2009 MLB Predictions

I promise I did these before the season began. Just haven't had time to put them on the blog.

AL East Champ: Rays
AL Central Champ: Indians
AL West Champ: Angels
AL Wild Card: Red Sox

NL East Champ: Mets
NL Central Champ: Cubs
NL West Champ: D'Backs
NL Wild Card: Cardinals

AL Division Series 1: Rays over Indians
AL Division Series 2: Red Sox over Angels


NL Division Series 1: Cubs over D'Backs
NL Division Series 2: Cardinals over Mets

AL Championship Series: Rays over Red Sox
NL Championship Series: Cubs over Cardinals

World Series: Rays over Cubs (in 7)


AL Home Run Leader: Josh Hamilton
NL Home Run Leader: Adam Dunn


AL MVP: Grady Sizemore
NL MVP: Manny Ramirez


AL ROY: David Price
NL ROY: Cameron Maybin


AL Cy Young: Felix Hernandez
NL Cy Young: Johan Santana


AL Surprise Team: Royals
NL Surprise Team: Braves

AL Overrated: Yankees
NL Overrated: Phillies

Name one or two candidates for the following:


AL Underrated/Breakout Pitcher: Zack Grienke, Anthony Reyes
NL Underrated/Breakout Pitcher: Jair Jurrjens, Yovani Gallardo

AL Underrated/Breakout Hitter: Shin-Soo Choo, Adam Jones
NL Underrated/Breakout Hitter: Jeff Francouer, Chris Iannetta

AL Not As Good As Advertised Pitcher: Cliff Lee, A.J. Burnett
NL Not As Good As Advertised Pitcher: Ryan Dempster, Matt Cain


AL Not As Good As Advertised Hitter: Johnny Damon, Carlos Pena
NL Not As Good As Advertised Hitter: Nate McLouth, Ryan Ludwick


AL Comeback: Travis Hafner, Ken Griffey Jr.
NL Comeback: Jeff Francouer, Edwin Encarnacion


AL 3 Years Out (up and coming team): Royals, Indians
NL 3 Years Out (up and coming team): Giants, Reds

5 Players To Start Your Dynasty: Tim Lincecum, Hanley Ramirez, Grady Sizemore, Ryan Braun, B.J. Upton

5 Players With No Major League Experience To Start Your Team: Madison Bumgarner, Buster Posey, Matt LaPorta, Steven Strasburg, Shannon Wilkerson (outfielder at Augusta State)

2009 MLB Preview - Washington Nationals

Washington Nationals
Manager: Manny Acta (3rd season)
2008 Record: 59-102 (5th NL East)


Added: IF/OF Adam Dunn (CIN), OF Josh Willingham, OF Corey Patterson (CIN), SP Scott Olsen (FLA), SP Daniel Cabrera (BAL)
Lost: 2B Emilio Bonafacio (FLA)

Projected Lineup (2008 Stats)
1. SS Christian Guzman (.316, 77 R, 9 HR, 55 RBI) 2. CF Lasting Milledge (.268, 65 R, 14 HR, 61 RBI, 24 SB) 3. LF Adam Dunn (.236, 79 R, 40 HR, 100 RBI) 4. 3B Ryan Zimmerman (.283, 51 R, 14 HR, 51 RBI) 5. RF Austin Kearns (.217, 40 R, 7 HR, 32 RBI) 6. 1B Nick Johnson (.220, 15 R, 5 HR, 20 RBI) 7. 2B Ronnie Belliard (.287, 37 R, 11 HR, 46 RBI) 8. C Jesus Flores (.256, 23 R, 8 HR, 59 RBI)

Projected Starting Rotation (2008 Stats)
1. John Lannan (9-15, 3.91 ERA, 117 K) 2. Scott Olsen (8-11, 4.20 ERA, 113 K) 3. Daniel Cabrera (8-10, 5.25 ERA, 95 K) 4. Jordan Zimmermann (Rookie) 5. Shairon Martis (Started 4 games)

Bench
C Wil Nieves, IF/OF Willie Harris, IF Alberto Gonzalez, OF Elijah

Bullpen (2008 Stats for Closer only)
Joel Hanrahan (9 SV, 84.1 IP, 73 H, 93 K, 3.95 ERA), Saul Rivera, Garrett Mock, Joe Beimel, Julian Tavarez, Steven Shell

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Fantasy Studs: None
Fantasy Sleepers: OF Lasting Milledge

Men In The Minors: 1B Chris Marrero, SS Esmailyn Gonzalez, OF Michael Burgess, SP Ross Detwiler

Home Ballpark: Nationals Stadium (Grade 9/10)

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Team Outlook: Last year, they were the doormat of the National League. This year, they have made some big changes hoping to move from that dubious position. As far as batting goes, Dunn will carry the load with homers. Zimmerman can hit a good amount as well. But the rest of the lineup, except Milledge maybe, really doesn't scare any opposing pitchers. As far the Nationals pitcher, it's better but nowhere near where they need to be to win the division. The additions of Cabrera and Olsen are steps in the right direction even if they are baby steps. Lannan also needs a quality season. The bullpen could be worse. Joel Hanrahan did an admirable job closing once Jon Rauch. All in all, one would hope that the team just has fun this season, because winning a ton of games is probably out of the question.

