Red Sox 74-88




















k

k



















braves sub-.500 this year. i'm pretty sure we're still looking for a closer.

AL wild card could be quite a race between a few teams, especially Toronto and the Tribe... Is there not a single clearly dominant team in the National League? I don't follow the NL closely, but I don't really buy the Mets and Dodgers reconstruction efforts... St. Louis, Houston, Atlanta... seems like everyone has just gotten weaker... I guess I'll vote Pujols?

ALE – New York Yankees
ALC – Chicago White Sox
ALW – Oakland Athletics
WC – Toronto Blue Jays

NLE – Atlanta Braves
NLC – St. Louis Cardinals
NLW – San Francisco Giants
WC – New York Mets

Post-season

White Sox beat Blue Jays (3-1)
Athletics beat Yankees (3-2)
Cardinals beat Mets (3-0)
Giants beat Braves (3-1)

Athletics beat White Sox (4-2)
Cardinals beat Giants (4-3)

Athletics beat Cardinals (4-1)

Frank Thomas racks up a high OBP during the first 2/3rds of the regular season and gets his second World Series ring in two years, but is again stuck watching from the dugout.

Sub-.500? Huh? Are you crazy? After winning 98 straight division titles they're gonna slip below .500?




















k

Really? I thought last year started as their rebuilding year, but you guys have one hell of a manager.

My Pick to Click for the season is the San Francisco Giants "over" 83 wins.

1. They won 75 games last year without Barry Bonds.
2. They play in the worst division in baseball. San Diego won it with 82 wins last year.
3. They acquired Matt Morris in the off season.
4. They have 3 very promising young pitchers in Matt Cain, Noah Lowry, and Brad Hennessey.
5. Ace of the staff Jason Schmidt is back to full strength after an injury-riddled 2005.

Finally, the Bonds factor. By most accounts, he's nearly back to 100%. When Bonds was healthy, the Giants won 91 games in '04 and 100 games in '03. I believe Bonds will be going all-out in his pursuit of Ruth and Hank Aaron. His contract expires with the Giants at the end of 2005. If he hopes to stay in San Fran (which he clearly does), he's going to need to prove that he's worth keeping around for another (probably 1-year) monster contract. I think Bonds has a great year. Even if i'm wrong on Bonds, I think the Giants have a solid shot at 83 wins. If he's healthy, I think this bet wins easily.

And I agree with Raj - I think the Oakland A's will have a great season.

Yeah, that'd be nice.

This is the most promising team the Blue Jays have had since 1994 or so. Nice to see the excitement back, not to mention an owner who's not afraid to spend.

Are you aware that Bonds is having knee trouble again?

Yes i am. He's also allegedly reporting to spring training heavily overweight. I'm giving his doctors the benefit of the doubt. He's played on arthritic knees for the past 5 years. I'm willing to believe he gets healthy eventually.

what's the over/under on the number of games Bonds plays this year?

I predict I will get more autographs. I went to watch the White Sox in Tucson practice over the weekend. Buhrle threw a ball to my son and it bounced over a fence. Mark then threw another and it bounced and hit my son in the shin and he went down hard. He's a little guy. Buhrle looked concerned and asked if everything was alright and it was. He walked it off. We are telling everyone he got hit by a Buehrle fast ball. I got Ozzie's autgraph and Tim Raines as well. Good times. There were maybe 40 people total that watch these things and they are free to the public. It was the first time I went and I loved it. They are just doing basic hitting drills and workouts and stuff but it was cool stuff. I am very excited to have an Ozzie autograph.

You shouldn't be worried about autographs. Find yourself a good lawyer and sue Buehrle's ass. You should get at least enough money to cover your trip to Coachella.

Good question. I'm hoping they get 80 out of him. I just can't see him leaving baseball without making a serious push at Aaron's record. He's really painted in a corner because he really doesn't want to go to another team. With all the steroid allegations, the last thing he wants to do is go to another city. Given that his contract expires this year, he's going to need at least a moderately successful season if he hopes to stay in San Fran in '07 - the year that he'd likely break Aaron's record.

It's still the NL West... the Diamondbacks are a non-factor and the Padres shouldn't go anywhere since they can't expect to step into a pitiful power vacuum like they did last year. That leaves it up to the Giants and the Dodgers and the Dodgers have more than their fair share of questionable injury players too. Like I said I don't follow the NL too much so I'm probably wrong but it seems to me the Giants could wring a solid half season from Bonds and float through on superior pitching (did the Dodgers acquire any pitching over the offseason or did they spend everything on position players? They look pretty miserable in the ERA department).

I think y'all are a little overexcited about the Giants. The NL West may again be the worst division in baseball (the Padres were easily the worst team to EVER make the playoffs) but why should I favor the Giants over them or the Dodgers?

And how can either 75 wins last year or the uneasy prospect of Barry Bond's performance be anyone's no. 1 reason for anything good?

Nobody's done themselves any favors by picking the Dodgers in sometime, and they're really vunerable to injuries this year. I'm going to have to do some more homework before I submit my picks.

I'm such a softie though that I'll probably make most of the same picks as last year (Zambrano, Dunn).

I'll make more predictions later, but here's an early recap on the Reds:

Their pitching will suck.
They will sorely miss Sean Casey.
If they reach .500, Jerry Narron will receive some Manager of the Year votes.

Prediction: 75-87, barring some major trades.

this thread has me so geeked for baseball. except for following the white sox, i haven't paid much attention to the off-season movements. keep 'em coming fellas, i luuuv when you analyze.

You prove true to your name. If only the same could be said of Jimmy The Exploder.

I'll post a few articles from a well-respected handicapping website that I follow.


Can the Oakland A`s be the best in 2006?

Mon, Feb 20, 2006


As the players roll into spring training, there’s a buzz in the air.

That buzz is the Oakland A’s could be the best team in baseball. Professional gambler Russ Culver buys into it.

He certainly believes the A’s can win at least 90 games, and has backed his opinion with plenty of currency.

The A’s over/under win total is 89 and they are +135 to win the American League West Division at Pinnacle sportsbook. At Olympic sportsbook, you can find the A’s 15-1 to win the World Series.

“Great front office, great defense, which is undervalued, balanced team and they have bushels of pitching,” Culver said of the A’s.

Oakland general manager Billy Beane, flatteringly portrayed in the book “Moneyball,” signed two-time MVP Frank Thomas, talented but crazy Milton Bradley and pitcher Esteban Loaiza without losing a key player.

“Its simple logic,” said Culver, former sportsbook manager at The Mirage and 1999 Las Vegas Hilton SuperContest handicapping football champion. “Every team loses players and signs players. It’s part of the game.

“Oakland didn’t lose a player this year. The A’s had a horrendous start last year, and then along with the Astros were the best in baseball. If the A’s had one weakness it was right-handed power.

“Now you give them Frank Thomas – who by no means is done – and Milton Bradley, who despite all his baggage is a stud, and Esteban Loaiza, who is a decent pitcher and now will be playing behind a great defense, and it comes down to simple math.

