Recker | LHP Alex Torres |
| 1B/OF Eric Campbell | RHP Carlos Torres |
| 1B/OF John Mayberry | RHP Jeurys Familia |
| IF Ruben Tejada | RHP Jenrry Mejia |
| OF Kirk Nieuwenhuis |
DL: 2B Daniel Murphy, SP Zack Wheeler, RP Vic Black, RP Josh Edgin, RP Bobby Parnell
16. Oakland Athletics
15 of 30
Team Outlook
General manager Billy Beane has overhauled the Oakland Athletics roster before, but never on as dramatic a scale as he did this offseason. There are 12 newcomers on the projected 25-man roster below, with most of them filling significant roles.
Gone are the likes of Jon Lester, Jeff Samardzija, Josh Donaldson, Brandon Moss, Derek Norris, John Jaso, Luke Gregerson and Jed Lowrie.
In their place, young talent like shortstop Marcus Semien and starters Jesse Hahn and Kendall Graveman will need to contribute, and established guys like Brett Lawrie and Ike Davis will need to play up to their vast potential.
It's an interesting roster, and one that will be bolstered by the eventual returns of Josh Reddick, Sean Doolittle, Jarrod Parker and A.J. Griffin. The AL West is going to be tough, though, and third place might be their best-case scenario.
Final 25-Man Roster Predictions
| C Stephen Vogt | RHP Sonny Gray |
| 1B Ike Davis | RHP Jesse Hahn |
| 2B Eric Sogard | LHP Scott Kazmir |
| 3B Brett Lawrie | RHP Kendall Graveman (R) |
| SS Marcus Semien | LHP Drew Pomeranz |
| LF Craig Gentry | Bullpen |
| CF Sam Fuld | RHP Jesse Chavez |
| RF Ben Zobrist | RHP Evan Scribner |
| DH Billy Butler | LHP Eric O'Flaherty |
| Bench | RHP R.J. Alvarez (R) |
| C Josh Phegley | LHP Fernando Abad |
| 1B/OF Mark Canha (R) | RHP Dan Otero |
| IF Tyler Ladendorf (R) | RHP Tyler Clippard |
| OF Billy Burns (R) |
DL: RF Josh Reddick, LF Coco Crisp, SP Jarrod Parker, SP A.J. Griffin, RP Sean Doolittle
15. Chicago White Sox
16 of 30
Team Outlook
The roster below does not look nearly as good without ace Chris Sale, who will be sidelined to start the season but is expected to return shortly after. That said, this Chicago White Sox team should make some serious noise in the AL Central.
Adding Melky Cabrera and Adam LaRoche to the offense helps take some pressure off of Jose Abreu, while Jeff Samardzija gives the rotation a third front-line arm and a right-handed one to slot between their terrific lefty duo.
However, the biggest difference will be a vastly improved bullpen, as the relief corps tallied 32 losses, 21 blown saves and a 4.38 ERA last year. That alone could be enough for this team to contend well into the second half.
Final 25-Man Roster Predictions
| C Tyler Flowers | RHP Jeff Samardzija |
| 1B Jose Abreu | LHP Jose Quintana |
| 2B Micah Johnson (R) | LHP John Danks |
| 3B Conor Gillaspie | RHP Hector Noesi |
| SS Alexei Ramirez | Bullpen |
| LF Melky Cabrera | RHP Kyle Drabek |
| CF Adam Eaton | RHP Matt Albers |
| RF Avisail Garcia | LHP Dan Jennings |
| DH Adam LaRoche | RHP Maikel Cleto |
| Bench | RHP Javy Guerra |
| C Geovany Soto | LHP Zach Duke |
| IF Gordon Beckham | RHP Zach Putnam |
| IF/OF Emilio Bonifacio | RHP David Robertson |
| OF J.B. Shuck |
DL: SP Chris Sale, RP Jake Petricka, RP Nate Jones
14. Baltimore Orioles
17 of 30
Team Outlook
The Baltimore Orioles cruised to the AL East title last season, winning the division by 12 games, but things figure to be a lot closer this time around with the Red Sox and Blue Jays both looking like legitimate contenders.