Next: MLB Predictions!

2009 MLB Preview - Toronto Blue Jays

Toronto Blue Jays
Manager: Cito Gaston (11th season)
2008 Record: 86-76 (3rd NL East)


Added: 1B Kevin Millar (BAL)
Lost: SP A.J. Burnett (NYY)

Projected Lineup (2008 Stats)
1. SS Marco Scutaro (.267, 76 R, 7 HR 60 RBI) 2. 2B Aaron Hill (.263, 19 R, 2 HR, 20 RBI) 3. RF Alex Rios (.291, 91 R, 15 HR, 79 RBI, 32 SB) 4. CF Vernon Wells (.300, 63 R, 20 HR, 78 RBI) 5. DH Adam Lind (.282, 48 R, 9 HR, 40 RBI) 6. 3B Scott Rolen (.262, 58 R, 11 HR, 50 RBI) 7. 1B Lyle Overbay (.270, 74 R, 15 HR, 69 RBI) 8. C Rod Barajas (.249, 44 R, 11 HR, 49 RBI) 9. LF Travis Snider (Rookie)

Projected Starting Rotation (2008 Stats)
1. Roy Halladay (20-11, 2.78 ERA, 206 K) 2. Jesse Litsch (13-9, 3.58 ERA, 99 K) 3. David Purcey (3-6, 5.54 ERA, 58 K) 4. Ricky Romero (Rookie) 5. Scott Richmond (5 starts)

Bench
C Michael Barrett, 1B Kevin Millar, IF John McDonald, IF Jose Bautista

Bullpen (2008 Stats for Closer only)
B.J. Ryan (32 SV, 58.0 IP, 46 H, 58 K, 2.95 ERA), Scott Downs, Brian Tallet, Jesse Carlson, Shawn Camp

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Fantasy Studs: OF Alex Rios, SP Roy Halladay
Fantasy Sleepers: OF Travis Snider, SP Jesse Litsch

Men In The Minors: 1B David Cooper, SS Justin Jackson, SP Brad Mills, SP Brett Cecil

Home Ballpark: Rogers Centre (Grade 2/10)

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Team Outlook: They may play in now the toughest division in baseball. Unfortunately for them, they don't really factor into that equation. The Blue Jays have a lot of work to do not only to reach the top 3, but just to finish at .500. Losing Burnett from the rotation hurts more than they think. Halladay is getting older but is still a horse. Litsch is a great young arm. After that though, watch out. The bullpen is good. Ryan did well as the year wore on. The lineup isn't in shambles but it's not amazing either. Rios and Wells are bonafide stars in this league. Snider has the potential to be one down the road. Everyone else is just a mediocre hitter with subpar power. And against the pitching they will see in the division, those bats will be silenced numerous time. Again, there is talent there but not nearly to compete for the AL East title.

Next Preview: Washinton Nationals

2009 MLB Preview - Texas Rangers

Texas Rangers
Manager: Ron Washington (3rd season)
2008 Record: 79-83 (2nd AL West)


Added: OF Andruw Jones (LAD), SP Kris Benson (PHI), RP Derrick Turnbow (MIL)
Lost: C Gerald Laird (DET), 3B Ramon Vazquez (PIT), OF Milton Bradley (CHC)

Projected Lineup (2008 Stats)
1. 2B Ian Kinsler (.319, 102 R, 18 HR, 71 RBI, 26 SB) 2. 3B Michael Young (.284, 102 R, 12 HR, 82 RBI) 3. CF Josh Hamilton (.304, 98 R, 32 HR, 130 RBI) 4. RF Nelson Cruz (.330, 19 R, 7 HR, 26 RBI) 5. DH Hank Blalock (.287, 37 R, 12 HR, 38 RBI) 6. 1B Chris Davis (.285, 51 R, 17 HR, 55 RBI) 7. LF David Murphy (.275, 64 R, 15 HR, 74 RBI) 8. C Jarrod Saltalamacchia (.253, 27 R, 3 HR, 26 RBI) 9. SS Elvis Andrus (Rookie)

Projected Starting Rotation (2008 Stats)
1. Kevin Millwood (9-10, 5.07 ERA, 125 K) 2. Vicente Padilla (14-8, 4.74 ERA, 127 K) 3. Kris Benson (Hasn't pitched since 2006) 4. Brandon McCarthy (1-1, 4.09 ERA, 10 K) 5. Matt Harrison (9-3, 5.49 ERA, 42 K)

Bench
C Taylor Teagarden, SS Omar Vizquel, OF Marlon Byrd, OF Andruw Jones

Bullpen (2008 Stats for Closer only)
Frank Francisco (5 SV, 63.1 IP, 47 H, 83 K, 3.13 ERA), C.J. Wilson, Derrick Turnbow, Eddie Guardado, Warner Madrigal

