Post by Rangers GM (Jared) on Mar 28, 2019 8:59:25 GMT -5
Happy Opening Day everybody! Another year is upon us. With the help of 2 of our esteemed members, I have put together an opening day power ranking for everybody. Please note, they are most likely very wrong, so please don't take offense if you don't like where your team is! Here we go!
Let the rebuild commence
30. St. Louis Cardinals- The Cards have committed to the full rebuild. This team lay dormant for too long, but hopefully has now found a long-term owner! The MLB team only have a few everyday players at the moment, and I’d expect them to shop some of the veterans around for more specs during the year. The farm system is deep, with lots of top 100-150 type guys. The Cards will be hoping for some breakouts this year to really move that system into a top tier farm.
29. San Diego Padres- The Padres have smartly committed to building a long term winner in the monster that is the NL West. The MLB team doesn’t have a ton of long term pieces but does have some nice trade assets when the trade deadline comes around. Franmil Reyes could be a really nice piece long term if he continues to develop. Jason has built a really nice system that will compete with anybody on top tier specs led by Bichette, Adell, India, Josh James, and a ton of guys with top 100 upside. The Padres are not competing this year, but should have fun watching his young cats climb their way up the ladder and reading top 100 prospect lists.
28. Washington Nationals- The Nationals are currently a rebuilding team with very little at the MLB level. I assume they will be attempting to trade the vets they have, Encarnacion, Franco, Garcia, to acquire more prospects. The system is verrry deep, and I especially love the pitching side right now. This team will be competing for the #1 pick again this year, but should be competing better over the next few years.
27. Atlanta Braves- Tack has taken over a tough roster, and has really done a nice job adding talent here. The issue for this year, is most of is in the minor leagues. The Braves have a few nice pieces left, DeJong, Murphy, Cesar Hernandez, but not enough to get out of the cellar in the NL East. The pitching is very thin with very few MLB arms right now. The Braves are committed to the rebuild and has multiple top 100 specs who will make this team better moving forward.
26. Baltimore Orioles- Much like the real life Orioles, this team is rebuilding. This team will be near the bottom of the pitching standings with very little MLB depth or talent. They will trot out a big league lineup most days led by Hosmer, Soler, and the young Lourdes Gurriel. A bright system is led by Kyle Tucker, 2-way player Brendan McKay, and Bobby Dalbec. This team hopes brighter days are ahead.
Not ready to be a playoff team, but putting out a MLB lineup most nights
25. Detroit Tigers- The Tigers have some big names on the team, but I don’t see the overall quality needed for a playoff run. A better healthier year from Cespedes, Cobb and Nelson will help also, but this team is a few pieces away I think. The best asset is a strong OF with Markakis, Joc, Reddick, Peare, Chisenhall, Kiermier. Maybe some moves to offload some depth here could fill in some depth issue behind Strasburg in the rotation. It does have an elite closer in Osuna. This team should finish around the middle of the pack, but if they stay healthy might finish better than that.
24. Tampa Bay Rays- The Tampa Bay Rays have built a team that has some really nice pieces. A lineup led by Kris Bryant, Belt, and Realmuto , but has 0 OF on the currently constructed roster. The rotation is deep, if not super talented, but does have multiple #3 types. The biggest issue for the Rays is going to be putting out a lineup with no OF. They’ve got the stars here to build around, and lack of ownership has hurt, but need some quality pieces around the stars to get this turned around.
23. Toronto Bluejays- This team is in rebuild mode overall but does have a nice young core of bats led by Carlos Correa, Joey Gallo, and Brandon Nimmo next to some solid vets in LeMahieu and Gurriel. A big bounceback year from Gary Sanchez would be very helpful as well. The pitching will struggle with very little depth, especially in the bullpen. Help is on the way though with Kopesch, Puk, Sheffield leading his minor league staff.
22. Texas Rangers- The Rangers chose to rebuild this off-season after deciding they couldn’t compete with the Angels in the AL West. The lineup has some star power with Freeman and Abreu but not the depth. The rotation is deep in guys and should do fine in the counting stats, but is missing the top end studs. The current roster does have a few nice pen pieces in Leclerc and Neris as well. The Rangers committed to a rebuild, and has built one of best farm systems (Yes, I’m biased, Haha), but is probably another year or 2 from being back in the playoff discussion.