Losing Nelson Cruz and Nick Markakis will hurt, but the return of Manny Machado and eventual return of Matt Wieters could help ease those losses. A rebound season from Chris Davis would also help an awful lot.
The rotation is once again built more on depth than front-line talent, though Kevin Gausman could be a legitimate breakout star after showing flashes last season. The bullpen also looks like a strength once again, despite the departure of Andrew Miller.
Another 96-win season is probably out of reach, but the Orioles should once again be in the thick of things in both the AL East race and the wild-card chase.
Final 25-Man Roster Predictions
| C Caleb Joseph | RHP Chris Tillman |
| 1B Chris Davis | LHP Wei-Yin Chen |
| 2B Jonathan Schoop | RHP Bud Norris |
| 3B Manny Machado | RHP Miguel Gonzalez |
| SS Everth Cabrera | RHP Kevin Gausman |
| LF Alejandro De Aza | Bullpen |
| CF Adam Jones | RHP Ubaldo Jimenez |
| RF Travis Snider | RHP Brad Brach |
| DH Steve Pearce | LHP Wesley Wright |
| Bench | LHP Brian Matusz |
| C Steve Clevenger | RHP Tommy Hunter |
| IF Ryan Flaherty | RHP Darren O'Day |
| IF/OF Jimmy Paredes | LHP Zach Britton |
| OF Delmon Young |
DL: C Matt Wieters, SS J.J. Hardy, OF David Lough
13. Toronto Blue Jays
18 of 30
Team Outlook
It's not often a legitimate contender breaks camp with six rookies on the roster, but that's exactly what the Toronto Blue Jays are set to do in 2015. Luckily, manager John Gibbons may be the perfect man to help ease their transition to the big leagues.
"To be honest, I was in that spot with the Mets. I made the team at 21. I struggled, struggled early. I couldn’t recover from it," Gibbons told Rosie DiManno of the Toronto Star. "So that’s why, when you look at these guys, you have to weigh that in. We think we have the guys that are — not that I wasn't mentally tough — but there’s something different about these guys."
There are also a pair of significant newcomers in Russell Martin and Josh Donaldson, who, matched with incumbents Edwin Encarnacion and Jose Bautista, could give the team one of the best offenses in baseball.
The performance of their rookies, particularly Aaron Sanchez and Daniel Norris rounding out the rotation, will go a long way in determining whether they have a chance at winning the AL East.
Final 25-Man Roster Predictions
| C Russell Martin | RHP Drew Hutchison |
| 1B Edwin Encarnacion | RHP R.A. Dickey |
| 2B Devon Travis (R) | LHP Mark Buehrle |
| 3B Josh Donaldson | RHP Aaron Sanchez (R) |
| SS Jose Reyes | LHP Daniel Norris (R) |
| LF Kevin Pillar | Bullpen |
| CF Dalton Pompey (R) | RHP Todd Redmond |
| RF Jose Bautista | LHP Colt Hynes |
| DH Dioner Navarro | RHP Marco Estrada |
| Bench | RHP Roberto Ozuna (R) |
| C Josh Thole | RHP Miguel Castro (R) |
| 1B Justin Smoak | LHP Aaron Loup |
| IF/OF Steve Tolleson | LHP Brett Cecil |
| IF/OF Danny Valencia |
DL: SP Marcus Stroman, LF Michael Saunders, UT Maicer Izturis
12. Chicago Cubs
19 of 30
Team Outlook
I've heard it more than once this offseason from Chicago Cubs detractors: "Signing Jon Lester is not going to all of a sudden make this team a contender."
A fair point, but if signing Lester is the only move you think the North Siders have made this offseason, you haven't been paying attention.
Miguel Montero, Dexter Fowler, Jason Hammel, Tommy La Stella, David Ross, Jason Motte and Phil Coke have also been added to the mix, not to mention new manager Joe Maddon, who might just be the perfect guy to lead this young team and handle the hype.
Throw in a full season of Jorge Soler, Jake Arrieta and Kyle Hendricks and the early arrival of Kris Bryant, and this is an entirely different team than the 2014 version.