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Fantasy Studs: 2B Ian Kinsler, OF Josh Hamilton
Fantasy Sleepers: 1B Chris Davis, OF Nelson Cruz

Men In The Minors: C Max Ramirez, 1B Justin Smoak, OF Julio Borbon, SP Neftali Perez, SP Derek Holland

Home Ballpark: Ballpark at Arlington (Grade 7/10)

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Team Outlook: If you want to go to a baseball and see a lot of runs, then head to Arlington to check out the Rangers because they will score. As usual, the pitching staff though is what is keeping this team from any serious consideration for the playoffs. Millwood is a cagey vet but he's not good. Padilla also is probably on the downside of his career. Benson hasn't pitched since 2006 and the final 2 are just simple unproven. The bullpen has bright signs but many times, they will be pitching from behind. The lineup though will score a ton of runs. The top 3 of Kinsler, Young and Hamilton should make for lots of runs. Cruz has the potential to his with a ton of power as well. Davis is the most intriguing player. He has plenty of pop in his bat too and if he keeps hi average up, will be a threat for years to come. I don't like this team's chances to win the division but once they get some pitching, they will be a very dangerous team.

Next Preview: Toronto Blue Jays

2009 MLB Preview - Tampa Bay Rays

Tampa Bay Rays
Manager: Joe Maddon (4th season)
2008 Record: 97-65 (1st AL East)
Postseason: Won AL Pennant

Added: OF Pat Burrell (PHI), OF Matt Joyce (DET), RP Joe Nelson (FLA), RP Jason Isringhausen (STL)
Lost: OF Rocco Baldelli (BOS), SP Edwin Jackson (DET), RP Trever Miller (STL)

Projected Lineup (2008 Stats)
1. 2B Akinori Iwamura (.274, 91 R, 6 HR, 48 RBI) 2. LF Carl Crawford (.273, 69 R, 8 HR, 57 RBI, 25 SB) 3. 1B Carlos Pena (.247, 76 R, 31 HR, 102 RBI) 4. 3B Evan Longoria (.272, 67 R, 27 HR, 85 RBI) 5. DH Pat Burrell (.250, 74 R, 33 HR, 86 RBI) 6. RF Matt Joyce (.252, 40 R, 12 HR, 33 RBI) 7. C Dioner Navarro (.295, 43 R, 7 HR, 54 RBI) 8. CF Gabe Gross (.238, 46 R, 13 HR, 40 RBI) 9. SS Jason Bartlett (.286, 46 R, 1 HR, 37 RBI, 20 SB)

NOTE: CF B.J. Upton will return in late April/early May due to injury

Projected Starting Rotation (2008 Stats)
1. James Shields (14-8, 3.56 ERA, 160 K) 2. Scott Kazmir (12-8, 3.49 ERA, 166 K) 3. Matt Garza (11-9, 3.70 ERA, 128 K) 4. Andy Sonnanstine (13-9, 4.38 ERA, 124 K) 5. Jeff Niemann (2-2, 5.06 ERA, 14 K)

Bench
C Shawn Riggins, IF Willy Aybar, IF/OF Ben Zobrist, OF Gabe Kapler

Bullpen (2008 Stats for Closer only)
Troy Percival (28 SV, 45.2 IP, 29 H, 38 K, 4.53), Dan Wheeler, Jason Isringhausen, Grant Balfour, Chad Bradford, J.P Howell

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Fantasy Studs: 3B Evan Longoria, OF Carl Crawford
Fantasy Sleepers: SP Matt Garza

Men In The Minors: C John Jaso, SS Reid Brignac, SS Tim Beckham, OF Desmond Jennings, SP David Price, SP Wade Davis

Home Ballpark: Tropicana Field (Grade 3/10)

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Team Outlook: Apparently, the word "Devil" is what was holding this team back. Last year saw an amazing ascension from laughing stock to baseball darling. Now, the Rays have to prove that last year was no fluke. They bring back many of the pieces from last year. The pitching staff is the same besides Jackson, who bolted for Detroit. Niemann is in the 5 slot now, but he's just keeping the spot warm for David Price, who will be in the rotation sooner rather than later. The bullpen stays the same pretty much, but expect Percival to struggle as closer a bit. I mean, he is 38 years old. The lineup is just as strong as last year. Upton's injury will only cause him to miss 2-4 weeks of the beginning of the season but once he is inserted, the 1-6 slots are all a tough out. Burrell is a good addition, especially his power, which this team lacked at times. Baldelli is gone but Joyce is an apt replacement there as well. And again, the bench has plenty of depth. This team should win and a win a lot. Not only do they have the tools, but they also have belief.

