TMS Baseball Preview: AL West

In the weeks preceding Opening Day, we here at the Saloon will be previewing each major league division and giving a brief rundown of the in's and out's of each team heading into the 2007 season. Last week, we finished covering the National League, so now we move our attention to that other league, where pitchers are too sissy to bat. Coming in completely down to the wire, it's the AL West, the division I know and care the least about. Given that and my incredibly shrinking deadline I gave myself, forgive me if this preview seems a little more abbreviated than the others.

AMERICAN LEAGUE WEST

1. OAKLAND ATHLETICS
2006: 93-69 (1st)

So Long: OF Jay Payton, DH Frank Thomas, P Jerome Williams, P Barry Zito

Welcome: P Alan Embree, OF Ricky Ledee, DH Mike Piazza, OF Shannon Stewart, 1B Todd Walker

PROJECTED LINEUP
C - Jason Kendall
1B - Todd Walker
2B - Mark Ellis
SS - Bobby Crosby
3B - Eric Chavez
LF - Shannon Stewart
CF - Milton Bradley
RF - Nick Swisher
DH - Mike Piazza

Starting Rotation - Dan Haren, Rich Harden, Joe Blanton, Esteban Loaiza, Joe Kennedy
Setup - Kiko Calero, Justin Duchscherer
Closer - Huston Street

There's been all this talk about the NL Central not having any real standout team that will easily take the division. I think the same can be said for the AL West as well. None of these four teams really have that great of an advantage over the other. Thus seeing how things appear fairly even, I've decided to go with Oakland for the top spot.

Billy Beane's Moneyball approach has been well-documented and imitated elsewhere, and while it hasn't garnered his team any World Series trophies, it certainly keeps them in the playoff mix season after season.

Three new acquisitions factor into the offense immediately. Mike Piazza has joined the A's, and will likely be taking on a full-time DH role now since he's pretty much established his status as the greatest-hitting catcher of all-time. Instead, Oakland will have Jason Kendall as their defensive liability behind the plate. Shannon Stewart has been thrust into a starting OF gig with the loss of Mark Kotsay to back surgery. Away from the horrible turf of the Metrodome, Stewart's plantar fasciitis that has plagued him ever since he arrived in Minnesota appears to be a thing of the past. And let's not forget last-minute pickup Todd Walker, who will fill in at 1B while Dan Johnson recovers from a cartilage-tear in his hip.

While their rotation has some question marks, most notably whether Rich Harden will be able to pitch a full season, they should be good enough to carry this team and have tremendous support from a solid bullpen.

PRESEASON AWARDS
Mr. Sexy Time: DH Mike Piazza - Not dealing with the rigors of catching any more, most are expecting some big power numbers from Mikey this season.

Well it ain't for your winning personality!: OF Milton Bradley - Filling the role of "Ornery Bastard" that was vacated by Jose Guillen, Uncle Milty didn't disappoint with immature outbursts that would make Albert Belle proud. But last season, he appeared to finally grow up, thanks in part to Frank Thomas' mentoring. Will see if a calmer, gentler Milton will equate into a big year for him.

Really? This Guy?: SP Joe Kennedy - Kennedy will be Oakland's #5 starter, and before everyone poo-poo's him, let's consider a few things. The guy will be only 28 this year, and has spent the bulk of his early career in Tampa Bay and Colorado, not exactly pitching hotbeds. If there's any place that can make a decent starter out of him it'll probably be Oakland. Of course I could be completely talking out of my ass here. Remember the "know and care least" comment in the introduction?

FOR MORE READING
Athletic Supporters
Condition Oakland
Catfish Stew


2. SEATTLE MARINERS
2006: 78-84 (4th)

SO LONG: P Gil Meche, 1B Eduardo Perez, P Joel Pineiro, OF Chris Snelling, P Rafael Soriano

WELCOME: P Miguel Batista, OF Jose Guillen, P Horacio Ramirez, P Chris Reitsma, P Arthur Rhodes, DH Jose Vidro, P Jeff Weaver

PROJECTED LINEUP
C - Kenji Johjima
1B - Richie Sexson
2B - Jose Lopez
SS - Yuniesky Betancourt
3B - Adrian Beltre
LF - Raul Ibanez
CF - Ichiro Suzuki
RF - Jose Guillen
DH - Jose Vidro

Starting Rotation - Felix Hernandez, Jarrod Washburn, Miguel Batista, Jeff Weaver, Horacio Ramirez
Setup - Arthur Rhodes, Chris Reitsma
Closer - J.J. Putz

This probably shows how little I know about the West more than anything. Seattle fans are not overly enthused about the offseason moves and seem to be readying their torches and pitchforks to run GM Bill Bavasi and manager Mike Hargrove out of town.

Here's the thing. Looking at this team "on paper" they don't look that bad. Of course the same could be said about last year's Cubs, and we all know how that played out. I guess I'll play the optimist to Seattle fan's pessimist.

PRESEASON AWARDS
Mr. Sexy Time: SP Felix Hernandez - Two seasons ago, Felix Hernandez wowed everyone, and proved to be an incredible bright spot for Seattle. He then showed up in 2006 fat and rather unimpressive, having a disappointing up and down year. This offseason, it appears Felix dropped the grilled-stuffed burrito and picked up some exercise equipment. Slimmed down and focused, the 20 year old phenom looks poised to bring back the magic he showed us in 2005.

The WTF?! Stat of 2006: OF Raul Ibanez - Raul had 123 RBI last season. How the hell did that happen? What I do know is that it inflated his fantasy value something fierce this preseason. Good luck to the roto manager expecting the same out of him again.

Lost in Translation: - You want diversity? The Mariner starting lineup features 2 Japanese, 2 Americans, 2 Dominicans, 1 Cuban, 1 Puerto Rican, and 1 Venezuelan.

FOR MORE READING
Caffeinated Confines
Mariners Revolution
Evening Perambulations


3. CALIFORNIA ANGELS
2006: 89-73 (2nd)

SO LONG: OF Darin Erstad, 2B Adam Kennedy, P J.C. Romero

WELCOME: 1B Shea Hillenbrand, OF Gary Matthews, P Darren Oliver, P Justin Speier

PROJECTED LINEUP
C - Mike Napoli
1B - Casey Kotchman
2B - Howie Kendrick
SS - Orlando Cabrera
3B - Maicer Izturis (Chone Figgins DL)
LF - Garret Anderson
CF - Gary Matthews
RF - Vladimir Guerrero
DH - Shea Hillenbrand

Starting Rotation - John Lackey, Jered Weaver (15-Day DL), Kelvim Escobar, Ervin Santana, Dustin Moseley (Bartolo Colon DL)
Setup - Justin Speier, Scot Shields
Closer - Francisco Rodriguez

Screw it. I'm tired of this Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim garbage. I'm reverting back to my childhood days and calling these clowns the California Angels from now on.

