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spt_MLB_Spring_preview.appHeader = "2009 season preview";
spt_MLB_Spring_preview.appDeck = "A team-by-team look at what to expect this spring, by NBCSports.com contributor Tony DeMarco.";
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spt_MLB_Spring_preview[i-1].body = "BOSTON RED SOX
2008 record and finish: 95-67, 2nd place, wildcard
Manager: Terry Francona (6th year)
Arrivals: RHP Brad Penny, RHP John Smoltz, RHP Takashi Saito, OF Rocco Baldelli, C Josh Bard, RHP Ramon Ramirez, RHP Junichi Tazawa, 1B/OF Brad Wilkerson, RHP Wes Littleton, RHP Enrique Gonzalez, OF Paul McAnulty, RHP Miguel Gonzalez (Rule V)
Departures: OF Coco Crisp, C Kevin Cash, RHP Bartolo Colon, RHP Paul Byrd, RHP Mike Timlin, IF Alex Cora, 1B Sean Casey, RHP Curt Schilling
Rotation: RHP Josh Beckett, LHP Jon Lester, RHP Daisuke Matsuzaka, RHP Tim Wakefield, RHP Brad Penny, RHP John Smoltz, RHP Clay Buchholz, RHP Michael Bowden
Relievers: Closer: Jonathan Papelbon; Setup men: RHP Justin Masterson, RHP Takashi Saito, LHP Hideki Okajima, RHP Manny Delcarmen, RHP Ramon Ramirez, LHP Javier Lopez, RHP Wes Littleton, RHP Junichi Tazawa
Regulars: CF Jacoby Ellsbury, 2B Dustin Pedroia, 1B Kevin Youkilis, DH David Ortiz, LF Jason Bay, RF J.D. Drew, 3B Mike Lowell, C Jason Varitek, SS Julio Lugo
Role players: C Josh Bard, 1B/OF Mark Kotsay, 1B/OF Brad Wilkerson, IF Jed Lowrie, OF Rocco Baldelli, C George Kottaras, 1B/OF Chris Carter, 1B/OF Jeff Bailey, OF Jonathan Van Avery
Breakout candidate: None
The pressure is on: Julio Lugo will have to bounce back and keep his regular shortstop job in competition with Jed Lowrie.
Outlook: The Sox dramatically were outspent by the Yankees this winter, but really only lost out on Mark Teixeira -- a bat they certainly could have used. And then there is the question of need – the Yankees had to act in a big way, while the Sox only needed to tweak an already-deep roster. And how about these guys as 'tweaks': Future Hall of Famer John Smoltz, Brad Penny, Takashi Saito, Rocco Baldelli and Josh Bard. Not too shabby – health permitting, of course. Throw in Ramon Ramirez, acquired in the Coco Crisp deal, and you have the makings of a deeper rotation and bullpen – always the key over the 162-game haul. The rotation is eight-deep, with young talents Clay Buchholz and Michael Bowden facing difficult tasks to find innings, and quite possibly spending much of the season at Pawtucket. And if Josh Beckett bounces back from a sub-par (for him) season, watch out. The pen will feature all kinds of looks and options for Terry Francona. The Sox also set their future in stone by smartly locking up cornerstones Dustin Pedroia and Kevin Youkilis with long-term deals. They already have stepped into star roles, as David Ortiz, Mike Lowell, J.D. Drew and Jason Varitek are on the downsides of their careers. Those four must stay on the field as much as possible for the offense to be productive enough in the absences of Manny Ramirez and Teixeira. But the Sox are at the pinnacle in franchise operation. It's all working here – front office, scouting and player development, on-field management. Here's your AL pennant winner.
Predicted finish: 1st place, 98-64";
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spt_MLB_Spring_preview[i-1].body = "NEW YORK YANKEES
2008 record and finish: 89-73, 3rd place
Manager: Joe Girardi (2nd season)
Arrivals: LHP CC Sabathia, 1B Mark Teixeira, RHP A.J. Burnett, 1B/OF Nick Swisher, C Kevin Cash, IF Angel Berroa, RHP Sergio Mitre, RHP Jason Johnson
Departures: RHP Mike Mussina, 1B Jason Giambi, IF Wilson Betemit, RHP Carl Pavano, OF Bobby Abreu, C Ivan Rodriguez, 1B Richie Sexson, RHP Sidney Ponson, C Chad Moeller, 1B Ben Broussard, RHP Chris Britton, LHP Zachary Kroenke (Rule 5), RHP Jason Jones (Rule 5), RHP Ivan Nova (Rule 5), IF Reegie Corona (Rule 5)
Rotation: LHP CC Sabathia, RHP Chein-Ming Wang, RHP A.J. Burnett, LHP Andy Pettitte, RHP Joba Chamberlain, RHP Phil Hughes, RHP Ian Kennedy, RHP Alfredo Aceves
Relievers: Closer: RHP Mariano Rivera; Setup men: LHP Damaso Marte, RHP Brian Bruney, RHP Jonathan Albaladejo, RHP Jose Veras, RHP Edwar Ramirez, RHP Sergio Mitre, RHP Jason Johnson, RHP David Robertson, LHP Phil Coke, RHP Humberto Sanchez
Regulars: LF Johnny Damon, SS Derek Jeter, 1B Mark Teixeira,3B Alex Rodriguez, DH Hideki Matsui, RF Xavier Nady, 2B Robinson Cano, C Jorge Posada, CF Melky Cabrera
Role players: C Jose Molina, C Kevin Cash, 1B/OF Nick Swisher, IF Angel Berroa, IF Cody Ransom, OF Brett Gardner, OF Austin Jackson
Breakout candidate: Joba Chamberlain – and we'll assume that will be as a member of the rotation.
On the spot: Even if he wins 20 games, CC Sabathia will only match retired Mike Mussina's 2008 victory total.
What’s going on: What does $400-plus million buy you in a down economy? CC Sabathia, Mark Teixeira and A.J. Burnett -- but nothing certain beyond that. So to think the Yankees have bought their way back into the playoffs in their Yankee Stadium II debut season is a mistake. Adding those three to a team that won 89 games certainly bodes well – although it says here the Burnett expense won't be a worthwhile one over the length of the five-year deal. But this remains a team with some issues. Namely, you really have to question not adding anything to a setup crew that definitely needs more in front of Mariano Rivera. Damaso Marte and Brian Bruney aren't the best eighth-inning answers out there, so it wouldn't be a shock to see Joba Chamberlain end up in the setup role again, and Phil Hughes emerge as the fifth starter. But even more likely is a deal – Xavier Nady? -- to add a setup man, as the front office is saying Chamberlain will stay in the rotation. The other big concern: The many veterans in the regular lineup are another year older – which means even more injury-prone. During the season, Jorge Posada will turn 38, Derek Jeter and Hideki Matsui will turn 35, Alex Rodriguez will turn 34, and Johnny Damon will play the entire year at 35. The offense slipped to seventh in runs scored last season, and Teixeira is the only significant addition (and he'll certainly help the infield defense as well). There's a very good chance this team has one more good run and another playoff appearance in it. But if the disabled list gets too crowded, another disappointing third-place finish isn't out of the question.
Predicted finish: 2nd place, 91-71";
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spt_MLB_Spring_preview[i-1].body = "TAMPA BAY RAYS
2008 record and finish: 97-65, AL champs
Manager: Joe Maddon (4th year)
Arrivals: OF/DH Pat Burrell, OF Matt Joyce, OF Gabe Kapler, RHP Joe Nelson, LHP Brian Shouse, RHP Derek Rodriguez (Rule 5)
Departures: RHP Edwin Jackson, OF Rocco Baldelli, LHP Trever Miller, DH Cliff Floyd, IF/OF Eric Hinske, OF Jonny Gomes, C Mike DeFelice, RHP Scott Dohmann, RHP Eduardo Morlan (Rule 5)
Rotation: LHP Scott Kazmir, RHP James Shields, RHP Matt Garza, RHP Andy Sonnanstine, LHP David Price, RHP Justin Hammel, RHP Jeff Niemann
Relievers: Closer: RHP Troy Percival; Setup men: RHP Dan Wheeler, RHP Grant Balfour, LHP J.P. Howell, LHP Brian Shouse, RHP Chad Bradford, RHP Joe Nelson, RHP Juan Salas, RHP Lance Cormier, RHP Derek Rodriguez
Regulars: 2B Akinori Iwamura, LF Carl Crawford, 3B Evan Longoria, CF B.J. Upton, 1B Carlos Pena, DH Pat Burrell, RF Matt Joyce, C Dioner Navarro, SS Jason Bartlett
Role players: C Shawn Riggans, IF Willy Aybar, IF/OF Ben Zobrist, OF Gabe Gross, OF Gabe Kapler. OF Francisco Perez, OF Justin Ruggiano
Breakout candidate: To the surprise of absolutely nobody, David Price is the favorite in the AL Rookie of the Year race.
On the spot: Right-handers Justin Hammel and Jeff Niemann are out of options, and face tough spring battles to win spots on the staff. Either could be dealt late in the spring.
What's going on: So we pose the question, who really are the Rays? At some point last season, you had to be convinced they were much more than a figment of Joe Maddon's positive-laced imagination. The sooner you reached that conclusion, the less surprised you were by them winning one of the most shocking pennants in memory. But now what? In this decade, World Series losers have fallen into two categories – they either came back with an even-better regular season, but didn't advance as far in the playoffs, or followed up with a worse season and missed the playoffs entirely. But the Rays were such a unique pennant winner, it's hard to figure which way they will go. They are young and relatively inexperienced, and rose to the top after 10 years of miserable failure. That makes them most comparable to the 2007 Rockies, and that's not a good thing. But they are different than the Rockies in the game's most important aspect – they have an abundance of quality starting pitching. So much so that they dealt Edwin Jackson for promising young corner outfielder Matt Joyce in a move many talent evaluators feel could be a steal. The Rays also have added a formidable run-producing bat in Pat Burrell at DH, and that certainly will be an upgrade over last season, when they were only eighth in the AL in runs and 13th in batting average. But the Rays reside in the AL East – the toughest place to repeat. And they will have to deal with the inevitable emotional letdown that follows accomplishing the near-impossible.
Predicted finish: 3rd place, 88-74";
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spt_MLB_Spring_preview[i-1].body = "TORONTO BLUE JAYS
2008 record and finish: 86-76, 4th place
Manager: Cito Gaston (2nd season)
Arrivals: RHP Matt Clement, LHP Mike Maroth, 1B/OF Jason Lane, IF Brandon Fahey, LHP Ken Takahashi, RHP T.J. Beam, LHP Brian Burres
Departures: RHP A.J. Burnett, OF Kevin Mench, C Gregg Zaun, OF Shannon Stewart, 1B/OF Brad Wilkerson, LHP John Parrish
Rotation: RHP Roy Halladay, RHP Jesse Litsch, RHP David Purcey, RHP Casey Janssen, LHP Scott Richmond, RHP Matt Clement, LHP Mike Maroth, RHP Dustin McGowan (inj), RHP Shawn Marcum (inj)
Relievers: Closer: B.J. Ryan; Setup men: RHP Jason Frasor, RHP Jeremy Accardo, RHP Brandon League, LHP Scott Downs, LHP Jesse Carlson, RHP Shawn Camp, LHP Brian Tallet, RHP Brian Wolfe, RHP T.J. Beam, LHP Ken Takahashi, LHP Brian Burres
Regulars: RF Alex Rios, 2B Aaron Hill, CF Vernon Wells, 1B Lyle Overbay, 3B Scott Rolen, LF Adam Lind, DH Travis Snider, C Rod Barajas, SS John McDonald
Role players: C Michael Barrett, C Raul Chavez, 1B/OF Jason Lane, IF Jose Bautista, IF Marco Scutaro, IF Brandon Fahey, IF/OF Joe Inglett, OF Buck Coates
Breakout candidate: Adam Lind, 25, hit .282 in 326 at-bats last season, and has 22 homers and 94 RBI in 676 big-league at-bats.
On the spot: The Jays' cost-cutting measures aren't helping GM J.P. Ricciardi's job security. At least he's signed through 2010.