21. Chicago Cubs- The Cubs have been in the long term game for awhile, and will be hoping the future is near. Big time prospects in Peter Alonso and Chris Paddack have just made opening day rosters, Jung Ho Kang has returned to baseball, and Ohtani is hopefully still the 2 way stud long term he was invisioned to be. The lack of depth is the real issue right now, especially on the pitching side. Beau also payed heavily for Craig Kimbrel who is still looking for a team. That said, I think next year could be a year the Cubs make a jump. A healthy Ohtani, Kimbrel should have a team by then, a few more of these specs make a move up, and plenty of money available. This team will most likely slot into 3rd or 4th in the central this year.
20. Minnesota Twins- The Twins have an intriguing lineup with a mix of vets, Kyle Seager/Dickerson/Kendrick, and young guys, Bader/Domingo Santana/Sierra, but I don’t think it is ready to contend for a playoff run. Brendan Rogers could provide mid year boost for them, but most likely is a year away from really helping push this group forward. The pitching staff is led by Nola, but doesn’t have enough behind that. A healthy Alex Reyes should help in some capacity moving forward. With some growth from some of these young guys, and another year in FA, could contend in the AL Central, but don’t see it happening this year.
Probably not making a playoff run, but if everything clicks…
19. Cincinnati Reds- The Reds are a young team that are probably a year away from competing for a playoff spot, but could come earlier if guys click quickly. This team will need young bats to make noise in Bauers and Adames for them to make a step this year. The lineup needs some star power that these guys could provide. Right now its led by Carlos Santana and Kike Hernandez. The rotation on the other hand, is spectacular. Chris Sale and Jacob Degrom lead the staff as guys who could win both cy young awards. He’s got some young guys in Shane Bieber who are ready now. The bullpen isn’t ready without a closer at the moment, or elite holds guys with Barraclough’s trade to Washington. It kills me putting them here with Sale and DeGrom, but just don’t see the offensive numbers to not be bottom 10 in offense.
18. New York Mets- The Mets have built a fairly deep MLB roster, albeit lacking in star talent. Alex Bregman is the top bat here, but the Mets don’t have another CI on the roster currently except Reds backup Catcher Kyle Farmer. They need a bounceback year from Kipnis in the MI, and really need Aaron Hicks to get healthy. The lineup could really use another power bat as right now only 2 guys, Bregman and Hicks, are projected to hit 20 HR. Fernando Tatis making the opening day roster could be a real boost to this lineup. The Mets have built a staff this offseason by taking a lot of chances on guys coming back from injury, much like his favorite team, the Rangers. Edison Volquez, Shelby Miller, Yu Darvish are all guys who will be counted on for counting stats and wins. The Mets are deep in starters, but all have battled some level of injuries or inconsistencies in their career. The bullpen is OK, but will need to find some saves somewhere. The Mets should compete for 2nd in the East with the Marlins, but would need a lot to go right to catch the Phillies this year.
17. Kansas City Royals- Jason has put together a who’s who of names in the lineup with Cano, Desmond, Cozart, Votto, Casty, Cain, Pollock, Buxton. The issue is definitely how long some of these guys can continue to produce with age, Cano/Votto, or injury concerns, Pollock/Buxton. But I really like this lineup. The killer here will be the pitching. Jason has addressed the pitching by adding Archer, Bundy, Gio to Danny Duffy, with Lazardo coming, but there is no bullpen. This team will have to add a lot of holds and some saves to have any chance of competing for a playoff spot.
16. Pittsburgh Pirates- Our new Pirates owner has started out very active improving this team. The lineup has some interesting pieces with carpenter, Ozuna, Guzman, Laureano, but may not be quite good enough at a few positions to challenge the Brewcrew. The Pirates have added quite a bit to the pitching side adding vets like Rich Hill to the mix. I like what this team has done In limited time, and have been active adding to the minor league level as well. I’m interested to see the direction this team goes over the next few months, but I think it’s clearly behind the Brewers in this division.
15. Miami Marlins- The Marlins have some serious star power in the OF with Aaron Judge and Juan Soto, but a lot of questions marks in the rest of the lineup. Can Wilmer Flores realize his potential in Arizona? Can Todd Frazier rekindle his 30 HR days? Does Tulo have anything left? Is David Bote for real? Is Alex Verdugo ready to be an impact bat? If everything comes together, the lineup could put up strong numbers. The pitching lacks overall depth, but has key guys at the top in Bumgarner and Greinke. The team should put up strong save numbers with Archie Bradley and Melancon, but will need some more holds to emerge. I think this team is a few pieces away from being able to compete with the Phils, but have some really interesting long term stars to build around.