“They won 88 games last year and this year, they didn’t lose anyone and added three quality players. It stands to reason they’re going to get better. If they get better they win in the 90s.”

It is scary to think of the A’s with more punch in their lineup because their pitching is so deep and versatile. To go with ace Barry Zito, the A’s have Rich Harden, Danny Haren, Joe Blanton, Loaiza, Joe Kennedy and Kirk Saarloos. Last year’s AL Rookie of the Year, closer Hudson Street, heads a strong bullpen.

The left side of Oakland’s infield is huge with third baseman Eric Chavez and shortstop Bobby Crosby. The outfield has Bradley, Jay Payton and Mark Kotsay. Manager Ken Macha has first base and additional outfield options with Thomas, Dan Johnson and Nick Swisher.

“People can pooh-pooh the “Moneyball” book, but Billy Beane really is smarter than the other general managers,” Culver said. “In this class of GM’s, Billy Beane is valedictorian.”

“How they’re an underdog to win their division is beyond me,” Culver said. “They’re a much better team than Anaheim.”

As respected as Beane is, though, the A’s haven’t won a playoff series since 1990. They’ve missed the post-season the past two seasons.

Certainly Oakland is good. But are the A’s fortified enough now to go all the way?

In a best-case scenario, Thomas is healthy and returns to his dominant hitting ways. He’s played just 108 games the past two years. However, in only 105 at bats last year he hit 12 home runs and had a .590 slugging percentage.

Thomas’ presence would take the pressure off the other hitters, including Chavez, who would expect to see more hittable pitches.

In a worst-case scenario, Crosby proves fragile and Bradley disruptive. Crosby missed nearly half the season last year. Bradley helped poison the Dodgers’ clubhouse because of a racial feud with Jeff Kent.

“That really hurt them last year,” Culver said of Crosby playing just 84 games. “He’s their key player.”

Some believe Bradley won’t have problems in Oakland because the A’s have a laid-back, relaxed clubhouse. If Bradley concentrates on baseball alone, he has 30-homer, 100-RBI potential. He may also provide the A’s with a needed swagger.

But if the A’s still desire added power, Beane has an ace in the hole. He can trade Zito, the 2002 Cy Young award winner, who is in his option year because he has top pitching prospect Justin Duchscherer in the wings.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if he traded Zito at the trade deadline and got more power or whatever he needs,” Culver said of Beane. “You know he’ll get more than Zito’s worth because all the other GM’s are going to say, ‘Left-hander, Cy Young award winner what do you want for him?’ And he’ll rob them.”

I don't think you can rate the Yankees above the Yankees, Cardinals or White Sox at this point. I wouldn't call Thomas, Bradley or Loiaza anything but question marks. The teams I mentioned have some rock solid talent they're sitting on, and their additions (with the exception of the Cardinals) are somewhat more significant.

National League preseason futures outlook

A team-by-team look at the National League entering spring training, including key players each club acquired and lost, and reporting dates for pitchers and catchers, and full squads:

EAST
Atlanta Braves

2005: 90-72, first place.

He`s Here: SS Edgar Renteria, C Todd Pratt, RHP Oscar Villarreal, RHP Lance Cormier, LHP Mike Remlinger, OF Matt Diaz.

He`s Outta Here: SS Rafael Furcal, RHP Kyle Farnsworth, C Johnny Estrada, 1B Julio Franco, RHP Dan Kolb.

Outlook: After winning their 14th straight division title and disappointing in the playoffs again, the Braves did some minor tinkering during the offseason. Furcal was the biggest loss, going to the Los Angeles Dodgers as a free agent, but GM John Schuerholz moved quickly to secure Renteria, who had a disappointing season in Boston. The biggest questions heading into spring training are the health of RHP John Smoltz (he says his arm feels great) and the shaky bullpen. Farnsworth finished 2005 as the closer, then moved on to the New York Yankees. Schuerholz failed to land a replacement during the winter meetings, but it`s hard to imagine the Braves going into the season with Chris Reitsma as their closer. Look for another deal before opening day. The Braves expect Adam LaRoche to become a fulltime starter at first base for the first time, while Ryan Langerhans may have to hold off Kelly Johnson in left field. Marcus Giles might move from his normal No. 2 spot to the leadoff role. Horacio Ramirez and Kyle Davies will compete for the No. 5 spot in the rotation. Longtime pitching coach Leo Mazzone left to direct Baltimore`s staff.

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Philadelphia Phillies

2005: 88-74, second place.

He`s Here: GM Pat Gillick, RHP Tom Gordon, CF Aaron Rowand, LHP Arthur Rhodes, RHP Ryan Franklin, RHP Julio Santana, INF Abraham Nunez, RHP Chris Booker, C Sal Fasano.

He`s Outta Here: GM Ed Wade, LHP Billy Wagner, 1B Jim Thome, RHP Vicente Padilla, RHP Ugueth Urbina, OF Jason Michaels, C Todd Pratt.

Outlook: Gillick made some bold moves early, trading Thome to clear the way for NL Rookie of the Year Ryan Howard at 1B and getting Rowand in the deal. But the Phillies allowed closer Wagner to sign with the New York Mets and failed to land the front-line starter they wanted. Gordon and Rhodes fill voids in the bullpen, but losing Wagner could be difficult to overcome. The rotation still lacks a No. 1 starter and the lineup is filled with streaky hitters who strike out too much. The Phillies fell one game short of forcing a playoff with Houston for the wild-card spot last season, but they`ve probably taken a step back this offseason.
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Florida Marlins

2005: 83-79, tied for third place.

He`s Here: 1B Mike Jacobs, SS Hanley Ramirez, INF Wes Helms, INF Pokey Reese, RHP Joe Borowski, RHP Travis Bowyer, RHP Sergio Mitre, C Miguel Olivo.

He`s Outta Here: RHP Josh Beckett, RHP A.J. Burnett, C Paul Lo Duca, 1B Carlos Delgado, 2B Luis Castillo, SS Alex Gonzalez, 3B Mike Lowell, CF Juan Pierre, RF Juan Encarnacion, 1B-OF Jeff Conine, INF Damion Easley, RHP Todd Jones, RHP Guillermo Mota, RHP Antonio Alfonseca, LHP Ron Villone.

Outlook: In the wake of their second payroll purge in eight years, the Marlins might have four or more rookies in the lineup on opening day. Sorting out the prospects will be the spring-training priority for new manager Joe Girardi, part of the team`s youth movement - he`s 34 years younger than predecessor Jack McKeon. Girardi must replace seven regular starters and two starting pitchers as he rebuilds the Marlins around their two returning stars, slugger Miguel Cabrera (moving to 3B from the OF) and LHP Dontrelle Willis.

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New York Mets


2005: 83-79, tied for third place.

