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-Digger's Daily-
Colorado (73-89) endured a difficult season in 2011. Pitching was a sore spot last season. Don't expect anything different this season. Colorado is in store for another long year.
Their starting rotation boils down to spring training battles. As of now, most prognosticators expect the following opening day starting five: Jeremy Guthrie, Jhoulys Chacin, Drew Pomeranz, Juan Nicasio and Guillermo Moscoso. In my book, there's two locks - Guthrie & Chacin - with the final three slots up for grabs. Veteran Jamie Moyer is having a great spring and the Rockies would be crazy not adding this guy to the rotation. Alex White, Tyler Chatwood, Josh Outman and Esmil Rogers were considered competitors but none of those final four names are turning heads.
Michael Cuddyer (OF/1B) and Ramon Hernandez (C) are welcomed additions. Plenty of key losses from the lineup including once heralded catcher Chris Iannetta and closer Hudson Street. Also lost - Mark Ellis, Ty Wigginton, Seth Smith, Jason Hammel, Aaron Cook and a handful of other role players.
Depth has been lost but starters are strong. Around the horn: 1B Todd Helton, 2B Marco Scutaro, SS Troy Tulowitzki, 3B Casey Blake. Catching flies from LF to RF: Carlos Gonzalez, Dexter Fowler and Mike Cuddyer. Rockies have a well balanced lineup attack from top to bottom.
Rafael Betancourt is their new closer. There's a handful of players battling to fill bullpen roles yet to be settled. Colorado's bullpen will be the difference between winning and losing in a wide open NL West.
Prediction: A healthy offense will go a long way to winning games. 2012 lineup has no holes. A good mix of speed, power and contact. Defense is solid. Colorado's fate rest squarely on their pitchers ability to hold leads in tight situations. Lack of depth will only become a concern if regulars are sidelined for significant time. This team has much to prove. Success is within their grasp... or not. Handicapping this team heading into regular season play at +/-80 wins. Don't be surprised to see Colorado win the NL West. It'll probably turn out as win some, lose some.
Showing posts with label 2012 MLB Pre Season Predictions. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2012 MLB Pre Season Predictions. Show all posts
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
2012 MLB Preview: Seattle Mariners
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-Digger's Daily-
Does anyone remember Seattle won 116 games back in 2001? Seattle was a team on the rise. They reeled off 90+ wins in four consecutive season's to begin the new millennium. Since then, losers in 6 of 8 including 95 last year.
Good news on the horizon? Perhaps 2012 marks the beginning of a new Mariners era of better baseball. Don't expect miracles - or 80 wins. There's a nucleus of young talent and Seattle hopes these guys are the answer for years to come.
Starting rotation appears set with Felix Hernandez returning to dazzle hitters. If it wasn't for weak hitting teammates - Felix would be a 20 game winners year after year. Japanese import Hisashi Iwakuma was rated 2nd to Rangers Yu Darvish but there's concern over whether or not his shoulder is sound - and if his fastball is strong enough to get out Major League hitters consistantly? Jason Vargas is locked in. Blake Beavan and Hector Noesi hope good fortunes of spring secure April rotation slots.
Closer Brandon League saved 37 in '11. Seattle's bullpen was gassed by mid-season. Expect more of the same if starters faulter.
Seattle's biggest acquisition - Jesus Montero - came at the expense of future star flame thrower, Michael Pineda. It was well worth it for a M's team struggling to score runs. Montero is the real deal. He'll hit in the middle of a young, untested lineup. It's a make or break year for 1B Justin Smoak. Dustin Ackley is a star for years to come at 2B. SS remains a weak spot with Brendan Ryan. 3B/OF Chone Figgins has been a monumental bust for Seattle after tearing it up for the Angels. He's battling Kyle Seager for the starting nod at 3B. Ichiro returns to RF. CF Franklin Gutierrez hasn't lived up to hype. LF is Mike Carp's to win or lose this spring unless Smoak bombs out (then Carp moves to first). Behind the plate is Miguel Olivo who provides a little pop when not striking out. All in all, Seattle's lineup is weakest in AL West on paper. They're going to need heads up base running and timely hitting or this will be another long season.
Prediction: Seattle's lineup can't compete vs Texas and Angels. Montero, Ackley & Hernandez will put up great numbers. It's anyone's guess how the rest of this team does. Rebuilding comes in many forms. If young hitters struggle (Smoak, Gutierrez, Seager) then Seattle's make over will need another. 70+ wins is generous in this division but it's within reach if peaces fit.
-Digger's Daily-
Does anyone remember Seattle won 116 games back in 2001? Seattle was a team on the rise. They reeled off 90+ wins in four consecutive season's to begin the new millennium. Since then, losers in 6 of 8 including 95 last year.
