April is almost here, and when the month begins, so will the MLB season. Just like in my last 7 years writing this blog, I have put together predictions for the season. We only got 60 MLB games last year, but for this year we’ll have a full 162 game season. I just went on my cousin Michael Philipkosky’s podcast, the Master Plan, to discuss all 30 teams, with one episode for the AL and one episode for the NL. Monday, I posted the AL podcast alongside my predictions. You can check out the NL podcast here, and I have my full NL predictions below.
NL East
Atlanta Braves (100-62, #2 seed)
New York Mets (91-71, #5 seed)
Philadelphia Phillies (89-73)
Washington Nationals (82-80)
Miami Marlins (78-84)
This might be the best division in baseball. The Braves and Mets will be competing for the division title most likely. Atlanta has a great duo of star hitters in first baseman Freddie Freeman and outfielder Ronald Acuna Jr. Their rotation is also starting to come together between younger pitchers like Ian Anderson and veterans like Charlie Morton (signed this offseason). The Mets were purchased by Steve Cohen this offseason, and he told Mets fans that the Mets would leave mediocrity behind them and act like the big market team they are. Cohen hired a new GM, and the team made a ton of moves, highlighted by a trade for shortstop Francisco Lindor and starting pitcher Carlos Carrasco. You also can’t forget that they have Jacob deGrom who’s arguably the best pitcher in baseball.
That doesn’t mean the other teams won’t be competitive. It will be difficult to secure a playoff spot in the NL, but the rest of these teams will at least fail trying. Philadelphia has their flaws, but between outfielder Bryce Harper, first baseman Rhys Hoskins, and a nice top two starting pitchers in Aaron Nola and Zack Wheeler, they have a lot of talent. This should be a somewhat competitive team, but the bullpen among other minor problems could hold them back, similar to how the Celtics have struggled this season in the NBA. The Nationals experienced a World Series hangover last year, and I think they’ll see some improvement in 2021 even though that will be tough in this division. They brought in first baseman Josh Bell alongside outfielder Juan Soto and an amazing rotation. Washington has as much star power as most teams in baseball, but they lack the depth to make a run in this NL East.
The Marlins were the joke of the division back in 2019, but they saw many young pitchers break out and lead them to a 2020 playoff spot. The outfield has really come along as well with Adam Duvall joining Starling Marte and Corey Dickerson. I think the Marlins have definitely made progress in their rebuild, more so than the Tigers and Orioles who saw surprising starts to the season last year. However, it will be hard for Miami to make the playoffs again now that they are back down to 10 teams (you never know though).
Even though the Mets and Braves are frontrunners, I wouldn’t be shocked to see any of these teams in the playoffs.
NL Central
Cincinnati Reds (88-74, #3 seed)
St. Louis Cardinals (87-75)
Chicago Cubs (80-82)
Milwaukee Brewers (65-97)
Pittsburgh Pirates (53-109)
I doubt more than one team makes the playoffs out of this division. Compared to the depth of the NL East and the star power of the NL West, the NL Central is not in a good spot. I think the Reds and Cardinals will be competing for that spot. The Reds lost starting pitcher Trevor Bauer, but the lineup is still strong and the rotation is still serviceable despite depth problems behind Sonny Gray and Luis Castillo. The Cardinals were already decent last year. Now they brought in star third baseman and MVP candidate Nolan Arenado. That could put them in a position to contend, but I still don’t see them dominating this division.
The Cubs were looking like they were in for a long rebuild after cutting contracts early in the offseason. However, after lots of rumors they decided to hold on to third baseman Kris Bryant and add some rotation depth. If they were trying to rebuild, they halted that effort. If they’re trying to contend, I don’t see them achieving that goal. The Cubs haven’t really chosen what direction to go in, and I expect that they will decide by the time the Trade Deadline rolls around. If not, they’ll be stuck in the middle for now.
The Brewers may have 2018 NL MVP Christian Yelich in their lineup, but this rotation is not anywhere close to the other teams in this division. They’ll need to add pitching before they think about contending again.
They’ll still be better than Pittsburgh, a rebuilding team in their own realm. They already traded first baseman Josh Bell and I bet outfielder Gregory Polanco will be gone by midseason. That will leave an inexperienced roster with no sign of improvement anytime soon. They’ll need some prospects to develop before they contend again. That development will start by letting the MLB ready prospects like third baseman Ke’Bryan Hayes start.
NL West
Los Angeles Dodgers (107-55, #1 seed)
San Diego Padres (94-68, #4 seed)
Arizona Diamondbacks (81-81)
San Francisco Giants (77-85)
Colorado Rockies (65-97)
The Dodgers are another team that will be in their own realm: a realm of dominance. This lineup is highlighted by outfielders Mookie Betts and Cody Bellinger but has a lot of talent and depth around those two including Corey Seager and Justin Turner. The lineup isn’t even the best part here. The Dodgers have David Price, Dustin May, and Julio Urias competing for their final two rotation spots! That’s because they have Clayton Kershaw, Trevor Bauer, and Walker Buehler as their top three. No team in baseball has a rotation that can compete with that. The Dodgers are the closest thing I’ve seen in a while to a lock for the best record in baseball. The question is whether the Dodgers will choke in the playoffs like they did in 2017, 2018, and 2019 before winning it all in 2020.
Everyone’s been debating whether the Dodgers or Padres will win this division. I don’t understand how you can have that debate. The Padres are a really good baseball team. In some other divisions they’d come out on top. In this division they seem to be a lock for a Wild Card spot. The Padres rotation went from inconsistent at best to one of the better rotations in baseball. This offseason they brought in Yu Darvish, Blake Snell, and Joe Musgrove to bolster the pitching staff. The lineup was already strong, headlined by third baseman Manny Machado and the young Fernando Tatis Jr. at shortstop. However, you can’t put them on the same level as the Dodgers.
Behind those two teams, this division isn’t anything spectacular. The Diamondbacks might be the definition of average. They don’t have many standout players, but they have a serviceable lineup and a serviceable rotation. This is a high floor, low ceiling team. They will most likely be close to, if not exactly .500. They should beat up on the Giants and Rockies but cannot come anywhere close to competing with the Dodgers and Padres.
The Giants have improved between developing young talent and bringing in a couple of veterans. This isn’t their year though. Maybe next year they’ll see more improvement and cook up some even year magic. The Rockies have actually regressed since last year. They dealt away Arenado and shortstop Trevor Story and outfielder Charlie Blackmon could be gone soon too. The core of the lineup is beginning to disband and though the rotation saw some success last year, it’s nothing spectacular.
That’s all for my MLB predictions this year. Stay tuned for more baseball coverage soon, including my MLB playoff bracket which I’ll be posting at some point on Twitter.
I understand, this a little late, as Opening Day was Thursday, and the Red Sox didn’t look so great Thursday even though they are a part of this Top 6. But I figured I’d finish this series since there’s only one article left.
Welcome to the final article of my 2019 MLB preseason power rankings. This season, you could argue the Super Seven that was discussed a few years back still exists, except with different teams. The Red Sox, Cubs, Astros, and Yankees have remained elite, and despite declines by the Nationals, Indians, and Dodgers (probably) , new powerhouses in this league have arised. The Braves should be regular contenders now, the Cardinals could make a run with 1B Paul Goldschmidt here for the long run, and the Phillies should be competitive with Bryce Harper. But Philadelphia isn’t quite on the level of these other teams. So unless the Dodgers do stay elite after all, I think the Super Seven will become a Super Six. I will be discussing those six today and pointing out the Achilles Heel of each team. Click the links below for other articles in the series (I will add them as I post them):
The Cardinals haven’t made the playoffs in a few years, sure. But the veterans they kept around from their last playoff run, like Matt Carpenter, Adam Wainwright, and Yadier Molina, are still reliable contributors. They have also boosted the team with younger talent, including SP Jack Flaherty, OFs Harrison Bader and UT Jose Martinez, and SS Paul DeJong. After adding star in Goldy, the Cardinals have the tools they need for contention. But how far can they go in such a tough division? They will have to get past their division rivals that are also contending, the Cubs and Brewers.
The Achilles Heel
The Cards’ rotation looks alright and its young core will keep the rotation elite for a long time. But right now they lack an ace. I don’t believe they can be a World Series contender without one. Whether they need a trade to find an ace or someone steps up as time passes, this could hold them back from serious contention and should be priority #1 for GM Steve Keim. Maybe Martinez could be a good trade piece now that 1B Paul Goldschmidt is on board.
Projected Finish: 93-69, 2nd in NL Central
5. Boston Red Sox
The Case for the Red Sox
The defending World Series champions had a relatively quiet off-season. They did retain most of the team from 2018 that won 108 games. But the bullpen has been their biggest issue, even with Craig Kimbrel. Without Craig Kimbrel, there is even more pressure on the rotation to succeed. This is especially true regarding Chris Sale and David Price. After Sale’s extension, both will be expected to to shine every start in order to be worth the money. Each start costs about $1 million dollars. Regardless of this pressure, the Red Sox should at least secure a Wild Card spot if they can’t beat out the Yankees in the AL East. They are still one of several powerhouses in the league.
The Achilles Heel
With Craig Kimbrel on the way out, the closer role is up for grabs. But if you look at the active pitchers on the roster, it’s hard to imagine any of them as a consistent closer. If the Red Sox wanted to repeat, they would’ve invested more in this bullpen rather than focusing so much on the rotation. They need to add a closer unless Matt Barnes, Ryan Brasier, or someone else steps up soon.
Projected Finish: 93-69, 2nd in AL East
4. Atlanta Braves
The Case for the Braves
The Braves’ rebuild began to pay off last season as their younger players broke through. This off-season seemed quiet, but they filled a gaping hole at third by adding Josh Donaldson. They also brought back OF Nick Markakis, and they have reportedly been targeting a reunion with CL Craig Kimbrel. This small series of moves could make a big difference in Atlanta. These moves, alongside development of OF Ronald Acuna Jr. and 2B Ozzie Albies among other should transform the Braves from solely a division contender into a World Series contender. The Braves are my World Series winner this year. I expect 1B Freddie Freeman, Albies, Donaldson, and others to combine to make for one of the best lineups in the league.
The Achilles Heel
Health is definitely a concern, especially considering the fact that Atlanta will start the 2019 season with two starting pitchers on the IL. Donaldson is also injury prone, and if he goes down, Johan Camargo is the next best option at third base. I don’t trust Camargo as a starter. If the team stays healthy in the long run, they could be serious contenders. Otherwise, they could be in a bit of trouble.