He`s Here: 1B Carlos Delgado, LHP Billy Wagner, C Paul Lo Duca, RHP Duaner Sanchez, RF Xavier Nady, RHP Jorge Julio, RHP Chad Bradford, 1B Julio Franco, INF Jose Valentin, 2B Bret Boone, RHP Yusaku Iriki, OF Tike Redman, OF Endy Chavez, RHP John Maine, LHP Darren Oliver.

He`s Outta Here: C Mike Piazza, RF Mike Cameron, RHP Braden Looper, RHP Kris Benson, RHP Jae Seo, RHP Roberto Hernandez, 1B Doug Mientkiewicz, 1B Mike Jacobs, 2B Miguel Cairo, INF-OF Marlon Anderson, LHP Kazuhisa Ishii, RHP Danny Graves, C Mike DiFelice, 1B Jose Offerman, RHP Shingo Takatsu, OF Gerald Williams, LHP Felix Heredia.

Outlook: After making some major strides last season, the Mets and GM Omar Minaya had another busy winter. Wagner is a big upgrade at closer over Looper, and Delgado gives New York the power-hitting first baseman it sorely needed. But for the inconsistent offense to really improve, Carlos Beltran must be much more productive than he was in his first season with the team and speedy leadoff hitter Jose Reyes has to get on base more. By trading Benson and Seo, Minaya probably weakened what had been a relatively deep, if not spectacular, rotation. Aaron Heilman, who quietly had a dominant second half out of the bullpen, will likely get a chance to become a starter again. Pedro Martinez`s nagging toe injury is still a concern, and lefty Tom Glavine turns 40. Setup relief could be a question mark, too. Spring training will feature competition at several spots: Nady and Victor Diaz will fight for playing time in RF, while Kaz Matsui - a two-year bust since coming over from Japan - will try to hold off a fast-aging Boone at second base. 3B David Wright is a budding star. If the big-name pitchers stay healthy, this team can contend for a division title.
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Washington Nationals

He`s Here: 2B-OF Alfonso Soriano, RHP Ramon Ortiz, RHP Brian Lawrence, OF Michael Tucker, INF-OF Robert Fick, INF-OF Marlon Anderson, C-1B Matthew LeCroy.

He`s Outta Here: OF Preston Wilson, OF Brad Wilkerson, 3B Vinny Castilla, RHP Hector Carrasco, RHP Esteban Loaiza, C Gary Bennett, 2B Junior Spivey, 2B Rick Short, OF Terrmel Sledge.

Outlook: Hard to believe, perhaps, but the Nationals still do not have a new owner, leaving the team in a bit of limbo all offseason. Wrangling between Major League Baseball - which bought the Expos in 2002 - and the District of Columbia over a lease for a new stadium held up an announcement on which of eight bidding groups would buy the Nationals. So while a new owner might have increased the payroll or decided to make front-office changes, everything pretty much stayed status quo, with Jim Bowden as GM, Robinson as manager, and few significant roster additions. The biggest import is Soriano, a second baseman who has indicated he`s not thrilled about the team`s plan to shift him to the outfield. Having lost RHPs Loaiza and Carrasco, and been outbid for some free-agent starters, Washington`s biggest worry probably is the rotation after the top two of RHPs Livan Hernandez and John Patterson. Soriano and rookie 3B Ryan Zimmerman should add some life to what was the worst offense in the majors, but other additions primarily were bench players. OF Jose Guillen`s offseason shoulder surgery could keep him sidelined into the regular season.

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CENTRAL
St. Louis Cardinals

2005: 100-62, first place NL Central.

He`s Here: OF Juan Encarnacion, RHP Sidney Ponson, RHP Braden Looper, OF Larry Bigbie, 2B Junior Spivey, INF Aaron Miles, INF Deivi Cruz, LHP Ricardo Rincon, RHP Jeff Nelson, C Gary Bennett.

He`s Outta Here: RHP Matt Morris, RF Larry Walker, LF Reggie Sanders, 2B Mark Grudzielanek, INF Abraham Nunez, LHP Ray King, RHP Cal Eldred.

Outlook: As the team moves into the new Busch Stadium, La Russa will try to make it three straight 100-win seasons for the first time in franchise history with a retooled lineup. Encarnacion replaces the retired Walker in RF and Spivey will get the first shot to supplant Grudzielanek. The Cardinals could go with a platoon in LF with a combination of Bigbie, So Taguchi and John Rodriguez. Ponson, attempting to rebound from alcohol-related troubles, likely takes over Morris` spot in the rotation. The bullpen is almost totally retooled aside from closer Jason Isringhausen.

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Houston Astros

2005: 89-73, second place, NL champions.

He`s Here: RF Preston Wilson, LHP Trever Miller.

He`s Outta Here: INF Jose Vizcaino.

He Might Be Outta Here: RHP Roger Clemens, 1B Jeff Bagwell.

Outlook: The Astros reversed a 15-30 start and made their first World Series despite scoring only 693 runs, 24th in the majors. They`ve added a bat in Wilson, who hit 25 homers for Colorado and Washington last season. But his arrival pushes at least one man out of a crowded outfield. Lance Berkman would move to first if Bagwell is deemed unable to play - and his dispute with the Astros over whether he still can is ongoing. If Berkman joins Wilson in the outfield, that leaves speedy Willy Taveras and postseason stars Jason Lane and Chris Burke to fill the final outfield positions. Clemens could rejoin the Astros on May 1, but he could also retire or sign with another team. If he leaves, that hurts one of the league`s best rotations. Clemens had baseball`s lowest ERA (1.87) in 2005 and good buddy Andy Pettitte was second (2.39). Roy Oswalt was seventh in the NL (2.94), but emerged as the ace of the staff in the postseason and was selected MVP of the NLCS. Brad Lidge is still the stopper out of the bullpen, despite losing two games in the World Series. If the hitting improves and the pitching comes close to last year, the Astros could be headed to the postseason again.

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Milwaukee Brewers

2005: 81-81, third place.

He`s Here: 3B Corey Koskie, RHP Dan Kolb, RHP Dave Bush, OF Gabe Gross, RHP Chris Demaria, LHP Zach Jackson.

He`s Outta Here: 1B Lyle Overbay, RHP Wes Obermueller, 3B Russell Branyan.

Outlook: After finishing .500 to snap a string of 12 losing seasons, the Brewers` core of young players will have to perform under suddenly high expectations. Among them: second baseman Rickie Weeks, closer Derrick Turnbow, starter Chris Capuano, shortstop J.J. Hardy, utility player Bill Hall and first baseman Prince Fielder. The Brewers traded popular veteran Lyle Overbay based on the potential of Fielder, son of former major leaguer Cecil Fielder. The rotation should be strong, assuming No. 1 starter Ben Sheets is able to stay healthy after a shoulder injury that caused him to miss the last six weeks of last season. Slugging outfielder Carlos Lee made his first All-Star team last year and will be playing for his next contract. Would the Brewers consider trading Lee if they`re still in contention in July? The addition of Koskie in a trade from the Blue Jays likely means that Hall faces another season of being shifted around in a utility role. Weaknesses? The team might be relying on Kolb, who struggled in Atlanta last season, to regain the form he showed in his previous stint with the Brewers in a setup role. They lack a marquee catcher and proven left-handed relief. And though you might expect a team whose manager wears No. 3 as a tribute to late NASCAR driver Dale Earnhardt to be fast on the basepaths, the Brewers won`t be.