Playoff Contenders
14. Seattle Mariners- The Mariners have built a deep squad that should compete with the Athletics for 2nd place in this deep division. The lineup will need some guys to provide repeat performance of big years, namely Max Muncy. The rotation has some pieces with Hamels, Stroman, but lacks depth. The bullpen is similar with no real closer, or key late inning guys. The Mariners are probably a few arms short of being a playoff team this year, but could surprise with some key mid year additions.
13. Colorado Rockies- The Rockies have built a team that could take some real steps in the next few years. Led of course by MVP Mookie Betts, his OF mate Andrew Benintendi, and Trea Turner, this lineup could be elite very quickly. Some young bats need to grow into bigger roles around these 3, namely Jesse Winker, Orlando Arcia, and Greg Bird, who will all be counted on for lots of AB’s. The pitching Is what is not quite ready to compete, but has guys to build around. Jack Flaherty looks like one of the best young pitchers in baseball, and he has solid vets behind him. Jordan Hicks winning the closer role in St. Louis will give him saves if he can lock that job down long term, but there isn’t enough holds here. This team is beginning to open it’s window I believe. Rob is active on the Free agency bids, and will continue to get stronger. Maybe the Rockies can crack the big 3 in this division soon, but in the SEC West of divisions, this team is probably still going to be 4th in their own division!
October Dreams
12. New York Yankees- The lineup is full of MLB veterans and has ample speed at the top of lineups with Jose Peraza, Ender Inciarte, and Adam Eaton. Power production will be biggest issue. Marcus Semien could lead this team in HR. The pitching has some front line guys led by Carrasco, Happ, and Paxton, but plenty of question marks behind that. Shane Greene should provide a few saves, and the overall bullpen depth is strong. This team is probably a couple power bats from having a chance at competing.
11. Chicago WhiteSox- The team from the South side have built impressive depth in the lineup and on the mound, which can be the difference in these type of league. I’m just not sure this team has the high end talent needed to push a team over the top and into the playoffs. A return to MVP Josh Donaldson would be huge development, and I think another OF or 2 is needed here. The pitching staff has some guys I really like this year, Gibson/Pivetta/Fiers/Wheeler, but again, is there enough at the top to push them into a playoff push. I really like what Bob has done here, and I think this team will surprise and be in the playoff hunt throughout the summer.
10. Houston Astros- The Astros are another team in the AL West with a potentially very strong lineup. Suarez, Hoskins, Dahl, Cutch, Braun lead a nice lineup that should provide a lot of power! Good lineup manipulation will probably be key finding some SB from some of his backup guys like Brinson and Luplow. The top of the pitching rotation is really nice with Syndegaard and Taillon, but has very little behind them. The bullpen does have a potential closer in Trevor May, but won’t be putting up many other numbers. I think the bats could compete, but I’m not sure there is enough pitching here to get the Astros into a wildcard spot.
9. Oakland Athletics- The A’s have put themselves into the playoff picture going into this year with a very strong lineup leading this group. The A’s have star power at nearly every position led by Posey, Altuve, Puig, Blackmon. The offense will need to carry them. I like the group of starters Oakland has put together, but with only 4 SP on the roster, it puts a lot of pressure on those 4 stay healthy and pitch well. Hader is a stud in the pen, but this team will need some more saves from somewhere. The offense is good enough to compete for a playoff spot, but the pitching will be the key to getting there.
8. Boston RedSox- The RedSox are the favorites to win the AL East, and loaded with depth. The RedSox do have some question marks at CI, and in the OF with Heyward currently penciled into a starting spot, but the depth should present options for him. The key to this lineup is probably good years from Schwarber and Kepler who have flashed all-star level bats, and how soon Eloy Jimenez breaks onto the scene. The pitching is similar, no real ace on the staff, but has a deep stock of solid starters and relievers that should do well in the counting stats. Cj probably isn’t ready to move into to the top class of AL teams, but is the favorite to win the AL East and get back to the playoffs.
7. Philadelphia Phillies, a traditional contender, should be right back in the mix this year for a playoff run. This lineup has all the star power with both of the new 300 Million dollar men, Bryce Harper and Manny Machado. He has a few young budding stars in Matt Chapman and Ozzie Albies who are cheap and locked up long term as well. Health will be key for the Phils, as the lineup depth isn’t great, but the everyday lineup is talented! The pitching has the pieces to get it done as well. Corbin and Buehler lead a staff that has some upside. They also have what most consider the best Closer in the game, Edwin Diaz, racking up the saves. Jeff has made some nice offseason moves after taking this team over, and they are the favorite to finish at the top of NL East.