Projected Finish: 93-69, 1st in NL East
3. Chicago Cubs
The Case for the Cubs
The Cubs may have been quiet this off-season, but a healthy Yu Darvish will boost the rotation, the bullpen has plenty of depth despite questions at closer, and the lineup is looking pretty solid. Their decision to move Javier Baez to shortstop full time and put Ben Zobrist at second is very smart, as SS Addison Russell was inconsistent and had some character issues. The Cubs have dominated in the National League ever since their World Series winning year in 2016, but with a health a concern and the division getting tougher, will the Cubs be able to keep up the good work?
The Achilles Heel
The Cubs were unable to do much this off-season, and they could have used another outfielder. LF Kyle Schwarber and RF Jason Heyward are viable starters, but they are very streaky and inconsistent. Albert Almora Jr. is the best option in center field. Chicago should have added another center fielder to start over Almora some days and fill in for Heyward and Schwarber during slumps.
Projected Finish: 94-68, 1st in NL Central
2. New York Yankees
The Case for the Yankees
After pairing new slugger Aaron Judge with Giancarlo Stanton, the Yankees underperformed in 2018. Yes, they made the playoffs and won 100 games. But they were overshadowed and eliminated by their bitter rival, the Boston Red Sox. This year, the Red Sox will be without their star closer, while the Yankees fixed up a problematic rotation and built one of the most stacked bullpens in history. This will allow the Yankees to propel past the Red Sox and win the AL East. But in Boston and New York, it’s all about championships, and the Yankees aren’t will have to work for a World Series victory, even with the stacked roster.
The Achilles Heel
The Yanks have some nice pieces in their infield. But if Troy Tulowitzki and Greg Bird fail to stay healthy, they are left with D.J. LeMahieu as their best infielder. Gleyber Torres and Miguel Andujar have not reached their prime yet, and Luke Voit must still prove that 2018 was not a fluke. So I’m a bit concerned in terms of infield depth for the Yankees.
Projected Finish: 94-68, 1st in AL East
1. Houston Astros
The Case for the Astros
The Astros are two years removed from their World Series victory, a result of a 5-year rebuild that made the Astros one of the MLB’s worst for a good 2-3 year span. Now, the Astros are still one of the league’s elite teams, but they lost some of their starting rotation depth this off-season, forcing two starter-turned-relievers back into the rotation. They did bring in OF Michael Brantley and UT Aledmys Diaz, filling the hole UT Marwin Gonzalez left. Though Houston took a slight step back this off-season, I still have them as my AL West winners and the team with the best regular season record. Considering the young core they have put together in the last several years, they should be elite for a long, long, time now.
The Achilles Heel
Evan Gattis is no longer on the team, which means Tyler White must be trusted as Houston’s regular DH. This could be a prove-it situation for White, but if White struggles, what then? They could bring Gattis back, or they could just put Diaz back there. They could even call up Kyle Tucker to play DH. This one’s an easy fix, just something to keep an eye on.
Projected Finish: 96-66, 1st in AL West
That’s all for this year’s preseason MLB power rankings. Come back at the end of April for my first 2019 set of monthly power rankings.
The time has finally come. If you are reading this, the NFL season is over, both Bryce Harper and Manny Machado have signed, and Spring Training has begun. After a long off-season, baseball is finally back, and it is time for my MLB 2019 Predictions. I will be predicting each team’s win-loss record, sharing my projected playoff bracket, and sharing some award predictions. My projected World Series winner is a team that began rebuilding a couple years after the Astros and Cubs rebuilds and has now followed in their footsteps to contention. Keep reading to find out who that team is and how they will achieve a World Series victory.
Part I: Projected Records
American League
AL East
New York Yankees (94-68) (2nd Seed in AL Playoffs)
Boston Red Sox (93-69) (4th Seed in AL Playoffs)
Toronto Blue Jays (80-82)
Tampa Bay Rays (75-87)
Baltimore Orioles (67-95)
2018 was Boston’s year. They built up the roster preparing for a World Series, and now the damage is done. Expect a mild World Series hangover due to the departure of closer Craig Kimbrel and the loss of momentum. If Kimbrel returns, they may be more equipped to repeat. But right now, as much as I hate to admit it, the Yankees have the most talent in the division. Their rotation depth issues are finally fixed, the bullpen could go down in record books, and the lineup is still flooded with big hitters, including the superstar duo of Giancarlo Stanton and Aaron Judge. Expect New York to win the division this time around, but the Red Sox should still easily score a Wild Card spot.
Toronto should be moving quickly in their rebuild thanks to a talented group of prospects including the leagues #1 prospect, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. Now, they are an extra starting pitcher away from becoming a sub .500 team close to contention. Remember, they are just a couple years removed from the start of a rebuild. But this group of prospects will give them a respectable major league roster by the end of the season. With Toronto on the rise, the Rays will take a step back. The Rays never really replaced 1B C.J. Cron, OF Carlos Gomez, or reliever Sergio Romo. If they want to keep using an opener, they’ll need to beef up the bullpen. Otherwise, expect significant regression in 2019. They were right on the verge of contention in 2018. Had they beefed up the roster a little more, they might have had playoff chances this year. But instead, they’ll sit towards the bottom of the AL East. However, the Orioles will remain in the AL East basement after a 47 win season. The Orioles finally began a full rebuild in 2018, but this may be a long, painful rebuild considering their 2018 final record.
AL Central
Cleveland Indians (89-73) (3rd Seed in AL Playoffs)
Chicago White Sox (82-80)
Minnesota Twins (80-82)
Kansas City Royals (68-94)
Detroit Tigers (66-96)
Despite an underwhelming off-season, the Indians should be able to stay atop the AL Central. In most other divisions, the Indians would have to fight for a Wild Card spot, but in the AL Central, they should have an easier route to the playoffs, as none of the other teams in their division are ready for contention. Despite coming up short in the Manny Machado sweepstakes, the White Sox made several improvements this off-season that can assist their young core in the next step towards contention. If they add a starter or two and another infielder, they could be chasing the Indians for the division by 2020. The Twins won’t see a significant improvement this year, but hopefully the return of SP Michael Pineda and better years from Miguel Sano and Byron Buxton will help them move up the standings slightly.
That leaves the Royals and Tigers, two rebuilding teams, in the basement of the AL Central. With Billy Hamilton on board and some of their younger players ready to start, the Royals may see slight improvement. But it will take a couple years for the Tigers to do the same.
AL West
Houston Astros (96-66) (1st Seed in AL Playoffs)
Los Angeles Angels (86-76) (5th Seed in AL Playoffs)
Oakland Athletics (80-82)
Texas Rangers (73-89)
Seattle Mariners (70-92)
Though the lineup will be better with the addition of LF Michael Brantley, the Astros’ rotation took a significant hit thanks to the free agent departures of Dallas Keuchel and Charlie Morton and an injury to Lance McCullers Jr. If the rotation does well without Morton and Keuchel, the Astros could win another World Series. No matter what, I think they’ll win the division, but if the rotation struggles I wouldn’t expect a deep playoff run.
The Angels will also sneak into the playoffs in an extremely top-heavy American League. In my eyes, the American League will have three 90+ win teams: the Astros, Yankees, and Red Sox. That leaves the door open for slightly above average teams like the Angels to make the playoffs. Led by Mike Trout and the rest of the big-hitting lineup, they’ll snag a Wild Card spot.
The Athletics will take a step back this year after a playoff appearance in 2018. The rotation will be without Sean Manaea and Jharel Cotton for a good portion of the season. Mike Fiers and Marco Estrada cannot lead this rotation alone. Plus, the only Jed Lowrie replacement the A’s were able to find was former Rangers utility man Jurickson Profar. The losses of Jonathan Lucroy and Matt Joyce will also make an impact on the team.
That leaves the Rangers and Mariners. The Rangers won’t improve much quite yet despite an experienced rotation and a core led by outfielders Joey Gallo and Nomar Mazara. They’ll need to undergo a full rebuild before significant improvement can occur. The Mariners are starting that process, though they still boast a respectable MLB roster. They could’ve probably contended this year if it weren’t for the start of a rebuild. But instead, they gave up some of their most talented players in exchange for minimal top prospects. The less talented roster will put the team into a situation similar to that of their division rivals, the Rangers. Despite a respectable roster with experience, the team won’t be talented enough to produce above average seasons.
National League
NL East
Atlanta Braves (93-69) (2nd Seed in NL Playoffs)
Philadelphia Phillies (92-70) (5th Seed in NL Playoffs)
Washington Nationals (84-78)
New York Mets (83-79)
Miami Marlins (61-101)
This will undoubtedly be the most competitive division in baseball. I see a young, but emerging Braves team repeating as the division winner, led by a big year from Freddie Freeman, significant contribution from new 3B Josh Donaldson, and a bounce back for SP Julio Teheran. In 2018, the Phillies were a star or two away from greatness. This off-season, they added C J.T. Realmuto, OF Andrew McCutchen, SS Jean Segura, and most of all, OF Bryce Harper. Led by Harper, the lineup will be loaded with talent, leading to a big year.
The Nats and Mets will also contend. The Nats made up for Harper’s departure by boosting the rotation with SPs Patrick Corbin and Anibal Sanchez. To add to it, they signed 2B Brian Dozier. Even without Harper, they should still be in good hands with Max Scherzer, Anthony Rendon, Juan Soto, and others. After adding 2B Robinson Cano among other stars, the Mets should also stay in contention, at least for this year.
The only team that’ll be out of this hectic NL East race is the Miami Marlins. The Marlins sold their entire outfield plus Dee Gordon and J.T. Realmuto in trades within the last two off-seasons. Without Realmuto, they will remain one of the worst teams in the league.
NL Central
Chicago Cubs (94-68) (1st Seed in NL Playoffs)
St. Louis Cardinals (93-69) (4th Seed in NL Playoffs)
Milwaukee Brewers (86-76)
Cincinnati Reds (80-82)
Pittsburgh Pirates (69-93)
I know people are concerned about the Cubs due to uncertainty about Yu Darvish’s health. But regardless of Darvish’s health, I think the Cubs have one of the best rotations in the league. Add in an underappreciated bullpen and a respectable lineup, and the roster begins to look underrated. I do have confidence that Darvish will be alright though.
The Cardinals should be Chicago’s biggest concern, as I expect the Cards to be knocking on Chicago’s door in the NL Central. With Paul Goldschmidt on board, they will combine their young, exciting pitching staff with a star-studded lineup and return to the playoffs for the first time since 2015. Meanwhile, despite adding C Yasmani Grandal, I expect the Brewers to take a step back. I don’t trust 1B Jesus Aguilar or Jhoulys Chacin to repeat their strong 2018 seasons. With the rotation depleted and the lineup looking a little less overpowered, Milwaukee will fall behind as the NL Central competition gets more intense.