Next Preview: Texas Rangers

2009 MLB Preview - St. Louis Cardinals

St. Louis Cardinals
Manager: Tony LaRussa (14th season)
2008 Record: 86-76 (3rd NL Central)


Added: SS Khalil Greene (SD), RP Trever Miller (TB)
Lost: 2B Felipe Lopez (AZ), 2B Aaron Miles (CHC), SS Cesar Izturis (BAL)

Projected Lineup (2008 Stats)
1. 2B Skip Schumaker (.302, 87 R, 8 HR, 46 RBI) 2. CF Rick Ankiel (.264, 65 R, 25 HR, 71 RBI) 3. 1B Albert Pujols (.357, 100 R, 37 HR, 116 RBI) 4. RF Ryan Ludwick (.299, 104 R, 37 HR, 113 RBI) 5. 3B David Freese (Rookie) 6. SS Khalil Greene (.213, 30 R, 10 HR, 35 RBI) 7. C Yadier Molina (.304, 37 R, 7 HR, 56 RBI) 8. LF Colby Rasmus (Rookie)

NOTE: 3B Troy Glaus will return in late April/early May due to injury

Projected Starting Rotation (2008 Stats)
1. Adam Wainwright (11-3, 3.20 ERA, 91 K) 2. Chris Carpenter (0-1, 1.76 ERA, 7 K) 3. Kyle Lohse (15-6, 3.78 ERA, 119 K) 4. Joel Piniero (7-7, 5.15 ERA, 81 K) 5. Todd Wellemayer (13-9, 3.71 ERA, 134 K)

Bench
C Jason LaRue, IF/OF Chris Duncan, IF Brendan Ryan, IF Brian Barden

Bullpen (2008 Stats for Closer only)
Jason Motte (Just 12 appearances), Ryan Franklin, Trever Miller, Josh Kinney, Dennys Reyes

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Fantasy Studs: 1B Albert Pujols, OF Ryan Ludwick
Fantasy Sleepers: OF Colby Rasmus

Men In The Minors: C Bryan Anderson, 3B Brett Wallace, OF Daryl Jones, SP Jess Todd, SP Lance Lynn

Home Ballpark: Busch Stadium (Grade 9/10)

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Team Outlook: For many teams, 86-76 is a good year but for the Cardinals, it was a bit of a disappointment. But considering all the injuries they had to deal with, especially on the pitching staff, the 2008 season should just be thrown away. This year, if the staff stays healthy, this team could be very dangerous. Wainwright showed flashes of his talent last year before injury. Carpenter has looked great all spring, hoping to return to the form of years past. Lohse has been nothing but steady for the team. Pineiro has the potential for 12-15 wins and if Wellemayer can just replicate last year's 13-win campaign, this staff could carry this team. Of course, getting some run support would help and they should with the help of Pujols and Ludwick. Ludwick's numbers may drop a bit but expect better numbers from Greene and Schumaker. The biggest question mark right now is the closer spot where Motte will be given the ball. How he does early in the year will be the most interesting thing to see. This team is talented, has one of the best managers in the game, and knows what it takes to reach the playoffs. They are a contender for a playoff spot for sure.

Next Preview: Tampa Bay Rays

2009 MLB Preview - Seattle Mariners

Seattle Mariners
Manager: Don Wakamatsu (1st season)
2008 Record: 61-101 (4th AL West)


Added: IF Russell Branyan (MIL), OF Ken Griffey Jr. (CHW), OF Franklin Gutierrez (CLE), OF Endy Chavez (NYM), RP Aaron Heilman (NYM)
Lost: Of Raul Ibanez (PHI), OF Jeremy Reed (NYM), RP J.J. Putz (NYM)

Projected Lineup (2008 Stats)
1. CF Ichiro Suzuki (.310, 103 R, 6 HR, 42 RBI, 43 SB) 2. LF Endy Chavez (.267, 30 R, 1 HR, 12 RBI) 3. 3B Adrian Beltre (.266, 74 R, 25 HR, 77 RBI, 23 SB) 4. 1B Russell Branyan (.250, 24 R, 12 HR, 20 RBI) 5. DH Ken Griffey Jr. (.249, 67 R, 18 HR, 71 RBI) 6. 2B Jose Lopez (.297, 80 R, 17 HR, 89 RBI) 7. C Kenji Johjima (.227, 29 R, 7 HR, 39 RBI) 8. CF Franklin Gutierrez (.248, 54 R, 8 HR, 41 RBI) 9. SS Yuniesky Betancourt (.279, 66 R, 7 HR, 51 RBI)

Projected Starting Rotation (2008 Stats)
1. Felix Hernandez (9-11, 3.45 ERA, 175 K) 2. Erik Bedard (6-4, 3.67 ERA, 72 K) 3. Jarrod Washburn (5-14, 4.69 ERA, 87 K) 4. Carlos Silva (4-15, 6.46 ERA, 69 K) 5. Ryan Rowland-Smith (5-3, 3.42 ERA, 77 K)

Bench
IF Ronny Cedeno, IF Chris Burke, OF Wladamir Belentien

Bullpen (2008 Stats for Closer only)
Brandon Morrow (10 SV, 64.2 IP, 40 H, 75 K, 3.34 ERA), Miguel Batitsta, David Aardsma, Mark Lowe, Roy Corcoran

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Fantasy Studs: SP Feliz Hernandez
Fantasy Sleepers: OF Franklin Gutierrez