The Title Contenders
6. Cleveland Indians- Mario has built a really nice lineup overall. Josh Bell re-finding his power could put it over the top. Scooter, Pham, Brantley are all really nice bats, he’s got 3 Catchers who can play, and his only really question mark is the other CI spot next to Bell. My biggest concern for this team is the pitching. Gerrit Cole is a bona fide ace, but after that its Estrada, Giolito, and Brad Keller. I don’t think that’s enough, especially considering the Whitesox are chasing him with 10 SP which will be huge in the counting categories. The Indians do have a very nice farm system that he can trade from if he chooses to go find more if he feels the need to. Unless this teams adds some depth in the rotation, I think the Whitesox will be right here with them until the end.
The Contenders!
5. Arizona Diamondbacks- The Diamondbacks are again one of the power house teams in the league. The strength here is a top 5 offense led by Mike Trout, Rizzo, Goldy, and Bogaerts. They have plenty behind these guys to pick up any slack left over. This might be the 2nd best lineup behind LA. The pitching can be top 10, but has already been struck by injuries. McCullers is out for the year, Carlos Martinez has injury issues, and Urias has constantly battled issues. He still has reigning AL Cy-Young award winner Blake Snell, and some very interesting young guys like Brandon Woodruff, Fernando Romero, and Sean Newcomb who could take a big step and help out. They have an excellent closer in Giles, and some nice holds guys. The biggest question here is ownership. Anton left after 10 long years of competing, and Betz has not been the most active early. If this team struggles with leadership, it could be the difference in the wild card race with the Giants/Dodgers.
4. San Francisco Giants- Ron has done a great job chasing down the Diamondbacks and Dodgers over the last few years. The lineup is a little old, but has the talent to be a top 10 offense. Nelson Cruz, Miggy, Adam Jones, Pujols have all been mainstays of baseball, but need to produce for Ron here. The MI should rack up a ton of steals with Merrifield and Gordon, and could even win that category if both can push 40+ as they’ve shown they’re capable of. The Giants strength though is in the pitching. Led by Justin Verlander, Bauer, Robbie Ray, and Arrieta, the staff is deep and experienced. He should have plenty of saves with Kenley Jansen and Hunter Strickland, and should rack up plenty of holds. This is a top 5 staff. The key for the Giants will be the aging offense and if it can get enough productivity to be a playoff team. The wildcard will most likely come out of this division but it will be a battle again with the Dodgers/Dbacks for 2 spots.
3. Milwaukee Brewers- Larry has the Brewers again among the league’s elite. The lineup doesn’t have some of the star power others do, but is very balanced. Has a 40 SB guy in Villar, power with Aguilar and Shaw, and has 2 of the top power/speed combos in reigning MVP Yelich and Starling Marte. The depth could be an issue, but I’m sure Larry can address that if he needs to mid-season. The pitching is where this team really shines. The rotation has Cy young candidates in Kluber, Folty, and Keuchel next to young up and coming arms Castillo and Glasnow. He has 3 closers ready to roll and a few elite holds guys. This team will no doubt finish in the top group of teams in overall pitching. This team has to be the Central favorite going in.
2. Los Angeles Angels- The defending champs are back as a top title contender this year. The lineup is ridiculous. It has star power and ridiculous depth to handle an injury at every position. They have a ton of power and have enough speed to finish near the top at every offensive category. If there is a weakness, it’s probably starting pitching. There is maybe no true ace here, although David Price and Berrios could certainly be in that mix with a good year. A little more depth in the rotation would be nice, but Jason probably has enough to be in the playoffs come September regardless.
1. Los Angeles Dodgers- The Dodgers are absolutely loaded and occupy the #1 spot in my initial power rankings. Mike left a championship caliber team after 10 years of being here, and one of the biggest questions probably is simply new management. Hani inherits a roster capable of winning a league championship, which it has, if everything goes right. The lineup is led by MVP candidates Lindor, Jose Ramirez, JD Martinez, and Arenado. If we did a 1 year, 12-team, roto redraft league, those 4 might all go in the 1st round! OO yea, and he has budding superstar Ronald Acuna too. The pitching is a little scary with Kershaw and Severino already dealing with injuries behind ace Max Scherzer. Wil Smith, Ryan Brasier, and Seranthony Dominguez should accrue saves, but he may need to track down some more holds. Luckily this system is loaded as well with top 5 spec Wander Javier leading the way. This team is definitely a championship contender moving forward.