There will be growing pains, but there is enough talent on both sides of the ball for this team to take a huge step forward in 2015. That may not mean playoffs just yet, but they'll be in the mix and should only get better in the years to come.
Final 25-Man Roster Predictions
| C Miguel Montero | LHP Jon Lester |
| 1B Anthony Rizzo | RHP Jake Arrieta |
| 2B Tommy La Stella | RHP Jason Hammel |
| 3B Mike Olt | LHP Travis Wood |
| SS Starlin Castro | RHP Kyle Hendricks |
| LF Chris Coghlan | Bullpen |
| CF Dexter Fowler | RHP Edwin Jackson |
| RF Jorge Soler (R) | RHP Justin Grimm |
| Bench | RHP Jason Motte |
| C Welington Castillo | LHP Phil Coke |
| C David Ross | RHP Neil Ramirez |
| IF/OF Arismendy Alcantara | RHP Pedro Strop |
| OF Ryan Sweeney | RHP Hector Rondon |
| OF Matt Szczur (R) |
DL: OF Chris Denorfia, SP Jacob Turner
11. Miami Marlins
20 of 30
Team Outlook
The Miami Marlins have gone from a 100-loss disappointment in 2012, to a surprise second-half contender last year, to looking like a legitimate playoff-caliber team heading into the upcoming season.
After locking up Giancarlo Stanton with a record extension, the team set to work shoring up the roster around him, adding the likes of Michael Morse, Dee Gordon, Martin Prado, Mat Latos, Dan Haren, Aaron Crow and Ichiro Suzuki.
The X-factor will be the Jose Fernandez's midseason return from Tommy John surgery, as he figures to be as significant a deadline addition as any that will be made on the trade market. Provided the rotation is still healthy at that point, they'll have as good a 1-5 as any in the league.
Continued progression from their young core, a terrific young staff and an MVP candidate in Stanton anchoring the lineup could be enough for this team to grab a wild-card spot.
Final 25-Man Roster Predictions
| C Jarrod Saltalamacchia | RHP Henderson Alvarez |
| 1B Michael Morse | RHP Jarred Cosart |
| 2B Dee Gordon | RHP Mat Latos |
| 3B Martin Prado | RHP Dan Haren |
| SS Adeiny Hechavarria | RHP Tom Koehler |
| LF Christian Yelich | Bullpen |
| CF Marcell Ozuna | RHP David Phelps |
| RF Giancarlo Stanton | LHP Brad Hand |
| Bench | RHP Aaron Crow |
| C Jeff Mathis | RHP Bryan Morris |
| IF Donovan Solano | LHP Mike Dunn |
| IF/OF Jeff Baker | RHP A.J. Ramos |
| IF/OF Jordany Valdespin | RHP Steve Cishek |
| OF Ichiro Suzuki |
DL: SP Jose Fernandez
10. Cleveland Indians
21 of 30
Team Outlook
An 18-9 record in August thrust the Cleveland Indians back into contention last season, and while they eventually fell short of reaching the postseason, their strong second half opened some eyes nonetheless.
Their rotation has a chance to be one of the best in baseball if everyone pitches up to their potential, and there was nothing in his peripheral numbers to suggest Corey Kluber can't again be one of the game's elite starters at the top.
Offensively, anything the team gets out of Jason Kipnis will be an improvement over last season, and newcomer Brandon Moss should help add some much-needed pop. Michael Brantley and Yan Gomes are both budding stars after Silver Slugger winning seasons last year.
This team has the pieces to put a stop to the Detroit Tigers' run of AL Central titles, and at the very least, they should be in the mix for a wild-card berth.