I don't much to say about these guys. They're good, but so are the rest of these teams. They've got Vlad and probably the best bullpen. Do they still have the Rally Monkey? I got nothin'. I should've left this writeup to one of the two TMS bartenders that actually live out there. I do know the Angels have instituted a ban on kissing each other so no one comes down with mono this year.

PRESEASON AWARDS
Mr. Sexy Time: 2B Howie Kendrick - Howie personifies what this award is all about. The baseball pundits are drooling all over this youngster. He should hit for a good average, which equates to winning 6 batting titles before it's all said and done, according to the over-excited guy I heard on MLB Radio on XM.

Some People Don't Handle Canada Well: DH Shea Hillenbrand - Shea had to be reassured that he was in fact over a 1,000 miles away from Canada before agreeing to play in Anaheim. Last year's fight with Toronto manager John Gibbons can probably be attributed to too much Molson.

We Thought You Were Dead!: OF Garret Anderson - Has this guy ever smiled? Seriously. Anyway, never mind that, I couldn't believe he was still playing. I can safely say that the last time I saw Garret in action was back when he won the Home Run Derby a few years ago. Hell, that may have been the last time he smiled too.

FOR MORE READING
Big 'A' Baseball
Halo Hotline
Angelblog


4. TEXAS RANGERS
2006: 80-82 (3rd)

SO LONG: C Rod Barajas, P John Danks, 2B Mark DeRosa, P Adam Eaton, OF Carlos Lee, OF Gary Matthews, P Kip Wells, OF Eric Young

WELCOME: OF Marlon Byrd, OF Frank Catalanotto, P Bruce Chen, P Willie Eyre, P Eric Gagne, OF Kenny Lofton, P Brandon McCarthy, OF Sammy Sosa, P Jamey Wright

PROJECTED LINEUP
C - Gerald Laird
1B - Mark Teixeira
2B - Ian Kinsler
SS - Michael Young
3B - Hank Blalock
LF - Brad Wilkerson
CF - Kenny Lofton
RF - Nelson Cruz
DH - Frank Catalanotto/Sammy Sosa

Starting Rotation - Kevin Millwood, Vicente Padilla, Robinson Tejeda, Brandon McCarthy, Jamey Wright
Setup - Joaquin Benoit
Closer - Akinori Otsuka (Eric Gagne DL)

Oh Texas. When will you have a decent rotation? Sure Millwood isn't bad, but his stats tell a possible tale of the "I pitch well when it's time to get paid" theory. Beyond Millwood, you have a group of guys that probably will never be considered "difference-makers".

On the other hand their offense looks pretty decent, at least the infield that is. Teixeira, Young, Kinsler and Blalock should be tough. The outfield on the other hand.... I mean Lofton fills an obvious niche but Wilkerson and Cruz are brutal.

PRESEASON AWARDS
Mr. Sexy Time: OF Sammy Sosa - Slammin' Sammy is back! In one last attempt to eclipse 600 homers and possibly regain some credibility before his name comes up on the HOF ballot, Sosa will be swinging the lumber in Texas.

Mark Prior Award: RP Eric Gagne - Brace yourself Texas fans. This little DL stint to give Eric "a little more time" is just the beginning. He'll come back and throw a few innings, looking "OK". You'll chalk it up to him being rusty, but then he'll say he felt a twinge and then he's shelved for a few days to rest. But just as it appears he's rested, here comes another DL stint. The MRI didn't look too bad so it should only be a couple of weeks. Oh wait, the second MRI caught something the first one didn't. Looks like he's done for the season....

Just sayin', be prepared. At least you got Otsuka.

Finally!: Me - Finally I'm done with the TMS Preview. Next year I'll remember to start it a little sooner, so I don't short change the AL West again.

FOR MORE READING
Los Rangers
Rangerfans.com
Baseball Time in Arlington

TMS Baseball Preview: AL Central

In the weeks preceding Opening Day, we here at the Saloon will be previewing each major league division and giving a brief rundown of the in's and out's of each team heading into the 2007 season. Last week, we finished covering the National League, so now we move our attention to that other league, where pitchers are too sissy to bat. I'm starting run out of time here, so with no further delay, let's break down the AL Central. Adding his insight with me this week is the Governor.

AMERICAN LEAGUE CENTRAL

1. DETROIT TIGERS
2006: 95-67 (2nd)

So Long: OF Alexis Gomez, P Troy Percival, OF Matt Stairs, P Jamie Walker

Welcome: P Jose Mesa, OF Gary Sheffield

PROJECTED LINEUP
C - Ivan Rodriguez
1B - Sean Casey/Marcus Thames
2B - Placido Polanco
SS - Carlos Guillen
3B - Brandon Inge
LF - Craig Monroe
CF - Curtis Granderson
RF - Magglio Ordonez
DH - Gary Sheffield

Starting Rotation - Jeremy Bonderman, Kenny Rogers, Justin Verlander, Nate Robertson, Mike Maroth
Setup - Jose Mesa, Fernando Rodney, Joel Zumaya
Closer - Todd Jones

Picking Detroit number one is probably viewed a bit as a cop out move. Take the defending American League champions, real original guys. But dammit, why wouldn't we? Minus Matt Stairs and his glorious permullet and the ghost of Troy Percival, the team has stayed completely in tact and the young guys have another season of experience under their belt. Then they added Gary Sheffield at DH, and bolstered the bullpen with Jose Mesa (he's far enough removed from ever needing to close for them that it's a good pickup). This season, it'll be Detroit's division to lose.

Speaking of Percival, let's take a look at that contract real quick. $12 million over two years, for what amounted to 25 innings of work and only 8 saves. Has their ever been a more expensive save? I guess if you're looking at a per year basis, the Dodgers dropped $10 million for one save last season.

PRESEASON AWARDS
Mr. Sexy Time: SP Jeremy Bonderman - At 23 years old, Jeremy played in his 4th full major league season last year. A walking case study for what can happen if you bring a guy up too early, he took his lumps in the Tigers rotation early on (6-19 his rookie season with a 5.56 ERA). Now heading into his 5th season, he's finally emerged as the ace of this staff and looks to improve on his breakout 2006 season. Expect great things from him for years to come.