My playoff picks:
AL: Angels over RedSox
Indians over Athletics
Angels over Indians
NL: Dodgers over Phillies
Brewers over Giants
Brewers over dodgers
World Series: Angels over Brewers
Let the season begin!!
Let the rebuild commence
30. St. Louis Cardinals- The Cards have committed to the full rebuild. This team lay dormant for too long, but hopefully has now found a long-term owner! The MLB team only have a few everyday players at the moment, and I’d expect them to shop some of the veterans around for more specs during the year. The farm system is deep, with lots of top 100-150 type guys. The Cards will be hoping for some breakouts this year to really move that system into a top tier farm.
29. San Diego Padres- The Padres have smartly committed to building a long term winner in the monster that is the NL West. The MLB team doesn’t have a ton of long term pieces but does have some nice trade assets when the trade deadline comes around. Franmil Reyes could be a really nice piece long term if he continues to develop. Jason has built a really nice system that will compete with anybody on top tier specs led by Bichette, Adell, India, Josh James, and a ton of guys with top 100 upside. The Padres are not competing this year, but should have fun watching his young cats climb their way up the ladder and reading top 100 prospect lists.
28. Washington Nationals- The Nationals are currently a rebuilding team with very little at the MLB level. I assume they will be attempting to trade the vets they have, Encarnacion, Franco, Garcia, to acquire more prospects. The system is verrry deep, and I especially love the pitching side right now. This team will be competing for the #1 pick again this year, but should be competing better over the next few years.
27. Atlanta Braves- Tack has taken over a tough roster, and has really done a nice job adding talent here. The issue for this year, is most of is in the minor leagues. The Braves have a few nice pieces left, DeJong, Murphy, Cesar Hernandez, but not enough to get out of the cellar in the NL East. The pitching is very thin with very few MLB arms right now. The Braves are committed to the rebuild and has multiple top 100 specs who will make this team better moving forward.
26. Baltimore Orioles- Much like the real life Orioles, this team is rebuilding. This team will be near the bottom of the pitching standings with very little MLB depth or talent. They will trot out a big league lineup most days led by Hosmer, Soler, and the young Lourdes Gurriel. A bright system is led by Kyle Tucker, 2-way player Brendan McKay, and Bobby Dalbec. This team hopes brighter days are ahead.
Not ready to be a playoff team, but putting out a MLB lineup most nights
25. Detroit Tigers- The Tigers have some big names on the team, but I don’t see the overall quality needed for a playoff run. A better healthier year from Cespedes, Cobb and Nelson will help also, but this team is a few pieces away I think. The best asset is a strong OF with Markakis, Joc, Reddick, Peare, Chisenhall, Kiermier. Maybe some moves to offload some depth here could fill in some depth issue behind Strasburg in the rotation. It does have an elite closer in Osuna. This team should finish around the middle of the pack, but if they stay healthy might finish better than that.
24. Tampa Bay Rays- The Tampa Bay Rays have built a team that has some really nice pieces. A lineup led by Kris Bryant, Belt, and Realmuto , but has 0 OF on the currently constructed roster. The rotation is deep, if not super talented, but does have multiple #3 types. The biggest issue for the Rays is going to be putting out a lineup with no OF. They’ve got the stars here to build around, and lack of ownership has hurt, but need some quality pieces around the stars to get this turned around.
23. Toronto Bluejays- This team is in rebuild mode overall but does have a nice young core of bats led by Carlos Correa, Joey Gallo, and Brandon Nimmo next to some solid vets in LeMahieu and Gurriel. A big bounceback year from Gary Sanchez would be very helpful as well. The pitching will struggle with very little depth, especially in the bullpen. Help is on the way though with Kopesch, Puk, Sheffield leading his minor league staff.
22. Texas Rangers- The Rangers chose to rebuild this off-season after deciding they couldn’t compete with the Angels in the AL West. The lineup has some star power with Freeman and Abreu but not the depth. The rotation is deep in guys and should do fine in the counting stats, but is missing the top end studs. The current roster does have a few nice pen pieces in Leclerc and Neris as well. The Rangers committed to a rebuild, and has built one of best farm systems (Yes, I’m biased, Haha), but is probably another year or 2 from being back in the playoff discussion.
21. Chicago Cubs- The Cubs have been in the long term game for awhile, and will be hoping the future is near. Big time prospects in Peter Alonso and Chris Paddack have just made opening day rosters, Jung Ho Kang has returned to baseball, and Ohtani is hopefully still the 2 way stud long term he was invisioned to be. The lack of depth is the real issue right now, especially on the pitching side. Beau also payed heavily for Craig Kimbrel who is still looking for a team. That said, I think next year could be a year the Cubs make a jump. A healthy Ohtani, Kimbrel should have a team by then, a few more of these specs make a move up, and plenty of money available. This team will most likely slot into 3rd or 4th in the central this year.
