You're Hot and You're Cold

It's cold in the Twin Cities and it's hot in the Valley of the Sun. The Minnesota Twins and the Arizona Diamond Backs most likely won't finish in first place this season, but they are making progress for success in future seasons.

Mr. Minneapolis, Joe Mauer 

The Twins caught lightning in a bottle in 2012 with Josh Willingham's success and they are hoping he will repeat his success. This Twin's lineup is dependent on power with the departure of two speed threats in Ben Revere and Denard Span. I would play Mauer at first base for two out of five games, catch two out of five games and be the DH for one out of five games between the catching days.  This would allow him to be in more games without the wear on his body. Mauer, Morneau, and Doumit will rotate between catcher, first base, and DH. Obviously Morneau won't play catcher.

1. R. Mastroianni CF 90 OPS+
2. R. Carrol 2B          86 OPS+
3. L. Mauer C            141 OPS+
4. R. Willingham LF   144 OPS+
5. L. Morneau 1B       113 OPS+
6. R. Plouffe 3B          107 OPS+
7. S. Doumit DH        114 OPS+
8. S. Florimon SS       61 OPS+
9. S. Hicks RF            Not enough MLB statistics

The Twins are making major strides to improve their pitching rotation, signing pitchers and trading for them. It still isn't likely for any one of these guys to win a CyYoung award or lead a category in anything, but they are good enough to do well.

1. R. Kevin Correia 4.21 ERA
2. R. Vance Worley 4.20 ERA
3. L. Scott Diamond 3.54 ERA
4. R. Mike Pelfrey 4.74 ERA in 2011
5. L. Brian Duensing 5.12 ERA

The closer's job in the bullpen is up for grabs, but there are few nice pieces in the pen for the Twins. Glen Perkins posted a 2.56 ERA, Jared Burton posted a 2.18 ERA, Josh Roenicke posted a 3.25 ERA and Alex Burnett posted a 3.52 ERA. They should compete for the role of the closer, but whoever wins should won't be closing many games.

I project 67 wins for the Twins in 2013

Miguel Montero 

The Diamond Backs traded undoubtedly their best player in Justin Upton. In the trade they acquired Martin Prado to play third base. The D-Backs also signed outfielder Cody Ross, and Cliff Pennington. The Diamond Backs are trying to make a team of gritty players who play hard and are a good club house presence.

1. L. Eaton CF          111 OPS+
2. R. Prado 3B          114 OPS+
3. L. Montero C        120 OPS+
4. R. Goldschmidt 1B 123 OPS+
5. L. Kubel LF           117 OPS+
6. R. Ross RF            113 OPS+
7. R. Hill 2B               131 OPS+
8. S. Pennington SS    64 OPS+

The Diamond Backs also have some very good starting pitchers in the rotation. Although they traded away phenom Trevor Bauer they are still pretty good. They signed underrated pitcher of the year, Brandon McCarthy, and acquired Randell Delgado in the Upton trade. Also in the rotation was rookie of the year runner up, Wade Miley.

1. R. Ian Kennedy 4.02 ERA
2. R. Brandon McCarthy 3.24 ERA
3. L. Wade Miley  3.33 ERA
4. R. Randall Delgado  4.37 ERA
5. L. Patrick Corbin 4.54 ERA

The bullpen for the D-Backs has the addition of former closer, Heath Bell, but he will act as a setup man to current closer JJ Putz. Putz pitched to a 2.82 ERA in 2012 with 32 saves for the D-Backs while Bell had a terrible season with the Marlins in 2012. Brad Ziegler is also in the bullpen with a 2.49 ERA in 2012 along with lefties Matt Reynolds and Tony Sipp who didn't fare so well in ERA this passed season.

I project 84 wins for the Diamond Backs in 2013

Dedicated Fan Base

The fans of the Boston Red Sox and the Philadelphia Phillies are two fan bases that are dedicated to their teams. I've been to Fenway Park and Citizens Bank Park in recent seasons and both times the atmosphere was just fantastic. Both teams missed the post season in 2012, but they are looking to make it back in 2013, and the fan base will have to be a big part of it.