Good news on the horizon? Perhaps 2012 marks the beginning of a new Mariners era of better baseball. Don't expect miracles - or 80 wins. There's a nucleus of young talent and Seattle hopes these guys are the answer for years to come.
Starting rotation appears set with Felix Hernandez returning to dazzle hitters. If it wasn't for weak hitting teammates - Felix would be a 20 game winners year after year. Japanese import Hisashi Iwakuma was rated 2nd to Rangers Yu Darvish but there's concern over whether or not his shoulder is sound - and if his fastball is strong enough to get out Major League hitters consistantly? Jason Vargas is locked in. Blake Beavan and Hector Noesi hope good fortunes of spring secure April rotation slots.
Closer Brandon League saved 37 in '11. Seattle's bullpen was gassed by mid-season. Expect more of the same if starters faulter.
Seattle's biggest acquisition - Jesus Montero - came at the expense of future star flame thrower, Michael Pineda. It was well worth it for a M's team struggling to score runs. Montero is the real deal. He'll hit in the middle of a young, untested lineup. It's a make or break year for 1B Justin Smoak. Dustin Ackley is a star for years to come at 2B. SS remains a weak spot with Brendan Ryan. 3B/OF Chone Figgins has been a monumental bust for Seattle after tearing it up for the Angels. He's battling Kyle Seager for the starting nod at 3B. Ichiro returns to RF. CF Franklin Gutierrez hasn't lived up to hype. LF is Mike Carp's to win or lose this spring unless Smoak bombs out (then Carp moves to first). Behind the plate is Miguel Olivo who provides a little pop when not striking out. All in all, Seattle's lineup is weakest in AL West on paper. They're going to need heads up base running and timely hitting or this will be another long season.
Prediction: Seattle's lineup can't compete vs Texas and Angels. Montero, Ackley & Hernandez will put up great numbers. It's anyone's guess how the rest of this team does. Rebuilding comes in many forms. If young hitters struggle (Smoak, Gutierrez, Seager) then Seattle's make over will need another. 70+ wins is generous in this division but it's within reach if peaces fit.
Friday, March 16, 2012
2012 MLB Preview: Cincinnati Reds
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-Digger's Daily-
Cincinnati fans optimism is in high gear. Reds added three potentially key pieces to their team puzzle. Starting pitcher Mat Latos (from Padres), closer Ryan Madson (Phillies) & reliever Sean Marshall (Cubs) instantly upgrade Cincy's pitching staff. Dusty Baker must be smiling. Reds have a great opportunity to make a run at the Central title.
More good news for Reds fans. Gone from NL Central foes are two slugging 1B. Albert Pujols (Cardinals) and Prince Fielder (Brewers) signed big money contracts with American League teams.
Reds lineup packs a punch. Joey Votto (1B), Brandon Phillips (2B) & Jay Bruce (RF) are the core of a maturing lineup. Much is expected of LF Heisey & CF Stubbs. Reds are high on SS Zack Cozart.
Starting rotation has talent and should receive plenty of run support. Problem is pitching in a hitters friendly home park. Great American gives up runs in bunches. Cueto, Latos, Arroyo, Bailey & Leake must come out of the gates on fire. Cincinnati lacks a lefty starter which could hurt down the stretch.
New closer Madson will get plenty of save opportunities. Marshall joins a bunch of strikeout artists out of the pen (Masset, Chapman, Ondrusek & Bray). Cincinnati's pitching staff might lead the league in strikeouts.
Prediction: The future is now. Cincinnati has assembled a winning formula on paper. Champion Cardinals still favorites to win Central. Reds will challenge. MLB added another Wild Card team beginning in 2012. Reds appear to have the inside track. 90+ wins well within reach.
-Digger's Daily-
Cincinnati fans optimism is in high gear. Reds added three potentially key pieces to their team puzzle. Starting pitcher Mat Latos (from Padres), closer Ryan Madson (Phillies) & reliever Sean Marshall (Cubs) instantly upgrade Cincy's pitching staff. Dusty Baker must be smiling. Reds have a great opportunity to make a run at the Central title.
More good news for Reds fans. Gone from NL Central foes are two slugging 1B. Albert Pujols (Cardinals) and Prince Fielder (Brewers) signed big money contracts with American League teams.
Reds lineup packs a punch. Joey Votto (1B), Brandon Phillips (2B) & Jay Bruce (RF) are the core of a maturing lineup. Much is expected of LF Heisey & CF Stubbs. Reds are high on SS Zack Cozart.