Final 25-Man Roster Predictions
| C Yan Gomes | RHP Corey Kluber |
| 1B Carlos Santana | RHP Carlos Carrasco |
| 2B Jason Kipnis | RHP Trevor Bauer |
| 3B Lonnie Chisenhall | RHP Zach McAllister |
| SS Jose Ramirez | LHP T.J. House |
| LF Michael Brantley | Bullpen |
| CF Michael Bourn | LHP Nick Hagadone |
| RF Brandon Moss | RHP Anthony Swarzak |
| DH David Murphy | LHP Kyle Crockett |
| Bench | RHP Scott Atchison |
| C Roberto Perez | LHP Marc Rzepczynski |
| 1B/OF Jerry Sands | RHP Bryan Shaw |
| IF Mike Aviles | RHP Cody Allen |
| OF Ryan Raburn |
DL: OF Nick Swisher, SP Gavin Floyd
9. Boston Red Sox
22 of 30
Team Outlook
The Boston Red Sox have gone worst to first and back to worst over the past three years, but they look to be gearing up for another run at first heading into 2015.
Yes, the starting rotation is lacking an ace and is a legitimate question mark heading into the season. However, the trio of Clay Buchholz, Rick Porcello and Wade Miley also has a chance to be rock solid, and the team is loaded with young pitching depth should someone falter.
Then there's the offense, which has a chance to be one of the best in baseball after adding Hanley Ramirez and Pablo Sandoval. They'll also get a full season of the dynamic Mookie Betts as the everyday center fielder.
The AL East is wide open, and the Red Sox have their fair share of questions, but they look like the team to beat with the season set to kick off.
Final 25-Man Roster Predictions
| C Ryan Hanigan | RHP Clay Buchholz |
| 1B Mike Napoli | RHP Rick Porcello |
| 2B Dustin Pedroia | LHP Wade Miley |
| 3B Pablo Sandoval | RHP Justin Masterson |
| SS Xander Bogaerts | RHP Joe Kelly |
| LF Hanley Ramirez | Bullpen |
| CF Mookie Betts | LHP Robbie Ross |
| RF Shane Victorino | RHP Alexi Ogando |
| DH David Ortiz | LHP Tommy Layne |
| Bench | RHP Anthony Varvaro |
| C Sandy Leon | LHP Craig Breslow |
| 1B/OF Allen Craig | RHP Junichi Tazawa |
| IF/OF Brock Holt | RHP Edward Mujica |
| OF Daniel Nava |
DL: RP Koji Uehara, C Christian Vazquez
8. Detroit Tigers
23 of 30
Team Outlook
Swapping out Max Scherzer and Rick Porcello for Alfredo Simon and Shane Greene is a significant downgrade for the Detroit Tigers; let's say that from the start.
However, their defense should be vastly improved with the return of Jose Iglesias and the addition of Anthony Gose, and that alone should help the pitching staff as a whole. Speaking of which, the bullpen can't possibly be as bad as it was in 2014, right?
Then there's the offense, which was already one of the best in the league and now features a healthy Miguel Cabrera, another power bat in Yoenis Cespedes and a potential breakout candidate in Gose in the leadoff spot.
The Tigers have claimed the last four AL Central titles, winning the division by just one game over the Royals last season. It figures to be a battle again, but they're still the favorites at this point.
Final 25-Man Roster Predictions
| C Alex Avila | LHP David Price |
| 1B Miguel Cabrera | RHP Justin Verlander |
| 2B Ian Kinsler | RHP Anibal Sanchez |
| 3B Nick Castellanos | RHP Alfredo Simon |
| SS Jose Iglesias | RHP Shane Greene |
| LF Yoenis Cespedes | Bullpen |
| CF Anthony Gose | LHP Kyle Ryan (R) |
| RF J.D. Martinez | RHP Bruce Rondon |
| DH Victor Martinez | LHP Tom Gorzelanny |
| Bench | RHP Joba Chamberlain |
| C James McCann (R) | RHP Al Albuquerque |
| IF Hernan Perez (R) | RHP Joakim Soria |
| IF/OF Andrew Romine | RHP Joe Nathan |
| OF Rajai Davis |
DL: None
7. Pittsburgh Pirates
24 of 30
Team Outlook
Losing Russell Martin hurts in more ways than one, but the Pittsburgh Pirates have a roster built for sustainable success after making the playoffs in each of the past two seasons.