Meanwhile, the Reds will begin to take steps toward contention, led by new OF star Yasiel Puig and long time Reds 1B Joey Votto. They added a lot of experience to the rotation as well, so that should help. That leaves the Pirates in the division’s basement as they begin a rebuild. Their rotation should look pretty good this year, and when Gregory Polanco gets healthy, the outfield will thrive as well. However, I don’t fully trust Trevor Williams yet, and in such a tough division, I can’t see this rebuilding team finish very well.
NL West
Colorado Rockies (89-73) (3rd Seed in NL Playoffs)
Los Angeles Dodgers (85-77)
San Francisco Giants (84-78)
San Diego Padres (71-91)
Arizona Diamondbacks (68-94)
I think this might be the year when the Dodgers are finally dethroned. Despite a strong rotation led by Clayton Kershaw and the young Walker Buehler, the bullpen lacks depth beyond Kenley Jansen. In addition, they traded Yasiel Puig and Matt Kemp for next to nothing. It does open up space in the outfield but the team will take a step back as a result. The infield already lacked depth with Brian Dozier leaving. Failing to sign Bryce Harper after the Puig/Kemp trade just made the depth problems worse.
This will allow the Rockies to win the division. Their rotation isn’t amazing, but they’ll be able to manage thanks to hitter friendly Coors Field and a strong bullpen to back the rotation up. It’s the star-studded lineup that will lead them to a division victory. The Giants are also closer to contention than you might think. They quietly boosted the rotation this off-season. This will add to their strong bullpen and allow them to achieve a winning record despite a subpar lineup and questionable outfield situation.
Even though they signed Manny Machado, the Padres won’t contend unless they significantly upgrade the rotation. Plus, they should have better luck contending once Fernando Tatis Jr. is in San Diego for a full season. They will finish ahead of the D-Backs, who will take a significant step back without Goldschmidt. That leaves SP Zack Greinke as the best player left, and there were trade rumors surrounding Greinke as well.
Part II: Playoff Bracket
When the Cubs won the World Series back in 2016, they set a precedent in the MLB. Their 5-year rebuild led to a World Series victory, and this has become a formula for World Series titles. The Astros, who were already following this formula, won the next year in 2017. Now, I think the Braves will be the next to do this. Their rebuild didn’t feel as long, because prospects like Ozzie Albies and Ronald Acuna Jr. developed quickly. But there are still more top prospects on the way, and thanks to this first wave of young talent, the Braves will be able to contend before their rebuild is finished. I think they may even be World Series ready.
The Bryce Harper-led Phillies, Atlanta’s division rival, will challenge them for the National League. Led by their HR-hitting duo of Stanton and Judge and upgraded rotation, the Yankees will come close as well. But I think the Braves are capable of outperforming these teams.
The Cubs and Astros should still be competitive in these playoffs and stay competitive down the stretch. But I think they will have their playoff runs cut short by a Red Sox team looking to repeat and a Phillies team looking for validation that Bryce Harper was worth the money.
Part III: Awards
Below are my projected finalists for the AL and NL MVPs, Cy Youngs, and Rookies of the Year.
AL MVP
1. Jose Ramirez CLE – Ramirez has emerged as one of the league’s premier power hitters. Expect him to come through at the plate on a more consistent basis and contend for the AL MVP award.
2. J.D. Martinez BOS – At the age of 31, I cannot see Martinez quite repeating what he did in 2018. But he will put up another consistent, 40-homer year despite just falling short of the MVP after playing over half of his games at DH.
3. Jose Altuve HOU – Altuve will return to MVP form after a 2018 that was subpar for his standards. His season will be highlighted by a hint of power mixed in with his speed and ability to get on base frequently.
HM: Giancarlo Stanton NYY
NL MVP
1. Nolan Arenado COL – His 8-year extension will be motivation to live up to expectations in Colorado. Expect an dominant offensive year to go along with his elite defensive skills.
2. Freddie Freeman ATL – Freeman will help lead a young Braves team to the first World Series of what could make for the MLB’s next dynasty. After emerging as the top first baseman in the league last year, he will contend for the MVP as his offensive stats continue to increase.
3. Christian Yelich MIL – After winning NL MVP in 2018, Yelich will run with the momentum and top off the prime of his career with another dominant season.
HM: Starling Marte PIT
AL ROTY
1. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. TOR – This top prospect has the genetics and he’s been all out dominant in the minors. Expect him to make it up to Toronto early, earn the starting job at third and do the same in the majors, contending for Rookie of the Year.
2. Kyle Tucker HOU – Tucker may not have a starting job – yet. But he showed flashes of potential in 2018 and could get some time in the outfield or at DH in 2019.
3. Eloy Jiménez CWS – Another top prospect who needs just a few weeks in AAA before a major league call up. After that, expect him to earn a time share in the outfield and eventually (after a strong start) a starting job.
HM: Forrest Whitley HOU
NL ROTY
1. Peter Alonso NYM – If Alonso has a strong Spring Training, look for him to compete for the first base job as Todd Frazier, Jed Lowrie, Amed Rosario, and Robinson Cano split time between second, shortstop, and third. Cano could try playing first, but having Alonso there from Opening Day could be beneficial. I see him breaking out in his rookie year and winning NL Rookie of the Year.
2. Fernando Tatis Jr. SD – Tatis Jr. isn’t MLB ready yet, but I think he’ll make an immediate impact if they bring him up when the time is right. I could see a Hosmer-Kinsler-Tatis-Machado infield working out well. Luis Urias will have to wait until 2020 for another starting job.
3. Mitch Keller PIT – The Pirates’ first four starters have their jobs locked down. But if Keller gets off to a strong start in the minors, look for him to challenge Jordan Lyles for the #5 slot in the rotation and contend for NL Rookie of the Year.
HM: Victor Robles WSH
AL Cy Young
1. Corey Kluber CLE – Kluber heads into 2019 with something to prove. He needs to convince the Indians that he’s worth the money to keep around. The Indians don’t have much money to spend, so Kluber will need to put up a Cy Young-caliber year in order to do this.
2. Chris Sale BOS – If Sale can get healthy and stay healthy, he’ll be the best pitcher in this league. But he always ends up collapsing at the end of the year, so I have slightly more confidence in Kluber. However, maybe Alex Cora can figure out a way to allow him to stay healthy all year. If Cora can figure this out, Sale’s definitely worth re-signing.
3. Tyler Skaggs LAA – A healthy Skaggs showed potential last season, especially early on. With no clear ace atop the Angels rotation for 2019 and Shohei Ohtani restricted to just hitting, expect Skaggs to step it up and emerge as LA’s new ace, something they have longed for since Garrett Richards began to decline after LA’s 2014 playoff appearance.
HM: Justin Verlander HOU
NL Cy Young
1. Max Scherzer WSH – Expect Scherzer to emerge as the top pitcher in the league this year when Jacob deGrom takes a slight step back in his age 30 season. Scherzer has not let his age define him, and if anything, he has only gotten better with age. I don’t see a decline happening anytime soon for Mad Max, and he has another Cy Young year or two still ahead of him.
2. Clayton Kershaw LAD – Kershaw has dealt with lingering injuries, but when he’s on the mound and healthy, he has looked like the same Kershaw we’re used to seeing. Despite injuries, he has posted an ERA under 3.00 in each of the last 10 seasons. As usual, I expect Kershaw to contend for the Cy Young, especially if he remains healthy.
3. Julio Teheran ATL – Teheran hasn’t looked like the ace we thought he would be since 2014. But he is still just 28, and as long as it happens in the next year or two, I could definitely see him return to ace form and lead a young Braves rotation.
HM: Stephen Strasburg WSH
That’s all for this year’s MLB predictions. Stay tuned for more Red Sox and baseball coverage soon.
It is that time of year again.Although I had to delay this article due to the excruciatingly quiet start to the off-season, my MLB Predictions are here.Read below to find out my thoughts on who will win the World Series and how they’ll get there.I will also be predicting who wins the major MLB awards.Let’s get started with my projected regular season standings.
Note: These Predictions are based on potential, but do account for the lack of real FA signings
Record Projections
AL East
New York Yankees 96-66 (#1 seed AL)
Boston Red Sox 92-70 (#4 seed AL)
Toronto Blue Jays 76-86
Baltimore Orioles 73-89
Tampa Bay Rays 70-92
The Bronx Bombers are back.With Giancarlo Stanton on board, the Yankees have last year’s top two home run hitters in their lineup.They could have a historic home run duo going.Stanton and Judge will be surrounded by other big hitters, young players full of potential, and a respectable rotation.
But the Red Sox will challenge them after signing the #3 HR hitter of 2017 in J.D. Martinez.After a long game of chicken, they finally agreed to terms on a deal on February 19th.The Sox also brought back super utility Eduardo Nunez, who will start at second until Dustin Pedroia returns in mid-April.Martinez, Nunez and the Killer B’s will lead the Sox to be elite contenders and compete with the Yankees. In addition, ace Chris Sale leads a strong Red Sox rotation, one thing Boston has on the Yankees.Sale, Pomeranz, and Porcello have led Boston’s rotation to outpitch the Yanks. I will have an extended spring preview for the Sox coming soon, where I will try and answer some of the team’s biggest questions headed into 2018.
The rest of the division is in rebuild mode, and the Red Sox and Yankees will feed on them, while the two of them compete against each other.The Blue Jays have revamped their roster with lower tier free agents and younger players who will lead the new era of the team.Meanwhile, the Orioles have rotation turnover issues after they lost multiple starters to free agency.They signed two starters, but they still have rotation problems, and their lineup is still good, but it’s no longer All-Star material.Meanwhile, the Rays have completely remodeled their roster after trading away Evan Longoria, Jake Odorizzi, and Corey Dickerson.They will be led by young talent on their new look roster. Although the other teams in this division look intriguing, Red Sox and Yankees are the only teams that I would consider playoff contenders in the AL East.
AL Central
Cleveland Indians 92-70 (#3 seed AL)
Minnesota Twins 87-75
Kansas City Royals 73-89
Detroit Tigers 69-93
Chicago White Sox 66-96
The Indians are still the clear favorite. They may have lost key pieces in Carlos Santana and Jay Bruce, but they made up for it by signing 1B Yonder Alonso, 1B/DH Mike Napoli, OF Melvin Upton Jr. and OF Rajai Davis. Young outfielder Bradley Zimmer is also in the running for a starting outfield job.
That doesn’t mean the Twins won’t contend though. They upgraded a roster that was already strong this off-season, by signing Logan Morrison and relievers Fernando Rodney and Addison Reed as well as acquiring Jake Odorizzi from Tampa Bay. They also signed Michael Pineda, who may return from Tommy John surgery later this year. The Twins are setting themselves up to return to the playoffs, but they’ll have competition in the wild card race, with the Red Sox and Angels also contending.