What’s going on: Yes, the Jays still are in business, although it's hard to tell since after losing A.J. Burnett to the Yankees, all they've done is add a few retread arms in Matt Clement and Mike Maroth, and picked some potential depth off the waiver wire. That doesn't exactly compare with the off-season dealings of the rest of the division powerhouses, now does it? So don't be surprised if that's reflected in the standings. Speaking of, the Jays won 86 games last year, and by one measure – Bill James' Pythagorean record theory, their \+104 run differential should have translated into a 93-69 mark. So they were an unlucky 86-win team, which could bode well for 2009. Then again, one look at the Jays roster should tell you this doesn't look like an 86-win team, especially when it will play one-third of its schedule against the Rays, Red Sox and Yankees. And they will do it a bit short-handed, as Shawn Marcum (Tommy John surgery) is lost for the season, and Dustin McGowan is out until at least May. That's on top of the Burnett loss, so the Jays matching their excellent pitching numbers from 2008 (a major-league-low 604 runs allowed) is an unlikely feat. Aaron Hill will be back at second base, and that can only help an offense that desperately needs more pop. Kevin Millar apparently will be signed, and that makes sense with three left-handed hitters as projected regulars at 1B, DH and LF. Gold Glove candidate John McDonald is expected to get a shot at being the regular shortstop. The division will prove too tough for the Jays, who are headed back below .500.
Predicted finish: 4th place, 76-86";
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spt_MLB_Spring_preview[i-1].body = "BALTIMORE ORIOLES
2008 record and finish: 68-93, 5th place
Manager: Dave Trembley (3rd season)
Arrivals: IF/OF Ryan Freel, OF Felix Pie, SS Cesar Izturis, LHP Mark Hendrickson, RHP Koji Uehara, IF Ty Wigginton, IF Brandon Waring, IF Justin Turner, RHP Brad Hennessey, IF Donnie Murphy, IF Luis Hernandez
Departures: C Ramon Hernandez, RHP Daniel Cabrera, LHP Garrett Olson, RHP Lance Cormier, 1B Kevin Millar, IF Juan Castro, OF Jay Payton, IF Alex Cintron, RHP Rocky Cherry (Rule 5)
Rotation: RHP Jeremy Guthrie, LHP Mark Hendrickson, LHP Rich Hill, RHP Koji Uehara, RHP Matt Albers, LHP Chris Waters, RHP Radhames Liz, LHP Troy Patton, RHP Danys Baez, RHP Hayden Penn
Relievers: Closer: LHP George Sherrill; Setup men: RHP Jim Johnson, LHP Jamie Walker, RHP Dennis Sarfate, RHP Chris Ray, RHP Kam Nickolio, RHP Jim Miller, RHP Brad Hennessey
Regulars: 2B Brian Roberts, 3B Melvin Mora, RF Nick Markakis, 1B Aubrey Huff, DH Luke Scott, CF Adam Jones, C Matt Weiters, LF Felix Pie, SS Cesar Izturis
Role players: C Gregg Zaun, IF/OF Ty Wiggington, IF/OF Ryan Freel, IF Chris Gomez, IF Jolbert Cabrera, OF Lou Montanez, OF Nolan Reimold, C Chad Moeller, C Guillermo Quiroz, 1B/3B Scott Moore, IF Oscar Salazar
Breakout candidate: Now that Nick Markakis is a highly paid franchise cornerstone, it's Adam Jones' turn to follow the upward career path.
On the spot: Jeremy Guthrie could be an excellent No. 3 starter elsewhere, but he's thrust into ace status here, and that can be tough on the W/L record.
What’s going on: Andy MacPhail quietly has added some nice complimentary pieces, particularly on the position-player side. Felix Pie will get a chance to play regularly in left field, and 500 at-bats could translate into a .275-15 HR-65 RBI-20 SB type season. Put that with the projected numbers for Nick Markakis and Adam (Don't call him Pac Man) Jones, and you should have a solid young outfield with upside. That turns Luke Scott into a DH, and pushes Aubrey Huff to first base, offering more stability to the every-day lineup. Cesar Izturis won't hit much, but he should provide solid defense at shortstop. And the bench looks very solid and versatile with veterans Gregg Zaun, Ty Wigginton and Ryan Freel as new options for Dave Trembley. But the newcomer everybody will be watching is top prospect Matt Wieters, whose place behind the plate was cleared by the trade of Ramon Hernandez. Wieters is being counted on as a building block, so he will be handled carefully, which is why Zaun is around. The problem with projecting any marked improvement for the O's comes with the rotation. They gave up on Daniel Cabrera and Garrett Olson, but the problem is, there isn't much evidence the replacements will be significant upgrades. Mark Hendrickson, Rich Hill and Koji Uehera head into camp as the likeliest to follow Jeremy Guthrie in the rotation, and that's a scary thought going against the AL East powerhouses.
Predicted finish: 5th place, 74-88";
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spt_MLB_Spring_preview[i-1].body = "MINNESOTA TWINS
2008 record and finish: 88-75, 2nd place
Manager: Ron Gardenhire (8th season)
Arrivals: RHP Luis Ayala, RHP James Jones (Rule 5)
Departures: SS Adam Everett, LHP Denys Reyes, LHP Eddie Guardado, LHP Jose Lugo (Rule 5)
Rotation: LHP Francisco Liriano, RHP Scott Baker, RHP Kevin Slowey, LHP Glen Perkins, RHP Nick Blackburn, RHP Philip Humber
Relievers: Closer: RHP Joe Nathan; Setup men: RHP Jesse Crain, RHP Boof Bonser, RHP Luis Ayala, RHP Matt Guerrier, LHP Jose Mijares, LHP Craig Breslow, RHP Bobby Korecki
Regulars: CF Carlos Gomez, 2B Alexei Casilla, C Joe Mauer, 1B Justin Morneau, RF Michael Cuddyer, DH Jason Kubel, LF Delmon Young, 3B Brian Buscher, SS Nick Punto
Role players: C Mike Redmond, IF Brendan Harris, IF Matt Tolbert, OF Denard Span, OF Jason Pridie, IF Matt Macri
Breakout candidate: Carlos Gomez should duel Boston’s Jacoby Ellsbury for the AL stolen-base lead.
On the spot: Delmon Young, still only 23, will have to earn his at-bats in a projected four-man outfield rotation.
Outlook: So, the Twins front office accomplished next to nothing in the off-season. What else is new? This is what happens almost every off-season in the Twin Cities. And that’s when we mistakenly fall for the lack-of-spending con, and pick them to be non-contenders. Then they go out and prove us wrong once the games count. We did it again last winter, when real loss – Torii Hunter to free agency and Johan Santana in a trade – replaced inactivity. But you know the rest – we got burned again, as the Twins stayed in the race for 163 games before finishing one behind the White Sox. So let’s set the record straight – the Twins don’t think they overachieve ever year; we do. And four division titles, two second-place finishes and an average of 90 wins since 2001 prove them right. So despite the following questions, don’t get fooled again -- expect the Twins to contend: Joe Mauer is recovering from kidney surgery, but expects to be ready by Opening Day. Somebody from among Jesse Crain, Boof Bonser, Luis Ayala and Jose Mijares needs to step into the eighth-inning void. Outfield playing time will have to be determined from among Delmon Young, Denard Span, Carlos Gomez and Michael Cuddyer; that is, unless Cuddyer moves to third base, where the current plan is a Brendan Harris-Brian Buscher time share. Another possibility is Joe Crede signing, although his price will have to come down. And if you’re not crazy about the young rotation, consider this: Only Nick Blackburn pitched a full season in 2008, making 33 starts. So you have to figure Ron Gardenhire will get more innings from his rotation, and that will help the bullpen.
Predicted finish: 1st place, 87-75";
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spt_MLB_Spring_preview[i-1].body = "CLEVELAND INDIANS
2008 record and finish: 81-81, 3rd place
Manager: Eric Wedge (7th season)
Arrivals: RHP Kerry Wood, IF Mark DeRosa, RHP Joe Smith, RHP Carl Pavano, 2B Luis Valbuena, RHP Tomo Ohka, RHP Vinny Chulk, RHP Matt Herges
Departures: OF Franklin Gutierrez, RHP Tom Mastny, RHP Scott Elarton, C Sal Fasano, IF Morgan Ensberg, RHP Juan Rincon, RHP Brendan Donnelly
Rotation: LHP Cliff Lee, RHP Fausto Carmona, RHP Anthony Reyes, RHP Aaron Laffey, LHP Jeremy Sowers, RHP Carl Pavano, LHP Dave Huff, LHP Zach Jackson, RHP Jake Westbrook (inj)
Relievers: Closer: RHP Kerry Wood; Setup men: RHP Jensen Lewis, RHP Masahide Kobayashi, LHP Rafael Perez, RHP Rafael Betancourt, RHP Joe Smith, RHP Adam Miller, RHP Tomo Ohka, RHP Edward Mujica, RHP Vinny Chulk, RHP Matt Herges
Regulars: CF Grady Sizemore, 3B Mark DeRosa, DH Travis Hafner, 1B/C Victor Martinez, SS Jhonny Peralta, RF Shin-soo Choo, LF Ben Francisco, C Kelly Shoppach/1B Ryan Garko, 2B Asdrubal Cabrera
Role players: IF Jamey Carroll, IF/OF Josh Barfield, 3B Andy Marte, OF David Dellucci, 2B Luis Valbuena, OF Matt LaPorta, OF Trevor Crowe
Breakout candidate: Shin-soo Choo’s .992 OPS against right-handed pitching was ninth in the majors, and he’ll get a full season of at-bats.
On the spot: Ryan Garko’s playing time isn’t assured, as Victor Martinez could shift to first base, and Kelly Shoppach could keep his spot behind the plate after a breakout 2008.
Outlook: Other than the checkbook improvement plan exercised in the Bronx, it’s hard to find a team and GM that had a better winter than the Tribe and Mark Shapiro. Like the Twins, they have this contending-on-a-budget thing down pat, and the combination of adding Kerry Wood and Mark DeRosa, plus expected returns to health for stars Travis Hafner and Victor Martinez bodes well for another season in the AL Central title mix. Not to mention that 40-28 second-half record in 2008. Wood is a health risk for certain, but the feeling here is he will put together a couple of productive years with the reduced innings load of a closer. His presence pushes Jensen Lewis back into a potentially deep setup mix, especially if Rafael Betancourt rebounds and top prospect Adam Miller emerges. And anything will be an improvement over last year’s bullpen implosion, complete with a 5.13 combined ERA. There are concerns in the rotation, however. Cliff Lee isn’t going to go 22-3 again, and CC Sabathia is long gone – so they won’t get those 18 starts he made last season. Jake Westbrook is not expected back until the second half, and who knows what they’ll get out of Carl Pavano. All of which could make the emergence of Aaron Laffey or another young arm necessary. The offense should return to one of the league’s most productive with Hafner (only 198 at-bats in 2008), Martinez (266 at-bats) and DeRosa added to a group that finished sixth in the AL in runs. But there is at least some concern about Hafner’s shoulder and Martinez’s elbow.
Predicted finish: 2nd place, 86-76";
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spt_MLB_Spring_preview[i-1].body = "KANSAS CITY ROYALS
2008 record and finish: 75-87, 4th place
Manager: Trey Hillman (2nd season)
Arrivals: OF Coco Crisp, 1B Mike Jacobs, RHP Kyle Farnsworth, LHP Horacio Ramirez, RHP Doug Waechter, RHP Oscar Villareal RHP Franquelis Osorio, C J.R. House, LHP Lenny DiNardo, OF Tommy Murphy
Departures: RHP Ramon Ramirez, 2B Mark Grudzielanek, RHP Leo Nunez, RHP Kip Wells, OF Joey Gathright, IF Jason Smith, IF Luis Hernandez, LHP Tyler Lumsden, RHP Jeff Fulchino, LHP Gilbert De La Vara (Rule 5)
Rotation: RHP Zack Greinke, RHP Gil Meche, RHP Brian Bannister, RHP Kyle Davies, RHP Luke Hochevar, LHP Horacio Ramirez, RHP Brandon Duckworth
Relievers: Closer: Joakim Soria: Setup men: RHP Kyle Farnsworth, LHP Ron Mahay, RHP Joel Peralta, LHP Jimmy Gobble, LHP John Bale, RHP Robinson Tejada, RHP Doug Waechter, RHP Oscar Villareal
Regulars: CF Coco Crisp, SS Mike Aviles, LF David DeJesus, RF Jose Guillen, 3B Alex Gordon, DH Billy Butler, 1B Mike Jacobs, 2B Alberto Callaspo, C John Buck
Role players: C Miguel Olivo, 1B/OF Ross Gload, IF/OF Mark Teahen, 1B Ryan Shealy, 1B Kila Ka’aihue, IF/OF Willie Bloomquist, IF Esteban Gernan, IF Tony Pena Jr., OF Mitch Maier, C J.R. House
Breakout candidate: Billy Butler hit .305 after returning from the minors last season. Expect something close to .290-20-90 as a full-time player in 2009.