Bringing Old School Back: Jim Leyland - Jim's gritty no-nonsense style of managing helped rejuvenate this franchise last season. But I think the biggest reason he was successful was the 'stache. Seriously, there needs to be a team that as a collective group decides to all sport mustaches to pay homage to their 80's predecessors and who better to do it than the Tigers? Look at the 1984 world champions. You had Lance Parrish, 'stache. Larry Bergman, 'stache. Howard Johnson, Kirk Gibson, Tom Brookens, Chet Lemon, Jack Morris, Larry Herndon, Willie Hernandez, Ruppert Jones, all 'staches. The only guys that didn't seem to sport the ole' pushbroom were Whitaker, Trammell, Darrell Evans and Rusty Kuntz. We'll give Whitaker a free pass, and I'm not sure Trammell or Evans could even grow facial hair. Rusty Kuntz didn't have one, but he could do whatever he wants, because he's Rusty f'n Kuntz. Anyway my point is, this team is good, but if they started sporting the classic handlebar, they'd be championship bound easily. Not to mention their popularity would soar. Curtis Granderson would just be that much more kickass.

Oh and Sheffield's weird little Hitler 'stache doesn't count. What the hell was up with that thing?

Just Dropped In (To See What Condition My Condition Was in): P Kenny Rogers - Cheap Gambler references? Not here. We go deeper into the Kenny Rogers catalog. So what is Kenny's condition? Tired, apparently. EDIT: Apparently Kenny had surgery to remove a blood clot in his shoulder and could be out for 3 months. I personally think it's all an elaborate coverup for him as he's still trying to find a better way to hide his poo-stained hand when he pitches.

FOR MORE READING
Roar of the Tigers
TigerBlog
Tiger Tales


2. MINNESOTA TWINS
2006: 96-66 (1st)

SO LONG: 1B Phil Nevin, P Brad Radke, OF Shannon Stewart

WELCOME: 3B Jeff Cirillo, P Ramon Ortiz

PROJECTED LINEUP
C - Joe Mauer
1B - Justin Morneau
2B - Luis Castillo
SS - Jason Bartlett
3B - Nick Punto
LF - Rondell White
CF - Torii Hunter
RF - Michael Cuddyer
DH - Jason Kubel

Starting Rotation - Johan Santana, Boof Bonser, Ramon Ortiz, Carlos Silva, Sidney Ponson
Setup - Juan Rincon, Jesse Crain
Closer - Joe Nathan

Minnesota has won the division 4 of the past 5 seasons, and yet have watched from home as two of their division rivals played in the World Series, with one even winning it. While a World Series appearance eluded them in recent years, you can't deny that this team is a contender every year.

I don't know what else to say about them, so I'll talk about their proposed new stadium. All I gotta say is "Thank God". I mean the Metrodome has served them fine, and it can be a hostile environment for opposing teams, but apart from the regular fans, I don't see many people making the drive up to the Twin Cities to catch a game, and the dome is part of the problem. This new stadium looks pretty sweet. Open air, the Minneapolis skyline providing a striking backdrop, and a limited number of upper deck seats to create a more intimate setting. Also there'll be natural grass, which means only Tampa Bay and Toronto will be the only teams still playing on turf. Hopefully they can get this done.

PRESEASON AWARDS
Mr. Sexy Time: SP Johan Santana - How can he not be? The guy is head and shoulders above all other pitchers in the league.

We Thought You Were Dead: 3B Jeff Cirillo - Once he left Colorado for Seattle a few years ago, his stats plummeted and so did his career. Jeff hit rock bottom in 2004 when he was released by the Padres during the season and it appeared all but over for him. But in 2005 he signed with Milwaukee and in a bench role, found his stroke again. Last season he hit .319 in 263 at bats. While his days of starting are over, he should be a decent pinch hitter for the Twins.

Am I Late?: OF Michael Cuddyer - Cuddyer has been around forever it seems. Once upon a time he was considered one of their top hitting prospects. After a few seasons of bouncing between Minnesota and the minors, Cuddyer seemed to stick as a serviceable utility man. Then last year, he turned a corner, hitting .284, with 24 HR and 109 RBI. At 28, Cuddyer is firmly entrenched in the starting lineup as their right fielder and looks to continue his newfound success on offense.

FOR MORE READING
Bat Girl
Twinkie Town
Twins Locker


3. CLEVELAND INDIANS
2006: 78-84 (4th)

SO LONG: 3B Aaron Boone, P Keith Foulke, 3B Kevin Kouzmanoff

WELCOME: 2B Josh Barfield, P Joe Borowski, OF David Dellucci, P Keith Foulke, P Aaron Fultz, P Roberto Hernandez, OF Trot Nixon

PROJECTED LINEUP
C - Victor Martinez
1B - Casey Blake/Ryan Garko
2B - Josh Barfield
SS - Jhonny Peralta
3B - Andy Marte
LF - David Dellucci/Jason Michaels
CF - Grady Sizemore
RF - Trot Nixon
DH - Travis Hafner

Starting Rotation - C.C. Sabathia, Jake Westbrook, Jeremy Sowers, Paul Byrd, Fausto Carmona (Cliff Lee DL)
Setup - Roberto Hernandez, Rafael Betancourt
Closer - Joe Borowski

Cleveland fans will say last year's record doesn't do the team justice, and to some extent they are right. While they finished 78-84, their incredible run differential put their pythagorean W-L at 89-73. So why the huge discrepancy? You can chalk it up to a lackluster bullpen, blowing leads late in games countless times. This offseason the Indians worked on strengthening the pen, bringing in Aaron Fultz, Roberto Hernandez, and Joe Borowski. Whether that helps remains to be seen. Borowski's history as a closer has been everything but a smooth one, and Hernandez is 42 years old, so who knows how much gas is left in the tank.

I'm expecting a better finish than last year for sure, but there are a lot of folks out there that are projecting them as this year's division champs. Of course many seem to be trying to save face as they predicted huge things from Cleveland last season.

PRESEASON AWARDS
Mr. Sexy Time: OF Grady Sizemore - He's my pick for this year's winner of the David Wright Award, for the guy that everyone loves. He's a five-tool player, he can play great defense, and he makes women swoon. It's only a matter of time before the mancrushes follow.

Best DH Ever?: DH Travis Hafner - It's incredibly premature to anoint him that title but you figure even Edgar Martinez didn't become primarily a DH until he was 32, so Hafner already has a good head start. The guy they call Pronk only played in 129 games last year but still managed to hit 41 dingers with 117 RBI.

Seriously, This Guy?: OF Trot Nixon - I'm gonna say that his best years are definitely behind him. When Baseball-Reference lists your "Most Similar Batter" as Richard Hidalgo, that can never be a good omen.