Starting rotation has talent and should receive plenty of run support. Problem is pitching in a hitters friendly home park. Great American gives up runs in bunches. Cueto, Latos, Arroyo, Bailey & Leake must come out of the gates on fire. Cincinnati lacks a lefty starter which could hurt down the stretch.
New closer Madson will get plenty of save opportunities. Marshall joins a bunch of strikeout artists out of the pen (Masset, Chapman, Ondrusek & Bray). Cincinnati's pitching staff might lead the league in strikeouts.
Prediction: The future is now. Cincinnati has assembled a winning formula on paper. Champion Cardinals still favorites to win Central. Reds will challenge. MLB added another Wild Card team beginning in 2012. Reds appear to have the inside track. 90+ wins well within reach.
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
2012 MLB Preview: Pittsburgh Pirates
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Answer: 1992. Question: When was Pittsburgh Pirates last winning season? One play transformed Pittsburgh's destiny for decades. Barry Bonds refusal to better position himself in left field - stayed deep in LF instead of listening to teammate (CF) Andy Van Slyke to move in - allowed just enough time for slow footed and hobbling Braves 1B Sid Bream to score the winning run in bottom of 9th, Game 7 NLCS.
Soon thereafter Pittsburgh attempted cost saving measures. Star players signed multimillion dollar contracts elsewhere. Future talent never materialized while wearing a Pirates uniform. Pittsburgh has won more than 75 games only twice since 1992.
In an attempt to secure their new future Pittsburgh signed CF Andrew McCutchen to a 6 year $51.5M deal. McCutchen enters season number 4 with room to grow. A gifted defender and squad's top offensive threat. It was a good to see this team finally commit to a future.
As for the present, Pittsburgh hoped trading for A.J. Burnett would solidify a staff in need of veteran leadership. It didn't take long for a fluke injury to sideline the teams new number one starter. A fouled bunt attempt crushed Burnett's face. He's out for at least 3 months and probably longer without any baseball related activities for the foreseeable future. The rest of Pittsburgh's spring rotation battle is a hodgepodge of future contributor's and elder statesmen returning from injuries. Eric Bedard, Jeff Karstens, James McDonald, Charlie Morton, Kevin Correia and a few others battle it out this spring trying to earn a shot in the rotation. Joel Hanrahan (40 saves) returns to save victories. Middle relievers are a sore spot again heading into 2012. Spring training determines who makes the trip up north to begin the year.
Offense and defense will be interesting. 1B may become a platoon with Garret Jones/Casey McGehee. Neil Walker returns at second. Clint Barmes at short. Pirates hoping 3B Alvarez puts a disappointing '11 behind and makes great strides this year. Perhaps the Bucs most significant player is catcher Rod Barajas handling the pitching staff. McCutchen anchors the outfield with position battles in left & right taking place right now in Bradenton, FL.
Prediction: Don't expect much from Pittsburgh in 2012 - but don't count them out either. Starting rotation has ability to surprise. Talented hitters need day to day consistency. Bullpen is biggest question mark as middle relief is lacking in a big hitting division. 72+ wins is the line here. Pittsburgh fans are hoping their 2012 team becomes a Cinderella story taking NL opponents by surprise. Same old story. Same ending.
-Digger's Daily-
Answer: 1992. Question: When was Pittsburgh Pirates last winning season? One play transformed Pittsburgh's destiny for decades. Barry Bonds refusal to better position himself in left field - stayed deep in LF instead of listening to teammate (CF) Andy Van Slyke to move in - allowed just enough time for slow footed and hobbling Braves 1B Sid Bream to score the winning run in bottom of 9th, Game 7 NLCS.
Soon thereafter Pittsburgh attempted cost saving measures. Star players signed multimillion dollar contracts elsewhere. Future talent never materialized while wearing a Pirates uniform. Pittsburgh has won more than 75 games only twice since 1992.
In an attempt to secure their new future Pittsburgh signed CF Andrew McCutchen to a 6 year $51.5M deal. McCutchen enters season number 4 with room to grow. A gifted defender and squad's top offensive threat. It was a good to see this team finally commit to a future.
As for the present, Pittsburgh hoped trading for A.J. Burnett would solidify a staff in need of veteran leadership. It didn't take long for a fluke injury to sideline the teams new number one starter. A fouled bunt attempt crushed Burnett's face. He's out for at least 3 months and probably longer without any baseball related activities for the foreseeable future. The rest of Pittsburgh's spring rotation battle is a hodgepodge of future contributor's and elder statesmen returning from injuries. Eric Bedard, Jeff Karstens, James McDonald, Charlie Morton, Kevin Correia and a few others battle it out this spring trying to earn a shot in the rotation. Joel Hanrahan (40 saves) returns to save victories. Middle relievers are a sore spot again heading into 2012. Spring training determines who makes the trip up north to begin the year.