On the spot: In his third full season at 25, it’s time for Alex Gordon to take the next step toward stardom.
Outlook: The Royals will bring a renovated lineup to renovated Kauffman Stadium come April. It’s deeper, and likely more productive than the one that finished 12th in runs and last in homers. Trey Hillman will have to settle on a 1B/DH combination from a handful of solid candidates – newcomer Mike Jacobs, Billy Butler, Ryan Shealy, Ross Gload and Kila Ka’aihue. Figure Jacobs to get 500 at-bats one way or the other, as he was acquired to add left-handed power. Shortstop Mike Aviles will have to prove his high-quality, 102-game rookie numbers weren’t a fluke. And Coco Crisp will have to stay healthy enough to put up 500-plus at-bats and supply some pop, speed and energy in the leadoff spot. An intriguing possibility is adding free agent Orlando Hudson, who would bring a huge boost to an already-improved team. If that doesn't happen, Mark Teahen will get a look at second base despite his 6-3 stature, and a position change for him would be his third in as many springs. The Royals believe in emerging star Zack Greinke enough to give him four years and $38 million, and it’s not a stretch to think Brian Bannister, Kyle Davies and Luke Hochevar can improve on their 2008 numbers. The big bullpen question is whether Kyle Farnsworth and others can replace Ramon Ramirez and Leo Nunez in setup roles in front of underrated closer Joakim Soria. There is a lot of upside here, and it could translate into a welcomed winning season in KC.
Predicted finish: 3rd place, 81-81 ";
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spt_MLB_Spring_preview[i-1].body = "DETROIT TIGERS
2008 record and finish: 74-88, 5th place
Manager: Jim Leyland (4th season)
Arrivals: RHP Brandon Lyon, RHP Edwin Jackson, SS Adam Everett, C Gerald Laird, C Matt Treanor, LHP Kyle Bloom (Rule V)
Departures: SS Edgar Renteria, RHP Todd Jones, RHP Kyle Farnsworth, OF Matt Joyce, LHP Kenny Rogers, RHP Freddy Garcia, LHP Casey Fossum, C Vance Wilson, RHP Francisco Cruceta, RHP Yorman Bazardo, RHP Francis Beltran, RHP Gary Glover, RHP Aquilino Lopez, C James Skelton (Rule V)
Rotation: RHP Justin Verlander, RHP Jeremy Bonderman, RHP Armando Galarraga, RHP Edwin Jackson, LHP Nate Robertson, LHP Dontrelle Willis, RHP Zach Miner
Relievers: Closer: Brandon Lyon; Setup men: RHP Fernando Rodney, RHP Joel Zumaya, LHP Bobby Seay, RHP Freddie Dolsi, LHP Macay McBride, LHP Clay Rapada, LHP Kyle Bloom
Regulars: CF Curtis Granderson, 2B Placido Polanco, 1B Miguel Cabrera, RF Magglio Ordonez, DH Gary Sheffield, LF Carlos Guillen, 3B Brandon Inge, C Gerald Laird, SS Adam Everett
Role players: C Matt Treanor, 1B/3B Jeff Larish, IF Ramon Santiago, IF/OF Ryan Raburn, 1B/OF Marcus Thames, OF Brent Clevlen, OF Clete Thomas
Breakout candidate: None
On the spot: Dontrelle Willis is at a crossroads. If there is no injury to blame for his 2008 debacle, then what’s the problem? And can he correct it?
Outlook: What’s next for the Tigers after the disaster that was 2008? Well, GM Dave Dombrowski has said there are 10 potential All-Stars on the roster, and while that might be a stretch, there is plenty of talent on hand. But health will play such a vital factor, and at this point, we’re not sure about Jeremy Bonderman, Nate Robertson and Dontrelle Willis -- although the early reports are positive on all three. At least two are needed to join Justin Verlander, Armando Galarraga and newcomer Edwin Jackson in the rotation if Jim Leyland is going to have a chance to get the most out of his relievers -- which is his track record, with last season being the exception. Brandon Lyon comes with some questions as Todd Jones’ replacement, and we’re also not sure how much Joel Zumaya will be able to contribute in a setup role. At least the defensive alignment is set going into camp – and has to be better than last year’s musical chairs game that led to the league’s second-worst team fielding percentage. Adam Everett and Gerald Laird will help here, and Carlos Guillen should be able to make the transition to left field. The roster has gotten younger with the departures of Jones, Kenny Rogers and Pudge Rodriguez. But this still is a old lineup with Gary Sheffield at 40 and four 30-somethings among the eight regular position players. Things couldn’t have gone any worse last season, so you have to expect at least some bounce back. But most everything will have to go right for the Tiges to bounce all the way back into contention.
Predicted finish: 4th place, 79-83";
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spt_MLB_Spring_preview[i-1].body = "CHICAGO WHITE SOX
2008 record and finish: 89-74, 1st place
Manager: Ozzie Guillen (6th season)
Arrivals: IF Brent Lillibridge, RHP Bartolo Colon, IF Wilson Betemit, IF Dayan Viciedo, C Tyler Flowers, 2B Jayson Nix, C Corky Miller, C Chris Stewart, RHP John VanBenschoten
Departures: RHP Javier Vazquez, SS Orlando Cabrera, 1B/OF Nick Swisher, LHP Boone Logan, OF Ken Griffey Jr., 3B Joe Crede, C Toby Hall, IF Juan Uribe, LHP Horacio Ramirez, RHP Derek Rodriguez (Rule 5)
Rotation: LHP Mark Buehrle, RHP John Danks, RHP Gavin Floyd, RHP Bartolo Colon, LHP Clayton Richard, RHP Jeff Marquez, RHP Lance Broadway, LHP Aaron Poreda, RHP Jose Contreras (inj)
Relievers: Closer: RHP Bobby Jenks; Setup men: RHP Octavio Dotel, LHP Matt Thornton, RHP Scott Linebrink, RHP Ehren Wasserman, RHP D.J. Carrasco, RHP, Kelvin Jimenez, RHP Adam Russell, RHP John VanBenschoten
Regulars: CF Jerry Owens, SS Alexei Ramirez, LF Carlos Quentin, RF Jermaine Dye, DH Jim Thome, 1B Paul Konerko, C A.J. Pierzynski, 3B Josh Fields, 2B Chris Getz
Role players: C Corky Miller, C Chris Stewart, 1B/3B Wilson Betemit, 2B Jayson Nix, 2B/SS Brent Lillibridge, 3B Dayan Viciendo, OF Dewayne Wise, OF Brian Anderson
Breakout candidate: Josh Fields hit 23 homers in 100 games in 2007. Injuries ruined his 2008, but look for a rebound and possibly more.
On the spot: Jim Thome will be playing for a new contract, and could be in his final year on the South Side.
Outlook: Here’s what we can count on from the White Sox, besides of course, the most entertaining manager in the game in Ozzie Guillen: Three quality arms at the top of the rotation, with Gavin Floyd and Jon Danks emerging last season to join Mark Buehrle. Three quality, late-inning options in punchout artists Octavio Dotel and Matt Thornton in front of closer Bobby Jenks. And too much slow-footed thump in Jermaine Dye, Jim Thome, Paul Konerko and A.J. Pierzynski 4-through-7 in the order. And now for the uncertainties, which appear to make a title defense unlikely: Can Bartolo Colon and one of a quartet of good young arms fill the back of the rotation while Jose Contreras recovers from a ruptured Achilles' tendon? Nobody appears to be worried much about Alexei Ramirez making the shift from second base to shortstop, but can he do it defensively? Second base is an open competition between Brent Lillibridge (acquired in the Javier Vazquez deal), Jayson Nix (failed in Colorado) and Chris Getz. At third base, Josh Fields, Wilson Betemit and Dayan Viciendo will compete in the absence of departed Joe Crede. And can speedy Jerry Owens step into the leadoff spot, because he’s the best fit for it on the roster? But he’ll have to win the CF job over Brian Anderson, who has 20-plus homer potential. It all adds up to too many things having to go right for a team that is trying to shed its too-old-and-slow reality.
Predicted finish: 5th place, 78-84";
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spt_MLB_Spring_preview[i-1].body = "LOS ANGELES ANGELS OF ANAHEIM
2008 record and finish: 100-62, 1st place
Manager: Mike Scioscia (10th year)
Arrivals: LHP Brian Fuentes, OF Bobby Abreu
Departures: 1B Mark Teixeira, RHP Frankie Rodriguez, RHP Jon Garland, OF Garret Anderson, RHP Chris Bootcheck, RHP Nick Green, RHP Miguel Gonzalez (Rule 5), RHP Darren O’Day (Rule 5), RHP Robert Mosebach (Rule 5)
Rotation: RHP John Lackey, RHP Ervin Santana, LHP Joe Saunders, RHP Jered Weaver, RHP Dustin Moseley, RHP Nick Adenhart, RHP Shawn Loux, RHP Kelvim Escobar (inj)
Relievers: Closer: LHP Brian Fuentes; Setup men: RHP Scot Shields, RHP Jose Arredondo, LHP Darren Oliver, RHP Kevin Jepsen, RHP Jason Bulger, RHP Justin Speier, RHP Rich Thompson
Regulars: 3B Chone Figgins, LF Bobby Abreu, RF Vladimir Guerrero, DH Juan Rivera, CF Torii Hunter, 1B Kendry Morales, C Mike Napoli, 2B Howie Kendrick, SS Erick Aybar
Role players: C Jeff Mathis, C Ryan Budde, IF/OF Rob Quinlan, IF Macier Izturis, IF Brandon Wood, OF Gary Matthews Jr., OF Reggie Willits, OF Terry Evans
Breakout candidate: We'll try it again with Howie Kendrick, last year's choice who missed too much time due to injuries.
The pressure is on: Vlad Guerrero – balky knees and all -- has turned 33, and will be playing for a new contract, as he is in his option year.
What’s going on: You can go a bit negative on the Angels, if you so choose. There's material here: Frankie Rodriguez, gone. Mark Teixeira, gone. Garret Anderson and Jon Garland, gone and gone. And only Brian Fuentes and Bobby Abreu added. But the Angels do things a bit differently than other elite teams, and can afford to because they keep bringing quality players through their player development pipeline. And, unlike in the AL East, they have the benefit of being able to work out glitches in the regular season due to a lack of true division competition. So for the time being, they will go with their current mix, and if they see a need for the post-season, they always can add something before the trade deadline. The late Abreu addition is a steal at $5 million guaranteed. But two keys to continued success are Kendry Morales establishing himself at first base, and Juan Rivera protecting Vlad Guerrero by having a big year in the cleanup slot. Nothing against the excitable K-Rod, but the bullpen should be fine without him. Fuentes is extremely tough on left-handed hitters, and put together a solid track record while pitching half the time at Coors Field. Jose Arredondo has closer stuff, and Scot Shields remains one of the best and most durable late-inning options in the game. The rotation is only four-deep instead of five, but Kelvim Escobar could contribute later in the season. What the Angels need to do is figure out how to succeed in the post-season. That's the only thing missing for arguably the game's best-run franchise.