FOR MORE READING
Teepee Talk (Easily the best name an Indians blog could have.)
Tribe Report
Indians Journal


4. CHICAGO WHITE SOX
2006: 90-72 (3rd)

SO LONG: C Sandy Alomar, P Freddy Garcia, OF Ross Gload, Dustin Hermanson, P Brandon McCarthy, P Jeff Nelson, P David Riske

WELCOME: John Danks, OF Darin Erstad, P Gavin Floyd, C Toby Hall, 1B Eduardo Perez, P Andy Sisco

PROJECTED LINEUP
C - A.J. Pierzynski
1B - Paul Konerko
2B - Tadahito Iguchi
SS - Juan Uribe
3B - Joe Crede
LF - Scott Podsednik
CF - Darin Erstad
RF - Jermaine Dye
DH - Jim Thome

Starting Rotation - Mark Buehrle, Jose Contreras, Javier Vazquez, Jon Garland, John Danks
Setup - Mike MacDougal, David Aardsma
Closer - Bobby Jenks

I'm not gonna lie. You put this team in the NL Central and they're probably considered one of the favorites. But for me, in this division, they're fourth of the four good teams that could contend. That'll probably be the nicest thing I ever write about the White Sox.

This is basically the same team from last year, minus Freddy Garcia, so we know that they're capable of winning, but I just don't feel it. I know, that's some real crack analysis on my part, but what the hell do want from me? Next to Houston, the White Sox are the team I absolutely loathe the most.

On another note, is anyone else excited for Ozzie Guillen's inevitable meltdown? He's yet to have a .500 year, but when he does, you know sparks are gonna fly. And I have to say, that I'm pumped about Lou vs. Ozzie. Someone's getting beaned, mark my words.

PRESEASON AWARDS
Mr. Sexy Time: P Charles Comiskey - A man so cheap and loathed by his own team his players were willing to throw a World Series. Now that's sexy.

Chris Singleton Award: OF Darin Erstad - Jesus, is the only criteria that White Sox management have for their center fielder is to be capable of catching a pop fly?

Who Barrett Should Punch Next: ESPN execs - You know darn well that A.J. Pierzynski is positioning himself for some sort of television gig like Baseball Tonight once he retires. Can we please, PLEASE stop this from ever happening? We already have to deal with Kruk talking out of his ass while the rest try to come up with some intelligible response to his asininity.

FOR MORE READING
Black Sox
South Side Sox
The Bard's Room


5. KANSAS CITY ROYALS
2006: 62-100 (5th)

SO LONG: C Paul Bako, P Ambiorix Burgos, P Runelvys Hernandez, 1B Doug Mientkiewicz, P Mark Redman

WELCOME: P Brian Bannister, P Octavio Dotel, P Gil Meche, SS Tony Pena Jr., P David Riske

PROJECTED LINEUP
C - John Buck
1B - Ryan Shealy
2B - Mark Grudzielanek
SS - Tony Pena Jr.
3B - Alex Gordon
LF - Mark Teahen
CF - David DeJesus
RF - Emil Brown
DH - Mike Sweeney

Starting Rotation -Gil Meche, Odalis Perez, Zack Greinke, Jorge de la Rosa, Brian Bannister
Setup - David Riske, Joel Peralta
Closer - Octavio Dotel

Like Tampa Bay, the Royals have been a struggling franchise who's job to improve becomes much harder given the division they play in. This team does appear to be improving though. Ever since Allard Baird's departure, this team has been slowly headed into the right direction. For the first time in a while, the team has some rookies that are garnering a lot of buzz, and while they weren't exactly blockbuster moves, the signings of Octavio Dotel and Gil Meche are promising. Also Zack Greinke has come back after leaving the team last season due to mental health issues. He'll be competing with Josh Hamilton for best comeback story this year. I expect the Royals to do better than their 100-loss season a year ago, and finish with a better record than at least 3-4 teams.

Nowhere to go but up, right? I'm kind of pulling for them. I've visited KC a couple times and despite the dismal team in recent years, their fans are still loyal and incredibly devoted. They deserve better.

PRESEASON AWARDS
Mr. Sexy Time: 3B Alex Gordon - The preseason favorite for AL ROY, Gordon was the 2nd overall pick in 2005, the minor league player of the year in 2006, and now, the starting 3B for the Royals in 2007. Let's just hope you at least fare better than KC's last ROY. Something like their ROY previous to the last one would be nice, and definitely nothing like the one before that.

You're No Rey Sanchez: SS Tony Pena Jr. - With fans getting their noose ready before having to endure another season of Angel Berroa at shortstop, the Royals made a trade and acquired Tony Pena Jr. Junior has a decent glove, but his offense can hardly be called an upgrade. Tony's dad was the last guy to manage the Royals to a winning record back in that flukish 2003 season. Before that, the last winning season for KC involved Vince Coleman.

Todd Jones Award: RP Octavio Dotel - Awarded to the pitcher who's best days seem to be behind them, only to emerge as a solid closer yet again and parlay that into a fat contract somewhere else. Last year's winner was Joe Borowski.

FOR MORE READING
Royals Authority
KC's Royal Fan Zone
Royales With Cheese

TMS Baseball Preview: AL East

In the weeks preceding Opening Day, we here at the Saloon will be previewing each major league division and giving a brief rundown of the in's and out's of each team heading into the 2007 season. Last week, we finished covering the National League, so now we move our attention to that other league, where pitchers are too pussy to bat. Let's look at the AL East! Chaim was able to throw in some nuggets of genius as well this week.

AMERICAN LEAGUE EAST

1. NEW YORK YANKEES
2006: 97-65 (1st)

So Long: P Octavio Dotel, OF Aaron Guiel, P Tanyon Sturtze, OF Bernie Williams, 1B Craig Wilson

Welcome: P Kei Igawa, 1B Doug Mientkiewicz, P Andy Pettitte, C Todd Pratt

PROJECTED LINEUP
C - Jorge Posada
1B - Doug Mientkiewicz
2B - Robinson Cano
SS - Derek Jeter
3B - Alex Rodriguez
LF - Hideki Matsui
CF - Johnny Damon
RF - Bobby Abreu
DH - Jason Giambi

Starting Rotation - Mike Mussina, Andy Pettitte, Kei Igawa, Carl Pavano, Jeff Karstens (Chien-Ming Wang DL)
Setup - Mike Myers, Kyle Farnsworth
Closer - Mariano Rivera

It's hard for me to look at that starting lineup and not vomit. The Bronx Bombers are stacked from top to bottom with All-Stars, and Doug Mientkiewicz. If one thing ends up killing them it will be the starting rotation. Mussina continues to provide worry-free innings but beyond that who knows? Pettitte should be decent but it remains to be seen if he can stay healthy all season. Kei Igawa may or may not be the second coming of Hideki Irabu. Carl Pavano is struggling to be the first player to break out of the Alyssa Milano Curse. And with Wang hurt, they're starting the season with Jeff Karstens as the #5 starter. Look for rookie Phil Hughes to make an appearance at some point this season.

But all rotation iffiness aside, this team can flat out rake. So your starter gets shelled for 6 runs? No problem, we'll just score 8. It's because of that offense that I have them number one. The pitching will figure itself out and there's bound to be 1 or 2 pitching acquisitions at the deadline to shore up the rotation.