Offense and defense will be interesting. 1B may become a platoon with Garret Jones/Casey McGehee. Neil Walker returns at second. Clint Barmes at short. Pirates hoping 3B Alvarez puts a disappointing '11 behind and makes great strides this year. Perhaps the Bucs most significant player is catcher Rod Barajas handling the pitching staff. McCutchen anchors the outfield with position battles in left & right taking place right now in Bradenton, FL.
Prediction: Don't expect much from Pittsburgh in 2012 - but don't count them out either. Starting rotation has ability to surprise. Talented hitters need day to day consistency. Bullpen is biggest question mark as middle relief is lacking in a big hitting division. 72+ wins is the line here. Pittsburgh fans are hoping their 2012 team becomes a Cinderella story taking NL opponents by surprise. Same old story. Same ending.
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
2012 MLB Preview: Philadelphia Phillies
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2011 Philadelphia Phillies were picked by many to go all the way. They seemed on the right track until getting stymied in NLDS by eventual World Series winners St. Louis. More bad news. Slugging 1B Ryan Howard was injured on the series final play (ruptured Achilles). Howard will miss at least the first month of 2012.
2012 offense has many question marks. Predicted again to win the NL East by many. Health is already a nagging concern. In addition to Howard double play combination Chase Utley and Jimmy Rollins haven't posted solid numbers in years. Blossoming LF John Mayberry is getting a chance to win the everyday job. Ty Wigginton opens up the season filling in for Howard at first. All in all, Phils lineup should be able to generate runs.
The heart and soul of this club has been a stellar starting rotation. 1-2-3 is Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee and Cole Hamels. Vance Worley put together a solid rookie campaign going 11-3. Joe Blanton and Kyle Kendrick battle it out this spring for the last rotation slot. Phils pitching domination will make it difficult for any team to take 2 of 3 from these guys. New closer is ex-Red Sox fireman Jonathan Papelbon.
Prediction: NL East is Philadelphia's to win or lose. They shouldn't get too confident with Atlanta and suddenly competitive Washington aiming to knock off the top seed. 92+ wins well within reach.
-Digger's Daily-
2011 Philadelphia Phillies were picked by many to go all the way. They seemed on the right track until getting stymied in NLDS by eventual World Series winners St. Louis. More bad news. Slugging 1B Ryan Howard was injured on the series final play (ruptured Achilles). Howard will miss at least the first month of 2012.
2012 offense has many question marks. Predicted again to win the NL East by many. Health is already a nagging concern. In addition to Howard double play combination Chase Utley and Jimmy Rollins haven't posted solid numbers in years. Blossoming LF John Mayberry is getting a chance to win the everyday job. Ty Wigginton opens up the season filling in for Howard at first. All in all, Phils lineup should be able to generate runs.
The heart and soul of this club has been a stellar starting rotation. 1-2-3 is Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee and Cole Hamels. Vance Worley put together a solid rookie campaign going 11-3. Joe Blanton and Kyle Kendrick battle it out this spring for the last rotation slot. Phils pitching domination will make it difficult for any team to take 2 of 3 from these guys. New closer is ex-Red Sox fireman Jonathan Papelbon.
Prediction: NL East is Philadelphia's to win or lose. They shouldn't get too confident with Atlanta and suddenly competitive Washington aiming to knock off the top seed. 92+ wins well within reach.
Friday, March 2, 2012
2012 MLB Preview: Miami Marlins
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Everything seems new in South Florida. New team name. New stadium. New uniforms. New spending habits. New manager. New free agents. Welcome to re-branded baseball - 2012 Miami Marlins.
Marlins Park makes its' regular season debut April 4th in Miami's home opener vs defending champion St. Louis. Marlins fans have plenty of reasons to be optimistic heading into 2012.
Miami was busy this off season shifting gears from usual selling ways to free agent buyers. They went all out in an unsuccessful attempt to land prized free agent Albert Pujols (Angels). However, they did land another sought after player - former Mets shortstop Jose Reyes. Reyes arrival means Hanley Ramirez moves from SS to 3B forming a tough left side infield. Miami's second big name signing is former White Sox southpaw Mark Buehrle. Toss in a new closer - Heath Bell - and Miami is ready to challenge in NL East. Leading the way is feisty manager Ozzie Guillen.
