___Ahhh yes, Spring has come upon us bringing with it our beloved baseball. And like Spring, a new baseball season brings fresh starts, a bright horizon ahead, and a renewed sense of hope. Last season we witnessed the Tampa Bay Rays exercise the devil and thrust themselves into the National MLB conversation. Understandably so, a poignant discussion this season is "who could be the next 'Tampa Bay Rays?'" I've heard many considerations for the franchise, those who know, feel will break through it's ugly past years and surprise the Majors. Now I must interject that I recognize that every season is it's own story. This season more than likely won't produce the same kind of success story, however, the chatter is relevant and moderately enjoyable to partake in.
___A fashionable pick to start the debate is the Oakland Athletics who bolstered their offense tremendously this off season by bringing in superstar right fielder Matt Holliday and aging veteran Jason Giambi, among others. I discount this team on the other hand because of pitching inexperience. They do appear to have a dominate bullpen in the works, and it may well be a strength, but I have no faith in the starters. The rotation coming in averages twenty-three years old with none older than twenty-five and a collective career win total of eighteen. A number which seven individual pitchers obtained or surpassed in 2008. They most likely will post better offensive numbers this year, but it'll be difficult day in and day out having to outscore every team they face.
___Another trendy choice which I favor is the Texas Rangers. I see the A.L. West coming down to the Angels or Texas. The Rangers, in my opinion, are a sleeping giant ready to awake and make a run with their extremely dangerous offense which should be better this year, if healthy. The question with this club is pitching. If they get consistency from ace Kevin Milwood, adequate support from the rest of the rotation and decent bullpen play I easily see them winning the division and possibly making a Ray like run at a World Series Title.
___The Kansas City Royals are the interesting speculation around the league. After years of relative obscurity the Royals have built themselves a young, talented, promising baseball club. What's also intriguing is that the A.L. Central Division is generally a consensus toss up this year with no clear favorite. The array of young talent K.C. has accumulated is impressive featuring potential perennial All-Star third baseman Alex Gordon, and the exciting newcomer Mike Aviles at short-stop. This coupled with the additions made during the winter, Coco Crisp to solidify the outfield and Mike Jacobs to add power at first base, are definite plus signs. The pitching appears to be a strength as well with Gil Meche, Zach Greinke, and Kyle Davies emerging as solid Major League starters. The bullpen could become an issue but if closer Joakim Soria is the real deal the Royals should be as well.
___With all that being said, I've noticed a team largely overlooked in this conversation. That team is the Baltimore Orioles who have struggled mightily during the last decade. Be that as it may, they may have been slowly developing a crop of future greats. From All-Star caliber veterans Brian Roberts, Aubrey Huff, and Melvin Mora in the infield to budding superstars Adam Jones and Nick Markakis covering the outfield this team is loaded offensively and defensively savvy. Noteworthy also is the acquisition of Gold Glove short-stop Caesar Izturis. This potentially cements their infield defense and end of lineup hitting as Tampa Bay did the year before in adding short-stop Jason Bartlett. Pitching is a concern as the O's have a generally unproven staff. The bullpen was a strength last year and could be again if healthy. Their rotation is somewhat inexperienced and their effectiveness will determine whether the Orioles can turn it around this year.
___Of course this being speculation and "if this, then that's," it'll all be played out on the field during a long Major League season, but it's fun to predict the weather sometimes. Ultimately I do think the A's will improve but fall short to the Angels and Rangers in the West. Pitching effectiveness, both starting and reserve, will decide the Rangers fate as I do see them producing a ton of offense. The Royals will be in control of their own fate in the Central, as with everyone else. If they mature and play consistently they will provide for themselves a great shot at the division crown. And as for the Orioles, this club needs to live up to their potential and more to do any damage in the crucible that is the A.L. East. They realistically may be a year away from serious contention and it would be an incredible surprise if they made that Tampa like run. But then again, that's what they all said about the Rays last year.
No comments:
Post a Comment