The rest of this division will fail to contend. The Royals lost their core players in Mike Moustakas, Eric Hosmer, and Lorenzo Cain and that has led them to rebuild. The Tigers are heading into a rebuild of their own after their older team struggled in early 2017. However, their roster appears to be falling into place, for the most part. They could use another infielder in the mix. After trading away J.D. Martinez last year and trading Ian Kinsler in the off-season, the Tigers are headed in the right direction, focusing on their future. The White Sox will rely on their young talent after rebuilding in 2017. They are hoping that their top prospects, Michael Kopech and Eloy Jimenez, can make an impact at the major league level as well as prospects that cracked the majors last year. The Indians are the clear favorites here, but the Twins could also contend, and do not be surprised if one of the three rebuilding squads in the division begins contending quicker than expected.
AL West
Houston Astros 95-67 (#2 seed AL)
Los Angeles Angels 88-74 (#5 seed AL)
Seattle Mariners 83-79
Texas Rangers 74-88
Oakland Athletics 68-94
The Astros are still the clear favorites here. They’ve only gotten better since last year’s World Series win, so if they have any hangover, it will only affect them early on, and won’t hit them that hard, similar to what happened to the Cubs last season. A full season of Justin Verlander and the acquisition of Gerrit Cole will make their rotation unstoppable, and their lineup is still just as good, as prospects will fill in for what they lost in Carlos Beltran, who retired.
The Angels will also compete though. They arguably have one of the best lineups in the league after adding Ian Kinsler and Zack Cozart as well as resigning Justin Upton. Although the rotation is not dominant, the new two-way Japanese star in Shohei Ohtani will help them improve, and hopefully, the injury bug will not hit them as hard this year. The Mariners will also have a decent year, but they are relying on Dee Gordon to make a smooth transition to the outfield, and the rest of their outfield doesn’t look great.
In addition, it will be hard to contend with inexperienced players occupying several starting jobs. The Rangers aren’t going to be terrible either, but some of their best players like Adrian Beltre are getting old, and not all of their younger players will be able to succeed at the major league level this year. I like their intriguing off-season, but unless they break out with what they have, it might be time for the Rangers to consider a rebuild. The Athletics are hoping that they can start moving in an upward direction after their own rebuild, but I think their young players need another season or two to develop before the A’s get ready for contention again. This year will focus on the development of their young guns like Matt Olson, Matt Chapman, Sean Manaea, Jharel Cotton, and Andrew Triggs among others. In the end, look for the Astros to repeat here and the Angels to make a run at a wild-card spot.
NL East
Washington Nationals 97-65 (#1 seed NL)
New York Mets 86-76
Atlanta Braves 78-84
Philadelphia Phillies 71-91
Miami Marlins 64-98
After the Nationals cruised into the NLDS in a weak NL East in 2017, I do expect Washington to repeat. But other teams in the division will start to make strides toward contention. At one point, I thought this might be the year that the Marlins pounce to the top of the division, but instead, they decided to rebuild early, dealing away all three of their starting outfielders (Giancarlo Stanton, Christian Yelich, and Marcell Ozuna) plus 2B Dee Gordon. Now they might very well be the MLB’s worst team on paper.
But the Mets, Braves, and Phillies are moving in an upward direction. If they can stay healthy, the Mets added several key pieces that could lead them back to contention. I think they are close to playoff material, but not quite there yet. The Braves look ready to break out at any moment, but I don’t know if their breakthrough will come in 2018. But I definitely think they will improve this season. The Phillies may not be ready for contention yet, but this young team is setting themselves up for success. If they continue to boost their young roster with veterans over the next couple years, we may see them return to the playoffs.
Despite the rest of the division’s effort to contend, the Nats are still the #1 team here, and they are a World Series contender. In his contract year, Bryce Harper will lead a powerful Nationals lineup, and their rotation might just need one more strong starter such as Jake Arrieta to lead the Nats deeper into the playoffs. With many of their stars hitting the open market soon, it will be World Series or bust in 2018 for Washington.
NL Central
Chicago Cubs 92-70 (#3 seed NL)
St. Louis Cardinals 90-72 (#4 seed NL)
Milwaukee Brewers 87-75
Cincinnati Reds 79-83
Pittsburgh Pirates 67-95
If I had to name one division that improved the most this off-season, I would say the NL Central without hesitation. Despite losing SP John Lackey to free agency, the Cubs continued to improve this off-season with the signing of pitchers Yu Darvish, Tyler Chatwood, and Drew Smyly (may return late in 2018). They are a significant World Series contender. But the division will not be easy to win as the Cardinals and Brewers have also improved.
St. Louis signed Miles Mikolas in his return to the MLB but may need to add another starter for rotational depth. They may even try and snag closer Greg Holland or 3B Mike Moustakas before Opening Day. They also acquired OF Marcell Ozuna from Miami. They will contend this year, and so will the Brewers, who despite the desperate need for a #1 starter, will be significantly better in 2018 after signing Lorenzo Cain and acquiring Christian Yelich to improve their outfield and make it dominant. They may want to resign Neil Walker before Opening Day if they really care about winning now. Unless they sign a pitcher or a middle infielder, I don’t see them as a lock for the playoffs, but they will contend.
The Reds could also contend soon, but it will take another year or so for the lineup to become playoff material and the young rotation to improve. Meanwhile, the Pirates have begun rebuilding after trading away OF Andrew McCutchen and SP Gerrit Cole. They will not contend this year due to their rebuilding intentions as well as a serious depth problem and lack of a leader in their starting rotation. Although Cincy and Pittsburgh won’t be in the playoff race, this strong division will be competitive as its top three teams battle for playoff berths.
NL West
Los Angeles Dodgers 95-67 (#2 seed NL)
Colorado Rockies 88-74 (#5 seed NL)
Arizona Diamondbacks 87-75
San Francisco Giants 85-77
San Diego Padres 69-93
Although the NL Central improved the most this off-season, the NL West is still the MLB’s strongest division. This year, I think that four teams in this division will finish with a winning record, and two will make the playoffs. The Dodgers will stay on top here. They have managed to keep most of the players that helped them succeed in 2017, although their rotation doesn’t have the same kind of depth that it used to. They didn’t need 7-8 viable starters on the roster though. No team in this division has gained significantly on the Dodgers, but other teams in the division have improved.
This could be the year for the Rockies. Their lineup will dominate, and their young rotation should continue to improve. The rotation is also aided by a strong bullpen that will be led by new closer Wade Davis. The D-Backs have added outfield depth after J.D. Martinez’s departure for Boston, and they will continue to contend in 2018, although I don’t think they will quite make it this time around, as the Cardinals and Brewers have gotten better and could grab a wild card.
The Giants have also improved after acquiring Evan Longoria and Andrew McCutchen, but after a 64-98 season, I find it hard to believe that even year luck alone will lead them back to the playoffs. They still have rotation depth problems behind their top three starters and aside from Cutch, Longo, Buster Posey, and Hunter Pence, this lineup isn’t overly intriguing. Even the Padres will improve. Some of their top prospects have cracked the majors, and they have brought back Chase Headley and Tyson Ross in addition to acquiring Freddy Galvis. Their biggest move of the off-season was signing 1B Eric Hosmer. He will be a veteran mentor for this young team and allows Wil Myers to assist the young outfield. The Dodgers are the clear favorites here, but this division is hard to predict beyond that.
Now for my playoff predictions.
Playoff Predictions
As you all know, I am an avid Boston sports fan. But as an unbiased reporter, I don’t think the Red Sox have the edge on the Yankees this year. The Bronx Bombers just have too powerful of a lineup, and despite the fact that Boston has one of the best rotations in the MLB and signed a home run hitter of their own in J.D. Martinez, it’s just not enough to compete with the “Evil Empire” in New York. The Sox will win over the Angels in the Wild Card round though. The Angels may have a powerful lineup, but they are nothing like the Yankees, and rotation problems will hold them back. I have the Yankees advancing to the World Series, but only to be defeated by the motivated Washington Nationals. Like I said, it’s World Series or bust in Washington, and I think this year’s Nats are legitimate contenders.
In the AL, the Astros will come close to a World Series return, but even their dominant rotation will struggle against the Yankees lineup. The Astros will top a well rounded Indians team. The Indians look good this year but will have a hard time competing with this strong Astros team. Jose Altuve (who I could see having another MVP caliber year), George Springer, and Justin Verlander among others will lead Houston to the ALCS.
In the NL, the Dodgers will also come close to a World Series return after beating the Cubs somewhat easily in the NLDS. But they will struggle against a strong Nats rotation, and even Dodgers ace Clayton Kershaw could have a hard time against Bryce Harper, Daniel Murphy, and the improved Nats lineup. The Cardinals will also fall to the Nats. Their younger rotation will struggle on the big stage, and their lineup isn’t fierce enough this year to stop the strong Nats rotation, despite the powerful pieces they have in Dexter Fowler, Marcell Ozuna, and Matt Carpenter among others.
The Cards do have the edge in the Wild Card round though, as their lineup will overwhelm young Rockies ace Jon Gray. In the end, the Nats will dominate this side of the bracket and go on to win the World Series. The window is closing for the Nats to win a title with Bryce Harper, Stephen Strasburg, and company. But 2018 is their final shot at a World Series win in this era, and they will be driven by this fact.
To much to take in? My video summary of this post will be on YouTube soon. I will post the link on my blog when it is up.
Award Predictions
Below I have listed my Top 3 picks for each major MLB award.
AL MVP
Jose Altuve, 2B, HOU – After winning this award last year, I could see Altuve repeating his 2017 dominance. He is one of my favorite non-Red Sox players and he has emerged as a star and leader on the Astros.
Giancarlo Stanton, OF, NYY – On his new team, not only will Stanton pair up with Aaron Judge to create one of the best HR duos of all time, but also put up a strong average and hit not only for power but also for consistency
Mike Trout, OF, LAA – Trout is always a candidate for this award, and although injuries held him back a bit in 2017, he will remain an elite contender for this award in 2018
Honorable Mention: Justin Upton, OF, LAA
NL MVP
Bryce Harper, OF, WSH – Another one of my non-Red Sox favorites. In a contract year, Harper will go from elite player to future Hall Of Famer in an all-around dominant season
Nolan Arenado, 3B, COL – With the Rockies back in playoff contention, Arenado will play at MVP level in 2018, leading the strong Rockies lineup to continued success
Joey Votto, 1B, CIN – I think Votto will also emerge as an MVP caliber player this year as he continues to put up great numbers despite the fact that he is older than many other all-star level players.
Honorable Mention: Eric Hosmer, 1B, SD
AL Cy Young
Chris Sale, BOS – I think Sale will repeat the success he had early in 2017 with the Red Sox, and he is my pick to win the Cy Young.