Guillen's club is strong on paper but there's plenty of question marks. Biggest concern is keeping Jose Reyes healthy. Reyes has a long history of leg issues. He's one of the game's top players when 100%. How well will Hanley Ramirez adjust to playing 3B? Ramirez worth ethic was called into question last year before injuries finished off a disappointing season. Ramirez stats have been on a steady decline after establishing himself as one of NL's top players from 2006-09. Hot headed Carlos Zambrano short tempered his way out of Chicago. Miami's taking a big chance on this locker room grenade. If Zambrano can keep his cool and return to old form then Florida has a deep starting rotation.
What to watch. Winter hype grabbed Miami headlines. Now it's time to play ball. Marlins have two slugging corner outfielders. 2012 represents a major maturing test for both Morrison & Stanton. Are these guys ready to improve their games? Stanton is a free swinging slugger who must put his bat on the ball with runners in scoring position. 166 strikeouts over shadowed 34 home runs (especially when 34 round trippers produced a paltry 87 RBI). Morrison jumped from 2 homers in '10 to 23 in '11. He's another in need of plate discipline. Fan favorite Gabby Sanchez began last season on fire (.322 thru May) only to struggle throughout the second half. He would have been traded if Pujols signed. Now, it's up to him to produce or be gone.
Starting rotation is curious. Can #1 starter Johnson finally stay healthy? Is Buehrle ready for NL action? Can weak link Nolasco learn to pitch out of jams? Steady Annibal Sanchez finally has a shot at run support. Is Zambrano ready to play ball or continue being an embarrassing distraction? Loads of both upside & downside potential on this staff.
Miami's offense will only be as good as their plate discipline. Free swingers up and down this lineup. Probable lineup has plenty of speed at the top with Reyes/Bonifacio hitting 1-2 followed by Hanley. Stanton probably cleanup followed by Sanchez, Morrison & Buck. Glaring weakness here is OBA - especially against division rival control artist pitchers.
Projection: An exciting year coming in Miami after less than stellar 90 losses 2011. Health history, lack of left handed hitting and low OBA must be addressed in pre-season action. NL East is quickly becoming one of best in baseball. It's hard to picture this squad challenging for division title. 82-85 wins is realistic. If new pieces fit, youngsters mature and good health prevails then Miami is a serious contender to challenge for Wild Card.
-Digger's Daily-
Everything seems new in South Florida. New team name. New stadium. New uniforms. New spending habits. New manager. New free agents. Welcome to re-branded baseball - 2012 Miami Marlins.
Marlins Park makes its' regular season debut April 4th in Miami's home opener vs defending champion St. Louis. Marlins fans have plenty of reasons to be optimistic heading into 2012.
Miami was busy this off season shifting gears from usual selling ways to free agent buyers. They went all out in an unsuccessful attempt to land prized free agent Albert Pujols (Angels). However, they did land another sought after player - former Mets shortstop Jose Reyes. Reyes arrival means Hanley Ramirez moves from SS to 3B forming a tough left side infield. Miami's second big name signing is former White Sox southpaw Mark Buehrle. Toss in a new closer - Heath Bell - and Miami is ready to challenge in NL East. Leading the way is feisty manager Ozzie Guillen.
Guillen's club is strong on paper but there's plenty of question marks. Biggest concern is keeping Jose Reyes healthy. Reyes has a long history of leg issues. He's one of the game's top players when 100%. How well will Hanley Ramirez adjust to playing 3B? Ramirez worth ethic was called into question last year before injuries finished off a disappointing season. Ramirez stats have been on a steady decline after establishing himself as one of NL's top players from 2006-09. Hot headed Carlos Zambrano short tempered his way out of Chicago. Miami's taking a big chance on this locker room grenade. If Zambrano can keep his cool and return to old form then Florida has a deep starting rotation.
What to watch. Winter hype grabbed Miami headlines. Now it's time to play ball. Marlins have two slugging corner outfielders. 2012 represents a major maturing test for both Morrison & Stanton. Are these guys ready to improve their games? Stanton is a free swinging slugger who must put his bat on the ball with runners in scoring position. 166 strikeouts over shadowed 34 home runs (especially when 34 round trippers produced a paltry 87 RBI). Morrison jumped from 2 homers in '10 to 23 in '11. He's another in need of plate discipline. Fan favorite Gabby Sanchez began last season on fire (.322 thru May) only to struggle throughout the second half. He would have been traded if Pujols signed. Now, it's up to him to produce or be gone.
Starting rotation is curious. Can #1 starter Johnson finally stay healthy? Is Buehrle ready for NL action? Can weak link Nolasco learn to pitch out of jams? Steady Annibal Sanchez finally has a shot at run support. Is Zambrano ready to play ball or continue being an embarrassing distraction? Loads of both upside & downside potential on this staff.