PRESEASON AWARDS
Mr. Sexy Time: SS Derek Jeter - Just like Tom Brady, even if you hate the dude, you still respect him. The guy has his own cologne for God's sake! You know you've reached a whole new level when guys are willing to smell like you. Driven has sold much better than David Wells' ill-fated attempt for a line of cologne a few years back, though not many people care to smell like buffalo wings and an ashtray full of Marlboro reds.

David Eckstein Award: 1B Doug Mientkiewicz - The Yanks are notorious for having those scrappy gamers that rise to the occasion in the postseason. Whether it be Scott Brosius, Jim Leyritz, or Luis Sojo, these guys were far from spectacular during the season, but come playoff time they got it done. Dougie M. seems to fit that mold. I can just picture him coming up with a clutch hit late in a pennant game that turns the tide. One thing though Doug. If you record the final out of the World Series again, just give the ball to the team right away. Mr. Steinbrenner will probably have you murdered if you don't.

I'm Big in Taiwan: P Chien-Ming Wang - "Uh hello? Over here? Asian media? Yeah, it's me...the guy who led the league in wins last year? No, for the last time, I don't throw a gyroball. No, I look nothing like him! I'm Taiwanese, not Japanese. Sigh. Whatever."

FOR MORE READING
Bronx Banter
River Ave. Blues
Pending Pinstripes


2. TORONTO BLUE JAYS
2006: 87-75 (2nd)

SO LONG: OF Frank Catalanotto, P Ted Lilly, C Bengie Molina, P Justin Speier

WELCOME: SS Royce Clayton, C Sal Fasano, P Tomo Ohka, OF Matt Stairs, DH Frank Thomas, P John Thomson, P Victor Zambrano

PROJECTED LINEUP
C - Gregg Zaun
1B - Lyle Overbay
2B - Aaron Hill
SS - Royce Clayton
3B - Troy Glaus
LF - Reed Johnson
CF - Vernon Wells
RF - Alex Rios
DH - Frank Thomas

Starting Rotation - Roy Halladay, A.J. Burnett, Gustavo Chacin, Tomo Ohka, Shaun Marcum
Setup - Jason Frasor, Brandon League
Closer - B.J. Ryan

Was there a team that finished with a better record last year that no one seemed to give a shit about? Buried under the tight finish in the AL Central and the constant barrage of "How crappy is the National League" stories, the Blue Jays put together a pretty damn good season.

While their rotation took a hit with the departure of Ted Lilly, the batting order got a nice shot in the arm with the arrival of Frank Thomas, who put together a nice career renaissance last season. The Big Hurt will fit nicely in the clean-up role and with Vernon Wells and Lyle Overbay hitting on either side of him, should put up some solid power numbers yet again.

Meanwhile it appears the hole left by Lilly has been filled by Tomo Ohka, who's been having a pretty good Spring. It remains to be seen what he'll do all season, but if he can pitch like he did a few years back in Montreal, he could be a decent asset.

PRESEASON AWARDS
Mr. Sexy Time: OF Vernon Wells - Alright you got your payday. Now let's see what you do with it. Wells signing long-term should really help the team's image, that management is committed to winning.

Seriously, This Guy?: SS Royce Clayton - Not particularly good at anything, save for looking like The Predator, Royce continues to stymie all forms of logic and common sense by obtaining another starting spot.

Greatest Fantasy Roster Trick: 3B Troy Glaus - Last season Glaus started in 5 games as a shortstop, which gave him roster eligibility there in Yahoo Fantasy Baseball. This has allowed the savvy fantasy manager to draft Glaus later than some of the other big-name shortstops and get good value out of that position. Here's to hoping he plays a few games there this season as well.

FOR MORE READING
Jays Nest
Bluebird Banter
D.A. Humber: Baseball Central


3. BALTIMORE ORIOLES
2006: 70-92 (4th)

SO LONG: P Bruce Chen, P LaTroy Hawkins, P Rodrigo Lopez, OF David Newhan, P Russ Ortiz, C Chris Widger

WELCOME: P Danys Baez, C Paul Bako, P Chad Bradford, 1B/3B Aubrey Huff, OF Jon Knott, OF Jay Payton, P Paul Shuey, P Steve Trachsel, P Jamie Walker, P Scott Williamson, P Jaret Wright

PROJECTED LINEUP
C - Ramon Hernandez
1B - Aubrey Huff
2B - Brian Roberts
SS - Miguel Tejada
3B - Melvin Mora
LF - Jay Payton
CF - Corey Patterson
RF - Nick Markakis
DH - Jay Gibbons

Starting Rotation - Erik Bedard, Daniel Cabrera, Jaret Wright, Adam Loewen, Steve Trachsel
Setup - Danys Baez, Chad Bradford, Scott Williamson
Closer - Chris Ray

"What? You have Baltimore THIRD? You must have shit for brains." Wait, wait, wait. Before you begin pelting me with tomatoes, just hear me out. So far my predictions have been pretty tame. OK, incredibly tame. But every year there's a team that breaks out and performs way beyond everyone's expectations. Case in point: last year's Tigers. Not that I'm saying Baltimore is World Series bound by any means. I just don't think they're as bad as some have them pegged out to be.

They purged the pitching staff of Bruce Chen, LaTroy Hawkins, Rodrigo Lopez, and Russ Ortiz, which is the greatest "addition-by-subtraction" I've seen this offseason. They shored up the bullpen by bringing in Chad Bradford, Scott Williamson, Paul Shuey, Jamie Walker, and Danys Baez to compliment their young closer Chris Ray. Then they brought in Jaret Wright, who is reunited with Leo Mazzone, the guy that resurrected Wright's career in Atlanta a couple years ago, and Steve Trachsel, who has a little bit left in the tank. At least enough to be a decent #5 starter.

The batting order should be pretty decent with the emergence of Nick Markakis and the addition of Aubrey Huff, who should have something to prove after two disappointing seasons. I guess when you can bat Corey Patterson in the 8 spot, you can't be all that bad.

Of course if the O's crash and burn this season, feel free to mock me mercilessly.

PRESEASON AWARDS
Mr. Sexy Time: OF Nick Markakis - The big fat greek phenom, Markakis is poised to have a nice breakout season this year. Baltimore fans have to be pumped about this kid.

No Reason to Hold a Grudge: OF Corey Patterson - You may not have noticed, but Corey did in fact cut down on his K's per AB last season. Ah, it sucks to see him succeed somewhere else, but I've come to grips that he was never going to improve while in a Cubs uniform. It was for the best. At least we got Carlos Perez and Nate Spears for him. Wait, who the hell are those guys?

Seriously, This Guy?: OF Jay Payton - At least he's batting 9th. Not that Payton isn't good, but he's just another case of a guy being a little overrated after a nice little offensive stint in Colorado (cough, Neifi!, cough).