Predicted finish: 1st place, 90-72";
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spt_MLB_Spring_preview[i-1].body = "OAKLAND ATHLETICS
2007 record and finish: 75-86, 3rd place
Manager: Bob Geren (3rd year)
Arrivals: LF Matt Holliday, 1B Jason Giambi, SS Orlando Cabrera, INF Nomar Garciaparra, RHP Michael Wuertz, RHP Russ Springer, RHP Chris Shroder, RHP Edgar Gonzalez, RHP Jerome Williams, OF Ben Copeland (Rule 5)
Departures: RHP Huston Street, OF Carlos Gonzalez, LHP Greg Smith, LHP Alan Embree, OF Emil Brown, IF Donnie Murphy, LHP Lenny DiNardo, RHP Keith Foulke, DH Frank Thomas, 1B Mike Sweeney, RHP Kirk Saarloos
Rotation: RHP Justin Duchscherer, LHP Dana Eveland, RHP Sean Gallagher, LHP Dallas Braden, LHP Gio Gonzalez, RHP Edgar Gonzalez, RHP Jerome Williams
Relievers: Closer: RHP Brad Zeigler; Setup men: RHP Joey Devine, RHP Russ Springer, RHP Michael Wuertz, RHP Chris Shroder, RHP Santiago Casilla, LHP Jerry Blevins, LHP Josh Outman
Regulars: CF Ryan Sweeney, C Kurt Suzuki, LF Matt Holliday, 1B Jason Giambi, 3B Eric Chavez, DH Jack Cust, SS Orlando Cabrera, RF Travis Buck, 2B Mark Ellis
Role players: C Rob Bowen, C Landon Powell, INF Nomar Garciaparra, SS Bobby Crosby, 1B Daric Barton, 1B/3B Jack Hannahan, IF Cliff Pennington, 2B/OF Eric Patterson, OF Rajai Davis, OF Matt Murtin, OF Chris Denorfia, OF Aaron Cunningham
Breakout candidate: Kurt Suzuki has a year under his belt, and learned from the master -- Jason Kendall.
On the spot: It wouldn't be too surprising to see Beane make (yet another) spring move, and add some starting pitching insurance.
Outlook: After two consecutive losing seasons during which the farm system was replenished, GM Billy Beane has embarked on a bit of an odd contend-now strategy. The additions of Matt Holliday and Jason Giambi have created some buzz, but one look at the pitching staff has to tell you this isn't likely to be a team that can challenge the Angels. There just isn't much talent, experience or depth on the projected staff, which doesn't include the next line of Mulder-Hudson-Zito-type young arms. That group – Vin Mazzaro, Trevor Cahill, Brett Anderson, James Simmons - is a bit down the line. A total of 53 starts made by Greg Smith, Joe Blanton and Rich Harden last season will have to be replaced. And it's hard to point to a No. 1 starter, as Justin Duchscherer is a regular visitor to the DL, and made only 22 starts last year, when he led the staff with 10 wins. Solid lefty Dana Eveland went 9-9, but after that, they're looking at three unproven young starters in Dallas Braden, Sean Gallagher and Gio Gonzalez, who were a combined 8-11 in 28 starts in 2008. Brad Ziegler and Joey Devine are the leaders in the bullpen, which has added veteran options in Michael Wuertz, Russ Springer and Chris Shroder, but remains a bit thin. So it appears as if Holliday's stay in the East Bay may last only a few months, and that he will move on before the July 31 deadline – unless Beane prefers the compensation draft picks instead. Giambi and Jack Cust both should be designated hitters, but one will have to play the field – and that could be trouble. It's hard to forecast a winning season here.
Predicted finish: 2nd place, 79-83";
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spt_MLB_Spring_preview[i-1].body = "TEXAS RANGERS
2008 record and finish: 79-83, 2nd place
Manager: Ron Washington (3rd year)
Arrivals: OF Andruw Jones, LHP Eddie Guardado, RHP Derrick Turnbow, RHP Brendan Donnelly, RHP Casey Daigle, OF Greg Golson, RHP Guillermo Moscoso, RHP Carlos Melo, RHP Beau Vaughan
Departures: OF Milton Bradley, C Gerald Laird, IF Ramon Vazquez, RHP Wes Littleton, RHP Kameron Loe, 1B Chris Shelton, OF John Mayberry Jr., RHP Jamey Wright, RHP Kiko Calero
Rotation: RHP Kevin Millwood, RHP Vicente Padilla, RHP Brandon McCarthy, RHP Scott Feldman, LHP Matt Harrison, RHP Jason Jennings, LHP Kason Gabbard, RHP Dustin Nippert, RHP Luis Mendoza, RHP Eric Hurley (inj)
Relievers: Closer: RHP Frank Francisco; Setup men: LHP C.J. Wilson, RHP Derrick Turnbow, LHP Eddie Guardado, RHP Josh Rupe, RHP Brendan Donnelly, RHP Warner Madrigal, LHP Doug Mathis, RHP Joaquin Benoit (inj)
Regulars: 2B Ian Kinsler, LF David Murphy, 3B Michael Young, CF Josh Hamilton, DH Hank Blalock, RF Nelson Cruz, 1B Chris Davis, C Jarrod Saltalamacchia, SS Elvis Andrus
Role players: C Taylor Teegarden, C Max Ramirez, C Adam Melhuse, 1B/OF Frank Catalanotto, 2B/SS Joaquin Arias, 2B/SS German Duran, 3B Travis Metcalf, OF Marlon Byrd, OF Brandon Boggs, OF Andruw Jones, OF Greg Golson
Breakout candidate: You have to love Chris Davis' power potential – especially as a left-handed hitter in Arlington, where the ball flies out to right field.
On the spot: Ron Washington is in the final year of his contract, and wasn't hired by team president Nolan Ryan. In addition, the club's financial obligation to former skipper Buck Showalter ends this year.
Outlook: When Nolan Ryan is your team president, you expect pitching to be the top priority. And when your team history screams a lack of pitching, you really expect something to get done. But the Rangers have done next to nothing to fix the problems – and in fact, have lost Joaquin Benoit for the year due to shoulder surgery, as well as young right-hander Eric Hurley. They kicked the tires on Ben Sheets before wisely backing away, signed retreads Derrick Turnbow, Brendan Donnelly, and brought back Eddie Guardado, whom they sent to the Twins late last season. As a result, it's looking like the same old story in Arlington – a lot of 8-7 games and another year of mediocrity. The rotation still will have to be led by Kevin Millwood and Vicente Padilla, but at least Brandon McCarthy appears to be healthy. Michael Young will need a transition period to make the move to third base -- to say nothing of rookie shortstop Elvis Andrus jumping from Double-A to the big leagues. They're also considering moving Josh Hamilton to right field, which like Young' shift, would be the right move to make. Except that there's nobody better to play center field, as Andruw Jones, Marlon Byrd, David Murphy, Nelson Cruz and Greg Golson are the other options. It would be nice if Hank Blalock could stay healthy for a full season, as Milton Bradley's on-base and slugging percentage presence in the middle of the order has to be replaced. But offense won't be the issue here.
Predicted finish: 3rd place, 75-87";
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spt_MLB_Spring_preview[i-1].body = "SEATTLE MARINERS
2008 record and finish: 61-101, 4th place
Manager: Don Wakamatsu (1st year)
Arrivals: OF Ken Griffey Jr, OF Franklin Gutierrez, LHP Garrett Olson, IF Ronny Cedeno, OF Endy Chavez, IF/DH Russell Branyan, 1B/DH Mike Sweeney, LHP Jason Vargas, 1B Mike Carp, IF Reggie Corona (Rule 5), LHP Jose Lugo
Departures: OF Raul Ibanez, RHP J.J. Putz, OF Jeremy Reed, RHP Sean Green, 2B Luis Valbuena, IF/OF Willie Bloomquist, IF Miguel Cairo, IF/DH Jose Vidro, LHP Jake Woods
Rotation: RHP Felix Hernandez, LHP Erik Bedard, RHP Brandon Morrow, RHP Carlos Silva, LHP Jarrod Washburn, LHP Garrett Olson, LHP Ryan Rowland-Smith, LHP Ryan Feierabend
Relievers: Closer: RHP Mark Lowe; Setup men: RHP Roy Corcoran, RHP Tyler Walker, RHP Miguel Batista, RHP David Aardsma, LHP Cesar Jiminez, LHP Justin Thomas
Regulars: RF Ichiro Suzuki, 2B Jose Lopez, 3B Adrian Beltre, DH Russell Branyan, CF Franklin Gutierrez, LF Ken Griffey Jr., 1B Bryan LaHair, SS Yuniesky Betancourt, C Kenji Johjima
Role players: C Jeff Clement, C Rob Johnson, 1B/DH Mike Sweeney, 2B Tug Hulett, IF Ronny Cedeno, 3B Matt Tuiasosopo, OF Endy Chavez, OF Mike Morse
Breakout candidate: Brandon Morrow has a tremendous arm. He just needs health and a set role – presumably in the rotation.
What’s going on: There's no way around it -- the new in-charge duo of general manager Jack Zduriencik and manager Don Wakamatsu has inherited a mess. This is a project that's going to take a couple years to turn around, thanks to former GM Bill Bavasi's many mis-dealings. Ken Griffey Jr. was brought in on a one-year deal, presumably to keep fans coming to the park while the team is made over. There are several veteran players who should and could be traded at some point soon – Ichiro, Adrian Beltre, Kenji Johjima, Jarrod Washburn, Carlos Silva. There are also young players who may or may not turn out to be anything special – Bryan LaHair, Wladimir Balentien, Ryan Rowland-Smith, Jeff Clement. So consider 2009 to be the beginning of the sorting-out process; a talent evaluation period in which it will be determined who is part of the M's future, and who won't be. There are some bright spots, and it will be interesting to see if Erik Bedard can rebound to join Felix Hernandez at the top of the rotation. Veteran Russell Branyan also could have a shot at 500 at-bats. But there is a real need at the back end of the bullpen, where Mark Lowe, Tyler Walker, Roy Corcoran and David Aardsma are the best of what's on the roster. And left field could be a revolving door position. The M's can hang onto their veteran players and stay somewhat competitive, but the call here is for initiating a massive rebuilding job – the sooner the better.
Predicted finish: 4th place, 69-93";
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spt_MLB_Spring_preview[i-1].body = "NEW YORK METS
2008 record and finish: 89-73, 2nd place
Manager: Jerry Manuel (2nd year)
Arrivals: RHP Frankie Rodriguez, RHP J.J. Putz, OF Jeremy Reed, RHP Sean Green, RHP Tim Redding, RHP Freddy Garcia, IF Alex Cora, RHP Livan Hernandez, RHP Connor Robertson, RHP Darren O’Day (Rule 5), RHP Rocky Cherry (Rule 5)
Departures: RHP Pedro Martinez, RHP Luis Ayala, RHP Aaron Heilman, RHP Joe Smith, OF Endy Chavez, LHP Scott Schoeneweis, LHP Jason Vargas, IF Damien Easley, OF Moises Alou, RHP Orlando Hernandez, IF Ramon Martinez, RHP Tony Armas Jr., OF Trot Nixon, RHP Matt Wise, RHP Al Reyes, LHP Ricardo Rincon
Rotation: LHP Johan Santana, LHP Oliver Perez, RHP John Maine, RHP Mike Pelfrey, RHP Freddy Garcia, RHP Tim Redding, RHP Livan Hernandez, LHP Jonathan Niese
Relievers: Closer: RHP Frankie Rodriguez; Setup men: RHP J.J. Putz, LHP Pedro Feliciano, RHP Sean Green, RHP Duaner Sanchez, RHP Brian Stokes, RHP Carlos Muniz, RHP Bobby Parnell, RHP Rocky Cherry, RHP Darren O’Day, RHP Connor Robertson, LHP Billy Wagner (inj)
Regulars: SS Jose Reyes, 2B Luis Castillo, CF Carlos Beltran, 3B David Wright, 1B Carlos Delgado, RF Ryan Church, LF Daniel Murphy, C Brian Schneider
Role players: C Ramon Castro, C Robinson Cancel, IF/OF Marlon Anderson, IF Alex Cora, IF/OF Fernando Tatis, OF Jeremy Reed, OF Angel Pagan, OF Nick Evans, OF Cory Sullivan
Breakout candidate: Daniel Murphy made the mid-season jump from Double-A, and hit .313 in 131 big-league at-bats in 2008. Let's see what does with 400 or so at-bats.
On the spot: Coming off his worst season in the last 10, veteran 2B Luis Castillo could have trouble holding onto his job.
Outlook: No doubt, there have to be some emotional scars here. The September 2007 gag-job, the 162nd-game loss last September...these things don't just go away with the start of a new spring, a new season. But that's precisely what Jerry Manuel is hoping will serve as motivation for his team, which despite the 13-12 September in which they blew a three-game lead, responded excellently (55-38) to his leadership after paranoid and wound-too-tight Willie Randolph was fired. And thanks to GM Omar Minaya's efforts, Manuel now has a better team. Nothing killed the Mets' playoff hopes last season more than the bullpen, so Minaya struck twice by signing Frankie Rodriguez and trading for J.J. Putz and Sean Green. If you can't have Billy Wagner for the ninth inning, what's better than in effect two closers, led by the new single-season save leader? The rotation was the other target of Minaya's efforts, and while no elite free-agent was signed, keeping Oliver Perez and adding Freddy Garcia, Tim Redding and Livan Hernadez sets up things pretty nicely behind Johan Santana. With a full season from John Maine (who made only 25 starts), Manuel could have as many as eight solid rotation options from which to pick and choose, even without bringing back Pedro Martinez. Would Manny Ramirez make the lineup truly scary? Yes. But the Mets scored 799 runs last season – the exact same number as the Phillies – without him, so there is enough offense to win.