Justin Verlander, HOU – Verlander will emerge as a leader in the strong Astros rotation in another deep playoff run for the Astros. He will be Sale’s #1 competitor for the Cy Young in 2018.
Carlos Carrasco, CLE – I could see Carrasco returning to his dominant 2015 form this year and creating a dynamic duo in the rotation alongside Corey Kluber.
Honorable Mention: Corey Kluber, CLE
NL Cy Young
Stephen Strasburg, WSH – Strasburg already returned to the ace level last year with an ERA around 2.50, and I think he could keep it up in 2018 and make a significant run at a Cy Young award.
Yu Darvish, CHC – Chicago is a great fit for Darvish, and I could see him thriving in Chicago and running at a Cy Young.
Clayton Kershaw, LAD – Kershaw is always a candidate for this award much like Trout is for the MVP. He will continue to succeed in 2018.
Honorable Mention: Max Scherzer, WSH*
* For those of you who read my latest free agency article, you would know I think Alex Cobb is going to the Brewers. If he signs in Milwaukee, he could be a significant candidate to battle for a Cy Young award.
AL Rookie of the Year
Shohei Ohtani, SP/DH, LAA – Who else would I put at the top of this list? This two-way phenom is practically a lock to make the Angels roster despite the fact that he is a rookie non-roster invitee.
Kyle Tucker, OF, HOU – I think Tucker could have a significant role at the major league level in 2018. He will compete for a starting outfield job when he comes up. He is the brother of former Astros outfielder Preston Tucker.
Hunter Dozier, 3B, KC – I think Dozier can make an impact at the major league level, even with Lucas Duda in line to start at first. I see Dozier as Kansas City’s starting third baseman as long as he is successful early in the season, and I see potential in him.
Honorable Mention: Christian Arroyo, 3B, TB
NL Rookie of the Year
Jesse Winker, OF, CIN – I think Winker will breakout this year as he establishes himself as a starter at the major league level. He will compete for the Rookie of the Year award.
Ronald Acuna, OF, ATL – Once Acuna cracks the majors, he has the chance to become a starter in left field, and once that happens, I see the potential for him to be great.
Ryan McMahon, 1B, COL – With Ian Desmond headed back to the outfield and Mark Reynolds in the open market, there’s an open spot for McMahon at first base. If they resign Reynolds, they could work out some sort of platoon, but either way, I think McMahon has the potential for success in the majors this year.
Honorable Mentions: Alex Reyes, SP, STL and Victor Robles, OF, WSH
That’s all for my MLB 2018 Predictions. Stay tuned for more baseball articles including my spring power rankings, my Red Sox 2018 season preview, and my 2nd annual preseason Baseball Bits article.
Welcome to Part 1 of my 2018 MLB Free Agent and Trade Predictions. Free agency has been off to a slow start, but it’s far from over. Players like 1B Eric Hosmer, SP Jake Arrieta, SP Yu Darvish, and 3B Todd Frazier will eventually be signed. But where will they go? That’s the biggest question, and I’m about to try to answer it. Today I will be predicting landing spots for the MLB’s best pitchers on the market.
Photo Credit: ESPN (ESPN updates the player photos when players sign with new teams, so once the off-season is over, you will be able to check back and see how I did. It currently shows the player’s most recent team)
SP
Jake Arrieta
Prediction: Baltimore Orioles, 4 years, $92 million
It would be crazy if Arrieta returned to Baltimore, but I think he’s a great fit. The O’s have serious rotation problems. They lack depth and they need an ace, and this helps resolve both of those problems. But Arrieta won’t be able to fix the Orioles rotation alone. They’ll need to sign a 5th starter to complete the rotation behind Arrieta, Kevin Gausman, Dylan Bundy, and Mike Wright/Alec Asher.
Andrew Cashner
Prediction: San Francisco Giants: 2 years, $19 million
After the retirement of Matt Cain and the departure of Matt Moore, the Giants need some depth in the rotation behind Madison Bumgarner, Johnny Cueto, and Jeff Samardzija. Cashner will help do that as the Giants try to rebound from a rough season where they finished last in the NL West. However, more starters might not be enough to get the Giants into the playoffs and continue their even year success.
Alex Cobb
Prediction: Chicago White Sox, 3 years, $42 million
There have been a lot of rumors about Cobb going to the Cubs, but I think the White Sox could also use an elite veteran starter as an influence for the younger guys. The White Sox could also use one more starter in case one of the younger guys struggles. I know the White Sox are in rebuild mode, but that doesn’t mean they can’t go out and sign a couple veterans to help their cause. That will be a theme throughout this series.
Yu Darvish
Prediction: Chicago Cubs: 5 years, $135 million
Darvish is another pitcher that the Cubs have been chasing after this off-season, and I do think they’ll pursue him. He will be Arrieta’s replacement in the rotation. But after playing the role of #2 starter on both Texas and LA last season behind Cole Hamels and Clayton Kershaw, respectively, can he step it up and become a reliable ace again?
Matt Garza
Prediction: San Francisco Giants, 2 years, $17 million
Garza will also add depth to San Francisco’s rotation in an effort to bounce back from their rough season. With the additions of Cashner and Garza, their rotation will have a strong group of five veteran starters to guide the pitching staff.
Ubaldo Jimenez
Prediction: St. Louis Cardinals, 3 years, $33 million
After the departure of Lance Lynn and Mike Leake, the Cardinals will need another pitcher in the rotation. Alex Reyes should be in the rotation this year, but Jimenez will be the mid-rotation starter they need. As the Cardinals hope to return to the playoffs this year, they will need another veteran starter.
John Lackey
Prediction: Kansas City Royals, 2 years, $32 million
I still think Lackey has a couple more years left in the tank, and despite the fact that the Royals are trying to rebuild, I think they could use a veteran starter to top off the rotation. They have a lot of young talent in the lineup, but I don’t know if all their pitching prospects are major league ready yet. They might need a couple more years, and that’s where Lackey comes in.
Lance Lynn
Prediction: Miami Marlins, 2 years, $27 million
The Marlins need a couple more veteran starters to add to the depth of their rotation, even in rebuild mode. Lynn will help fill that role as well as Chris Tillman, who I also think will be signed by Miami.
Chris Tillman
Prediction: Miami Marlins, 3 years, $30 million
Tillman will also help add depth to the Miami rotation. Neither will get more than a few years though because by then, there will be more pitching prospects ready to join the rotation.
Jason Vargas
Prediction: San Diego Padres, 4 years, $62 million
The Padres could use a veteran influence in the rotation as well. Vargas had a career year last year, but can he repeat that? Either way, Vargas will be a leader in the Padres young rotation and he will be a role model for the younger starters on the rise.
Other Predictions:
Jesse Chavez (OAK, 3 years, $18 million)
R.A. Dickey (TEX, 2 years, $11 million)
Scott Feldman (TOR, 1 year, $7 million)
Jaime Garcia (NYY, 4 years, $26 million)
AJ Griffin (LAA, 1 year, $4.5 million)
Jeremy Hellickson (BAL, 2 years, $10 million)
Francisco Liriano (COL, 3 years, $24 million)
Wade Miley (TB, 3 years, $31.5 million)
Ricky Nolasco (MIN, 2 years, $15 million)
Hector Santiago (DET, 2 years, $17 million)
RP
Joe Blanton
Prediction: Cleveland Indians, 2 years, $11 million
Blanton will add depth to the Indians bullpen. He will likely be their 7th inning guy or set up man if they sign him. They have signed Alexi Ogando and Evan Marshall to minor league deals, but in case those two don’t come through, I think the Indians will sign Blanton as a safe veteran option.
Tyler Clippard
Prediction: Pittsburgh Pirates, 4 years, $28 million
The Pirates have good depth in the bullpen, but they need a closer and set-up guys who can lead the bullpen. Will Clippard be able to handle the role of closer? That is what must be found out. Pittsburgh might need to go for another late-inning reliever to help him out. Maybe they’ll even resign set-up man Joaquin Benoit.
Jason Grilli
Prediction; Detroit Tigers, 1 year, $6 million
Grilli might be determined to keep pitching, but I doubt he was more than one or two more years left in the tank. I think Detroit will sign him as a closer until they find a younger replacement, which they will need as they enter rebuild mode.
Greg Holland
Prediction: Milwaukee Brewers, 5 years, $42.5 million
The Brewers are another team that could use a closer/late inning reliever, and Holland is a great fit in Milwaukee. Although they have been off to a slow start, expect the Brewers to be active buyers this off-season as they prepare to make a playoff run.
J.J. Hoover
Prediction: Los Angeles Angels, 3 years, $19.5 million
Hoover will be the late-inning reliever the Angels need. He will assist others like Cam Bedrosian to finish off games. The Angels may want a top tier closer like Greg Holland, but the combination of Hoover and Bedrosian may just do the trick.
Boone Logan
Prediction: Cincinnati Reds, 3 years, $16.5 million
After the departures of Drew Stanton (who I do think the Reds will also resign), Tony Cingrani, and J.J. Hoover, the Reds need depth in the bullpen and late-inning relievers to finish off the game. This is the year where the Reds could start contending, and Logan will help their case. He will be a part of their revised late-inning staff and add depth to the pen.
Bud Norris
Prediction: Philadelphia Phillies, 2 years, $8 million
The Phillies will sign Norris as a reliever, but knowing that he has started in the past, I wouldn’t rule out a role in the Phillies rotation for him. If they sign him, he will make the roster either as another starter or someone to add depth to the bullpen, but will he beat out the younger players and make the rotation?
Huston Street
Prediction: Atlanta Braves, 3 years, $18 million
The Braves could use a reliever to set the stage for closer Arodys Vizcaino, and that’s what Street would be here for. In general, the Braves could use some more veteran relievers to add depth to the bullpen so this signing will kill two birds with one stone.
Tony Watson
My Prediction: Arizona Diamondbacks, 4 years, $30 million
The D-Backs lost a couple of their veteran relievers to free agency and trades, and I just feel that Watson would fit in well in Arizona. Throughout the last couple of years, the Diamondbacks have lost J.J. Hoover, Evan Marshall, and David Hernandez. They already lacked depth in the bullpen with those guys on board, so they need it now more than ever.
Other Predictions:
Joaquin Benoit (PIT, 3 years, $20 million)
David Hernandez (ARZ, 2 years, $15 million)
Zach Putnam (CWS, 3 years, $22.5 million)
Addison Reed (BOS, 2 years, $14 million)
Drew Storen (CIN, 2 years, $17.5 million)
That’s all for Part 1 of my MLB Hot Stove predictions. Check back soon for Part 2, where I talk about catchers and infielders.
The trade deadline is coming up. Buyers and sellers have been determined. Who will make the biggest deals of the weekend?