Miami's offense will only be as good as their plate discipline. Free swingers up and down this lineup. Probable lineup has plenty of speed at the top with Reyes/Bonifacio hitting 1-2 followed by Hanley. Stanton probably cleanup followed by Sanchez, Morrison & Buck. Glaring weakness here is OBA - especially against division rival control artist pitchers.
Projection: An exciting year coming in Miami after less than stellar 90 losses 2011. Health history, lack of left handed hitting and low OBA must be addressed in pre-season action. NL East is quickly becoming one of best in baseball. It's hard to picture this squad challenging for division title. 82-85 wins is realistic. If new pieces fit, youngsters mature and good health prevails then Miami is a serious contender to challenge for Wild Card.
Thursday, March 1, 2012
2012 MLB Preview: New York Yankees
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Yankees GM Cashman had one clear priority after getting bounced by Detroit in ALDS. Starting pitching. Joining slimmed down staff ace CC Sabathia in the 2012 rotation figures to be newcomers Michael Pineda & Hiroki Kuroda. Two immediate impact style pitchers. Ian Nova hopes to improve on a solid rookie season (16-4). Phil Hughes is odds on favorite to nail down the fifth slot this spring.
Pineda represents the Yankees future. He has much to live up to after New York traded their top slugging prospect Jesus Montero to Seattle for Pineda. MP hurls ace material - often kept hitters flailing at great pitches. He surrendered just 133 hits in 171 innings complemented with 173 punch outs. He's a keeper unless short fences at Yankee Stadium prove unfriendly.
Yanks offense swings for the fences way too much. This is a 100 win team if hitters hit. New York's lineup is nightmare material for opposing pitchers. Jeter, Granderson, Cano, Rodriguez, Teixeira, Swisher, Gardner, Martin and new DH Ibanez. All potential .300 hitters. Nothing is more disappointing to Yankees fans when watching runners stranded in scoring position due to hitters not putting the bat on the ball. Way to many empty swings in 2011. Home runs are nice but when a single will do - as is the case most often - then put the ball in play.
Soon to be first ballot Hall of Fame closer Mariano Rivera enters his final MLB season. Baseball's best ever closer would love to leave the game on top. Yankees bullpen has been a sore spot in recent years attempting to protect leads for Rivera to save. Not much help came during off season. Robertson shines. Joba's coming back from major injuries. Soriano was once the heir apparent to Rivera but bombed miserably in during debut Yankee season. Logan is their situational lefty. Basically, the same cast of characters from last season have much to prove. Yankees are hoping new look rotation goes deeper in games offering needed rest for a bullpen over worked throughout 2011.
AL East is stacked with four solid teams. Boston, Tampa and Toronto should not be taken lightly. That said, this aging Yanks team is still tops.
Prediction: Yanks will go as far as starting rotation takes them. ARod needs a bounce back season at the plate. This is a 95+ win team unless injuries attack veteran performers. Not sold on Ibanez/Jones DH combo - except for relatively cheap price. Should be another exciting year in the Bronx.
-Digger's Daily-
Yankees GM Cashman had one clear priority after getting bounced by Detroit in ALDS. Starting pitching. Joining slimmed down staff ace CC Sabathia in the 2012 rotation figures to be newcomers Michael Pineda & Hiroki Kuroda. Two immediate impact style pitchers. Ian Nova hopes to improve on a solid rookie season (16-4). Phil Hughes is odds on favorite to nail down the fifth slot this spring.
Pineda represents the Yankees future. He has much to live up to after New York traded their top slugging prospect Jesus Montero to Seattle for Pineda. MP hurls ace material - often kept hitters flailing at great pitches. He surrendered just 133 hits in 171 innings complemented with 173 punch outs. He's a keeper unless short fences at Yankee Stadium prove unfriendly.
Yanks offense swings for the fences way too much. This is a 100 win team if hitters hit. New York's lineup is nightmare material for opposing pitchers. Jeter, Granderson, Cano, Rodriguez, Teixeira, Swisher, Gardner, Martin and new DH Ibanez. All potential .300 hitters. Nothing is more disappointing to Yankees fans when watching runners stranded in scoring position due to hitters not putting the bat on the ball. Way to many empty swings in 2011. Home runs are nice but when a single will do - as is the case most often - then put the ball in play.
Soon to be first ballot Hall of Fame closer Mariano Rivera enters his final MLB season. Baseball's best ever closer would love to leave the game on top. Yankees bullpen has been a sore spot in recent years attempting to protect leads for Rivera to save. Not much help came during off season. Robertson shines. Joba's coming back from major injuries. Soriano was once the heir apparent to Rivera but bombed miserably in during debut Yankee season. Logan is their situational lefty. Basically, the same cast of characters from last season have much to prove. Yankees are hoping new look rotation goes deeper in games offering needed rest for a bullpen over worked throughout 2011.