Predicted finish: 91-71, 1st place";
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spt_MLB_Spring_preview[i-1].body = "PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES
2008 record and finish: 92-70, 1st place, World Series champs
Manager: Charlie Manuel (5th year)
Arrivals: OF Raul Ibanez, C Ronny Paulino, RHP Chan Ho Park, RHP Mike Koplove, OF John Mayberry Jr., RHP Robert Mosebach (Rule 5)
Departures: OF Pat Burrell, RHP Tom 'Flash' Gordon, RHP Rudy Seanez, OF So Taguchi, OF Greg Golson, C Jason Jaramillo
Rotation: LHP Cole Hamels, RHP Brett Myers, RHP Joe Blanton, LHP Jamie Moyer, RHP Kyle Kendrick, RHP Chan Ho Park, RHP Adam Eaton
Relievers: Closer: RHP Brad Lidge; Setup men: RHP Ryan Madson, LHP J.C. Romero, RHP Clay Condrey, RHP Chad Durbin, LHP Scott Eyre, LHP J.A. Happ, LHP Michael Zagurski, RHP Robert Mosebach, RHP Mike Koplove
Regulars: SS Jimmy Rollins, CF Shane Victorino, 2B Chase Utley, 1B Ryan Howard, LF Raul Ibanez, RF Jayson Werth, 3B Pedro Feliz, C Carlos Ruiz
Role players: C Ronny Paulino, C/IF Chris Coste, 1B/OF Matt Stairs, IF Eric Bruntlett, IF/OF Greg Dobbs, OF Geoff Jenkins
Breakout candidate: None
On the spot: Not that Philly fans would get on a newcomer who doesn't fulfill expectations, but Raul Ibanez has something to prove.
Outlook: So now what? The title drought has ended, the mess from the victory parade has been cleaned up, and Pat Burrell is a Ray, not a Phillie. But virtually everybody else is back from the World Series championship team, and where do they go from here? There's little doubt this remains one of the NL's best rosters. There are three MVP candidates on the infield, a Cy Young candidate at the top of the rotation, a lights-out closer, and more than enough quality supporting talent. But will the motivation and edge remain? Already, there is the potential pitfall of Chase Utley trying to come back from surgery on his right hip – although manager Charlie Manuel says it's possible Utley will be ready for Opening Day. And as much as we love Jamie Moyer, we can't be expecting another 16-win, 3.71-ERA season at age 46. That makes the addition of Chan Ho Park a potentially underrated one. As for the Burrell-for-Raul Ibanez change...nothing against Ibanez, who is a proven run producer. But the lineup needed a right-handed bat, not another lefty. And rarely does a team replace a 32-year-old with a 37-year-old, although neither is anything close to a Gold Glove candidate. Finally, Ibanez isn't going to match Burrell's home-run and on-base-percentage totals, two key lineup ingredients. All that said, a return to the post-season is very possible. A repeat championship, however, isn't.
Predicted finish: 2nd place, 89-73";
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spt_MLB_Spring_preview[i-1].body = "ATLANTA BRAVES
2008 record and finish: 72-90, 4th place
Manager: Bobby Cox (19th year)
Arrivals: OF Garret Anderson, RHP Derek Lowe, RHP Kenshin Kawakami, RHP Javier Vazquez, LHP Boone Logan, C David Ross, IF Greg Norton
Departures: RHP John Smoltz, LHP Mike Hampton, LHP Wil Ohman, LHP Chuck James, IF Brent Lillibridge, C Tyler Flowers, RHP Jorge Julio, RHP Julian Tavarez, RHP Elmer Dessens, IF Ruben Gotay, C Corky Miller
Rotation: RHP Derek Lowe, RHP Jair Jurrjens, RHP Javier Vazquez, LHP Tom Glavine, RHP Kenshin Kawakami, RHP Jorge Campillo, LHP Jo-Jo Reyes, RHP Charlie Morton, RHP Tim Hudson (inj)
Relievers: Closer: LHP Mike Gonzalez; Setup men: RHP Rafael Soriano, LHP Boone Logan, RHP Blaine Boyer, RHP Buddy Caryle, RHP Jeff Bennett, RHP Jeff Ridgway, RHP Anthony Lerew, RHP Manny Acosta
Regulars: SS Yunel Escobar, 2B Kelly Johnson, 3B Chipper Jones, C Brian McCann, 1B Casey Kotchman, RF Jeff Francoeur, LF Garrett Anderson, CF Josh Anderson
Role players: C David Ross, C Clint Sammons, 1B/3B Greg Norton, IF Martin Prado, IF/OF Omar Infante, OF Gregor Blanco, OF Brandon Jones
Breakout candidate: Yunel Escobar could have been the centerpiece in the proposed deal for Jake Peavy. He'll be happy he stayed in Turner Field, as opposed to Petco Park.
On the spot: What's up with Jeff Francoeur? He has too much talent for this downward spiral to continue. The good news is he just turned 25.
Outlook: After efforts to trade for Jake Peavy and sign free agents A.J. Burnett and Rafael Furcal failed, and then John Smoltz left for Boston, it wasn't looking good for the Braves and GM Frank Wren. But the signings of Derek Lowe and Kenshin Kawakami turned things around, and with Tom Glavine returning for a final season, the Braves can count themselves as playoff contenders again. Everybody knows about Lowe's track record of consistency and durability, but Kawakami not so much. He's a 34-year-old right-hander who pitched 11 seasons for the Chunichi Dragons, going 112-73, twice winning 17 games and posting eight consecutive seasons of sub-4.00 ERAs. Emerging star Jair Jurrjens and Javier Vazquez, who should be aided by a return to the NL, make it a solid top four starters for Bobby Cox – and that sure wasn't the case at times last season. Glavine should be No. 5, and don't forget Tim Hudson should be back for the second half. Lefty Mike Gonzalez is healthy again and it says here he will surpass his career high save total of 24. Ideally, the Braves would have added a power bat, preferably right-handed, in left or center – Pat Burrell, Jermaine Dye, Bobby Abreu. Instead, they settled for left-handed Garrett Anderson to play left-field. That leaves the lineup a bit short on power, and needing a right-handed bat to place among Chipper Jones, Brian McCann and Casey Kotchman.
Predicted finish: 3rd place, 83-79 strong. He is poised for a 30-40-save season if he stays healthy.";
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spt_MLB_Spring_preview[i-1].body = "FLORIDA MARLINS
2008 record and finish: 84-77, 3rd place
Manager: Fredi Gonzalez (3rd year)
Arrivals: 2B Emilio Bonafacio, RHP Scott Proctor, RHP Leo Nunez, RHP Jose Ceda, LHP Zachary Kroenke (Rule 5)
Departures: LHP Scott Olsen, OF Josh Willingham, RHP Kevin Gregg, 1B Mike Jacobs, C Matt Treanor, LHP Arthur Rhodes, LHP Mark Hendrickson, RHP Joe Nelson, C Paul Lo Duca, OF Luis Gonzalez
Rotation: RHP Anibal Sanchez, RHP Ricky Nolasco, RHP Josh Johnson, RHP Chris Volstad, LHP Andrew Miller, LHP Dan Meyer, RHP Burke Badenhop, RHP Rick VandenHurk, RHP Ryan Tucker
Relievers: Closer: RHP Matt Lindstrom; Setup men: RHP Scott Proctor, RHP Logan Kensing, LHP Renyel Pinto, RHP Leo Nunez, RHP Jose Ceda, LHP Taylor Tankersley, LHP Zachary Kroenke, RHP Jesus Delgado, RHP Eulogio De La Cruz
Regulars: SS Hanley Ramirez, CF Cameron Maybin, 2B Dan Uggla, 3B Jorge Cantu, LF Jeremy Hermida, RF Cody Ross, 1B Gaby Sanchez, C John Baker
Role players: C Mike Rabelo, 1B/3B Wes Helms, IF Robert Andino, 3B Dallas McPherson, IF/OF Alfredo Amezaga, OF Brett Carroll, OF Jai Miller
Breakout candidate: Matt Lindstrom throws the occasional 100-mph fastball, but can he step into the closer's role? It says here that he can, and could rack up a 40-save season.
On the spot: It's time for Cameron Maybin and Andrew Miller to establish themselves as big-league regulars – and give The Fish return on the Miguel Cabrera/Dontrelle Willis deal.
Outlook: Payroll limitations – how does $33 million sound? -- forced deals that sent Kevin Gregg, Scott Olsen, Josh Willingham and Mike Jacobs elsewhere. A handful of veteran free agents also weren't re-signed, leaving a very young but intriguingly talented bunch. In fact, when you scan the 40-man roster, you see virtually everybody born in 1980 or later. The only three exceptions are setup man Scott Proctor and role players Wes Helms and Alfredo Amezaga. That's it. Everybody else is 29 or younger. If the game's latest trend is to get younger, the Fish definitely are leading the way. Make no mistake, they still will be lead by All-Star middle infielders Hanley Ramirez (who didn't get enough 2008 NL MVP consideration) and Dan Uggla. But several other pieces have changed, and the young newcomers will have to prove they belong as big-league regulars. Rather than sign Ivan Rodriguez or another veteran catcher, they are going with John Baker, who hit .299 in 197 at-bats as a 27-year-old rookie in 2008, and Mike Rabelo, 28, who has 278 big-league at-bats. Gaby Sanchez, 25, will try to make the jump from Double-A to win the first base job. If that doesn't pan out, Helms could play first, or Jorge Cantu could move from third base, giving Emilio Bonafacio or Dallas McPherson a shot there. The Fish say they want to emphasize defense more than their power-laden team of a year ago, so maybe the chance will come for Bonafacio, obtained from Washington for Olsen and Willingham. But no matter how you look at it, youth will be served in South Florida.
Predicted finish: 4th place, 76-86";
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spt_MLB_Spring_preview[i-1].body = "WASHINGTON NATIONALS
2008 record and finish: 59-102, 5th place
Manager: Manny Acta (3rd year)
Arrivals: 1B/OF Adam Dunn, LHP Scott Olsen, RHP Daniel Cabrera, OF Josh Willingham, RHP Terrell Young (Rule 5)
Departures: RHP Chad Cordero, RHP Tim Redding, 2B Emilio Bonafacio, IF Aaron Boone, RHP Jesus Colome
Rotation: LHP John Lannan, LHP Scott Olsen, RHP Shawn Hill, LHP Odalis Perez, RHP Daniel Cabrera, RHP Jason Bergmann, RHP Collin Balester, RHP Shairon Martis
Relievers: Closer: RHP Joel Hanrahan; Setup men: RHP Saul Rivera, RHP Steve Shell, RHP Garrett Mock, LHP Matt Chico, LHP Michael O’Connor, RHP Tyler Clippard, RHP Marco Estrada, RHP Terrell Young, RHP Mike Hinckley
Regulars: SS Cristian Guzman, CF Lastings Milledge, 3B Ryan Zimmerman, 1B Adam Dunn, LF Josh Willingham, RF Austin Kearns, C Jesus Flores, 2B Anderson Hernandez
Role players: C Wil Nieves, 1B Nick Johnson, 1B/3B Kory Casto, IF Ronnie Belliard, 2B/OF Willie Harris, IF Alberto Gonzalez, OF Wily Mo Pena, OF Elijah Dukes, OF Roger Bernadina
Breakout candidate: Lastings Milledge hit 14 homers and stole 24 bases as a 23-year-old in his first full season.
On the spot: GM Jim Bowden could have a busy spring, as there are too many corner outfielders and first basemen in camp. Definitely look for a deal here.