Men In The Minors: C Adam Moore, SS Carlos Triunfel, OF Michael Saunders, OF Greg Halman, SP Juan Ramirez, SP Phillippe Aumont

Home Ballpark: Safeco Field (Grade 8/10)

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Team Outlook: My how far they have fallen. The last time Griffey Jr. was on the Mariners, they were chasing playoff spots. That surely was not the case last season when they lost 101 times. Things could change this season though. The lineup looks revamped. They did lose Ibanez but did a decent job of getting some other bats to replace him. Griffey, Chavez and Branyan are all good pick-ups for a team that needs to turn it around. Beltre and Lopez are also bright spots in the lineup while Gutierrez could become a star as an everyday player. The pitching staff is led by Hernandez, who has electric stuff. Bedard has not pitched well since coming to Seattle yet. Washburn had just an awful 2008 campaign that he hopes to turn around while Silva and Rowland-Smith should just strive to contribute 10 wins. With a new manager and plenty of new faces, there is reason to believe that the losing culture that has been around this team is now gone. There is hope for a good season with the pieces that have in place.

Next Preview: St. Louis Cardinals

2009 MLB Preview - San Francisco Giants

San Francisco Giants
Manager: Bruce Bochy (3rd season)
2008 Record: 72-90 (4th NL West)


Added: SS Edgar Renteria (DET), IF Juan Uribe (CHW), SP Randy Johnson (AZ), RP Bob Howry (CHC), Jeremy Affeldt (CIN)
Lost: SP Brian Hennessey (BAL)

Projected Lineup (2008 Stats)
1. RF Randy Winn (.306, 84 R, 10 HR, 64 RBI, 25 SB) 2. SS Edgar Renteria (.270, 69 R, 10 HR, 55 RBI) 3. 3B Pablo Sandoval (.345, 24 R, 3 HR, 24 RBI) 4. C Bengie Molina (.292, 46 R, 16 HR, 95 RBI) 5. LF Fred Lewis (.282, 81 R, 9 HR, 40 RBI, 21 SB) 6. CF Aaron Rowand (.271, 51 R, 13 HR, 70 RBI) 7. 1B Travis Ishikawa (.274, 12 R, 3 HR, 15 RBI) 8. 2B Emmanuel Burriss (.283, 37 R, 1 HR, 18 RBI, 13 SB)

Projected Starting Rotation (2008 Stats)
1. Tim Lincecum (18-5, 2.62 ERA, 265 K) 2. Matt Cain (8-14, 3.76 ERA, 186 K) 3. Randy Johnson (11-10, 3.91 ERA, 173 K) 4. Barry Zito (10-17, 5.15 ERA, 120 K) 5. Johnathan Sanchez (9-12, 5.01 ERA, 157 K)

Bench
IF Rich Aurilia, IF Juan Uribe, OF Nate Schiertholtz, OF Eugenio Velez

Bullpen (2008 Stats for Closer only)
Brian Wilson (41 SV, 62.1 IP, 62 H, 67 K, 4.62 ERA), Bob Howry, Jeremy Affeledt, Alex Hinshaw, Sergio Romo

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Fantasy Studs: SP Tim Lincecum
Fantasy Sleepers: IF Pablo Sandoval, 2B Emmanuel Burriss, SP Johnathan Sanchez

Men In The Minors: C Buster Posey, 1B Angel Villalona, 2B Nick Noonan, 3B Conor Gillaspie, SP Madison Bumgarner

Home Ballpark: AT&T Park (Grade 9/10)

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Team Outlook: The team that the Giants put on the field last year was not a good one, and the results showed. This year though, there is a bit of an infusion of young talent. The Giants have a very good farm system right now and it is slowly being showcased in the big leagues. In the lineup, the new faces include Sandoval and Burriss, who should make nice impacts with their bats and speed. Picking up Renteria is a solid pickup, giving them a nice #2 hitter behind Winn. Ishikawa is another somewhat new face and could play a big role in the lineup as well. As far as pitching, Lincecum is the ace by far. After that, it's a lot of pitchers with great stuff but also inconsistent. Cain has been great before but was not last year. Johnson is just out there to throw innings. Zito is hoping 2009 is the year he is worth his gaudy contract. Sanchez is the sleeper though. When healthy, he could be a 15-game winner as the #5 guy. Plus, this team has a good manager in Bruce Bochy to lead the way for them. They probably will not compete for a division title this season but they will be soon with the talent in the minors and some of the talent in SF right now.