Well, I made a few trade predictions this week, and here are a few of the most likely trades.
HM: Yonder Alonso to the Yankees for Chase Headley and a prospect
The A’s and Yankees will both be busy at the deadline. The A’s will continue to sell while the Yankees try to become the best team in the AL East. This trade does make sense. The Yanks get a strong first baseman for veteran infielder Headley and some prospects. The Yankees won’t need Headley with Frazier at third and Alonso at First. It would make sense for the Yanks to also get Sonny Gray in this trade, but I can see them going after a different pitcher.
5. Yu Darvish to the Yankees for 2 pitching prospects
Yup, the Yankees aren’t done after the Frazier and Alonso trades. Yu Darvish did put ten teams on his no-trade clause, including the Rockies and Red Sox, but the Yankees were not on that list. The Rangers are done at this point. Time to sell. Darvish should give the Yankees rotation a much needed boost. With Pineda hurt, the rotation needs some more depth.
4. Sonny Gray to the Rockies for 2 prospects
I would be shocked if Gray is still in Oakland by the end of the day on Monday. The A’s need to rebuild, and there are other teams that need him more. The Rockies have a fine young rotation, but a veteran mentor to boost the rotation would be helpful to this contending Rockies club. The Rockies are likely in contention at this point, I do not see them as pretenders. The Rockies just acquired reliever Pat Neshek, it’s time to upgrade the rotation next.
3. Yangervis Solarte to the Cardinals for 3 prospects
The Padres have some young talent that can eventually lead their team. But first, they have to get rid of the veterans. It’s good to have veteran mentors, and they should hold on to Wil Myers, but Solarte has value in the market, and they can add to their farm system if they dish him off to teams like St. Louis or Boston. Sure, the Cardinals are on the buyer/seller line, but they have done well lately and should bolster their team.
2. Edinson Volquez to the Brewers for Jonathan Villar and a prospect
Once again, the Marlins came in with a nice team and ended up failing to push their record over .500 leading up to the deadline. Time to sell, again. The last few years, this team has sold at the deadline, but been active in the off-season to improve their roster. They still haven’t had their breakthrough year. The Brewers are looking to chase the Cubs in the NL Central. Without a trade, they could fall out of it. The Marlins will trade at least one pitcher before the deadline, and I think Volquez will fit in in Milwaukee.
1. Khris Davis to the Nationals for 2 prospects
The A’s still have more good trade nuggets after these three trades. The Athletics need to rebuild. They are out of it. Gray, Alonso and Davis have a lot of value in the market and should all be traded. Lowrie may even be dished away. The Nats need an outfielder with Eaton and Werth on the 60 day DL and Eaton done for the year. They have some nice young outfielder, but a veteran who can hit for power is needed in Washington. I actually thought Davis might be a nice trade target for the Red Sox back when JBJ was struggling, but the Nats need an outfielder much more.
So, the trade deadline is tomorrow. Which of these deals will be done? Will there be more than this? Find out tomorrow. I will also be updating the Red Sox’s situation at the deadline tomorrow on sportalk.com, where I will start interning tomorrow. If you are looking for a good experience to start your career in sports, apply to SPORTalk now.
It’s just a couple of hours until the first full day of regular season games starts, and I’m here to get you ready. Sure, you may have have seen my MLB Preview, but this is a condensed, more accurate version. I even have some bold predictions for the season. Let’s get started.
AL East
Boston Red Sox 91-71
Toronto Blue Jays 86-76
Tampa Bay Rays 82-80
New York Yankees 76-86
Baltimore Orioles 72-90
The Red Sox made a good move starting Travis Shaw over Pablo Sandoval, and Hanley Ramirez has adjusted well to first. This lineup is new and improved, and ready to take over a weak but tight division. Even if the rotation behind David Price is a concern, their bullpen makes up for it.
I just don’t believe the Blue Jays can function without better pitching. When they lost David Price and LaTroy Hawkins, it was back to square one. The Rays made some good off season improvements but their lineup still lacks power, and the Yankees are just getting too old to be good anymore. Starlin Castro was a good first step. Lastly, the O’s don’t have anything to convince me. Their outfield is seconds away from shattering, and after Miguel Gonzalez’s release, their rotation is still short a pitcher. So it looks like easy pickings for the Red Sox, even if they’re a shaky team.
AL Central
Kansas City Royals 93-69
Detroit Tigers 89-73 (WC)
Chicago White Sox 87-75
Minnesota Twins 78-84
Cleveland Indians 74-88
The Royals cannot be beaten in this division, it just won’t happen. With a strong lineup and balanced rotation, they’re not going down. They will be closely challenged however as the Tigers and White Sox improve. They still have weak areas more than the Royals, but they will compete for wild card spots. They made key signings like Justin Upton and Austin Jackson that take their teams to the next level.
The Indians aren’t horrible like I said but can’t compete in a tough division after such a quiet off season.
The Twins have a reborn lineup but the pitching can’t support young sensations Byron Buxton and Miguel Sano yet. This division is up for grabs beyond Kansas City, but the Royals have first place locked up.
AL West
Texas Rangers 95-67
Houston Astros 88-74 (WC)
Seattle Mariners 81-81
Oakland Athletics 76-86
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim 68-94
Alright, at least I have the Astros in the playoffs. I just believe that the Rangers have more than Houston. The Astros don’t even have a starting first baseman, and their young rotation is inconsistent. The Rangers probably have the best trio of batters in the AL with Prince Fielder, Adrian Beltre and Elvis Andrus. They have some good lineup improvements to support their lineup this off season and their rotation is completely revamped and healthy.
The Mariners went on a full shopping spree this off season, but they didn’t necessarily fill their main holes, so they’ll only be mediocre. The Athletics are only slightly improved, and the Angels clearly aren’t going anywhere with such an inconsistent rotation and lineup. So this division will be a tight dogfight between the Rangers and Astros with the Mariners in the wild card bidding.
AL Playoffs
Wild Card: Tigers over Astros
ALDS: Red Sox over Royals
Rangers over Tigers
ALCS: Rangers over Red Sox
NL East
Washington Nationals 93-69
New York Mets 90-72 (WC)
Miami Marlins 83-79
Philadelphia Phillies 67-95
Atlanta Braves 64-98
Yes, in my modified predictions, the Mets make the playoffs. I have always underrated them so maybe if I predict a wild card, they’ll win the division. Even though I usually overrate the Nationals above them, the Nats have a case this year with an improved lineup, and strong rotation. Who needs Jordan Zimmermann when you have Max Scherzer, Stephen Strasburg and Gio Gonzalez?
The Marlins have the next best chance but are still working on a weak bullpen, and the Phillies and Braves have absolutely no chance and have practically abandoned their teams for the year. So that leaves the Mets and Nats to have the best battle yet. I say they both make the playoffs and lose in the NLDS. What do you think?
NL Central
Chicago Cubs 97-65
St. Louis Cardinals 91-71 (WC)
Pittsburgh Pirates 88-74
Cincinnati Reds 73-89
Milwaukee Brewes 69-93
With the exception of maybe last year, this Cubs team is by far the best Cubs team of the century. They are favorites to win the World Series, and will not be stopped in this division. The Pirates and Cards still had good off seasons, but have tapered off from last season’s teams. They have lost many of their best like Neil Walker, Lance Lynn (temporarily) and Jason Heyward. They will only compete for the playoff spots behind Chicago.
The Brewers and Reds are both in rebuilding stages after making a splash in 2013 and 2014. They are two of the worst teams in the league and will not compete for this division in any way, shape or form.
NL West
Los Angeles Dodgers 92-70
Arizona Diamondbacks 87-75
San Diego Padres 86-76
San Francisco Giants 86-76
Colorado Rockies 63-99
The Dodgers still rule this division even after a weak off season. The Giants are overrated and young, the D-Backs just aren’t ready yet, and the Padres are a big sleeper but have the potential to be a bust as well. LA has a strong rotation with great depth and despite numerous injuries, the Dodgers’ spot starters are happy to help, and they do. The Rockies have done a minimal amount of improvements, and I don’t see them going anywhere. Their rotation is a mess, and they have such big holes at positions like first base that they’ll have to call up players off of the 40-man roster.
NL Playoffs
Wild Card: Mets over Cardinals
NLDS: Dodgers over Nationals
Cubs over Mets
NLCS: Cubs over Dodgers
World Series: Rangers over Cubs
10 Bold Predictions for the 2016 Season
Former Mariners Smoak and Saunders both bat above .270
Justin Smoak and Michael Saunders’ contributions in Seattle have not yet showed up on the Blue Jays. I say they both have comeback years and Smoak earns his job back from Chris Colabello easily. After a .273 avergage in 2014, Saunders batted just .194 in ’15 in just 9 games played. Saunders missed most of the year. Smoak has never put up that good of stats, but he has a chance to rebound from the last two years, as he sucked in 2014.
Starlin Castro finally breaks through, as the Yankees star player
You can’t spell Starlin without Star. Year after year the Cubs have gotten their hopes up about the young shortstop. However, this young guy has showed his skills and I think he’s ready to fully breakthrough. I have this guy hitting between .310 and .320 with a personal best in average and dingers. Hopefully, he can adjust to the Yankees system and be strengthened by the Yanks.
White Sox and Tigers will each get at least 85 wins
Both teams sucked last season, what happened? They both made very bold moves in the off season, as I had said. The Tigers have a much better rotation in 2016, while the White Sox have revamped their lineup. They may not beat the Royals in the division race, but between the two of them, they could put on a big fight.
Eric Hosmer and Jason Heyward win MVPs
The Royals have had Hosmer his entire career and he’s just been a subpar star the whole time. When will he fully breakout and have a rampage season? 2016 of course. Hosmer’s stats have increased recently as he takes a lead role on the Royals. He is a well known veteran in Kansas City and it’s time that his name is known league-wide. Heyward meanwhile has developed really well and after a strong year with the Cardinals, he looks like a serious MVP candidate. He put up a career best .293 average last season. The Cubs have put him in a crucial role and Heyward’s ready to nail it.
Yu Darvish wins AL Comeback Player and AL CY Young
I have Yu Darvish winning both the AL Cy Young and AL Comeback Player of the Year. The guy looked outstanding in his rookie season and when he’s healthy, I think he could still do great things.
Mets infield hits 3 times more homers than Yoenis Cespedes
Between Asdrubal Cabrera and Neil Walker, the Mets have made a splash in the infield. Add on David Wright and Lucas Duda, and you’ve got yourself the infield of a super-team. Between all those guys, I think they will hit 3 times the homers of Yoenis Cespedes. I think Cespedes will hit about 40 homers. However, I think each of the Mets infielders will hit 20-35 dingers this year. They have a lot of potential. That’s what potential can do.