Re-signing Francisco Liriano and bringing back A.J. Burnett gives them a rock-solid rotation with plenty of depth behind the initial five guys, while the bullpen has some new faces in the flame-throwing duo of Arquimedes Caminero and John Holdzkom but should again be a strength.
The first base platoon of Pedro Alvarez and Corey Hart could be an X-factor offensively, and the same goes for second-year outfielder Gregory Polanco, who is capable of much more than the .235 average and .650 OPS he posted as a rookie.
This team should challenge the St. Louis Cardinals for the NL Central title, but at the very least, the Pirates seem like a safe bet for a return trip to the Wild Card Round.
Final 25-Man Roster Predictions
| C Francisco Cervelli | LHP Francisco Liriano |
| 1B Pedro Alvarez | RHP A.J. Burnett |
| 2B Neil Walker | RHP Gerrit Cole |
| 3B Josh Harrison | LHP Jeff Locke |
| SS Jordy Mercer | RHP Charlie Morton |
| LF Starling Marte | Bullpen |
| CF Andrew McCutchen | RHP Vance Worley |
| RF Gregory Polanco | RHP Radhames Liz |
| Bench | RHP Arquimedes Caminero (R) |
| C Tony Sanchez | LHP Antonio Bastardo |
| 1B/OF Corey Hart | RHP Jared Hughes |
| IF Jung-ho Kang (R) | LHP Tony Watson |
| IF/OF Sean Rodriguez | RHP Mark Melancon |
| OF Andrew Lambo |
DL: C Chris Stewart
6. San Diego Padres
25 of 30
Team Outlook
General manager A.J. Preller was hired by the San Diego Padres last August, and in his first offseason at the helm, he has them looking like the most improved team in baseball.
Despite its abysmal offense a year ago, the team still managed to win 77 games thanks to a pitching staff that ranked fourth in the majors with a 3.27 ERA. All the key members of that pitching staff are back, along with offseason additions James Shields and Brandon Morrow, so expect them to again be among the league's best on the mound.
On the offensive side of things, newcomers Justin Upton, Matt Kemp, Wil Myers, Will Middlebrooks and Derek Norris should bring a complete culture change. The fact that Preller landed all of that talent without sacrificing any of his top three prospects may be the most impressive part of their offseason.
At the very least, this looks like a wild-card team, but they have the potential to challenge the Dodgers for NL West supremacy.
Final 25-Man Roster Predictions
| C Derek Norris | RHP James Shields |
| 1B Yonder Alonso | RHP Andrew Cashner |
| 2B Jedd Gyorko | RHP Tyson Ross |
| 3B Will Middlebrooks | RHP Ian Kennedy |
| SS Alexi Amarista | RHP Brandon Morrow |
| LF Justin Upton | Bullpen |
| CF Wil Myers | RHP Odrisamer Despaigne |
| RF Matt Kemp | RHP Shawn Kelley |
| Bench | LHP Frank Garces (R) |
| C Wil Nieves | RHP Nick Vincent |
| 1B Tommy Medica | RHP Dale Thayer |
| IF Clint Barmes | RHP Kevin Quackenbush |
| OF Cameron Maybin | RHP Joaquin Benoit |
| OF Will Venable |
DL: SP Josh Johnson, SP Cory Luebke, C Tim Federowicz
5. Los Angeles Angels
26 of 30
Team Outlook
The Los Angeles Angels led baseball with 98 wins a year ago, and despite trading way Howie Kendrick and being without Garrett Richards to begin the season, they look to be just as talented heading into 2015.
A full season of Matt Shoemaker in the rotation and a strong bullpen from the start should make a difference on the pitching side of things, though they can't get Richards back soon enough after his breakout 2014 season.
After leading the league in runs scored last year (773), they should again have one of the better offenses in baseball with reigning MVP Mike Trout again leading the way. Johnny Giavotella appears to have won the second base job, while C.J. Cron looks like a potential breakout candidate with regular at-bats.
The Seattle Mariners are going to give them everything they can handle to the point that it's hard to call the Angels favorites in the AL West, but one way or another, expect to see them back in the playoffs.