Next Preview: Seattle Mariners

2009 MLB Preview - San Diego Padres

San Diego Padres
Manager: Bud Black (3rd season)
2008 Record: 63-99 (5th NL West)


Added: C Henry Blanco (CHC), SS David Eckstein (TOR), OF Cliff Floyd (TB), SP Shawn Hill (WAS), RP Edward Mujica (CLE)
Lost: C Josh Bard (BOS), SS Khalil Greene (STL)

Projected Lineup (2008 Stats)
1. CF Jody Gerut (.296, 46 R, 14 HR, 43 RBI) 2. 2B Edgar Gonzalez (.274, 38 R, 7 HR, 33 RBI) 3. RF Brian Giles (.306, 81 R, 12 HR, 63 RBI, 23 SB) 4. 1B Adrian Gonzalez (.279, 103 R, 36 HR, 119 RBI) 5. 3B Kevin Kouzmanoff (.260, 71 R, 23 HR, 84 RBI) 6. LF Chase Headley (.269, 34 R, 9 HR, 38 RBI) 7. C Henry Blanco (.292, 15 R, 3 HR, 12 RBI) 8. SS David Eckstein (.265, 32 R, 2 HR, 27 RBI)

Projected Starting Rotation (2008 Stats)
1. Jake Peavy (10-11, 2.85 ERA, 166 K) 2. Chris Young (7-6, 3.96 ERA, 93 K) 3. Cha Seung Baek (6-10, 4.79 ERA, 92 K) 4. Kevin Correia (3-8, 6.05 ERA, 66 K) 5. Shawn Hill (1-5, 5.83 ERA, 39 K)

Bench
C Nick Hundley, IF Luis Rodriguez, OF Cliff Floyd, OF Scott Hairston

Bullpen (2008 Stats for Closer only)
Heath Bell (23 H, 78.0 IP, 66 H, 71 K, 3.58 ERA), Cla Meredith, Edwin Moreno, Edward Mujica, Duaner Sanchez

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Fantasy Studs: 1B Adrian Gonzalez
Fantasy Sleepers: OF Chase Headley

Men In The Minors: 1B Kyle Blanks, 2B Matt Antonelli, OF Kellen Kulbacki, SP Matt Latos, SP Will Inman

Home Ballpark: Petco Park (Grade 7/10)

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Team Outlook: Just two years ago, the Padres were well over .500 and were contenders for the NL Pennant. These days, getting to .500 would be an accomplishment. It all begins with their pitching, which truly let them down last year. Peavy struggled and when your ace struggles, that doesn't bode well. Young was hit by a line drive and never really recovered from that. Baek had a rough season as well. So in other words, the staff is not one to put a lot of faith in. Same goes with the bullpen and new closer Bell. That's right, no more Trevor Hoffman. The lineup could be a lot worse but there is some hope. Gerut continues to improve. Giles is on the way down but A. Gonzalez is the real deal. Kouzmanoff and Headley are young talents who should see their numbers rise and having players like Blanco and Eckstein give the team a nice veteran presence. But in the end, this team will not be in contention this year. Expect Peavy to be traded during the All-Star break and for this team to get young all over to build for the future.

Next Preview: San Francisco Giants

2009 MLB Preview - Pittsburgh Pirates

Pittsburgh Pirates
Manager: John Russell (2nd season)
2008 Record: 67-95 (6th NL Central)


Added: IF Ramon Vazquez (TEX), IF Eric Hinske (TB)
Lost: OF Jason Michaels (HOU)

Projected Lineup (2008 Stats)
1. LF Nyjer Morgan (.294, 26 R, 0 HR, 7 RBI) 2. 2B Freddy Sanchez (.271, 75 R, 9 HR, 52 RBI) 3. CF Nate McLouth (.276, 113 R, 26 HR, 94 RBI, 23 SB) 4. C Ryan Doumit (.318, 71 R, 15 HR, 69 RBI) 5. 1B Adam LaRoche (.270, 66 R, 25 HR, 85 RBI) 6. RF Brandon Moss (.246, 19 R, 8 HR, 34 RBI) 7. 3B Andy LaRoche (.166, 17 R, 5 HR, 18 RBI) 8. SS Jack Wilson (.272, 24 R, 1 HR, 22 RBI)

Projected Starting Rotation (2008 Stats)
1. Paul Maholm (9-9, 3.71 ERA, 139 K) 2. Ian Snell (7-12, 5.42 ERA, 135 K) 3. Zach Duke (5-14, 4.82 ERA, 87 K) 4. Ross Ohlendorf (Did Not Start) 5. Jeff Karstens (2-6, 4.03 ERA, 23 K)

Bench
IF Eric Hinske, If Ramon Vazquez, IF Luis Cruz, OF Craig Monroe

Bullpen (2008 Stats for Closer only)
Matt Capps (21 SV, 53.2 IP, 47 H, 39 K, 3.02 ERA), Tyler Yates, John Grabow, Craig Hansen, Sean Burnett

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Fantasy Studs: OF Nate McLouth
Fantasy Sleepers: OF Nyjer Morgan

Men In The Minors: 3B Pedro Alvarez, OF Jose Tabata, OF Andrew McCutchen, OF Robbie Grossman, SP Bryan Morris

Home Ballpark: PNC Park (Grade 8/10)

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Team Outlook: The last time the Pirates had a winning season was all the way back in 1992. Expect it to stay that way with this year's team. While there are plenty of young players to go around that could develop into great players, they aren't at that elite level right now. Let's start with the lineup. Plenty of potential in players like Morgan and Moss to go along with quality talent in McLouth and Doumit. Vazquez will also see time, playing various positions. All in all, they aren't impressive but not awful. No, awful is the word to use for the rotation. Led by Maholm, who has yet to put an amazing season together. Snell is terribly inconsistent. The same can be said for Duke as well. The final two are new or relative new to starting, so expect some bumps in the road. The bullpen is highlighted by closer Capps, who pitched well last season when given the opportunity to actually close a game. This team will struggle and needs help in many areas. Even i they just want to reach .500, they need young talent to play at or exceed their potential, and that's asking a lot.