Harrison and Freese combine for 70 dingers and Pirates only win 88 games
Yes, even with the Pirates winning just 88 games and missing the playoffs, I see the hitting doing surprisingly well this year. I have two mediocre guys combining for 70 taters, and one of them isn’t even a full time starter. That doesn’t even include Andrew McCutchen, Gregory Polanco and Starling Marte. The Pirates lineup is overpowered to an extreme level.
At least one Reds player comes in the Top 5 in the NL for AVG, HRs or ERA
There are many candidates on the team that could do this. Joey Votto, Brandon Phillips, even Raisel Iglesias or Homer Bailey. But I think despite the Reds not being that good as a team, they have veteran players that can do big things when given the chance. The Reds had a somewhat healthy year last year, and I’m feeling it will happen again.
Giants run out of even-year luck, miss playoffs
Yes, the Giants don’t win the World Series in 2016, or even make the playoffs. The NL just has too many teams that are better this year. The Mets aren’t going to miss the playoffs even if the Nats beat them out in the NL East! That leaves the Cards, D-Backs, Pirates and Giants to fight over Wild Card #2. Compared to those three teams, the Giants look like garbage. Well what if they win the division? No way, not happening. The Dodgers are just too hard to beat even after such an empty off season, and if they don’t win, the D-Backs have a pretty good chance too.
Entire Dodgers rotation ends up with ERAs under 3.50
The Dodgers rotation is stacked. Despite injuries, it’ll start the season looking like this:
Clayton Kershaw
Kenta Maeda
Scott Kazmir
Hyun-Jin Ryu
Alex Wood
Even without Brett Anderson and Brandon McCarthy, that rotation is pretty overpowered. Kenta Maeda was a star in Japan and I think he can adjust, and if Scott Kazmir pitches like he did in Houston, then the Dodgers top 3 is ready to shut down the league. Hyun-Jin Ryu is efficient and powerful when he’s healthy, and Alex Wood can really pitch if they need him.
There’s just one week till spring training, so its just about time for my MLB 2016 Preview. Below is a video that has some of what I’ll be looking at, but this post is more detailed than the video.
By the way, I actually have the Dodgers winning the world series, but I wanted to show my Red Sox fandom on my Animoto account.
Alright, let’s dig in.
Projected Records
AL East
Boston Red Sox 92-70
Toronto Blue Jays 89-73
New York Yankees 85-77
Tampa Bay Rays 83-79
Baltimore Orioles 74-88
I have the Red Sox bouncing back from an ugly season and going from worst to first once again. The Red Sox were even bolder than they were last off season, acquiring Craig Kimbrel from the Padres, despite giving up former #3 and #7 prospects Manuel Margot and Javier Guerra. Then they signed AL Cy Young runner up David Price to a seven year, 217 million dollar deal. They also signed Chris Young to a two year deal and traded Wade Miley for relievers Roenis Elias and Carson Smith. They now have a strong rotation front and a top closer, along with the powerful lineup the 2015 Red Sox provided.
David Price signing a 7 year, 217 million dollar deal with the Red Sox.
Meanwhile I think the Blue Jays will stay strong even without their 2015 ace and closer (David Price & LaTroy Hawkins). They still have a strong lineup and some amazing prospects, and they acquired some new starters like J.A. Happ and Jesse Chavez, plus closer/set-up man Drew Storen. I think they still have some playoff relevance.
The Yankees meanwhile have done majority of their moves via trade. They acquired Starlin Castro for Adam Warren and Brendan Ryan, plus star closer Aroldis Chapman from Cincy. Having Chapman in New York will heat up the Red Sox-Yankees rivalry as the Sox acquired Kimbrel. The Yanks should be competitive in the division.
The Rays upgraded their pretty empty offense with Logan Morrison and Brad Miller. Centerfielder Desmond Jennings also will return from injury this season. Alex Cobb will also return. I think the Rays are still a little washed up in their lineup, but they have good defense and pitching.
Desmond Jennings returns to the lineup after spending 2015 on the DL.
Meanwhile I don’t think the Orioles’ acquistions are efficient. Mark Trumbo is not a full time starter, Hyun-Soo Kim might not be as good in America, and they still have a serious hole in the rotation. They already had a pretty bad team last year, they just made it a lot worse. The Orioles are by far the worst team in this division. Besides maybe the Rays, every other team in this division will still be in the playoff race at the beginning of September.
AL Central
Detroit Tigers 93-69
Chicago White Sox 89-73
Kansas City Royals 89-73
Minnesota Twins 73-89
Cleveland Indians 68-94
This division’s teams have made many impact transactions but not every team that made an impact in free agency can do well, especially all in the same division.
The Tigers have really improved their pitching game and outfield to match the rest of their good teams. They signed Justin Upton, Mark Lowe, Mike Pelfrey and Jordan Zimmermann and have acquired Cameron Maybin and Justin Wilson via trade. They only gave up Ian Krol to trade and Alfredo Simon and Rajai Davis to free agency. Even after a bad season, I think that the top prospects and star players will combine to make a bad team in 2015 a great, powerful team that will make an impact in 2016.
After several signings, the Detroit Tigers’ rotation is looking good.
Meanwhile the White Sox have also been very active in the hot stove. They’ve revamped their infield by trading for both Todd Frazier and Brett Lawrie. Lawrie was a third baseman like Frazier but will play at second to make room for Todd Frazier. They still have a hole at shortstop though.
The Royals are still good, but are once again lacking a rotation. They also have a hole in the outfield unless Jarrod Dyson can step it up. So, they’ll compete, but they aren’t necessarily make the playoffs.
Meanwhile, I don’t think the Twins’ youth plus Byung-Ho Park is enough to bring a good season in the Twin Cities. The Indians haven’t done enough by getting Mike Napoli and Rajai Davis. So there are teams in the Central that aren’t competitive as well.
AL West
Texas Rangers 90-72
Seattle Mariners 87-75
Houston Astros 79-83
Oakland Athletics 78-84
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim 71-91
I have the Texas Rangers at the top of this division. Look at their rotation. Personally, I think that both Cole Hamels and Yu Darvish are serious Cy Young candidates. The two ace-like pitchers are joined by wing man Derek Holland. They also have a powerful lineup with some guys like Josh Hamilton, Elvis Andrus, Shin-Soo Choo and Prince Fielder who have a ton of potential.
Yu Darvish is ready to bounce back after missing nearly two full seasons.
The Mariners also made a lot of impact trades. Despite giving up Logan Morrison, Brad Miller, Roenis Elias and Carson Smith, they traded for Wade Miley, Joaquin Benoit, Jonathan Aro, Nathan Karns, Adam Lind, Leonys Martin and Luis Sardinas. They also signed closer Steve Cishek, outfielder Norichika Aoki and resigned King Felix’s trusty wing-man, Hisashi Iwakuma. So this is a pretty revamped team.
The Astros are also still a somewhat powerful, young team. Guys like Carlos Correa really stepped it up last year, and they signed some strong veterans like Doug Fister. Some veterans, like Mike Fiers and Carlos Gomez, are also playing their first full season in Houston and others like Brad Peacock are returning from injury this year. The Astros have a lot of potential but aren’t quite as good as the Mariners and Rangers.
There are teams worse than that though. The Athletics made some minor moves as usual, and they’ve recovered from some injuries to players, so they will be better, just not enough to make an impact. Jarrod Parker returns from Tommy John surgery, and hopefully the former star Coco Crisp can bounce back.
The Los Angeles Angels also will get C.J. Wilson back, but this team is in need of some serious luck. Craig Gentry and Daniel Nava must create an efficient platoon in left, the rotation is full of people who are either feast or famine or fresh off a breakout, and they still have serious problems at second.
So the AL West is competitive, but there is a wide division between the good teams, decent teams and bad teams.
NL East
Washington Nationals 93-69
New York Mets 87-75
Miami Marlins 77-85
Philadelphia Phillies 75-87
Atlanta Braves 66-96
The Nationals continue to improve their team. They got solid second baseman Daniel Murphy. They also got Ben Revere for their second unneeded closer Drew Storen. The Jays did need him. They already had a good team, now they have a great and healthy one built off Bryce Harper and star pitchers Stephen Strasburg and Max Scherzer.
The Mets also resigned Yoenis Cespedes and signed Asdrubal Cabrera for the first time. They additionally traded for Neil Walker. They have a strong rotation but still lack power in their lineup. They should be good, but not necessarily a playoff contender as there are much better wild card candidates in the NL.
The Marlins also have improved their pitching to match the lineup they revamped in 2015. But some of the guys like shortstop Adeiny Hechavarria, utility Derek Dietrich and first baseman Justin Bour are still developing. At least they have Martin Prado and Don Kelly in the infield, and a pretty powerful, but somewhat old outfield.
The Phillies have gotten better as well. They’ve really improved their rotation, including the acquisition of veterans Jeremy Hellickson, Charlie Morton, Brett Oberholtzer and Vincent Velasquez. Bobby LaFramboise, Jerad Eickhoff, Luis Garcia and Jeanmar Gomez will lead the bullpen. They also have acquired Peter Bourjos to join Odubel Herrera and Cody Asche in the outfield. They have a stronger, more developed lineup and rotation, but still aren’t above .500 material.
Meanwhile, the Braves are much worse. They have some serious holes in the infield, despite acquiring Erick Aybar. Their pitching is worse, even more devastated despite signing minor league players Kyle Kendrick, Alexi Ogando and David Holmberg.
NL Central
Chicago Cubs 96-66
St. Louis Cardinals 91-71
Pittsburgh Pirates 88-74
Cincinnati Reds 79-83
Milwaukee Brewers 65-97
The Cubs already had a good team last year with Kris Bryant and some other dominant young stars making it to the majors. This off season, the really stacked up. They already had Jon Lester and Jake Arrieta, they inked John Lackey to a deal too. Ben Zobrist and Jason Heyward also got deals in Chicago. This team now looks to be one of the most powerful MLB teams while still having a starting lineup that’s almost 50% MLB rookies or sophomores.
Jason Heyward is just one major signing the Cubs made this off season.
The Cardinals still have power in the division, but were fed on just like the 2014-15 Tigers were fed on by the Nationals. What I mean is that without any trades, one team is taking a lot of the Cardinals’ top 2015 free agents, that team is their division rival the Cubs. Their rotation is shorthanded without Lance Lynn and there outfield will miss Jason Heyward, Jon Jay and Peter Bourjos. Even Matt Holliday will hit free agency next season. However they have picked up Jedd Gyorko and Seung-Hwan Oh, and got some good insurance in Brandon Moss and Jonathan Broxton at the 2015 trade deadline. They also could still sign a big bat like Dexter Fowler, Austin Jackson or Ian Desmond.