AL East is stacked with four solid teams. Boston, Tampa and Toronto should not be taken lightly. That said, this aging Yanks team is still tops.
Prediction: Yanks will go as far as starting rotation takes them. ARod needs a bounce back season at the plate. This is a 95+ win team unless injuries attack veteran performers. Not sold on Ibanez/Jones DH combo - except for relatively cheap price. Should be another exciting year in the Bronx.
2012 MLB Preview: Texas Rangers
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-Digger's Daily-
Oh so close. The 2011 Texas Rangers (96-66) were within one out (twice) of winning their franchise first World Series title. Question of the day wonders if they're able to put devastating World Series Game 6 in the rear view mirror speeding into 2012 regular season play? Yes.
2012 is very promising. Nolan Ryan & Co. made great strides this off season. Lost to division rival Angels is lefty starter CJ Wilson who set a record he'd rather forget last year (lost All Star Game, lost in ALDS, lost in ALCS and lost in World Series - ouch!). Gained is a pitcher who could quickly become the best in baseball. Japanese import Yu Darvish. This guy is the real deal 100%. A seven pitch pitcher. Throws all for strikes. His Japanese career absolutely stellar. Never an ERA above 1.88. Career 9.5 K/9. Pinpoint control. Gobble up Yu quickly in fantasy leagues.
Joining Darvish in Texas rotation is maturing Colby Lewis, Derek Holland, Matt Harrison and flame thrower Nef Feliz. These guys really need to build on last year without any set backs. All talented. Ryan hopes to have them focused. Joe Nathan was brought in to save victories. All eyes watching his tender right arm in spring ball.
Can any team keep up with the Rangers offense? These guys will give rotation plenty of run support. Cruz, Hamilton, Napoli, Young, Kinsler, Beltre, Andrus and pretty deep backups at all positions heading into spring training. Health, as always, is key but this team has players on the ready if ugly disabled list bug pops up.
Prediction: 2012 Rangers are playoff caliber. Key is living up to expectations. Darvish is the real deal. Offense scores in bunches. Quick start in April is key to establishing a buffer zone vs improved division rival Los Angeles. 92+ wins.
-Digger's Daily-
Oh so close. The 2011 Texas Rangers (96-66) were within one out (twice) of winning their franchise first World Series title. Question of the day wonders if they're able to put devastating World Series Game 6 in the rear view mirror speeding into 2012 regular season play? Yes.
2012 is very promising. Nolan Ryan & Co. made great strides this off season. Lost to division rival Angels is lefty starter CJ Wilson who set a record he'd rather forget last year (lost All Star Game, lost in ALDS, lost in ALCS and lost in World Series - ouch!). Gained is a pitcher who could quickly become the best in baseball. Japanese import Yu Darvish. This guy is the real deal 100%. A seven pitch pitcher. Throws all for strikes. His Japanese career absolutely stellar. Never an ERA above 1.88. Career 9.5 K/9. Pinpoint control. Gobble up Yu quickly in fantasy leagues.
Joining Darvish in Texas rotation is maturing Colby Lewis, Derek Holland, Matt Harrison and flame thrower Nef Feliz. These guys really need to build on last year without any set backs. All talented. Ryan hopes to have them focused. Joe Nathan was brought in to save victories. All eyes watching his tender right arm in spring ball.
Can any team keep up with the Rangers offense? These guys will give rotation plenty of run support. Cruz, Hamilton, Napoli, Young, Kinsler, Beltre, Andrus and pretty deep backups at all positions heading into spring training. Health, as always, is key but this team has players on the ready if ugly disabled list bug pops up.
Prediction: 2012 Rangers are playoff caliber. Key is living up to expectations. Darvish is the real deal. Offense scores in bunches. Quick start in April is key to establishing a buffer zone vs improved division rival Los Angeles. 92+ wins.
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
2012 MLB Preview: St. Louis Cardinals
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-Digger's Daily-
2011 World Series Champion St. Louis Cardinals attempt to become the first repeat champs of this century. The Cards bested Texas in one of the most exciting World Series in league history last year, 4 games to 3.
Two key cogs will be missing in '12. Manager Tony LaRussa (retired) and 3-time NL MVP Albert Pujols (left via free agency to LA Angels). Have no fear in Missouri - St. Louis remains the team to beat in NL Central action.