Outlook: Coming off the majors’ worst record, the Nats actually thought they had a chance to land elite free agent Mark Teixeira. But not even Scott Boras would do that in search of the biggest contract for one of his clients. Instead, the Nats got Adam Dunn at two years and $20 million – a much better bargain than Teixeira. Dunn will bat cleanup behind Ryan Zimmerman, and most likely hit 40 homers and drive in 100 runs, because that's what he does every year. Dunn figures to settle in at first base, but could end up in left field. Where he lands defensively will impact who GM Jim Bowden spins off in a late-spring deal, as Austin Kearns, Josh Willingham, Elijah Dukes and Wily Mo Pena all are potential corner outfielders to flank Lastings Milledge. Always-injured 1B Nick Johnson still is around, and so are veterans Willie Harris and Ronnie Belliard, who offer insurance in case Anderson Hernandez can't cut it as the regular second baseman. Jesus Flores, 24, was a Rule 5 pick in 2007, had 59 RBI in 309 at-bats last season, and now projects as the regular catcher. And speaking of projections, have you looked at the rotation candidates? Nobody won more than nine games or pitched more than 182 innings in 2008, so Manny Acta's choices for an Opening Day starter aren't great. And that once-deep bullpen is a thing of the past, as Chad Cordero, Jon Rauch and Luis Ayala are long gone. The honeymoon period in the nation's capital is slipping away as the Nats continue to flounder.
Predicted finish: 5th place, 68-94";
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spt_MLB_Spring_preview[i-1].body = "CHICAGO CUBS
2008 record and finish: 97-64, 1st place
Manager: Lou Piniella (3rd year)
Arrivals: OF Milton Bradley, RHP Kevin Gregg, IF Aaron Miles, OF Joey Gathright, RHP Aaron Heilman, C Paul Bako, RHP Luis Vizcaino, RHP David Patton (Rule 5)
Departures: RHP Kerry Wood, IF/OF Mark DeRosa, RHP Jason Marquis, RHP Bob Howry, 1B Daryle Ward, IF Ronny Cedeno, LHP Rich Hill, OF Jim Edmonds, RHP Jon Lieber, C Henry Blanco, RHP Jose Ceda, LHP Donald Veal (Rule 5)
Rotation: RHP Carlos Zambrano, RHP Ryan Dempster, LHP Ted Lilly, RHP Rich Harden, LHP Sean Marshall, RHP Aaron Heilman
Relievers: Closer: RHP Carlos Marmol; Setup men: RHP Jeff Samardzija, RHP Kevin Gregg, LHP Neal Cotts, RHP Chad Gaudin, RHP Angel Guzman, RHP Luis Vizcaino, RHP Kevin Hart, RHP Randy Wells, RHP David Patton
Regulars: LF Alfonso Soriano, SS Ryan Theriot, 1B Derrek Lee, 3B Aramis Ramirez, RF Milton Bradley, C Geovany Soto, CF Kosuke Fukudome, 2B Mike Fontenot
Role players: C Paul Bako, C Koyie Hill, 1B/OF Micah Hoffpauer, IF Aaron Miles, IF Luis Rivas, OF Reed Johnson, OF Joey Gathright
Breakout candidate: Carlos Marmol already has been an All-Star, but he hasn't been a closer until now, so watch his save total spike.
On the spot: You really have to wonder about Milton Bradley's ability to amass at-bats with no DH option, and how that will affect his relationship with Lou Piniella.
Outlook: Many changes have been made to the NL's best regular-season team in 2008, but some of them can be questioned. They thinned out the back end of the bullpen by letting Kerry Wood go. They traded Mark DeRosa and Jason Marquis in salary dumps. And they poured $30 million into Milton Bradley and his mercurial personality and penchant for injury. Then there's what they haven't done – at least not yet. We're talking about a trade for Jake Peavy and the $63 million remaining on his contract. That deal very well could get done as soon as this spring, as both the Cubs and Padres are working their way through ownership changes. If so, add a few wins to the projected total below. But for now, it's Sean Marshall or newly acquired Aaron Heilman as the fifth starter. The setup roles also will have to be established from among Kevin Gregg, Jeff Samardzija and Chad Gaudin. Lou Piniella made it clear he felt the lineup needed a left-handed, middle-of-the-order bat, and at least against right-handed pitching, the switch-hitting Bradley will fill that role. Kosuke Fukudome will get a chance to bounce back after his futile second half, and make the move to center field. Mike Fontenot and Aaron Miles will duel to replace DeRosa at second base. Obviously, the Cubs felt they needed to change the mix a bit after their division-series choke job. It may take until October to see if they accomplished their goal.
Predicted finish: 1st place, 93-69";
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spt_MLB_Spring_preview[i-1].body = "MILWAUKEE BREWERS
2008 record and finish: 90-72, wildcard
Manager: Ken Macha (1st year)
Arrivals: RHP Braden Looper, RHP Trevor Hoffman, RHP Jorge Julio, RHP Nick Green, OF Trot Nixon, OF Chris Duffy, RHP Eduardo Morlan (Rule 5)
Departures: LHP CC Sabathia, RHP Ben Sheets, LHP Brian Shouse, RHP Salomon Torres, RHP Guillermo Mota, RHP Eric Gagne, IF Craig Counsell, 2B Ray Durham, IF Russell Branyan, OF Gabe Kapler, C Lou Palmisano (Rule 5)
Rotation: RHP Yovani Gallardo, RHP Braden Looper, RHP Jeff Suppan, LHP Manny Parra, RHP David Bush, RHP Seth McClung, RHP Nick Green, LHP Chris Capuano (inj)
Relievers: Closer: RHP Trevor Hoffman; Setup men: RHP David Riske, RHP Carlos Villanueva, RHP Jorge Julio, LHP Mitch Stetter, RHP Todd Coffey, RHP Mark DeFelice, RHP Tim Dillard, RHP Eduardo Morlan, LHP R.J. Swindle
Regulars: 2B Rickie Weeks, SS J.J. Hardy, 1B Prince Fielder, LF Ryan Braun, RF Corey Hart, CF Mike Cameron, 3B Mike Lamb, C Jason Kendall
Role players: C Vinny Rottino, C/1B Mike Rivera, 1B Brad Nelson, IF Craig Counsell, OF Tony Gwynn Jr., IF Hernan Iribarren, IF Alcides Escobar, 3B Mat Gamel, OF Matt LaPorta, 3B Bill Hall (inj)
Breakout candidate: There is little doubting Yovani Gallardo's talent. It's only a question of when it will translate into top-of-the-rotation status.
On the spot: It's getting to be now-or-never time for Rickie Weeks and Tony Gwynn Jr. -- the club's 2003 top picks who still haven't firmly established themselves.
Outlook: It's tough to forecast a return trip to the playoffs for the Brew Crew when the biggest reason why they got there – CC Sabathia – is gone. So is Ben Sheets, who was healthy enough to throw 198 innings, win 13 games, pitch three shutouts and post a 3.09 ERA. And so are the four biggest innings eaters among the relievers, including retired closer Salomon Torres, who saved 28 games. That's a lot of holes to fill, and GM Doug Melvin isn't working with a big-market budget, either. The best he could do free-agent-wise is Braden Looper, who was 24-26 with a mid-4's ERA in 63 starts over the two seasons in St. Louis. They have to have Yovani Gallardo bouncing back after pitching only 39.2 innings in a 2008 season interrupted by injury. And perhaps they'll get something from Chris Capuano, who isn't expected back until May in his recovery from surgery. The bullpen roles are anyone's guess beyond new-old closer Trevor Hoffman, whose best days clearly are in the rear-view mirror. At least Jason Kendall still is around to help get the most out of the staff. And, the Brewers do have J.J. Hardy, Ryan Braun, Prince Fielder and Corey Hart 2-through-5 in the order – and that will help overcome a lot of other shortcomings. The only position question mark is at third base, as Bill Hall's calf injury will keep him out for about a month, creating playing-time competition for Mike Lamb, Craig Counsell and possibly Mat Gamel and Casey McGehee.
Predicted finish: 85-77, 2nd place";
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spt_MLB_Spring_preview[i-1].body = "ST. LOUIS CARDINALS
2008 record and finish: 86-76, 4th place
Manager: Tony La Russa (14th year)
Arrivals: SS Khalil Greene, LHP Trever Miller, C Justin Knoedler, IF Joe Thurston
Departures: RHP Braden Looper, RHP Jason Isringhausen, 2B/OF Felipe Lopez, SS Cesar Izturis, IF Aaron Miles, LHP Mark Mulder, RHP Russ Springer, LHP Ron Villone, LHP Tyler Johnson, LHP Randy Flores, OF Juan Encarnacion, RHP Mark Worrell, RHP Luis Perdomo (Rule 5)
Rotation: RHP Adam Wainwright, RHP Chris Carpenter, RHP Kyle Lohse, RHP Todd Wellemeyer, RHP Joel Pineiro, RHP Mitchell Boggs
Relievers: Closer: RHP Chris Perez; Setup men: RHP Ryan Franklin, RHP Jason Motte, RHP Kyle McClellan, RHP Josh Kinney, LHP Trever Miller, RHP Brad Thompson, LHP Charlie Manning, LHP Royce Ring
Regulars: CF Skip Schumaker, LF Rick Ankiel, 1B Albert Pujols, RF Ryan Ludwick, C Yadier Molina, SS Khalil Greene, 3B Brian Barden, 2B Brendan Ryan
Role players: C Jason Larue, OF Chris Duncan, OF Brian Barton, OF Joe Mather, OF Nick Stavinoha, IF Troy Glaus (inj)
Breakout candidate: Fantasy players everywhere will be watching to see if Skip Schumaker – a .299 hitter in 795 big-league at-bats – ends up at second base.
On the spot: Can Ryan Ludwick come anywhere close to matching his .299-37-113 breakout season at age 29?
Outlook: Few teams will need this spring's extended schedule more than the Cards. They've got questions at several spots, starting with the comebacks of top two starters Adam Wainwright and Chris Carpenter. The former should be fine after returning late in 2008 following a finger injury. The latter's return is a bit more dicey, and if he can make close to a full season of starts, chances of the Cards contending will increase. They really are considering the closer-by-committee approach, with Chris Perez, Ryan Franklin, Jason Motte and Kyle McClelland all in the mix. But one closer eventually could emerge. Two infield questions remain – one by design (the early-February release of 2B Adam Kennedy, and one unexpected (the loss of Troy Glaus to shoulder surgery). Brendan Ryan will get a shot at second base, but as long as Orlando Hudson and other free agents are out there, nothing is guaranteed. And in Glaus' absence (which could extend through April), Ryan, David Freese, Brian Barden, Brett Wallace and Joe Thurston all are possibilities. You just have to trust that Tony La Russa will make the right calls, and dole out playing time as adeptly as he usually does. Now for the good problem La Russa and the Cards have this spring – too many quality outfielders. Rick Ankiel, Skip Schumaker (who will get a look at second base) and Ryan Ludwick are the projected regulars, but top prospect Colby Rasmus will be ready at some point this season, and Chris Duncan, Brian Barton and Joe Mather are depth that could lead to a trade.
Predicted finish: 84-78, 3rd place";
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spt_MLB_Spring_preview[i-1].body = "CINCINNATI REDS
2008 record and finish: 74-88, 5th place
Manager: Dusty Baker (2nd year)
Arrivals: C Ramon Hernandez, OF Willy Taveras, LHP Arthur Rhodes, OF Jonny Gomes, OF Laynce Nix, OF Jacque Jones
Departures: LHP Jeremy Affeldt, IF/OF Ryan Freel, RHP Matt Belisle, IF/OF Rob Mackowiak, C Javier Valentin, OF Corey Patterson, RHP Josh Fogg, IF/OF Jerry Hairston Jr., C Paul Bako, IF Andy Phillips, LHP Kent Mercker, IF Jolbert Cabrera, RHP Gary Majewski, RHP Terrell Young (Rule 5)
Rotation: RHP Aaron Harang, RHP Edinson Volquez, RHP Bronson Arroyo, RHP Johnny Cueto, RHP Micah Owings, RHP Homer Bailey, RHP Daryl Thompson
Relievers: Closer: RHP Francisco Cordero; Setup men: RHP David Weathers, RHP Jared Burton, LHP Bill Bray, LHP Arthur Rhodes, RHP Mike Lincoln, RHP Nick Masset, RHP Ramon Ramirez, RHP Josh Roenicke
Regulars: CF Willy Taveras, LF Chris Dickerson, 1B Joey Votto, 2B Brandon Phillips, RF Jay Bruce, 3B Edwin Encarnacion, C Ramon Hernandez, SS Alex Gonzalez
Role players: C Ryan Hanigan, 1B Daryle Ward, SS/3B Jeff Keppinger, IF/OF Jerry Hairson Jr., OF Norris Hopper, OF Jonny Gomes, C/2B Wilkin Castillo, 2B Danny Richar, IF Paul Janish, OF Jacque Jones, OF Laynce Nix
Breakout candidate: Jay Bruce, 22, has more upside than Joey Votto, 25. Bruce should make a bigger jump in his second season, maybe to something around .300-30-100.