Final 25-Man Roster Predictions
| C Chris Iannetta | RHP Jered Weaver |
| 1B Albert Pujols | LHP C.J. Wilson |
| 2B Johnny Giavotella | RHP Matt Shoemaker |
| 3B David Freese | LHP Hector Santiago |
| SS Erick Aybar | Bullpen |
| LF Matt Joyce | LHP Jose Alvarez (R) |
| CF Mike Trout | RHP Drew Rucinski (R) |
| RF Kole Calhoun | RHP Vinnie Pestano |
| DH C.J. Cron | LHP Cesar Ramos |
| Bench | RHP Michael Morin |
| C Drew Butera | RHP Fernando Salas |
| IF Taylor Featherston (R) | RHP Joe Smith |
| IF Josh Rutledge | RHP Huston Street |
| OF Collin Cowgill |
DL: SP Garrett Richards, SP Tyler Skaggs, LF Josh Hamilton
4. Los Angeles Dodgers
27 of 30
Team Outlook
This may be a new-look Los Angeles Dodgers team, but they still look like the most talented team in the NL West and one of the favorites in the National League.
The new middle infield of Howie Kendrick and Jimmy Rollins will be one of the big keys to the offense, as will rookie Joc Pederson, who has helped put some minds at ease with a huge spring (.389 BA, 1.217 OPS, 6 HR, 12 RBI).
The rotation will again feature the most dynamic one-two punch in the game, but Hyun-Jin Ryu's early health troubles and the lengthy injury histories of Brandon McCarthy and Brett Anderson is cause for at least mild concern. The bullpen was overhauled, and it looks better top to bottom.
At some point, the Dodgers will need to sort out what is currently a six-man bench, and cutting ties with Andre Ethier one way or another might be the best solution. Either way, they again look like the team to beat in the NL West.
Final 25-Man Roster Predictions
| C Yasmani Grandal | LHP Clayton Kershaw |
| 1B Adrian Gonzalez | RHP Zack Greinke |
| 2B Howie Kendrick | RHP Brandon McCarthy |
| 3B Juan Uribe | LHP Brett Anderson |
| SS Jimmy Rollins | Bullpen |
| LF Carl Crawford | RHP Juan Nicasio |
| CF Joc Pederson (R) | LHP Paco Rodriguez |
| RF Yasiel Puig | RHP Sergio Santos |
| Bench | RHP Pedro Baez (R) |
| C A.J. Ellis | LHP J.P Howell |
| 1B/OF Scott Van Slyke | RHP Joel Peralta |
| IF Alex Guerrero (R) | RHP Chris Hatcher |
| IF Justin Turner | |
| OF Andre Ethier | |
| OF Chris Heisey |
DL: SP Hyun-Jin Ryu, SP Brandon Beachy, RP Kenley Jansen, RP Brandon League, RP Chris Withrow
3. Seattle Mariners
28 of 30
Team Outlook
This may seem like an overly optimistic ranking for a team that has not reached the playoffs since 2001, but the Seattle Mariners look like the most complete team in the American League a year after coming one win short of reaching October.
James Paxton and Taijuan Walker are both breakout candidates in a rotation anchored by one of the game's truly elite arms in Felix Hernandez, while the No. 1 bullpen in baseball from a year ago returns intact.
The signing of Nelson Cruz gets the bulk of the headlines offensively, and understandably so, but the team also bolstered its corner outfield production by adding Seth Smith, Justin Ruggiano and Rickie Weeks.
The Mariners have not faced these kind of expectations in a while, and it will be interesting to see how this core responds to being among the favorites as opposed to the also-rans. That said, they're my pick to win the AL pennant.