The Cards offense is well balanced. First year manager Mike Matheny will have an easy time penciling in daily lineups. St. Louis picked up Carlos Beltran to roam right and plan to shift Lance Berkman to first. World Series hero David Freese anchors third. Signal caller Yadier Molina is one of baseball's best defensively. Throw in Matt Holliday, Jon Jay and top of the order free ranging SS Rafael Furcal. These guys are certain to put up plenty of runs.
Their strength is pitching. Cards have a strong front three rotation of Carpenter, Wainwright & Garcia. Backing them up is a bullpen full of live arms.
Health is key to any teams success. Yes, the Cards have issues. Will Beltran's knee hold up? Can Holliday avoid DL time? How well will Wainwright rebound after Tommy John surgery? SS Fucal's been battling injuries in recent season's. Keeping these guys healthy during spring training is mission number one.
Prediction: Finished 90-72 (wild card) in 2011. 2012 will be a team effort as Cards take aim at another World Series. Expecting 92-95 wins and NL Central title (if healthy).
-Digger's Daily-
2011 World Series Champion St. Louis Cardinals attempt to become the first repeat champs of this century. The Cards bested Texas in one of the most exciting World Series in league history last year, 4 games to 3.
Two key cogs will be missing in '12. Manager Tony LaRussa (retired) and 3-time NL MVP Albert Pujols (left via free agency to LA Angels). Have no fear in Missouri - St. Louis remains the team to beat in NL Central action.
The Cards offense is well balanced. First year manager Mike Matheny will have an easy time penciling in daily lineups. St. Louis picked up Carlos Beltran to roam right and plan to shift Lance Berkman to first. World Series hero David Freese anchors third. Signal caller Yadier Molina is one of baseball's best defensively. Throw in Matt Holliday, Jon Jay and top of the order free ranging SS Rafael Furcal. These guys are certain to put up plenty of runs.
Their strength is pitching. Cards have a strong front three rotation of Carpenter, Wainwright & Garcia. Backing them up is a bullpen full of live arms.
Health is key to any teams success. Yes, the Cards have issues. Will Beltran's knee hold up? Can Holliday avoid DL time? How well will Wainwright rebound after Tommy John surgery? SS Fucal's been battling injuries in recent season's. Keeping these guys healthy during spring training is mission number one.
Prediction: Finished 90-72 (wild card) in 2011. 2012 will be a team effort as Cards take aim at another World Series. Expecting 92-95 wins and NL Central title (if healthy).
Friday, February 24, 2012
2012 Major League Baseball Predictions
Visit - "All World All Sports"
-Digger's Daily-
Spring training is here! Players reported to camp. Teams in early stages prepping for a new season filled with new hopes and dreams of glory. A few big trades, big names changing teams and big free agent salaries headlined a busy winter.
Here's a look at how the 2012 MLB season shakes out.
American League
East
New York Yankees
Boston Red Sox
Tampa Bay Rays
Toronto Blue Jays
Baltimore Orioles
Central
Detroit Tigers
Minnesota Twins
Chicago White Sox
Kansas City Royals
Cleveland Indians
West
Texas Rangers
Los Angeles Angels*
Oakland A's
Seattle Mariners
National League
East
Philadelphia Phillies
Atlanta Braves*
Washington Nationals
Miami Marlins
New York Mets
Central
St. Louis Cardinals
Cincinnati Reds
Milwaukee Brewers
Pittsburgh Pirates
Houston Astros
Chicago Cubs
West
San Francisco Giants
Arizona Cardinals
Los Angeles Dodgers
Colorado Rockies
San Diego Padres
Stay tuned for team by team previews.
-Digger's Daily-
Spring training is here! Players reported to camp. Teams in early stages prepping for a new season filled with new hopes and dreams of glory. A few big trades, big names changing teams and big free agent salaries headlined a busy winter.
Here's a look at how the 2012 MLB season shakes out.
American League
East
New York Yankees
Boston Red Sox
Tampa Bay Rays
Toronto Blue Jays
Baltimore Orioles
Central
Detroit Tigers
Minnesota Twins
Chicago White Sox
Kansas City Royals
Cleveland Indians
West
Texas Rangers
Los Angeles Angels*
Oakland A's
Seattle Mariners
National League
East
Philadelphia Phillies
Atlanta Braves*
Washington Nationals
Miami Marlins
New York Mets
Central
St. Louis Cardinals
Cincinnati Reds
Milwaukee Brewers
Pittsburgh Pirates
Houston Astros
Chicago Cubs
West
San Francisco Giants
Arizona Cardinals
Los Angeles Dodgers
Colorado Rockies
San Diego Padres
Stay tuned for team by team previews.
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