20. Minnesota Twins- The Twins have an intriguing lineup with a mix of vets, Kyle Seager/Dickerson/Kendrick, and young guys, Bader/Domingo Santana/Sierra, but I don’t think it is ready to contend for a playoff run. Brendan Rogers could provide mid year boost for them, but most likely is a year away from really helping push this group forward. The pitching staff is led by Nola, but doesn’t have enough behind that. A healthy Alex Reyes should help in some capacity moving forward. With some growth from some of these young guys, and another year in FA, could contend in the AL Central, but don’t see it happening this year.
Probably not making a playoff run, but if everything clicks…
19. Cincinnati Reds- The Reds are a young team that are probably a year away from competing for a playoff spot, but could come earlier if guys click quickly. This team will need young bats to make noise in Bauers and Adames for them to make a step this year. The lineup needs some star power that these guys could provide. Right now its led by Carlos Santana and Kike Hernandez. The rotation on the other hand, is spectacular. Chris Sale and Jacob Degrom lead the staff as guys who could win both cy young awards. He’s got some young guys in Shane Bieber who are ready now. The bullpen isn’t ready without a closer at the moment, or elite holds guys with Barraclough’s trade to Washington. It kills me putting them here with Sale and DeGrom, but just don’t see the offensive numbers to not be bottom 10 in offense.
18. New York Mets- The Mets have built a fairly deep MLB roster, albeit lacking in star talent. Alex Bregman is the top bat here, but the Mets don’t have another CI on the roster currently except Reds backup Catcher Kyle Farmer. They need a bounceback year from Kipnis in the MI, and really need Aaron Hicks to get healthy. The lineup could really use another power bat as right now only 2 guys, Bregman and Hicks, are projected to hit 20 HR. Fernando Tatis making the opening day roster could be a real boost to this lineup. The Mets have built a staff this offseason by taking a lot of chances on guys coming back from injury, much like his favorite team, the Rangers. Edison Volquez, Shelby Miller, Yu Darvish are all guys who will be counted on for counting stats and wins. The Mets are deep in starters, but all have battled some level of injuries or inconsistencies in their career. The bullpen is OK, but will need to find some saves somewhere. The Mets should compete for 2nd in the East with the Marlins, but would need a lot to go right to catch the Phillies this year.
17. Kansas City Royals- Jason has put together a who’s who of names in the lineup with Cano, Desmond, Cozart, Votto, Casty, Cain, Pollock, Buxton. The issue is definitely how long some of these guys can continue to produce with age, Cano/Votto, or injury concerns, Pollock/Buxton. But I really like this lineup. The killer here will be the pitching. Jason has addressed the pitching by adding Archer, Bundy, Gio to Danny Duffy, with Lazardo coming, but there is no bullpen. This team will have to add a lot of holds and some saves to have any chance of competing for a playoff spot.
16. Pittsburgh Pirates- Our new Pirates owner has started out very active improving this team. The lineup has some interesting pieces with carpenter, Ozuna, Guzman, Laureano, but may not be quite good enough at a few positions to challenge the Brewcrew. The Pirates have added quite a bit to the pitching side adding vets like Rich Hill to the mix. I like what this team has done In limited time, and have been active adding to the minor league level as well. I’m interested to see the direction this team goes over the next few months, but I think it’s clearly behind the Brewers in this division.
15. Miami Marlins- The Marlins have some serious star power in the OF with Aaron Judge and Juan Soto, but a lot of questions marks in the rest of the lineup. Can Wilmer Flores realize his potential in Arizona? Can Todd Frazier rekindle his 30 HR days? Does Tulo have anything left? Is David Bote for real? Is Alex Verdugo ready to be an impact bat? If everything comes together, the lineup could put up strong numbers. The pitching lacks overall depth, but has key guys at the top in Bumgarner and Greinke. The team should put up strong save numbers with Archie Bradley and Melancon, but will need some more holds to emerge. I think this team is a few pieces away from being able to compete with the Phils, but have some really interesting long term stars to build around.
Playoff Contenders
14. Seattle Mariners- The Mariners have built a deep squad that should compete with the Athletics for 2nd place in this deep division. The lineup will need some guys to provide repeat performance of big years, namely Max Muncy. The rotation has some pieces with Hamels, Stroman, but lacks depth. The bullpen is similar with no real closer, or key late inning guys. The Mariners are probably a few arms short of being a playoff team this year, but could surprise with some key mid year additions.