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Chicago Cubs

He`s Here: OF Juan Pierre, OF Jacque Jones, OF John Mabry, RHP Bobby Howry, LHP Scott Eyre.

He`s Outta Here: INF Nomar Garciaparra, OF Corey Patterson, OF Jeromy Burnitz.

Outlook: Baker and general manager Jim Hendry are in the final years of their contracts. The Cubs couldn`t get Rafael Furcal, so they will go with young Ronny Cedeno at shortstop. Their starting outfield is completely revamped from opening day 2005, with Matt Murton playing left and joining newcomers Pierre and Jones. The Cubs will need another huge year from 1B Derrek Lee and an injury-free one from 3B Aramis Ramirez to keep the offense rolling. There is a logjam at second base with Todd Walker, Neifi Perez and Jerry Hairston Jr. The key, as always, is the health of starters Kerry Wood and Mark Prior. Wood is coming off shoulder surgery and might not be ready for the start of the season. Prior was slowed last year with elbow problems but should be at full strength. Staff ace Carlos Zambrano, Greg Maddux and Glendon Rusch are expected to complete the rotation. Eyre and Howry are key additions to the bullpen, giving the Cubs a bridge to closer Ryan Dempster.

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Cincinnati Reds

2005: 73-89, fifth place.

He`s Here: LHP Dave Williams, LHP Chris Hammond, RHP Rick White, INF Tony Womack.

He`s Outta Here: 1B Sean Casey, RHP Ramon Ortiz, RHP Ben Weber, INF D`Angelo Jimenez.

Outlook: New owner Bob Castellini took control in January, leaving him little time to make much of an impact on this season. He replaced GM Dan O`Brien with Wayne Krivsky, who was runner-up for the job two years ago. Manager Jerry Narron took over on an interim basis last season when Dave Miley was fired, then got a contract extension. The payroll will be about the same, and so will the lineup. Casey was traded to Pittsburgh, taking care of the outfield logjam. Adam Dunn moves from LF to 1B, and Austin Kearns and Wily Mo Pena get starting jobs next to CF Ken Griffey Jr. Williams, obtained for Casey, will take Ortiz`s spot in what was the NL`s worst rotation last season. RHP Paul Wilson is still recovering from shoulder surgery in June and will be a focus in spring training. Womack is trying to win the 2B job over returners Rich Aurilia and Ryan Freel.

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Pittsburgh Pirates

2005: 67-95, sixth place.

He`s Here: 1B Sean Casey, OF Jeromy Burnitz, 3B Joe Randa, RHP Roberto Hernandez, LHP Damaso Marte, RHP Victor Santos, INF Mike Edwards, INF Jose Hernandez, RHP Terry Adams, RHP Giovanni Carrara, RHP Brandon Duckworth, RHP Scott Strickland, RHP Jorge Vasquez, RHP Joe Roa, LHP C.J. Nitkowski, INF Gookie Dawkins.

He`s Outta Here: LHP Dave Williams, RHP Jose Mesa, RHP Josh Fogg, OF-INF Rob Mackowiak, 1B Daryle Ward, OF Tike Redman, 3B Ty Wigginton, OF Michael Restovich, INF Bobby Hill, RHP Brian Meadows, RHP Rick White.

Outlook: After averaging 92 losses in former manager Lloyd McClendon`s nearly five seasons on the job, the Pirates have a new look starting with Jim Tracy - the first manager hired from outside the organization since Jim Leyland in 1986. The new additions - Casey, Burnitz and Randa - should add power to what was one of the majors` worst offenses. The Pirates expect Casey`s extra-base numbers (9 homers, 32 doubles) to improve in PNC Park and its easily reachable right field porch. The right side of the bullpen is being rebuilt around the 41-year-old Hernandez. Whether the Pirates show significant improvement depends on LHP Oliver Perez`s ability to bounce back from an injury filled season in which he never found the groove he had in 2004, and whether LHP Zach Duke and LHP Paul Maholm can build upon short but exceptional rookie seasons. The Pirates must think Duke is a star in the making: They have not one, but two Duke bobblehead doll giveaways scheduled.

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WEST
San Diego Padres

2005: 82-80, first place

He`s Here: C Mike Piazza, CF Mike Cameron, 3B Vinny Castilla, 2B Mark Bellhorn, LHP Shawn Estes, LHP Alan Embree, RHP Dewon Brazelton, C Doug Mirabelli, RHP Chris Young, 1B Adrian Gonzalez, OF Terrmel Sledge, RHP Doug Brocail.

He`s Outta Here: 2B Mark Loretta, 3B Sean Burroughs, C Ramon Hernandez, RHP Adam Eaton, RHP Brian Lawrence, RHP Akinori Otsuka, OF-INF Xavier Nady, RHP Pedro Astacio, INF Mark Sweeney.

Outlook: The Padres promised changes after limping to the NL West title and then getting swept by St. Louis in the playoffs. GM Kevin Towers had a busy offseason, but the question is whether his many deals will keep the Padres not only in contention, but interesting. One reason the Padres struggled last year was their vanilla offense and a lineup loaded with utility players. Piazza gives the Padres a marquee player whom the Padres think still has some pop in his bat. He had 19 homers last year for the New York Mets. By comparison, Ryan Klesko led the Padres with 18. After ace Jake Peavy, there`s not a lot in the rotation to excite fans, although the 6-foot-10 Young is an interesting acquisition. Shawn Estes is the only lefty among the starting pitchers. The big battle in spring training will be at second base, where Bellhorn, Bobby Hill and rookie Josh Barfield, son of Jesse Barfield, will compete to replace Loretta. Klesko will move back to first base and Dave Roberts will move from center field to left, although rumors persist he could be dealt back to Boston for David Wells.

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Arizona Diamondbacks

2005: 77-85, second place.

He`s Here: C Johnny Estrada, 2B Orlando Hudson, CF Eric Byrnes, RHP Miguel Batista, RHP Orlando ``El Duque`` Hernandez, OF Jeff DaVanon, OF Chris Young.

He`s Outta Here: 3B Troy Glaus, RHP Javier Vazquez, SS Royce Clayton, LHP Shawn Estes, OF Quinton McCracken.