On the spot: Veteran shortstop Alex Gonzalez will try to bounce back after missing the entire 2008 season due to microfracture knee surgery.
Outlook: This stopped being Ken Griffey Jr. and Adam Dunn's team late last season. The question is, are Joey Votto and Jay Bruce ready to make it their team? Because the Reds are dangerously short on proven production in the middle of their order – and that's not a good thing at cozy Great American Ballpark. And anytime Edwin Encarnacion wants to take the step to the next level would be nice, too. Yes, odd as it may sound, the Reds' strength now is in their starting rotation rather than their offense – especially since you know Aaron Harang is so much better than his dismal 6-17 record in 2008. That said, Edinson Volquez and Johnny Cueto need to follow up on their 2008 breakthroughs, and Micah Owings must stay in the rotation, easing the need for Homer Bailey or Daryl Thompson to be rushed. GM Walt Jocketty made a couple of solid position-player pickups who should help. Center fielder Willy Taveras brings his superior speed and bunting skills, and will be better suited for his new home park than his old one -- Coors Field. And Ramon Hernandez will be playing for a new contract behind the plate, where the only other option is unproven Ryan Hanigan, as the three-headed platoon of David Ross, Paul Bako and Javier Valentin is long gone. Left field will be an interesting battle among Jerry Hairston Jr., Jonny Gomes, Chris Dickerson and possibly even Jacque Jones. Still no contender in Redsland.
Predicted finish: 4th place, 78-84";
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spt_MLB_Spring_preview[i-1].body = "HOUSTON ASTROS
2008 record and finish: 86-75, 3rd place
Manager: Cecil Cooper (3rd year)
Arrivals: LHP Mike Hampton, OF Jason Michaels, IF Aaron Boone, C Toby Hall, IF Matt Kata, RHP Jeff Fulchino, C Lou Palmisano, LHP Gilbert De La Vara (Rule 5)
Departures: LHP Randy Wolf, C Brad Ausmus, IF Ty Wigginton, IF Mark Loretta, C J.R. House, LHP Ray King, IF Jose Castillo, RHP Dave Borkowski, IF Tomas Peres, RHP Chad Paronto
Rotation: RHP Roy Oswalt, LHP Wandy Rodriguez, LHP Mike Hampton, RHP Brian Moehler, RHP Brandon Backe, RHP Chris Sampson, RHP Fernando Nieve
Relievers: Closer: RHP Jose Valverde; Setup men: RHP Geoff Geary, RHP LaTroy Hawkins, RHP Doug Brocail, LHP Wesley Wright, LHP Tim Byrdak, RHP Alberto Arias, LHP Tyler Lumsden, RHP Felipe Paulino
Regulars: 2B Kaz Matsui, RF Hunter Pence, 1B Lance Berkman, LF Carlos Lee, SS Miguel Tejada, 3B Geoff Blum, CF Michael Bourn, C Humberto Quintero
Role players: C Toby Hall, C J.R. Towles, C Lou Palmisano, 1B/OF Darin Erstad, IF Aaron Boone, IF David Newhan, OF Jason Michaels, OF Reggie Abercrombie, OF Yordani Ramirez
Breakout candidate: Wesley Wright survived the 2008 season as a Rule 5 pick, and could take on a more-important setup role in front of Jose Valverde.
The pressure is on: We're still waiting for possible fallout from Miguel Tejada's day in court. And he's in the final year of his contract, with production trending dangerously downward in 2007-08.
Outlook: Their unlikely run at the NL wildcard unfairly got derailed by the loss of home games down the stretch. But expecting something similar this season really seems like a stretch. Obvious holes were created by the departures of Randy Wolf, Ty Wigginton and Brad Ausmus – and the replacements' production isn't so obvious. After Roy Oswalt and Wandy Rodriguez, the Stros are counting on Brandon Backe and Mike Hampton to stay healthy, and Brian Moehler to win in double figures again after not reaching that mark in any of the seven previous seasons. It says here there is no way those three things will occur, and they could be looking at a none-of-the-above scenario. In the absence of Wigginton's .285-23-58 line, it's up to veterans Geoff Blum and Aaron Boone to form a productive third-base platoon. That's possible, minus the home runs. And behind the plate, it's a playing-time fight among Humberto Quintero, Toby Hall, J.R. Towles and possibly Lou Palmisano. The new combination might out-hit Ausmus, but they won't handle the staff as well. Kaz Matsui appeared in only 96 games last year – very close to his big-league average – and we'll say it again, that three-year, $16.5-million investment in him last winter a bad one. Overall, this is a franchise that is trying to patch with veterans as a cover-up to its player development shortcomings. It worked in 2008, but it says here, that won't be the case in 2009.
Predicted finish: 73-89, 5th place";
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spt_MLB_Spring_preview[i-1].body = "PITTSBURGH PIRATES
2008 record and finish: 67-95, 6th place
Manager: John Russell (2nd year)
Arrivals: IF Ramon Vazquez, IF/OF Eric Hinske, OF Jeff Salazar, IF Andy Phillips, C Jason Jaramillo, LHP Donald Veal (Rule 5)
Departures: C Ronny Paulino, OF Jason Michaels, RHP John VanBenschoten, OF Chris Duffy, RHP Franquelis Osorio, IF Chris Gomez, IF Doug Mientkiewicz, IF Luis Rivas, RHP Franquelis Osorio, RHP Denny Bautista, LHP Kyle Bloom (Rule V)
Rotation: LHP Paul Maholm, RHP Ian Snell, LHP Tom Gorzelanny, LHP Zach Duke, RHP Jeff Karstens, RHP Ross Ohlendorf, LHP Jimmy Barthmeier, RHP Daniel McCutcheon, LHP Phil Dumatrait (inj)
Relievers: Closer: RHP Matt Capps; Setup men: LHP John Grabow, RHP Tyler Yates, RHP Craig Hansen, RHP Danny Bautista, RHP Evan Meek, LHP Sean Burnett, RHP T.J. Beam, LHP Donald Veal, RHP Jesse Chavez
Regulars: LF Nyjer Morgan, 2B Freddy Sanchez, CF Nate McLouth, C Ryan Doumit, 1B Adam LaRoche, RF Brandon Moss, 3B Andy LaRoche, SS Jack Wilson
Role players: C Jason Jaramillo, 1B Andy Phillips, IF Ramon Vazquez, IF/OF Eric Hinske, OF Craig Monroe, OF Jeff Salazar, OF Steve Pearce, C Robinson Diaz, IF Luis Cruz, SS Brian Bixler
Breakout candidate: Getting away from the rugged AL East may just help Jeff Karstens establish himself as a big-league starter. He was a hard-luck 2-6 in nine starts for the Pirates late last season.
The pressure is on: There can be no realistic expectation of contending for this roster. Ownership simply has to step up here, or the apathy will continue.
Outlook: To a team that won all of 67 games last year with partial-season contributions from Jason Bay, Xavier Nady and Damaso Marte, all that has been added are a couple of spare parts. And we're supposed to be optimistic about improvement and perhaps the first winning season since Barry Bonds wore the mustard and black? Yeah, right. The Pirates are hanging their hats on improvement from their mid-2008 acquisitions, but again, there are no Bays, Nadys or Martes in that group. Nyjer Morgan, Brandon Moss and Andy LaRoche are the new position-player regulars, but it's hard to forecast any breakout seasons here. Morgan has great speed, but only has 267 big-league at-bats at age 28. The younger LaRoche, 25, has a .184 average in 316 big-league at-bats, and Moss, 25, hasn't higher than .285 or more than 16 homers in three seasons above the Class A level. Ross Ohlendorf is just one among a handful of fifth-starter candidates, and setup role candidate Craig Hansen has 59 walks and a 6.39 ERA in 87.1 big-league innings. Jack Wilson remains in place despite numerous trade rumors in the last couple of seasons. But look for him to move at some point this season, the last on his contract. Freddy Sanchez is another trade candidate. There is a decent group of young starting pitchers to bank on, but both Ian Snell and Tom Gorzelanny went backwards in 2008, leaving Paul Maholm at the top of the rotation. All in all, Pirates fans deserve much more.
Predicted finish: 6th place, 66-96";
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spt_MLB_Spring_preview[i-1].body = "ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS
2008 record and finish: 82-80, 2nd place
Manager: Bob Melvin (5th year)
Arrivals: 2B Felipe Lopez, LHP Scott Schoeneweis, RHP Tom 'Flash' Gordon, LHP Travis Blackley, C James Skelton (Rule V)
Departures: LHP Randy Johnson, 1B/OF Adam Dunn, 2B Orlando Hudson, RHP Brandon Lyon, RHP Juan Cruz, IF David Eckstein, OF Jeff Salazar, RHP Brandon Medders, IF/OF Chris Burke, RHP Connor Robertson, RHP Edgar Gonzalez, C Robbie Hammock, LHP Wil Ledezma
Rotation: RHP Brandon Webb, RHP Dan Haren, LHP Doug Davis, RHP Jon Garland, RHP Max Scherzer, RHP Yusmiero Petit, LHP Travis Blackley
Relievers: Closer: RHP Chad Qualls; Setup men: RHP Tony Pena Jr., RHP Jon Rauch, LHP Scott Schoeneweis, RHP Tom 'Flash' Gordon, LHP Doug Slaten, RHP Billy Buckner, RHP Jailen Peguero, RHP Leo Rosales, LHP Jon Coutlangus
Regulars: 2B Felipe Lopez, CF Chris Young, SS Stephen Drew, 1B Conor Jackson, 3B Mark Reynolds, LF Eric Byrnes, RF Justin Upton, C Chris Snyder
Role players: C Miguel Montero, C James Skelton, 1B Tony Clark, 2B/SS Augie Ojeda, 1B/3B Chad Tracy, OF Alex Romero
Breakout candidate: There's so much upside to 21-year-old Justin Upton, he has to be the choice here.
On the spot: Just about everybody's gone from the bullpen of two years ago (although Juan Cruz could be re-signed), and it's up to Chad Qualls to step into the closer role.
Outlook: The financially restricted D-Backs as the division-winner pick? Yes, even after the free-agent exodus from the desert, and with former owner Jeff Moorad abandoning ship for San Diego. That said, nobody in the division has a better one-two punch at the top of their rotation than Brandon Webb and Dan Haren. And the Jon Garland signing pushes talented Max Scherzer back to the fifth spot, where he could have more success. Adam Dunn is gone, but he didn't have a huge impact (.243-8 HR-26 RBI in 44 games), and Eric Byrnes will be back to essentially take his place. There is the four-man logjam in the outfield, but Conor Jackson could return to first base, at least against left-handed pitching if not full-time. That decision will be based in part on Byrnes' ability to bounce back from a hamstring injury (not to mention the $11 million they're paying him this season), and Chad Tracy's ability to handle left-handed pitching. Talented but enigmatic Felipe Lopez is Orlando Hudson's replacement -- and remember, they played without O-Dog for 54 games down the stretch last season. But the key to the D-Backs getting to the next level offensively is continued improvement from their core group of young potential stars. The better they get, the more wiggle room manager Bob Melvin will have to sort through other potential problems. There is no 90-win team in the NL West, but the D-Backs appear to be the closest thing.