The Pirates are clearly at loss after losing Neil Walker and Pedro Alvarez, but with A.J. Burnett retiring, they stacked up on some pitchers. They acquired Jon Niese, A.J. Schugel and Kyle Lobstein, and signed Ryan Vogelsong. yet they still have thriving prospect Tyler Glasnow. Man, their pitching staff is stacked. They additionally signed slugger John Jaso. But in the end, compared to the Cards and Cubs, they aren’t too good.
The Reds even have some potential. I see potential in this rotation. Homer Bailey, Anthony DeSclafani, Brandon Finnegan, Raisel Iglesias and Michael Lorenzen is who I think will make up the rotation. They could also sign a veteran like Tim Lincecum and let Finnegan or Lorenzen rest after Bailey’s return from Tommy John surgery. If not, Keyvius Sampson or John Lamb will have to start until then, unless Robert Stephenson is in the Opening Day rotation. This team also has some serious holes, and needs some better hitting from Billy Hamilton, Jay Bruce and Brandon Phillips. They desperately need a third baseman and an outfielder, and may have a ton of last minute signings if they don’t want to suck. Hey, maybe Scott Schebler takes the outfield, Jose Peraza platoons at third with Ivan DeJesus efficiently, and Homer Bailey comes back early and shines. Or they snag the older guys like Juan Uribe last minute.
In his return from Tommy John Surgery, Homer Bailey should be able to bounce back in 2016.
The Brewers don’t look any better. Right now, Matt Garza and Wilin Peralta are their best pitchers, Will Smith is their closer, and they need some serious help in certain other positions. What are they going to do? Suck is what.
NL West
Los Angeles Dodgers 94-68
San Diego Padres 91-71
Arizona Diamondbacks 88-74
San Francisco Giants 84-78
Colorado Rockies 67-95
This division may surprise you a lot. The Giants put so much money into this off season, and they only go 84-78. The Padres have the season they were expecting a year ago. The D-Backs and Giants both miss the playoffs and are short of a 90-win season after acquiring or signing a combined four top 50 pitchers in the MLB, two apiece. The Dodgers still rule the division after all that drama. Finally, despite a strong rebuild, the Rockies still suck.
The Dodgers however also acquired some good pitchers in Kenta Maeda and Scott Kazmir. Hyun-Jin Ryu and Brandon McCarthy will also return this season. They have a secure lineup with very few holes and a strong rotation.
The Dodgers won a tight race for Japanese star Kenta Maeda.
But what happened to the even year luck in San Francisco? Pablo Sandoval brought it to Boston. Oh well, Giants, all that hard work and my Red Sox still get all the glory, with little to pay up at all.
The D-Backs are also looking better but do you honestly think they can win a division title with the lineup they have? Not happening.
MLB 2016 Postseason
My MLB 2016 Playoff Bracket. I have the Dodgers over the Red Sox in the World Series
Okay, okay, I might be getting a little carried away with the Padres doing so well, because the Cubs wouldn’t lose to them likely. Well here’s something I’ll throw at you, even though I have the Dodgers winning the World Series, I nearly considered the Nats to beat them in the NLDS. Bryce Harper is primed for a bigger breakout than even last year’s. I know I always overrate the Nats, and again, I could be wrong with the Nats even making the playoffs. The Mets could take their spot or San Diego’s. You may have actually noticed that I had the Sox over LA in the Animoto video, I was just showing my Red Sox fandom. But lets be honest here, the Dodgers rotation is by far better than the Red Sox’s. They also have a slight edge with their outfield.
Alright, now the AL. Again, I may be exaggerating with the White Sox, I did say the Tigers are ready to bounce back. Now I don’t have them winning a single playoff game. That’s up for debate. But especially if Chicago signs Ian Desmond, think about it. Jose Abreu, Brett Lawrie, Ian Desmond and Todd Frazier all in one infield. Not bad. I see potential for both sides. Again, Red Sox-Rangers could also be debatable, I just believe the Sox have a slight edge in the match-up and will simply win 3-2 in the ALDS. Besides that, I think I agree with my original instinct. What do you think?
MLB Awards
Now its time to make my predictions for some MLB Awards in 2016.
AL MVP
Jose Bautista, RF, Blue Jays
Jose Bautista, 2016 Projected AL MVP
This is just going to make Bautista way more valuable. Well, what’s my case? Bautista was injured for a good amount of 2015, and played through some of it. He had unsatisfactory results for much of the season. But 2016 is the year for Jose Bautista to bounce back. He didn’t have terrible results last year, but he definitely has room for improvement. When he gets heated up, he reaches MVP level.
Honorable Mentions
Josh Donaldson, Nelson Cruz, Michael Brantley, Carlos Beltran, Xander Bogaerts
NL MVP
Bryce Harper, OF, Nationals
Bryce Harper, 2016 Projected NL MVP
I almost considered Joey Votto for MVP, but I just think that his team won’t support his relevance well enough. But Harper, he’s ready to dominate. Harper is fresh off a breakout season, and the 23-year old superstar is ready for another one. I also have him winning a very special award, which I’ll surprise you with at the end.
Honorable Mentions
Freddie Freeman, Joey Votto, Giancarlo Stanton, Adrian Gonzalez, Jason Heyward
AL Cy Young Award
David Price, Red Sox
David Price, 2016 Projected AL Cy Young Winner
Price has a seven year deal with the Red Sox, so he’s pressured to do amazing. Besides, there aren’t many other good choices. Cole Hamels, maybe Dallas Keuchel. Guys like that don’t match up to Price at his best, which he wasn’t last year. I don’t think Detroit was the right fit for Price. Boston or Toronto, that’s another story. Price is ready to dominate this year.
Honorable Mentions
Cole Hamels, Dallas Keuchel, Felix Hernandez, Justin Verlander, Chris Archer, Yu Darvish
NL Cy Young Award
James Shields, Padres
James Shields, 2016 Projected NL Cy Young Winner
You might say Jake Arrieta, Max Scherzer, Zack Greinke or Clayton Kershaw will win the NL Cy Young, but where’s the love for James Shields? Especially if the Padres have their long-awaited breakout year, Shields will be a legitimate competitor for the Cy Young. He put up stellar stats for the Royals, he just hasn’t really fit in to the Padres’ system, but I think he’s found a spot as their ace. He is ready to go back to all star form after only a subpar 2015.
Honorable Mentions
Zack Greinke, Kenta Maeda, Stephen Strasburg, Max Scherzer, Clayton Kershaw
AL Rookie Of The Year
Byron Buxton, OF, Twins
Byron Buxton, 2016 Projected AL Rookie Of The Year
I’m not as big of a believer in Buxton as most people, but look at the other options in the AL. Byung-Ho Park is typically someone who would be too old to typically be a ro0kie. But Buxton really is a prospect, he’s a typical rookie, he plays like a young rookie. He’s actually one of the best at it in the AL, and I admire that. Plus, I have some serious issues underrating Buxton.
Honorable Mentions
Byung-Ho Park, Sean Nolin, Blake Snell, Gary Sanchez, Dylan Bundy
NL Rookie Of The Year
Corey Seager, SS/3B, Dodgers
Corey Seager, 2016 Projected NL Rookie Of The Year
Unlike Buxton, I see off the charts potential for this guy. He’s the younger brother of a star third baseman in the league, and he proved himself byputting up great numbers while playing in the majors for the end of last season. There has been so much hype for this kid and I believe it. If there was one Rookie Of The Year for all of the MLB, it would be Seager all the way.
Honorable Mentions
Steven Matz, Tyler Glasnow, Trayce Thompson, Jose Peraza
AL Comeback Player Of The Year
Yu Darvish, SP, Rangers
Yu Darvish, 2016 Projected AL Comeback Player Of The Year
Darvish has spent nearly two full seasons on the DL. Two years before even that, he was a great new MLB pitcher fresh out of Japan’s best bunch. Darvish put up outstanding stats in 2012 and 2013. I know he’ll never be able to do that again, he’s too old and crippled, but can he at least return to All Star form? I am a firm believer in Darvish and I’d like to see him try.
Honorable Mentions
Justin Verlander, Pablo Sandoval, Jarrod Parker, Desmond Jennings
NL Comeback Player Of The Year
Matt Kemp, OF, Padres
Matt Kemp, 2016 Projected NL Comeback Player Of The Year
Kemp was a superstar with the Dodgers. He’s old, but if he can do the same in San Diego, that would greatly benefit them. Right now, he’s just a washed up outfielder forced to start. But as the season progresses, I think he has potential to put up some all star stats.
Honorable Mentions
Hyun-Jin Ryu, Brandon McCarthy, Jon Niese, Travis Wood, Bartolo Colon
This is the big surprise we’ve been waiting for. Surprise, surprise, we have a Triple Crown winner! Guess who it is? Red hot, young Bryce Harper, already claiming the NL MVP. Harper is fresh of a long-awaited breakout and is ready to become an all time great in the MLB. A Triple Crown would really help his relevance, and I think he’s good enough to snag it at only age 23.
So that’s all for my MLB 2016 Preview. Comment with your thoughts.
Atlanta Braves (100-62, #2 seed)
New York Mets (91-71, #5 seed)
Philadelphia Phillies (89-73)
Washington Nationals (82-80)
Miami Marlins (78-84)
Cincinnati Reds (88-74, #3 seed)
St. Louis Cardinals (87-75)
Chicago Cubs (80-82)
Milwaukee Brewers (65-97)
Pittsburgh Pirates (53-109)
Los Angeles Dodgers (107-55, #1 seed)
San Diego Padres (94-68, #4 seed)
Arizona Diamondbacks (81-81)
San Francisco Giants (77-85)
Colorado Rockies (65-97)
Boston Red Sox
New York Yankees
Houston Astros
Boston Red Sox (93-69) (4th Seed in AL Playoffs)
Toronto Blue Jays (80-82)
Tampa Bay Rays (75-87)
Baltimore Orioles (67-95)
Cleveland Indians (89-73) (3rd Seed in AL Playoffs)
Chicago White Sox (82-80)
Minnesota Twins (80-82)
Kansas City Royals (68-94)
Detroit Tigers (66-96)
Los Angeles Angels (86-76) (5th Seed in AL Playoffs)
Oakland Athletics (80-82)
Texas Rangers (73-89)
Seattle Mariners (70-92)
Miami Marlins (61-101)
Milwaukee Brewers (86-76)
Cincinnati Reds (80-82)
San Diego Padres (71-91)
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Miami Marlins 64-98/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/57050771/858793268.1507430200.jpg)
Milwaukee Brewers 87-75
Cincinnati Reds 79-83
Tampa Bay Rays 83-79
Baltimore Orioles 74-88
Minnesota Twins 73-89
Oakland Athletics 78-84
Boston Sports Mania 