Outlook: New GM Josh Byrnes, formerly Theo Epstein`s top aide in Boston, made deals aimed at keeping the team respectable while building for the future with a limited budget. He brought in Estrada to provide offense at catcher and landed Gold Glove winner Hudson in the Glaus deal. Craig Counsell will shift to SS. Chad Tracy goes back to 3B, where his defense was shaky two seasons ago. Brandon Webb moves to the No. 1 spot in a rotation that seems less than imposing. Tracy is a solid hitter but there isn`t much power in the lineup. LF Luis Gonzalez could be in his final year with the Diamondbacks. His contract expires after this season. The Diamondbacks have an option for another year but seem unlikely to exercise it. The bullpen was mostly awful last year, but Jose Valverde had a solid second half as the closer.

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San Francisco Giants

2005: 75-87, third place.

He`s Here: RHP Matt Morris, OF Steve Finley, LHP Steve Kline, RHP Tim Worrell, INF-OF Mark Sweeney, INF Jose Vizcaino, C Todd Greene.

He`s Outta Here: 1B J.T. Snow, 3B Edgardo Alfonzo, RHP Brett Tomko, LHP Scott Eyre, RHP LaTroy Hawkins.

Outlook: None of the Giants offseason moves will matter if slugger Barry Bonds isn`t healthy in `06. Bonds was limited to 14 games last season because of knee problems, but showed signs of his old self in September by hitting five homers in 42 at-bats. He needs seven more to pass Babe Ruth for the most ever for a lefty and 48 to break Hank Aaron`s career mark of 755. Considering that Bonds has only hit that many homers twice in his career, it appears unlikely he`ll set the record in the final season of his contract. Injuries could be a problem again for an old team that will have three outfielders in their 40s come July - Bonds, Finley and Moises Alou. RHP Matt Cain (2-1, 2.33 ERA in 7 starts) provides some youth to the rotation, but the key will be a bounce-back season by ace Jason Schmidt (12-7, 4.40 ERA) and a strong performance by Morris.

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Los Angeles Dodgers

2005: 71-91, fourth place.

He`s Here: SS Rafael Furcal, 1B Nomar Garciaparra, RHP Danys Baez, RHP Lance Carter, CF Kenny Lofton, 3B Bill Mueller, RHP Jae Seo, RHP Brett Tomko, C Sandy Alomar Jr., RHP Aaron Sele, LHP Tim Hamulack, OF Andre Ethier.

He`s Outta Here: LHP Wilson Alvarez, C Paul Bako, CF Milton Bradley, RHP Giovanni Carrara, RHP Darren Dreifort, RHP Elmer Dessens, INF-OF Mike Edwards, RHP Edwin Jackson, INF Antonio Perez, C Jason Phillips, C Mike Rose, RHP Duaner Sanchez, RHP Steve Schmoll, INF Jose Valentin, RHP Jeff Weaver.

Outlook: Coming off their second-worst season since moving west from Brooklyn in 1958, the Dodgers will have an entirely new look this year. Ned Colletti was hired to replace Paul DePodesta as general manager 2 1/2 months ago, and after hiring Grady Little to replace Jim Tracy as manager, he made wholesale changes and might not be finished. Colletti made over the infield, bringing in free agents Garciaparra, Furcal and Mueller to join slugger Jeff Kent. Lofton, another free agent, will play center field. Furcal and Kent had minor operations last month but are expected to be at or near 100 percent by the beginning of next month. Tomko and Seo were brought in to complete a starting rotation that also includes holdovers Derek Lowe, Brad Penny and Odalis Perez, and the bullpen was beefed up with the acquisition of Baez and Carter from Tampa Bay. The Dodgers hope closer Eric Gagne and right fielder J.D. Drew will be back at full health after their 2005 seasons were shortened by injuries. This is a team that figures to have improved enough to contend in a weak division.

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Colorado Rockies

2005: 67-95, fifth place.

He`s Here: RHP Jose Mesa, LHP Ray King, C Yorvit Torrealba, OF Eli Marrero.

He`s Outta Here: OF Larry Bigbie, C Todd Greene, 2B Aaron Miles, RHP Jamey Wright, RHP Dan Miceli.

Outlook: The Rockies gave Hurdle and GM Dan O`Dowd each one-year contract extensions, figuring they should have a little more time to try to make something of the mess in Colorado. Is it going to get any better? Well, once again, the Rockies refused to spend in the offseason, counting on Todd Helton, their only star, to keep producing, and on Garrett Atkins, Matt Holliday, Cory Sullivan and Clint Barmes - all of them still prospects, really - to keep improving and make this team respectable. The only problem is, not all the players Colorado chooses to develop are good picks: 2B Aaron Miles and C J.D. Closser were each handed starting jobs last year and failed. There are a couple of decent pitching prospects, but that never wins the day at Coors Field. Attendance is way down and fans aren`t showing any signs of showing up again until this product gets better.

American League preseason futures outlook

A team-by-team look at the American League entering spring training, including key players each club acquired and lost, and reporting dates for pitchers and catchers, and full squads:

EAST
New York Yankees

2005: 95-67, first place

He`s Here: CF Johnny Damon, RHP Kyle Farnsworth, LHP Ron Villone, LHP Mike Myers, C Kelly Stinnett, INF Miguel Cairo, RHP Octavio Dotel.

He`s Outta Here: RHP Tom Gordon, 1B Tino Martinez, DH-OF Ruben Sierra, RHP Kevin Brown, C John Flaherty, LHP Alan Embree, RHP Felix Rodriguez, OF Matt Lawton, INF Mark Bellhorn, INF Rey Sanchez.

Outlook: The $200 million Yankees rallied from a poor start to win their eighth consecutive division title last season, then were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs by the Angels for the second time in four years. General manager Brian Cashman was retained with a three-year contract, but New York had a relatively quiet winter with the exception of luring Damon away from the rival Red Sox. He fits nicely in the leadoff spot and center field, though he doesn`t throw well and was slowed by injuries last year. With Derek Jeter, Gary Sheffield, Alex Rodriguez, Hideki Matsui, Jason Giambi, Jorge Posada and Robinson Cano all back, the lineup comes close to a modern-day Murderers` Row. Bernie Williams re-signed to take Sierra`s part-time, DH-OF role. So if everyone remains healthy and productive, the offense could break a few records. The defense, however, looks shaky - and age is a concern. No. 1 starter Randy Johnson, coming off a mostly disappointing Big Apple debut, is 42. Mike Mussina is 37 and he fell off considerably the past two seasons. The rotation is certainly deep, but Chien-Ming Wang and Shawn Chacon will have to prove themselves again, while Carl Pavano and Jaret Wright must show they can stay healthy and handle New York. The bridge to unflappable closer Mariano Rivera is brand new. Former ace Ron Guidry replaces longtime pitching coach Mel Stottlemyre. The rest of the coaching staff includes three ex-big league managers: Tony Pena, Larry Bowa and Lee Mazzilli.

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Boston Red Sox

2005: 95-67, second place.

He`s Here: RHP Josh Beckett, CF Coco Crisp, 2B Mark Loretta, SS Alex Gonzalez, 3B Mike Lowell, 1B J.T. Snow, RHP Julian Tavarez, RHP Rudy Seanez, RHP David Riske, C John Flaherty, C Josh Bard.