FOR MORE READING
Oriole Magic
Oriole Post
Camden Chat


4. BOSTON RED SOX
2006: 86-76 (3rd)

SO LONG: P Keith Foulke, SS Alex Gonzalez, OF Gabe Kapler, 2B Mark Loretta, OF Trot Nixon

WELCOME: P Brendan Donnelly, OF J.D. Drew, SS Julio Lugo, P Daisuke Matsuzaka, P Hideki Okakima, P Joel Pineiro, P J.C. Romero

PROJECTED LINEUP
C - Jason Varitek
1B - Kevin Youkilis
2B - Dustin Pedroia
SS - Julio Lugo
3B - Mike Lowell
LF - Manny Ramirez
CF - Coco Crisp
RF - J.D. Drew
DH - David Ortiz

Starting Rotation - Curt Schilling, Daisuke Matsuzaka, Josh Beckett, Tim Wakefield, Julian Tavarez
Setup - J.C. Romero, Brendan Donnelly
Closer - Jon Papelbon

Wow, I can feel the anger in the air from Boston fans. You know, a few years ago, you guys weren't that different from us Cubs fans. With a long history of disappointment and curses, you came to accept the inevitable failure in stride. Then 2004 rolled along and suddenly everything was wiped clean. This team was a winner, and was going to be for quite some time. Well you know what? It's high time you taste some disappointment again. Looking at this lineup, I can't help but feel that you're one Big Papi injury away from playing out a "Cubs in '06" type of season. Not that they'll finish as bad as the Cubs, but once D-Lee went down, all the bolts came loose and the wheels fell off.

Also that pitching staff is scary, and not in a good way. Who knows what Schilling will do? Is Dice's gyroball going to blow everyone's mind? Beckett finally threw over 200 innings, and watched his ERA balloon with it, not to mention his K/9 ratio dropped for the third straight season. The bullpen is such a horrible mess that the Papelboner has been thrown back into the closer role, pushing Julian Tavarez and his winning personality to the #5 starter spot.

Maybe I'm just bitter and want to see Boston crash and burn, but I just get the feeling this team has drifted a long way away from their 2004 glory days.

PRESEASON AWARDS
Mr. Sexy Time: P Daisuke Matsuzaka - This was a given. Has anyone drew more hype without having even played in an official Major League game? He could be the greatest Japanese pitcher ever to play over here. Seeing that the bar is currently set at Hideo Nomo, he won't have to reach that much.

Do They Award a "Bronze" Glove?: OF Manny Ramirez - Seriously, is he even trying out there? I fully expect him to wear an iPod in the field this year.

The Chris Farley Show: P Curt Schilling - Remember that time when you pitched in a World Series? When you were really good? Heh. That was AWESOME. Remember when you had the blood on the sock? That was so cool. And everybody said you were..um..heros and stuff? Do you remember? I love you guys. My dad says you're just going through a rough patch. Do you still have that sock? That would be awesome if you did. Did you see Die Hard? Remember that part where he.....

FOR MORE READING
Surviving Grady
Random Thoughts
Inside the Monster


5. TAMPA BAY DEVIL RAYS
2006: 61-101 (5th)

SO LONG: OF Damon Hollins, P Brian Meadows, SS Tomas Perez

WELCOME: 1B Hee Seop Choi, 3B Akinori Iwamura, 1B Carlos Pena

PROJECTED LINEUP
C - Dioner Navarro
1B - Ty Wigginton
2B - Jorge Cantu
SS - Ben Zobrist
3B - Akinori Iwamura
LF - Carl Crawford
CF - Rocco Baldelli
RF - Delmon Young
DH - Jonny Gomes

Starting Rotation - Scott Kazmir, James Shields, Casey Fossum, Jae Weong Seo, J.P. Howell
Setup - Dan Miceli, Shawn Camp
Closer - Seth McClung

A couple years ago, Bill Simmons coined the phrase "perpetual putridity" when talking about the abundance of bad teams in the NFL. I think that term can be applied to the D-Rays as well. Like a AAA team stuck in one of the consistently toughest divisions, Tampa Bay has finished last every season they've been in existence except for one (2004, which I think was more a product of Toronto being exceptionally bad more than the D-Rays being any good).

So why have they been so bad, when their expansion team counterpart, Arizona already has a ring to show off? I'm sure there's a multitude of factors that play into it, but I'd like to think it has to do with that stadium. Is there a more depressing venue in Major League Baseball these days than Tropicana Field? I mean, Jesus, this team plays in sunny Florida, yet the City of St. Petersburg built a frickin' dome back in the early 90's to lure a team there. Way to build off your city's assets St. Pete by locking the fans in a concrete behemoth while it's bright and sunny outside. I sure hope someone got fired/voted out of office for that incredibly stupid decision. According to ballparks.com, the city built a dome despite MLB's advice not to, and the league has told them to be out of there by 2010.

Some day the sun will shine on the D-Rays, but it's not gonna be any time soon.

PRESEASON AWARDS
Mr. Sexy Time: OF Delmon Young - As long as he can keep from throwing bats at umpires he should be ok. He appears in much better shape then his brother Dmitri, who did all of his offseason training at Old Country Buffet. We can only hope that he fares better than fellow prospect B.J. Upton, who could be upstaged in fielding drills by Jim Abbott.

The Rock Bottom Award: 1B Hee Seop Choi & Carlos Pena - Wow. Remember when these two guys were slated as the stud first basemen of the future? Now they're fighting for the starting 1B job in Tampa Bay, and are undoubtedly going to lose to Ty frickin' Wigginton of all people. Rock bottom.

The Carlos Beltran Award: OF Carl Crawford - Given to the player whose career and profile will soar and whose potential will finally be reached once he is granted a one way ticket out of baseball purgatory. Wait, we established that Pittsburgh and Kansas City are baseball purgatory. Tampa Bay is most certainly baseball hell then.

FOR MORE READING
DRays Bay
Rays Index
Rays of Light

TMS Baseball Preview: NL West

In the weeks preceding Opening Day, we here at the Saloon will be previewing each major league division and giving a brief rundown of the in's and out's of each team heading into the 2007 season. This week we look at the National League West.