Projected finish: 1st place, 88-74";
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spt_MLB_Spring_preview[i-1].body = "LOS ANGELES DODGERS
2008 record and finish: 84-78, 1st place
Manager: Joe Torre (2nd year)
Arrivals: 2B Orlando Hudson, LHP Randy Wolf, IF Mark Loretta, RHP Guillermo Mota, C Brad Ausmus, RHP Claudio Vargas, LHP Shawn Estes, RHP Jeff Weaver, LHP Eric Milton
Departures: RHP Brad Penny, RHP Derek Lowe, RHP Takashi Saito, IF Jeff Kent, OF Andruw Jones, RHP Chan Ho Park, RHP Scott Proctor, RHP Jason Johnson, IF Angel Berroa, LHP Joe Beimel, RHP Yhency Brozoban, IF Nomar Garciaparra, C Gary Bennett, IF/OF Pablo Ozuna, 1B Mark Sweeney
Rotation: RHP Chad Billingsley, RHP Hiroki Kuroda, LHP Randy Wolf, LHP Clayton Kershaw, RHP Jason Schmidt, LHP Shawn Estes, LHP Eric Stultz, RHP Claudio Vargas, LHP Eric Milton
Relievers: Closer: RHP Jonathan Broxton; Setup men: LHP Hong-Chih Kuo, RHP Guillermo Mota, RHP Cory Wade, LHP Scott Elbert, RHP James McDonald, RHP Ramon Trancoso, RHP Yhency Brazoban, RHP Jeff Weaver
Regulars: SS Rafael Furcal, 2B Orlando Hudson, LF Manny Ramirez, C Russell Martin, CF Matt Kemp, RF Andre Ethier, 1B James Loney, 3B Casey Blake
Role players: C Brad Ausmus, LF Juan Pierre, IF Mark Loretta, IF Tony Abreu, OF Jason Repko, OF Delwyn Young, C Danny Ardoin, SS Chin-lung Hu, IF Juan Castro, 2B Blake DeWitt
Breakout candidate: Jonathan Broxton wasn't an overwhelming success in the closer role last season, but should take the next step to the 35-40-save level.
The pressure is on: Chad Billingsley didn't win much respect in the clubhouse last post-season. His task is even greater this season – become a legit No. 1 coming off a broken leg bone.
Outlook: Manny Ramirez is finally back in the fold. But the question is, are the Dodgers the best team in the division, even with Manny? They wouldn't have won it without him last year, and some key contributors no longer are around. Namely, Derek Lowe, who gave them 211 innings, 14 wins and 3.24 ERA, which in no way should replacement Randy Wolf be expected to match. Closer Takashi Saito missed an extended part of last season, but was healthy enough to save 18 games and throw 47 high-quality innings – almost all of them being ninth innings. Departed future Hall of Famers Jeff Kent and Greg Maddux, and even Chan Ho Park and Joe Beimel, also did their parts. At least the Dodgers hung onto the left side of their infield -- Rafael Furcal and Casey Blake – and some of the departures will be addition by subtraction – and yes, we're talking .158-3 HR-14 RB in 209 at-bats Andruw Jones. The lineup is deep and balanced with Manny in the middle of it all – a nice blend of speed and power. The bench also will include plenty of quality veterans. But as it stands now, everybody appears to be slotted one spot too high in the rotation. Chad Billingsley has to step into the ace role, immensely talented 21-year-old Clayton Kershaw can't afford too many growing pains, and they're counting on oft-injured Jason Schmidt to take a regular turn. That's asking a lot.
Predicted finish: 2nd place, 83-79";
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spt_MLB_Spring_preview[i-1].body = "SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS
2008 record and finish: 72-90, 4th place
Manager: Bruce Bochy (3rd year)
Arrivals: LHP Randy Johnson, SS Edgar Renteria, LHP Jeremy Affeldt, RHP Bob Howry, IF Juan Uribe, RHP Justin Miller, RHP Brandon Medders, RHP Ramon Ortiz, RHP Francis Beltran, RHP Luis Perdomo (Rule 5)
Departures: SS Omar Vizquel, RHP Tyler Walker, RHP Brad Hennessey, OF Ben Copeland (Rule 5), RHP Kevin Correia, IF Rich Aurilia, RHP Vinnie Chulk, C Eliezer Alfonso
Rotation: RHP Tim Lincecum, RHP Matt Cain, LHP Randy Johnson, LHP Jonathan Sanchez, LHP Barry Zito, LHP Noah Lowry
Relievers: Closer: RHP Brian Wilson; Setup men: RHP Bob Howry, LHP Jeremy Affeldt, LHP Jack Taschner, LHP Alex Hinshaw, RHP Keeichi Yabu, RHP Merkin Valdez, RHP Billy Sadler, LHP Pat Misch, RHP Sergio Romo, RHP Luis Perdomo, RHP Ramon Ortiz, RHP Francis Beltran
Regulars: LF Fred Lewis, SS Edgar Renteria, RF Randy Winn, C Bengie Molina, CF Aaron Rowand, 3B Pablo Sandoval, 1B Travis Ishikawa, 2B Emmanuel Burriss
Role players: C Steve Holm, 1B John Bowker, 1B/3B Rich Aurilia, IF/OF Eugenio Velez, IF Juan Uribe, IF Kevin Frandsen, IF Josh Phelps, OF Dave Roberts, OF Nathan Schierholz
Breakout candidate: Matt Cain just needs some luck to begin turning around a 30-43 career record.
The pressure is on: The countdown starts at five for Randy Johnson – five wins from 300.
What’s going on: General manager Brian Sabean was right in form over the winter -- that is to say, adding veterans. The most-notable of whom is Randy Johnson -- 45 years young -- who will provide added interest around AT&T Park as he goes for his 300th win. That should help pay the Big Unit's salary, but two years and $18 million is an awful lot for a fading Edgar Renteria, 33, and projected setup man Bob Howry, 35, also is coming off a bad year. There are several jobs to be won and situations to be decided during training camp, but unfortunately for Bruce Bochy, the options aren't all that appealing, and avoiding a fifth consecutive losing season may not be possible. The rotation is the strength, and could get an additional boost from Noah Lowry, who appears healthy again after undergoing two forearm surgeries. But Renteria is the only certainty on the infield. The other possibilities: Pablo Sandoval will play third if he proves he can handle it defensively, and if nobody else – Joe Crede, for instance – is signed. If the latter occurs, Sandoval could play first, where Travis Ishikawa, John Bowker and Josh Phelps currently will compete. The second base battle will include Emmanuel Burress, Kevin Frandsen, Eugenio Velez and Juan Uribe. Good luck with that, Boch. One thing that apparently hasn't changed is Bengie Molina projected as the cleanup hitter. Nothing against the oldest of the Molina catching trio, as he had an excellent 2008.
Predicted finish: 3rd place, 77-85";
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spt_MLB_Spring_preview[i-1].body = "COLORADO ROCKIES
2007 record and finish:
2008 record and finish: 74-88, 3rd place
Manager: Clint Hurdle (8th year)
Arrivals: RHP Huston Street, RHP Jason Marquis, OF Carlos Gonzalez, LHP Greg Smith, LHP Alan Embree
Departures: OF Matt Holliday, LHP Brian Fuentes, OF Willy Taveras, RHP Luis Vizcaino, OF Cory Sullivan, RHP Matt Herges, RHP Livan Hernandez, LHP Mark Redman, LHP Glendon Rusch, RHP David Patton (Rule 5), IF Everth Cabrera (Rule 5)
Rotation: RHP Aaron Cook, RHP Ubaldo Jimenez, RHP Jason Marquis, LHP Jorge De La Rosa, LHP Greg Smith, RHP Jason Hirsch, LHP Franklin Morales, LHP Jeff Francis (inj)
Relievers: Closer: RHP Huston Street; Setup men: RHP Manuel Corpas, RHP Taylor Buchholz, LHP Alan Embree, RHP Jason Grilli, RHP Ryan Speier, RHP Stephen Register, RHP Juan Morillo
Regulars: 2B Clint Barmes, SS Troy Tulowitzki, 1B Todd Helton, 3B Garrett Atkins, RF Brad Hawpe, CF Ryan Spilborghs, C Chris Iannetta, LF Carlos Gonzalez
Role players: C Yorvit Torrealba, 1B/3B Ian Stewart, IF/OF Jeff Baker, OF Seth Smith, OF Dexter Fowler, OF Matt Murton, 1B Joe Koshansky, IF Omar Quintanilla
Breakout candidate: Nobody in the majors had a higher average fastball than Ubaldo Jimenez's 94.9 mph. And it's not as if that's his only pitch.
On the spot: Clint Hurdle is in the final year of his contract, and the unfailingly positive messages have grown a bit stale.
What’s going on: Considering the lack of a strong division favorite in the NL West, you'd think the Rockies would have hung onto their best player – free-agent-to-be Matt Holliday – and taken their chances. And then if they weren't in the race in mid-to-late July, they always could deal him for the best available package. But no, too much potential for uncertainty and unrest is not the way they do things. So Billy Beane gladly took Holliday off their hands for a package of failing closer Huston Street, back-of-the-rotation starter Greg Smith and Carlos Gonzalez's potential. The Rocks also didn't want to pay market value for good-but-not-great closer Brian Fuentes, so he's wearing and Angels uniform now, leaving Street and 2008 disappointment Manuel Corpas to duel for the ninth-inning duties. The other crucial loss apparently will be left-hander Jeff Francis, who still is bothered by shoulder troubles that ruined last season. That makes a thin rotation behind Aaron Cook and Ubaldo Jimenez even thinner -- and the deal for Jason Marquis look wiser. The loss of Holliday's production could be replaced with bounce back seasons from Troy Tulowitzki and Todd Helton. You have to like the former's chances more than the latter's, as Tulo really was the key to the wildly unexpected 2007 pennant. And in case you don't know it, Chris Iannetta became one of the league's better regular catchers last season.
Predicted finish: 4th place, 76-86";
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spt_MLB_Spring_preview[i-1].body = "SAN DIEGO PADRES
2008 record and finish: 63-99, 5th place
Manager: Bud Black (3rd year)
Arrivals: RHP Mark Worrell, OF Cliff Floyd, IF/OF Chris Burke, IF David Eckstein, RHP Kevin Correia, C Henry Blanco, C Eliezer Alfonso, IF Everth Cabrera (Rule 5), RHP Ivan Nova (Rule 5)
Departures: RHP Trevor Hoffman, SS Khalil Greene, C Michael Barrett, C Josh Bard, RHP Justin Germano, RHP Kevin Cameron, IF/OF Paul McAnulty, LHP Shawn Estes, RHP Brett Tomko, IF/OF Justin Huber, RHP Bryan Corey, RHP Brian Falkenborg, OF Chip Ambres, RHP Clay Hensley, RHP Charlie Haeger
Rotation: RHP Jake Peavy, RHP Chris Young, RHP Cha-Seung Baek, RHP Kevin Correia, RHP Josh Geer, LHP Wade LeBlanc, RHP Mark Prior
Relievers: Closer: RHP Heath Bell; Setup men: RHP Mike Adams, RHP Cla Meredith, RHP Mark Worrell, RHP Chris Britton, LHP Justin Hampson, LHP Joe Thatcher, RHP Ivan Nova, RHP Mike Eckstrom, RHP Scott Patterson
Regulars: RF Brian Giles, SS David Eckstein, 1B Adrian Gonzalez, 3B Kevin Kouzmanoff, LF Chase Headley, CF Jody Gerut, 2B Edgar Gonzalez, C Nick Hundley
Role players: C Henry Blanco, IF/OF Chris Burke, 2B/SS Luis Rodriguez, OF Scott Hairston, OF Wil Venable, OF Cliff Floyd, C Eliezer Alfonzo, IF Everth Cabrera, 2B Travis Denker
Breakout candidate: There aren't many worse places to hit than Petco Park, but switch-hitter Chase Headley shouldn't be too adversely affected.
The pressure is on: Chris Young will inherit the staff ace role once Jake Peavy is dealt, while all Heath Bell is faced with is replacing future Hall of Famer and Padre icon Trevor Hoffman.
What’s going on: You know the best thing the Padres have going for them? Unlike last spring, absolutely nobody expects them to be anywhere close to contenders, so maybe they can be better than everybody thinks. Then again, this is a team that lost 99 games last season with Trevor Hoffman, Khalil Greene, Michael Barrett and Josh Bard, and all of them are long gone. And, it's only a matter of time before Jake Peavy is dealt – the Cubs still are the likeliest destination – and his nearly 25 percent of a $40-plus-million payroll will be off the books. The ownership transition also will continue, with Jeff Moorad and his group moving in and taking control from John Moores. Although at this point, there has been no indication the new boss will be much different than the old boss, at least when it comes to the payroll projections. Plain and simple, this is a going to be a transition year both on and off the field, and we should be expecting more changes in the front office, and possibly the manager's spot. At least All-Star Adrian Gonzalez is still around. But it's difficult to find a quality candidate for the post-Peavy rotation once you get beyond Chris Young and Cha-Seung Baek. The bullpen doesn't appear to be much better at this point, although Petco Park does have a way of making most pitchers look respectable. But it's going to take more than that for this team to avoid a 90-plus-loss season, as another last-place finish appears to be in the offing.
Predicted finish: 5th place, 69-93";
// END editorial data