He`s Outta Here: CF Johnny Damon, 1B Kevin Millar, SS Edgar Renteria, 3B Bill Mueller, 1B John Olerud, C Doug Mirabelli, RHP Jeremi Gonzalez, RHP Chad Bradford, LHP Mike Myers, RHP Wade Miller, RHP Matt Mantei, 1B Roberto Petagine, OF Adam Hyzdu, C Kelly Shoppach.

Outlook: GM Theo Epstein resigned on Oct. 31, then returned on Jan. 24 after discussions to improve his working relationship with team president Larry Lucchino. He still had a hand in deals as Jed Hoyer and Ben Cherington, who filled in as co-general managers, consulted him. Johnny Damon joined the New York Yankees as a free agent, but the Red Sox replaced him as the center fielder and leadoff hitter with Coco Crisp, who is six years younger, earns about one-fourth his salary and had similar hitting numbers last year. The infield has four new starters and the defense on the left side is outstanding. Beckett is a top of the rotation starter with Curt Schilling coming off an injury-marred season. The bullpen is rebuilt, and Boston hopes Keith Foulke can be a top closer again. The power punch remains with LF Manny Ramirez and DH David Ortiz. The Red Sox tried to accommodate Ramirez`s wish to be traded but said they found no suitable offers. The Yankees and Toronto both appear to be improved, so Boston could have a tougher year in the AL East.

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Toronto Blue Jays

2005: 80-82, third place.

He`s Here: RHP A.J. Burnett, LHP B.J. Ryan, 3B Troy Glaus, C Bengie Molina, 1B Lyle Overbay.

He`s Outta Here: 2B Orlando Hudson, RHP Miguel Batista, 3B Corey Koskie, RHP David Bush.

Outlook: GM J.P. Ricciardi might have been the most productive executive in baseball this offseason, raising eyebrows when he gave Ryan the most lucrative contract in history for a reliever - $47 million over five years. It was just the beginning of an expensive makeover for the Blue Jays, who also added Burnett, Glaus, Overbay and Molina. Toronto, expanding its payroll from $45 million to about $75 million, appears capable of contending with the Yankees and Boston for a playoff spot. The improved rotation includes former Cy Young Award winner Roy Halladay, Burnett, LHPs Gustavo Chacin and Ted Lilly as well as RHP Josh Towers. Ryan is the closer of an underrated bullpen. Glaus gives the Blue Jays the power they lacked since Carlos Delgado left as a free agent after the 2004 season.

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Baltimore Orioles

2005: 74-88, fourth place.

He`s Here: RHP Kris Benson, C Ramon Hernandez, 1B Jeff Conine, OF Corey Patterson, 1B Kevin Millar, RHP LaTroy Hawkins.

He`s Outta Here: LHP B.J. Ryan, OF Sammy Sosa, 1B Rafael Palmeiro, RHP James Baldwin, RHP Jason Grimsley, OF Eli Marrero, LHP Steve Kline, RHP Jorge Julio, RHP John Maine.

Outlook: Angered over the Orioles` inability to enhance their roster during the offseason, All-Star shortstop Miguel Tejada asked to be traded before rescinding his request. But he certainly had a point. The addition of Benson and Hawkins probably isn`t enough to make up for the loss of free agent Ryan, whom the Orioles developed into one of baseball`s best closers. If pitching guru Leo Mazzone can improve a young rotation and offer sage advice to prospective stopper Chris Ray, and if the Orioles can get power numbers from Tejada, Jay Gibbons and Melvin Mora, then perhaps they can end their franchise-record run of eight straight losing seasons. At least they won`t have Palmeiro, whose suspension for steroid use became a distraction in the second half of the 2005 season.

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Tampa Bay Devil Rays

2005: 67-95, fifth place.

He`s Here: 3B Sean Burroughs, RHP Shinji Mori, RHP Dan Miceli, C Josh Paul, RHP Edwin Jackson.

He`s Outta Here: RHP Danys Baez, 3B Alex Gonzalez, 1B-DH Eduardo Perez, RHP Dewon Brazelton, RHP Lance Carter.

Outlook: New York investor Stuart Sternberg has taken over as principal owner, replacing founding managing general partner Vince Naimoli, and Maddon replaced Lou Piniella, who asked out as manager. Sternberg has vowed to do whatever is necessary make the club successful on and off the field. That, however, doesn`t translate into a significant boost in the budget for player salaries in 2006. That means the team with baseball`s lowest payroll will be hard-pressed to escape last place in a division dominated by the big spending Yankees and Red Sox.

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CENTRAL
Chicago White Sox

2005: 99-63, first place, World Series champions.

He`s Here: DH Jim Thome, RHP Javier Vazquez, INF-OF Rob Mackowiak.

He`s Outta Here: DH Frank Thomas, DH Carl Everett, CF Aaron Rowand, RHP Orlando Hernandez, RHP Jose Vizcaino, LHP Damaso Marte, OF Timo Perez, INF Willie Harris, INF Geoff Blum.

Outlook: General manager Kenny Williams didn`t relax after the team won its first World Series title in 88 years. Just the opposite. Williams worked deals for Thome, Vazquez and Mackowiak, and re-signed 1B Paul Konerko to a $60 million, five-year contract. Nine players from the championship team are gone. Thome, saddled with back and elbow injuries last season with the Phillies, could give the team needed left-handed punch. Vazquez will fit into an already strong rotation and apparently send top prospect Brandon McCarthy to the bullpen or back to the minors. Rowand`s gritty play will be missed, and Chicago is counting on rookie Brian Anderson to take over in center field. Leadoff hitter and base-stealing threat Scott Podsednik is coming off hernia surgery but will be ready for opening day. Guillen, the AL Manager of the Year, is known to go with his gut feeling. He is expected to move SS Juan Uribe up to second in the order from ninth and drop Tadahito Iguchi from second to seventh so he will get more RBI opportunities. Two starters, Freddy Garcia and Vazquez, are slated to pitch in the World Baseball Classic.

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Cleveland Indians

2005: 93-69, second place.

He`s Here: RHP Paul Byrd, RHP Jason Johnson, RHP Guillermo Mota, 1B Eduardo Perez, 3B Andy Marte, OF Jason Michaels, INF-OF Lou Merloni, OF Todd Hollandsworth, RHP Danny Graves, RHP Steve Karsay.

He`s Outta Here: RHP Kevin Millwood, RHP Bob Howry, RHP Scott Elarton, OF Coco Crisp, C Josh Bard, RHP David Riske, INF-OF Jose Hernandez, LHP Arthur Rhodes.