NATIONAL LEAGUE WEST

1. LOS ANGELES DODGERS
2006: 88-74 (2nd)

So Long: OF Jose Cruz Jr., C Einar Diaz, OF J.D. Drew, P Eric Gagne, C Toby Hall, OF Kenny Lofton, SS Julio Lugo, P Greg Maddux, 3B Bill Mueller, P Aaron Sele, OF Jayson Werth

Welcome: OF Larry Bigbie, OF Luis Gonzalez, C Mike Lieberthal, P Joe Mays, OF Juan Pierre, P Jason Schmidt, P Rudy Seanez, 3B Fernando Tatis, P Randy Wolf

PROJECTED LINEUP
C - Russell Martin
1B - Nomar Garciaparra
2B - Jeff Kent
SS - Rafael Furcal
3B - Wilson Betemit
LF - Luis Gonzalez
CF - Juan Pierre
RF - Andre Ethier

Starting Rotation - Jason Schmidt, Brad Penny, Derek Lowe, Randy Wolf, Hong-Chih Kuo
Setup - Yhency Brazoban, Jonathan Broxton
Closer - Takashi Saito

Just as we picked the Cubs #1 in the Central, we had to be a homer here as well for the sake of the Governor and take the Dodgers. I don't think it's really much of a stretch though. LA comes back with a solid core of veterans with Nomar, Kent, Furcal and new additions, Juan Pierre and Luis Gonzalez. Plenty of leadership there to compliment the up and coming players, such as Andre Ethier, Matt Kemp, Russell Martin, and James Loney.

Their pitching staff received a boost this offseason with the arrival of former Giants ace, Jason Schmidt. Brad Penny and Derek Lowe further solidify the rotation and Randy Wolf appears ready to play his first full season again, since returning from Tommy John surgery. The #5 spot currently looks to be held by Hong-Chi Kuo, but you can expect youngster Chad Billingsley to get a chance to start later this season. The bullpen looks good, with Yhency Brazoban and Jonathan Broxton setting up Takashi Saito.

PRESEASON AWARDS
Mr. Sexy Time: RP Jonathan Broxton - With Eric Gagne gone, Takashi Saito has become a stop-gap between their old beefy closer, and their beefy closer of the future, and the hulking 6'4" fireballing manchild Broxton, is most certainly the future. Last season in 76.1 innings of relief, Jonathan boasted a 2.59 ERA and an 11.44 K/9 ratio. If Saito falters in any way, the calls for Broxton won't be far behind. Speaking of Saito....

Yeah Baby, My Muscles are All Natural: RP Takashi Saito - This season, the Dodgers officially replace the broken, roid ravaged body of Eric Gagne with a 75 pound 37-year old Japanese man. In 2006, when he wasn't playing the role of Chairman Kaga on Iron Chef, he was busy converting 24 of 26 save opportunities for the Dodgers.

One Shake For Breakfast: Tommy Lasorda - Tommy has threatened to sue, but whether its true or not, this excerpt from a Hollywood Madam's tell all book might render your junk useless for the rest of your life. Its like walking in on your grandparents humping.

FOR MORE READING
Dodger Blues
Sons of Steve Garvey
Dodger Thoughts


2. SAN DIEGO PADRES
2006: 88-74 (1st)

SO LONG: P Alan Embree, OF Ryan Klesko, OF Jon Knott, C Mike Piazza, P Rudy Seanez, P Woody Williams, P Scott Williamson

WELCOME: OF Jose Cruz Jr., P Shawn Estes, 2B Marcus Giles, C Todd Greene, P Greg Maddux

PROJECTED LINEUP
C - Josh Bard
1B - Adrian Gonzalez
2B - Marcus Giles
SS - Khalil Greene
3B - Kevin Kouzmanoff
LF - Terrmel Sledge/Jose Cruz Jr.
CF - Mike Cameron
RF - Brian Giles

Starting Rotation - Jake Peavy, Greg Maddux, Chris Young, Clay Hensley, David Wells
Setup - Doug Brocail, Scott Linebrink
Closer - Trevor Hoffman

Blah, I just don't care for the Padres at all. Never have. But looking at this squad you can't deny that they'll definitely be in the thick of things as the season winds down. At first glance their offense doesn't seem that impressive, but you have to consider Adrian Gonzalez should continue to improve, Mike Cameron can hit and steal when he stays healthy, youngster Kevin Kouzmanoff will have a chance to develop, while hitting low in the order, and the Giles brothers really aren't as bad as their '06 stats make them seem.

What really makes this Padres squad stand out though is their pitching. A great looking rotation and even better bullpen will keep the team in games quite often. Jake Peavy is coming into his own as the staff ace and Chris Young and Clay Hensley have become decent middle of the rotation guys. Then you have Maddux who should impart some knowledge on the young guys, and David Wells can still pitch effective enough as a #5 starter when he's not hobbled with gout or rickets or whatever the hell he gets stricken with.

PRESEASON AWARDS
Mr. Sexy Time: RP Trevor Hoffman - In this day and age, where a closer's shelf-life can be measured in months rather than years, someone like Hoffman becomes that much more amazing. Not only has the all-time saves leader been closing games regularly since 1994, he's been doing it for the same team the entire time. This season, Hoffman looks to build on his record and become the first pitcher to eclipse the 500 saves mark.

So This Is Where You Want to End Your Storied Career?: SP Greg Maddux - Eh, we just wish it would've been in Cubbie pinstripes or in the Gov's case, Dodger Blue. Either way, can you blame Mad Dog? It's sunny San Diego, he'll get to pitch in Petco Canyon, the Padres should contend, and did I mention it's sunny San Diego?

You Sir are No Rob Deer: 3B Russ Branyan - Answer: .228, .216, .234, .257, .228. Question: What are Branyan's batting averages the last five seasons? Yeesh, at least Deer sported some sweet big-league hair.

FOR MORE READING
Gaslamp Ball
Ducksnorts
San Diego Spotlight


3. ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS
2006: 76-86 (4th)

SO LONG: P Miguel Batista, SS Craig Counsell, SS Damion Easley, C Johnny Estrada, OF Luis Gonzalez, 1B Brian Jordan, P Luis Vizcaino

WELCOME: P Doug Davis, P Randy Johnson

PROJECTED LINEUP
C - Miguel Montero
1B - Conor Jackson
2B - Orlando Hudson
SS - Stephen Drew
3B - Chad Tracy
LF - Eric Byrnes
CF - Chris Young
RF - Carlos Quentin

Starting Rotation - Brandon Webb, Randy Johnson, Livan Hernandez, Doug Davis, Juan Cruz
Setup - Jorge Julio, Brandon Lyon
Closer - Jose Valverde

I had a hard time not putting the D-backs second. But with all the early hype being spewed about them from the writers and analysts, something left me remembering the Cleveland Indians from last year and how they went from savvy sleeper pick to major disappointment.

Be that as it may, there's good reason to be excited about this team. A potentially potent young lineup with Conor Jackson, Stephen Drew, Miguel Montero, Chris Young, and Carlos Quentin ready to make a splash, should keep things interesting in the West.

The rotation however has some question marks. After Brandon Webb, Doug Davis may be their most reliable pitcher this year. It remains to be seen whether Randy Johnson's back will hold up, and Livan Hernandez has been decomposing since 2004 (his strikeouts have dramatically decreased the last couple seasons while his walks have remained relatively unchanged). Juan Cruz is slated as the fifth starter, but the guy has never even pitched 100 innings in a major league season, let alone handled the rigors of being a starter full-time. We'll see how things shape up.