Next Preview: San Diego Padres

2009 MLB Preview - Philadelphia Phillies

Philadelphia Phillies
Manager: Charlie Manuel (5th season)
2008 Record: 92-70 (1st NL East)
Postseason: World Series Champions

Added: OF Raul Ibanez (SEA), P Chan Ho Park (LAD)
Lost: OF Pat Burrell (TB)

Projected Lineup (2008 Stats)
1. SS Jimmy Rollins (.277, 76 R,11 HR, 59 RBI, 47 SB) 2. CF Shane Victorino (.293, 102 R, 14 HR, 58 RBI, 36 SB) 3. 2B Chase Utley (.292, 113 R, 33 HR, 104 RBI, 14 SB) 4. 1B Ryan Howard (.251, 105 R, 48 HR, 146 RBI) 5. LF Raul Ibanez (.293, 85 R, 23 HR, 110 RBI) 6. RF Jayson Werth (.273, 73 R, 24 HR, 67 RBI) 7. 3B Pedro Feliz (.249, 43 R, 14 HR, 58 RBI) 8. C Carlos Ruiz (.219, 47 R, 4 HR, 31 RBI)

Projected Starting Rotation (2008 Stats)
1. Cole Hamels (14-10, 3.09 ERA, 196 K) 2. Brett Myers (10-13, 4.55 ERA, 163 K) 3. Joe Blanton (9-12, 4.69 ERA, 111 K) 4. Jamie Moyer (16-7, 3.71 ERA, 123 K) 5. Chan Ho Park (4-4, 3.40 ERA, 79 K)

Bench
C Chris Coste, IF Greg Dobbs, IF Eric Bruntlett, OF Matt Stairs

Bullpen (2008 Stats for Closer only)
Brad Lidge (41 SV, 69.1 IP, 50 H, 92 K, 1.95 ERA), Ryan Madson, J.C. Romero (suspended 50 games), Chad Durbin, Scott Eyre

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Fantasy Studs: SS Jimmy Rollins, 2B Chase Utley, 1B Ryan Howard
Fantasy Sleepers: OF Jayson Werth

Men In The Minors: C Lou Marson, SS Jason Donald, OF Michael Taylor, SP Carlos Carrasco

Home Ballpark: Citizens Bank Park (Grade 8/10)

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Team Outlook: Not many people predicted the Phillies would win the World Series before the season began. People aren't going to be making that mistake once again. The team that won in 2008 looks very similar to the team that is about to begin playing in 2009. The pitching staff is pretty much unchanged. Hamels is still the stud, Blanton and Moyer (the ageless wonder) should provide 12-15 wins. Myers is a crapshoot and Park, well, we'll see. The bullpen is as strong as last year, even though Romero begins the year on suspension. The lineup is exactly the same besides Burrell moving out and Ibanez moving in. I see this as un upgrade for the Phils though. This is a team brimming with confidence after winning the division and winning the World Series. Expect them to contend for the division title once again. As far as the World Series, I'll just plan on them surprising me again.

Next Preview: Pittsburgh Pirates

2009 MLB Preview - Oakland Athletics

Oakland Athletics
Manager: Bob Geren (3rd season)
2008 Record: 75-86 (3rd AL West)


Added: 1B Jason Giambi (OAK), IF Nomar Garciaparra (LAD), SS Orlando Cabrera (CHW), OF Matt Holliday (OAK)
Lost: 3B Donnie Murphy (BAL), OF Carlos Gonzalez (COL), SP Greg Smith (COL), RP Huston Street (COL), RP Alan Embree (COL)

Projected Lineup (2008 Stats)
1. CF Ryan Sweeney (.286, 53 R, 5 HR, 45 RBI) 2. SS Orlando Cabrera (.281, 93 R, 8 HR, 57 RBI, 19 SB) 3. LF Matt Holliday (.321, 107 R, 25 HR, 88 RBI, 28 SB) 4. DH Jack Cust (.231, 77 R, 33 HR, 77 RBI) 5. 1B Jason Giambi (.247, 68 R, 32 HR, 96 RBI) 6. 3B Eric Chavez (.247, 10 R, 2 HR, 14 RBI) 7. C Kurt Suzuki (.279, 54 R, 7 HR, 42 RBI) 8. 2B Mark Ellis (.233, 55 R, 12 HR, 41 RBI) 9. RF Travis Buck (.226, 16 R, 7 HR, 25 RBI)

Projected Starting Rotation (2008 Stats)
1. Dallas Braden (5-4, 4.14 ERA, 41 K) 2. Dana Eveland (9-9, 4.34 ERA, 118 K) 3. Brett Anderson (Rookie) 4. Trevor Cahill (Rookie) 5. Josh Outman (1-2, 4.56 ERA, 19 K)