Final 25-Man Roster Predictions
| C Mike Zunino | RHP Felix Hernandez |
| 1B Logan Morrison | RHP Hisashi Iwakuma |
| 2B Robinson Cano | LHP James Paxton |
| 3B Kyle Seager | RHP Taijuan Walker |
| SS Brad Miller | LHP J.A. Happ |
| LF Dustin Ackley | Bullpen |
| CF Austin Jackson | LHP Tyler Olson (R) |
| RF Seth Smith | RHP Dominic Leone |
| DH Nelson Cruz | RHP Tom Wilhelmsen |
| Bench | LHP Charlie Furbush |
| C Jesus Sucre | RHP Danny Farquhar |
| IF/OF Willie Bloomquist | RHP Yoervis Medina |
| IF/OF Rickie Weeks | RHP Fernando Rodney |
| OF Justin Ruggiano |
DL: SS Chris Taylor
2. St. Louis Cardinals
29 of 30
Team Outlook
The St. Louis Cardinals have reached the postseason an impressive 11 times in the past 15 years, establishing themselves as the gold standard for sustained success by drafting well and developing their in-house talent.
That said, a big offseason trade could prove to the be the difference in 2015, as right fielder Jason Heyward was acquired from the Atlanta Braves. It's fair to say he has yet to reach his full potential, but he was still a 6.3 WAR player last year, and a breakout season at the age of 25 is still a very real possibility.
They don't have the same starting pitching depth they had in years past, but with Marco Gonzales waiting in the wings it's not an area of concern. The bullpen should also looks strong once again, with Matt Belisle and Jordan Walden replacing Jason Motte and Pat Neshek.
The NL Central might be the most talented division in baseball top to bottom, but the Cardinals again look like the favorites to wear the crown.
Final 25-Man Roster Predictions
| C Yadier Molina | RHP Adam Wainwright |
| 1B Matt Adams | RHP Lance Lynn |
| 2B Kolten Wong | RHP Michael Wacha |
| 3B Matt Carpenter | RHP John Lackey |
| SS Jhonny Peralta | RHP Carlos Martinez |
| LF Matt Holliday | Bullpen |
| CF Jon Jay | RHP Carlos Villanueva |
| RF Jason Heyward | LHP Randy Choate |
| Bench | RHP Matt Belisle |
| C Tony Cruz | LHP Kevin Siegrist |
| 1B Mark Reynolds | RHP Seth Maness |
| IF Pete Kozma | RHP Jordan Walden |
| OF Peter Bourjos | RHP Trevor Rosenthal |
| OF Randal Grichuk (R) |
DL: SP Jaime Garcia
1. Washington Nationals
30 of 30
Team Outlook
The Washington Nationals have sat in the No. 1 spot since our first offseason rankings came out, when they were identified as the most complete roster in baseball heading into the offseason.
With the addition of Max Scherzer to a starting rotation that may challenge for an all-time-best spot, they cemented their place as the team to beat heading into 2015. Yes, they've struggled in their last two trips to the postseason, but it's a new year, and this is a different team.
There are some injury issues entering the season, but none that are expected to be long-term. Seeing the likes of Ian Stewart, Tyler Moore and rookie Michael Taylor in the projected starting lineup isn't pretty, but things should be sorted out not long after the season starts, so that's not enough to bump them from the top spot.
Pitching wins championships, and the Nationals have one of the best collections of arms we've seen in recent memory. That's why they're my pick to win it all in 2015, and just to clarify, I am well aware of their postseason failures of the last few years.
Final 25-Man Roster Predictions
| C Wilson Ramos | RHP Max Scherzer |
| 1B Ryan Zimmerman | RHP Stephen Strasburg |
| 2B Yunel Escobar | RHP Jordan Zimmermann |
| 3B Ian Stewart | LHP Gio Gonzalez |
| SS Ian Desmond | RHP Doug Fister |
| LF Tyler Moore | Bullpen |
| CF Michael Taylor (R) | RHP Tanner Roark |
| RF Bryce Harper | LHP Jerry Blevins |
| Bench | RHP Craig Stammen |
| C Jose Lobaton | RHP Blake Treinen |
| IF Danny Espinosa | LHP Matt Thornton |
| IF Dan Uggla | RHP Aaron Barrett |
| IF/OF Kevin Frandsen | RHP Drew Storen |
| OF Tony Gwynn Jr. |
DL: 3B Anthony Rendon, LF Jayson Werth, CF Denard Span, OF Nate McLouth, RP Casey Janssen
All stats courtesy of Baseball-Reference, unless otherwise noted.
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