13. Colorado Rockies- The Rockies have built a team that could take some real steps in the next few years. Led of course by MVP Mookie Betts, his OF mate Andrew Benintendi, and Trea Turner, this lineup could be elite very quickly. Some young bats need to grow into bigger roles around these 3, namely Jesse Winker, Orlando Arcia, and Greg Bird, who will all be counted on for lots of AB’s. The pitching Is what is not quite ready to compete, but has guys to build around. Jack Flaherty looks like one of the best young pitchers in baseball, and he has solid vets behind him. Jordan Hicks winning the closer role in St. Louis will give him saves if he can lock that job down long term, but there isn’t enough holds here. This team is beginning to open it’s window I believe. Rob is active on the Free agency bids, and will continue to get stronger. Maybe the Rockies can crack the big 3 in this division soon, but in the SEC West of divisions, this team is probably still going to be 4th in their own division!
October Dreams
12. New York Yankees- The lineup is full of MLB veterans and has ample speed at the top of lineups with Jose Peraza, Ender Inciarte, and Adam Eaton. Power production will be biggest issue. Marcus Semien could lead this team in HR. The pitching has some front line guys led by Carrasco, Happ, and Paxton, but plenty of question marks behind that. Shane Greene should provide a few saves, and the overall bullpen depth is strong. This team is probably a couple power bats from having a chance at competing.
11. Chicago WhiteSox- The team from the South side have built impressive depth in the lineup and on the mound, which can be the difference in these type of league. I’m just not sure this team has the high end talent needed to push a team over the top and into the playoffs. A return to MVP Josh Donaldson would be huge development, and I think another OF or 2 is needed here. The pitching staff has some guys I really like this year, Gibson/Pivetta/Fiers/Wheeler, but again, is there enough at the top to push them into a playoff push. I really like what Bob has done here, and I think this team will surprise and be in the playoff hunt throughout the summer.
10. Houston Astros- The Astros are another team in the AL West with a potentially very strong lineup. Suarez, Hoskins, Dahl, Cutch, Braun lead a nice lineup that should provide a lot of power! Good lineup manipulation will probably be key finding some SB from some of his backup guys like Brinson and Luplow. The top of the pitching rotation is really nice with Syndegaard and Taillon, but has very little behind them. The bullpen does have a potential closer in Trevor May, but won’t be putting up many other numbers. I think the bats could compete, but I’m not sure there is enough pitching here to get the Astros into a wildcard spot.
9. Oakland Athletics- The A’s have put themselves into the playoff picture going into this year with a very strong lineup leading this group. The A’s have star power at nearly every position led by Posey, Altuve, Puig, Blackmon. The offense will need to carry them. I like the group of starters Oakland has put together, but with only 4 SP on the roster, it puts a lot of pressure on those 4 stay healthy and pitch well. Hader is a stud in the pen, but this team will need some more saves from somewhere. The offense is good enough to compete for a playoff spot, but the pitching will be the key to getting there.
8. Boston RedSox- The RedSox are the favorites to win the AL East, and loaded with depth. The RedSox do have some question marks at CI, and in the OF with Heyward currently penciled into a starting spot, but the depth should present options for him. The key to this lineup is probably good years from Schwarber and Kepler who have flashed all-star level bats, and how soon Eloy Jimenez breaks onto the scene. The pitching is similar, no real ace on the staff, but has a deep stock of solid starters and relievers that should do well in the counting stats. Cj probably isn’t ready to move into to the top class of AL teams, but is the favorite to win the AL East and get back to the playoffs.
7. Philadelphia Phillies, a traditional contender, should be right back in the mix this year for a playoff run. This lineup has all the star power with both of the new 300 Million dollar men, Bryce Harper and Manny Machado. He has a few young budding stars in Matt Chapman and Ozzie Albies who are cheap and locked up long term as well. Health will be key for the Phils, as the lineup depth isn’t great, but the everyday lineup is talented! The pitching has the pieces to get it done as well. Corbin and Buehler lead a staff that has some upside. They also have what most consider the best Closer in the game, Edwin Diaz, racking up the saves. Jeff has made some nice offseason moves after taking this team over, and they are the favorite to finish at the top of NL East.