Outlook: Despite some shrewd offseason signings and the trade that brought Marte, a potential All-Star to Cleveland, there was widespread criticism of GM Mark Shapiro - voted baseball`s top exec in `05 - for not doing enough to keep pace with the White Sox. Replacing Millwood and Howry will be the biggest challenge for the Indians, who have to avoid another horrible start after going 9-14 in April a year ago. Marte was the key component in the deal that sent Crisp to Boston, and he could challenge Aaron Boone if the veteran third baseman starts as poorly as he did last season. Wedge has done an exceptional job with teams not necessarily expected to compete. This season, he`ll be judged on whether he can get the Indians back to the playoffs.

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Minnesota Twins

2005: 83-79, third place.

He`s Here: DH Rondell White, 2B Luis Castillo, 3B Tony Batista, OF Ruben Sierra.

He`s Outta Here: RF Jacque Jones, LHP J.C. Romero, RHP Joe Mays, 2B Luis Rivas.

Outlook: With an annually limited amount of money to spend on enhancing the lineup, GM Terry Ryan made a handful of moves designed to make Minnesota a better offensive club. Will they work? We`ll see. On paper, it doesn`t look like a whole lot, but if DH Rondell White and 2B Luis Castillo stay healthy they`ll be upgrades at those positions. 3B Tony Batista is a big unknown after spending last season in Japan, but that`s another place where it won`t take much to be better than what the Twins got last year. The onus is on young slugging 1B Justin Morneau to bounce back from a hugely disappointing season. Though the White Sox and Indians should be the early favorites in the Central, the Twins ought to be able to compete because of their stellar rotation - and reliable bullpen. Starters Johan Santana, Brad Radke, Carlos Silva and Kyle Lohse comprise a solid first four, with well-regarded prospects Scott Baker and Francisco Liriano fighting for the last spot. One could wind up as a reliever for now, setting up All-Star closer Joe Nathan along with righty Juan Rincon.

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Detroit Tigers

2005: 71-91, fourth place.

He`s Here: RHP Todd Jones, LHP Kenny Rogers.

He`s Outta Here: Manager Alan Trammell, OF Bobby Higginson, OF Rondell White, RHP Jason Johnson.

Outlook: The biggest change in Detroit is in the dugout, where Leyland takes over for Trammell. Leyland spent the first 18 years of his career in the Tigers system - six as a player, one as a coach and 11 as a minor league manager - before getting the top job in Pittsburgh in 1986. He won three division titles with the Pirates and a World Series in Florida. In Detroit, he`ll be the toast of Motown if he can just provide the first winning season since 1993. Detroit missed out on most of its free-agent targets for a second straight winter but did strengthen the pitching staff with the additions of the 41-year-old Rogers and 37-year-old Jones. Rogers replaces Johnson in the rotation, while Jones, the man Ernie Harwell nicknamed ``The Roller Coaster,`` resumes his closing duties after leaving Detroit in 2001. Phenom RHP Justin Verlander, the No. 2 amateur draft pick in 2004, could leave spring training with the fifth spot in the rotation. With no new faces on offense, the Tigers hope SS Carlos Guillen`s right knee lets him regain his 2003 form, and C Ivan Rodriguez rebounds from his worst offensive season in more than a decade.

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Kansas City Royals


2005: 56-106, fifth place.

He`s Here: RHP Scott Elarton, LHP Mark Redman, RHP Joe Mays, OF Reggie Sanders, 2B Mark Grudzielanek, 1B Doug Mientkiewicz, RHP Elmer Dessens, C Paul Bako, RHP Joel Peralta.

He`s Outta Here: RHP Jose Lima, OF Terrence Long, RHP D.J. Carrasco, RHP Shawn Camp, LHP Brian Anderson.

Outlook: The Royals had the worst record in the majors last season and went through three managers: Tony Pena, Bob Schaefer and Buddy Bell, who had a 43-69 record after he was hired on May 31. The pitching staff had the worst ERA (5.48) in the league, a franchise high. To correct that, the Royals acquired three veteran starters - Elarton and Mays as free agents and Redman in a trade. The Royals are hoping Sanders, who should bat cleanup, will provide protection for DH-1B Mike Sweeney, a five-time All-Star who hit .300 with 21 home runs last season. The Royals topped the majors with 125 errors, but the addition of Grudzielanek and Mientkiewicz should cut down on the infield miscues. The bullpen was a strength with RHP Mike MacDougal converting 21 of 25 save opportunities. LHPs Jeremy Affeldt and Andrew Sisco and RHP Ambiorix Burgos complemented MacDougal. Burgos averaged 9.24 strikeouts per nine innings and Sisco 9.08, ranking first and second among major league rookies. The Royals should be improved after signing seven free agents, but are still probably doomed to a 90-plus loss season. After losing 100-plus games in three of the past four years, 90 losses would be a step up for a franchise that hasn`t made the playoffs since 1985.

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WEST
Los Angeles Angels

2005: 95-67, first place.

He`s Here: RHP Hector Carrasco, LHP J.C. Romero, 3B Edgardo Alfonzo.

He`s Outta Here: LHP Jarrod Washburn, RHP Paul Byrd, LHP Jason Christiansen, C Bengie Molina, C Josh Paul, OF Steve Finley, OF Jeff DaVanon, INF Lou Merloni.

Outlook: After winning their second consecutive AL West title, this time by seven games, the Angels had a relatively quiet winter. They let two longtime stalwarts go, Washburn and Bengie Molina. Jose Molina, Bengie`s brother, will compete with some younger players for the starting job behind the plate. On the mound, the Angels believe newcomers Carrasco and Romero can help pick up the slack left by Washburn`s departure. Los Angeles wanted to give 2004 AL MVP Vladimir Guerrero some protection in the lineup, but efforts to lure 1B Paul Konerko to Anaheim didn`t work out. One key might be how well RHP Bartolo Colon, last season`s AL Cy Young Award winner, comes back from a late-season shoulder injury. If he`s completely recovered, the Angels figure to have one of the league`s best rotations, and their bullpen - featuring closer Francisco Rodriguez - is very solid.

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Oakland Athletics

2005: 88-74, second place.

He`s Here: OF Milton Bradley, DH Frank Thomas, RHP Esteban Loaiza, INF Antonio Perez, RHP Chad Gaudin

He`s Outta Here: 1B Scott Hatteberg, LHP Ricardo Rincon, DH Erubiel Durazo, RHP Octavio Dotel, RHP Keiichi Yabu.

Outlook: After watching star after star leave each offseason the past few years, the A`s experienced a different kind of offseason. GM Billy Beane made many more additions that subtractions, bringing in Bradley and Thomas to upgrade an offense that struggled to score consistently last season. Oakland is hoping Thomas is healthy enough to play 100 games and Bradley stays in line after temper problems at his previous stops. Oakland even kept Macha after talks to keep the manager broke down for a week in October, leading to his brief departure. Avoiding another slow start will be important for Oakland after missing the playoffs the past two seasons. The A`s have much more depth than usual, with Loaiza providing insurance if Rich Harden is slow to recover from an injured shoulder that shut him down late last season. Oakland is also counting on a repeat season from Rookie of the Year Huston Street (5-1, 1.72 ERA, 23 saves).