Bench
IF Daric Barton, IF Bobby Crosby, OF Rajai Davis, IF/OF Nomar Garciaparra

Bullpen (2008 Stats for Closer only)
Bard Zeigler (3 11, 59.2 IP, 47 H, 30 K, 1.06 ERA), Joey Devine, Jerry Blevins, Santiago Casilla, Russ Springer

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Fantasy Studs: OF Matt Holliday
Fantasy Sleepers: SP Trevor Cahill

Men In The Minors: 2B Adrian Cardenas, OF Aaron Cunningham, SP Michael Iona, SP James Simmons

Home Ballpark: McAfee Coliseum (Grade 1/10)

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Team Outlook: It's been a long time since the A's have really been a threat to make the playoffs. This team doesn't look like it's going to reverse the trend. Let's start with the lineup. Holliday and Cabrera are great pick-ups and should make a huge impact. Chavez and Giambi could also be helpful but they need to stay healthy. Suzuki is a very good hitting catcher and the team has great depth as well. The pitching though is what will make or break this team. You know it's not good news when your Opening Day starter is Braden, who own just 5 games. 2 of the pitchers in the rotation are 21 years old and rookies. Everything about that rotation screams trouble. Thing is, if these newbies pitch well, then this offense could bail them out on some nights. Not sure if this team is in contending mode or rebuilging mode. Either way, that rotation will make for a fun lineup.

Next Preview: Philadelphia Phillies

2009 MLB Preview - New York Yankees

New York Yankees
Manager: Joe Girardi (2nd season)
2008 Record: 89-73 (3rd AL East)


Added: 1B Mark Teixiera (LAA), OF Nick Swisher (CHW), SP C.C. Sabathia (MIL), SP A.J. Burnett (TOR)
Lost: OF Bobby Abreu (LAA), SP Carl Pavano (CLE), RP Billy Traber (BOS)

Projected Lineup (2008 Stats)
1. SS Derek Jeter (.300, 88 R, 11 HR, 69 RBI, 11 SB) 2. LF Johnny Damon (.303, 95 R, 17 HR, 71 RBI, 29 SB) 3. 1B Mark Teixiera (.308, 102 R, 33 HR, 121 RBI) 4. LF Hideki Matsui (.294, 43 R, 9 HR, 45 RBI) 5. C Jorge Posada (.268, 18 R, 3 HR, 22 RBI) 6. RF Xavier Nady (.305, 76 R, 25 HR, 97 RBI) 7. 2B Robinson Cano (.271, 70 R, 14 HR, 72 RBI) 8. 3B Cody Ransom (.302, 9 R, 4 HR, 8 RBI) 9. CF Brett Gardner (.228, 18 R, 0 HR, 16 RBI)

NOTE: 3B Alex Rodriguez will return in May due to injury

Projected Starting Rotation (2008 Stats)
1. C.C. Sabathia (17-10, 2.70 ERA, 251 K) 2. A.J. Burnett (18-10, 4.07 ERA, 231 K) 3. Joba Chamberlain (4-3, 2.60 ERA, 118 K) 4. Chein-Ming Wang (8-2, 4.07 ERA, 54 K) 5. andy Pettitte (14-14, 4.54 ERA, 158 K)

Bench
C Jose Molina, IF Angel Berroa, OF Nick Swisher, OF Melky Cabrera

Bullpen (2008 Stats for Closer only)
Mariano Rivera (39 SV, 70.2 IP, 41 H, 77 K, 1.40 ERA), Damaso Marte, Brian Bruney, Jose Veras, Edwar Ramirez

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Fantasy Studs: 1B Mark Teixiera, 3B Alex Rodriguez, SP C.C. Sabathia, RP Mariano Rivera
Fantasy Sleepers: SP Joba Chamberlain, SP Chein-Ming Wang

Men In The Minors: C Austin Romine, C/1B Jesus Montero, OF Austin Jackson, SP Dellin Betances, SP Zach McAlister

Home Ballpark: Yankee Stadium (Grade Incomplete - New Ballpark)

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Team Outlook: Like every year, the Yankees spent tons of money in the offseason. But unlike every year, they were spending money on a team that did NOT qualify for the postseason. The emergence of the Rays pushed the Yanks to third in the division. Now, they are looking for payback. The pitching staff is re-tooled and should be much better. Sabathia and Burnett have all the tools but pitching in NYC seeems to change people. Chamberlain has gone through a whole season before and Wang is coming from injury so there's no telling how well they will pitch. Thankfully, Rivera is still one of the best closers in the game. The batting lineup is strong but not having A-Rod early will hurt. Jeter is aging quickly. Same goes for Damon. Teixiera should have a monster season but the same cannot be be guaranteed for Matsui or Posada. Nady should have a great season too and Ransom and Gardner should just feel lucky to be on a big-league team. This team could compete until the end. They could win the division. But they also could not. These are not the Yankees of old. There are just old Yankees.

Next Preview: Oakland Athletics