Oh yeah, kudos for ditching the heinous purple uniforms, and God help us if they ever come back as a "throwback".

PRESEASON AWARDS
Mr. Sexy Time: SP Brandon Webb - It's funny how things change sometimes. In 2003, Webb was just another young guy in the rotation, stuck in the shadow of Randy Johnson and Curt Schilling. Fast forward four years later and suddenly he's the star of this pitching staff with the Big Unit playing second fiddle to him.

Alex Gonzalez Award: OF Chris Young - Just when we were finally getting this "Which Alex Gonzalez is which?" shit straightened out, along comes Arizona outfielder Chris Young. At least the Chris Youngs play entirely different positions. So you can refer to one as Chris Young the pitcher and such. Although when referring to the Gonzalezes I just ask, "Is it the one who botched Game 6 for the Cubs?"

*Learn to Spell: Conor Jackson's Parents - God dammit, this shit has been going on long enough. Stop naming your kids regular names but spelling them slightly different (i.e. Jasen). You're just setting them up for a lifetime of frustration when they constantly have to correct people's spelling error. The only parents worse than them are the ones naming their kids some form of Caden or Jaden. Those folks need to be locked in a gulag.

*Yeah I couldn't think of anything else to write about with Arizona.

FOR MORE READING
Diary of a Diehard
Down the Left Field Line
AZ Snakepit


4. COLORADO ROCKIES
2006: 76-86 (5th)

SO LONG: 3B Vinny Castilla, P Jason Jennings, P Ray King, P Jose Mesa

WELCOME: OF Steve Finley, OF Alexis Gomez, P LaTroy Hawkins, P Matt Herges, P Jason Hirsh, 1B John Mabry, OF Willy Taveras

PROJECTED LINEUP
C - Chris Iannetta
1B - Todd Helton
2B - Kazuo Matsui
SS - Troy Tulowitzki
3B - Garrett Atkins
LF - Matt Holliday
CF - Willy Taveras
RF - Brad Hawpe

Starting Rotation - Jeff Francis, Aaron Cook, Rodrigo Lopez, Josh Fogg, Byung Hyun Kim
Setup - LaTroy Hawkins, Jeremy Affeldt
Closer - Brian Fuentes

On paper, Colorado's offense looks like it could be just as good as any in this division. While Todd Helton's career has slowed down considerably, the Rockies have a trio of good young sluggers in Matt Holliday, Garrett Atkins and Brad Hawpe. All took big strides last season and look to continue their success. Also, rookies Chris Iannetta and Troy Tulowitzki look to factor into the mix as they will be starting at catcher and shortstop respectively. Then there's newly acquired CF Willy Taveras, who should provide them some great speed in the leadoff spot.

Unfortunately, on paper, the pitching staff looks like an absolute train wreck. Never mind the Coors factor and whether or not the humidor matters or not, I wouldn't be comfortable with these pitchers in a regular ballpark. While Jeff Francis and Aaron Cook aren't too bad, Josh Fogg, Rodrigo Lopez, and Byung Hyun Kim all had ERA's above 5.00 and WHIP's above 1.50 last season. Yikes.

PRESEASON AWARDS
Mr. Sexy Time: OF Matt Holliday - Aside from Rockies fans, and fantasy baseball geeks, there are a lot of casual fans out there that are not overly familiar with Matt Holliday. Well now is a good time to get yourself acquainted. Matt busted out last year with a monster season, finishing as one of the NL's ten best in AVG (5th), SLG (5th), OPS (7th), Runs (5th), Hits (5th), Total Bases (4th), Doubles (9th), RBI (9th), and Extra Base Hits (2nd).

Most Likely To Put Fans to Sleep: RP Matt Herges - The length of a Matt Herges inning can be measured in geological time. With all that thought going into each pitch, you think he'd be better.

NL West Whore: OF Steve Finley - When he suits up for Colorado, the 42 year old Finley will have played for every National League West team. He could eventually be joined by Jose Cruz Jr., who's latest stint in San Diego leaves Colorado as the only team in the West he hasn't played for.

FOR MORE READING
Purple Row
Up in the Rockies
Rockies Locker

5. SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS
2006: 76-85 (3rd)

SO LONG: OF Moises Alou, P Jeff Fassero, OF Steve Finley, C Todd Greene, 1B Shea Hillenbrand, C Mike Matheny, P Jason Schmidt, 1B J.T. Snow, P Mike Stanton, P Tim Worrell, P Jamey Wright

WELCOME: 3B Rich Aurilia, OF Ryan Klesko, C Bengie Molina, P Russ Ortiz, OF Dave Roberts, P Barry Zito

PROJECTED LINEUP
C - Bengie Molina (32 years old)
1B - Rich Aurilia (35)
2B - Ray Durham (35)
SS - Omar Vizquel (39)
3B - Pedro Feliz (31)
LF - Barry Bonds (42)
CF - Dave Roberts (34)
RF - Randy Winn (32)

Starting Rotation - Barry Zito, Matt Cain, Matt Morris, Noah Lowry, Russ Ortiz
Setup - Steve Kline, Vinny Chulk
Closer - Armando Benitez

Don't get me wrong, if everything goes right, the Giants could, sorta, maybe, possibly contend, but when you look at that lineup, I can't see them staying overly healthy, or being consistently productive offensively. While the acquisition of Barry Zito made a splash, the remainder of signings have people scratching their heads a bit. Aurilia? Klesko? Ortiz? It seems to me that Giants management is hoping Bonds' home run chase will fill the stands, because without him, they have little to be desired.

What? Say something positive? OK, fine. This pitching rotation isn't bad. Sure, they lost Jason Schmidt, but Matt Cain looks promising, and Noah Lowry has potential. Barry Zito is a little overrated in my mind, but he's put up 6 straight seasons of 200+ innings. However that's a lot of miles on that arm already, so you never know. The corpse of Matt Morris is still throwing but he hasn't looked that great in a long while. Meanwhile Russ Ortiz is the #5. The same Russ Ortiz who won 21 games 4 years ago and has declined ever since. Hey I didn't say this rotation was good, they're just not bad.

PRESEASON AWARDS
Mr. Sexy Time: Matlock - To accomodate the personal tastes of the team, the clubhouse televisions will be tuned into non-stop episodes of Matlock, with the occasional Murder, She Wrote and Diagnosis: Murder thrown in.

You Sir, Are No Henry Aaron: Barry Bonds - It couldn't happen to a less likeable guy.

You Can Only Start Russ Ortiz for So Long: SP Tim Lincecum - There's a lot of buzz surrounding this kid. Keep an eye on his emergence sometime later this year.

FOR MORE READING
McCovey Chronicles
Giants Cove
El Lefty Malo