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Texas Rangers

2005: 79-83, third place.

He`s Here: RHP Kevin Millwood, RHP Adam Eaton, RHP Vicente Padilla, RHP Akinori Otsuka, OF Brad Wilkerson, 2B Ian Kinsler.

He`s Outta Here: LHP Kenny Rogers, 2B Alfonso Soriano, RHP Chris Young, C Sandy Alomar Jr., OF Richard Hidalgo, RHP Doug Brocail, RHP Ricardo Rodriguez, 1B Adrian Gonzalez.

Outlook: With AL ERA champion Kevin Millwood, Adam Eaton and former NL All-Star Vicente Padilla part of a completely revamped rotation, the Rangers might finally have pitching to go with their impressive offense. Otsuka could be the setup man to closer Francisco Cordero that was missing last year. Besides acquiring pitchers, new GM Jon Daniels - at 28 the youngest ever in the major leagues - traded Soriano and his $10 million-or-more salary in the deal for Wilkerson. That was part of the move to provide a different offensive dimension to a team that led the majors in home runs again last season. Wilkerson likely will be the leadoff hitter, a gap-to-gap hitter who can take advantage of the Rangers` ballpark. Slugger Mark Teixeira was also a Gold Glove 1B last season. SS Michael Young and 3B Hank Blalock are two-time All-Stars, and rookie Kinsler will get the chance to replace Soriano. Wilkerson is among five capable outfielders.

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Seattle Mariners

2005: 69-93, fourth place.

He`s Here: LHP Jarrod Washburn, C Kenji Johjima, DH-OF Carl Everett, OF Matt Lawton, LHP Jake Woods, RHP Marcos Carvajal.

He`s Outta Here: RHP Ryan Franklin, C Dan Wilson, INF Pokey Reese, RHP Shigetoshi Hasegawa, RHP Jeff Nelson, OF Jamal Strong.

Outlook: The Mariners entered the offseason desperate for more power, after ranking 22nd in the majors in runs scored and 26th in home runs, and also needed a top starting pitcher. They settled for Everett and Lawton, plus Johjima, Japan`s best catcher. For pitching, they missed out on starter Kevin Millwood, fell back to Washburn and retained closer Eddie Guardado. What the offense really needs is for Richie Sexson to repeat his 2005 production (39 HRs, 121 RBIs) and Adrian Beltre to approach his 2004 form (48 HRs with the Dodgers). If that happens, and 19-year-old RHP Felix Hernandez remains as tough as he was last season, the rest of the suspect pitching staff (Gil Meche, Joel Piniero and 43-year-old Jamie Moyer) might still be enough to rise to the fringes of playoff contention. If not, Seattle could wind up with a third straight 90-loss season. That`s a lot of ``ifs`` on which to bank a season.

The Cubs will suck yet again.

AL East - New York Yankees
AL Central - Cleveland Indians
AL West - Oakland Athletics
Wild Card - Chicago White Sox

NL East - toss up. I'll go with the Phillies
NL Central - St. Louis Cardinals
NL West - San Francisco Giants
WC - New York Mets

World Series - White Sox over the Cards in 5

Who else is picking the Braves to fall?

Not me. They're one of the best organizations in all of sports. They just find a way to win year in and year out.

The Leo Mazzone departure could be a concern, but i'm sure they'll be fine.

no denying they're a top notch organization..
and Bobby Cox is a genius, but i think they're overdue for a down season.


i wouldnt dare go as far as to say sub .500, but i don't think they'll pull off another title.

Mazzone leaving is a *big*deal, they'll finish second or third in the division this year.

AL West:
x-Oakland
Anaheim
Texas
Seattle

AL Central:
x-Chicago
y-Minnesota
Cleveland
Detroit
Kansas City

AL East:
x-New York
Toronto
Boston
Tampa Bay
Baltimore

NL West:
x-Los Angeles
Arizona
San Diego
San Francisco (I'll be damned if Barry starts 95)
Colorado

NL Central:
x-Chicago
y-St. Louis
Milwaukee
Houston
Pittsburgh
Cincinnati

NL East:
x-Atlanta (Still think they'll pull it off and that NYM will disappoint)
New York
Philadelphia
Washington
Florida

Divisional Series:
Minnesota over Oakland
CWS over New York
Atlanta over Chicago Cubs
St. Louis over LA Dodgers

Championship Series:
CWS over Minnesota
Atlanta over St. Louis

World Series:
CWS over Atlanta

It is too early for predictions like this. Have to see how things pan out during spring training. It just started for crying out loud.

I will make predictions at a later date.

i really hate the braves, but the mets always do seem to disappoint when they bring in a lot of new players like they did this offseason. i really don't see delgado hitting for more than .280 in shea.

I really am pulling for big things from the Jays this year. So much, that I want to go up to Toronto to see a game, especially on THIS giveaway night!

Shouldn't that be Bartolo Colon's night.

You would think so, but Gustavo. Dude is a stud. Caught him pitch last year against the Cubs and he pretty much owned them. Normally I'm really bummed if I go to a Cubs game and they lose, but being that the Jays are one of my favorite teams, I couldn't complain. 'twas a solid game.

The Jays could be a real contender but they need two things to happen which are both almost as big "ifs" as Barry Bonds playing more than 100 games. They need Roy Halladay and Vernon Wells to put up all-star numbers for a full season.

Not just that, but they needs them to stay healthy the whole year. Especially Halladay. Last year, without Roy, they still ended with surpringly pretty solid record. Imagine them with Halladay pitching. They seriously would be a really tough team to beat in the East. I think a Wild Card berth from them isn't too much to ask for.

I noticed that Orlando Hudson is gone- who's playing 2nd base?

Their 40-man roster has like three or four shortstops. I'd assume they will either bring someone up or move one of the SS over to second. But I had no clue Orlando was gone. I was always a big fan of him.

I predict that Ken Williams is going to have a nervous breakdown before the season is over...

White Sox win it all Jackie Chan!

Who will play more games this season?





The Big Skirt




or









Barry "Abdul" Bonds

What the!? Is that a real photo of Bonds?! Odd...that might be the happiest I've ever seen him in a photograph...as Neil Young would say: "inna'resting".

definitely a real photo...

Wow...we knew he was jacked (juiced even) but I didn't know he was that huge...he looks like one of them Swedish dudes on "World's Strongest Man"....Fassero put up lukewarm numbers for the Cubs a few years back, if memory serves.

Aaron Hill is taking over 2nd. Saw a bit of time there last year. More promising at the bat than Orlando, but pales in comparison when we're talking fielding. They're going to miss his glove. Either way, I'm expecting big things out of the Jays. The fever is back!!!

Go Angels!!!



I don't have much else to say. I cannot get too geeked for baseball until after the NCAA tourney.

Hammerin' Hank Aaron, Homerun King...








Barry Balco Bonds, Homerun Queen...

You just love that face, don'tcha?