The Title Contenders
6. Cleveland Indians- Mario has built a really nice lineup overall. Josh Bell re-finding his power could put it over the top. Scooter, Pham, Brantley are all really nice bats, he’s got 3 Catchers who can play, and his only really question mark is the other CI spot next to Bell. My biggest concern for this team is the pitching. Gerrit Cole is a bona fide ace, but after that its Estrada, Giolito, and Brad Keller. I don’t think that’s enough, especially considering the Whitesox are chasing him with 10 SP which will be huge in the counting categories. The Indians do have a very nice farm system that he can trade from if he chooses to go find more if he feels the need to. Unless this teams adds some depth in the rotation, I think the Whitesox will be right here with them until the end.
The Contenders!
5. Arizona Diamondbacks- The Diamondbacks are again one of the power house teams in the league. The strength here is a top 5 offense led by Mike Trout, Rizzo, Goldy, and Bogaerts. They have plenty behind these guys to pick up any slack left over. This might be the 2nd best lineup behind LA. The pitching can be top 10, but has already been struck by injuries. McCullers is out for the year, Carlos Martinez has injury issues, and Urias has constantly battled issues. He still has reigning AL Cy-Young award winner Blake Snell, and some very interesting young guys like Brandon Woodruff, Fernando Romero, and Sean Newcomb who could take a big step and help out. They have an excellent closer in Giles, and some nice holds guys. The biggest question here is ownership. Anton left after 10 long years of competing, and Betz has not been the most active early. If this team struggles with leadership, it could be the difference in the wild card race with the Giants/Dodgers.
4. San Francisco Giants- Ron has done a great job chasing down the Diamondbacks and Dodgers over the last few years. The lineup is a little old, but has the talent to be a top 10 offense. Nelson Cruz, Miggy, Adam Jones, Pujols have all been mainstays of baseball, but need to produce for Ron here. The MI should rack up a ton of steals with Merrifield and Gordon, and could even win that category if both can push 40+ as they’ve shown they’re capable of. The Giants strength though is in the pitching. Led by Justin Verlander, Bauer, Robbie Ray, and Arrieta, the staff is deep and experienced. He should have plenty of saves with Kenley Jansen and Hunter Strickland, and should rack up plenty of holds. This is a top 5 staff. The key for the Giants will be the aging offense and if it can get enough productivity to be a playoff team. The wildcard will most likely come out of this division but it will be a battle again with the Dodgers/Dbacks for 2 spots.
3. Milwaukee Brewers- Larry has the Brewers again among the league’s elite. The lineup doesn’t have some of the star power others do, but is very balanced. Has a 40 SB guy in Villar, power with Aguilar and Shaw, and has 2 of the top power/speed combos in reigning MVP Yelich and Starling Marte. The depth could be an issue, but I’m sure Larry can address that if he needs to mid-season. The pitching is where this team really shines. The rotation has Cy young candidates in Kluber, Folty, and Keuchel next to young up and coming arms Castillo and Glasnow. He has 3 closers ready to roll and a few elite holds guys. This team will no doubt finish in the top group of teams in overall pitching. This team has to be the Central favorite going in.
2. Los Angeles Angels- The defending champs are back as a top title contender this year. The lineup is ridiculous. It has star power and ridiculous depth to handle an injury at every position. They have a ton of power and have enough speed to finish near the top at every offensive category. If there is a weakness, it’s probably starting pitching. There is maybe no true ace here, although David Price and Berrios could certainly be in that mix with a good year. A little more depth in the rotation would be nice, but Jason probably has enough to be in the playoffs come September regardless.
1. Los Angeles Dodgers- The Dodgers are absolutely loaded and occupy the #1 spot in my initial power rankings. Mike left a championship caliber team after 10 years of being here, and one of the biggest questions probably is simply new management. Hani inherits a roster capable of winning a league championship, which it has, if everything goes right. The lineup is led by MVP candidates Lindor, Jose Ramirez, JD Martinez, and Arenado. If we did a 1 year, 12-team, roto redraft league, those 4 might all go in the 1st round! OO yea, and he has budding superstar Ronald Acuna too. The pitching is a little scary with Kershaw and Severino already dealing with injuries behind ace Max Scherzer. Wil Smith, Ryan Brasier, and Seranthony Dominguez should accrue saves, but he may need to track down some more holds. Luckily this system is loaded as well with top 5 spec Wander Javier leading the way. This team is definitely a championship contender moving forward.
My playoff picks:
AL: Angels over RedSox
Indians over Athletics
Angels over Indians
NL: Dodgers over Phillies
Brewers over Giants
Brewers over dodgers
World Series: Angels over Brewers
Let the season begin!!