The Boston Red Sox were on a slippery slope in the beginning of 2012 and they ended up at the bottom of the stack. They fired Bobby Valentine and rebuilt half of their lineup. Adrian Gonzalez, Carl Crawford, Cody Ross, and Kevin Youkilis will not be back with the Red Sox in 2013. Although they lost a lot, they spent the most money this off season and that resulted in this lineup:

1. S. Victorino LF          91 OPS+
2. L. Ellsbury CF            83 OPS+
3. R. Pedroia 2B            112 OPS+
4. L. Ortiz DH                171 OPS+
5. R. Napoli 1B              110 OPS+
6. S. Saltalamacchia C    95 OPS+
7. R. Middlebrooks 3B   120 OPS+
8. R. Gomes RF              140 OPS+
9. L. Drew SS                 79 OPS+

Former ace Josh Beckett was part of the huge trade with the Dodgers and will remain with the Dodgers in 2013. The Red Sox did add Ryan Dempster, but much of their rotation did not perform as expected in 2012.

1. L. Jon Lester 4.82 ERA
2. R. Ryan Dempster 3.38 ERA
3. R. Clay Buchholz 4.56 ERA
4. L. Felix Doubront 4.86 ERA
5. R. Rubby De la Rosa 3.71 ERA in 2011

The bullpen is the strongest part of this Red Sox team. They added Koji Uehara (1.75 ERA), Craig Breslow (2.70 ERA), and Joel Hanrahan (2.72 ERA) over the course of 2012 and 2013. They also have Andrew Bailey (3.24 ERA in 2011), Junichi Tazawa (1.43 ERA), Daniel Bard (6.22 ERA as starter in 2012, 3.33 ERA as reliever in 2011), and Franklin Morales (3.77 ERA). Each one of these guys is a great arm out of the bullpen, but it has been announced that Joel Hanrahan will be the closer in 2013.

I project 89 wins for the Red Sox in 2013

The Phillies traded away Hunter Pence, Vance Worley, Shane Victorino, and Joe Blanton over the course of 2012 and 2013, but they got much back for their trades. Ben Revere and Michael Young will be added to the lineup along with Delmon Young who joined as a free agent. Carlos Ruiz is suspended for the first 50 games of the season, but i'll include him because he will be on the team most of the season.

1. L. Revere CF   89 OPS+
2. S. Rollins SS    98 OPS+
3. L. Utley 2B     110 OPS+
4. L. Howard 1B 91 OPS+
5. R. Young RF   89 OPS+
6. R. Ruiz C        149 OPS+
7. R. Young  3B  78 OPS
8. L. Brown  LF  91 OPS+

The real strength of the Phillies is the starting rotation. The big three in Philly is Halladay, Hamels, and Lee. Guess what , they'll all be healthy this year and ready to go, but lets look at how the entire rotation looks. You can expect Halladay to be much better than he was in 2012.

1. R. Roy Halladay  4.49 ERA
2. L. Cole Hamels   3.05 ERA
3. L. Cliff Lee          3.16 ERA
4. R. Kyle Kendrick 3.90 ERA
5. L. John Lannan    3.70 ERA in 2011

The Phillies traded Josh Lindblom for Michael Young, which I think was a great trade, and they added set up specialist, Mike Adams. Also in the bullpen is lefty Antonio Bastardo and closer Jonathon Papelbon. These three guys are key for the success of the Phillies in 2013.

I project 85 wins for the Phillies in 2013, but expect them to be in contention for most of the year.

It's Too Cold Here

The Blue Jays and the Brewers both play in cities too cold for an outdoor stadium. The Brewers may be cold in 2013, but the Blue Jays are certainly expected not to be.

By now you heard the colossal off season the Toronto Blue Jays have had. They enhanced their lineup with the additions of Melky Cabrera, Jose Reyes, and Emilio Bonifacio.  The power house of Jose Bautista will be healthy and ready to mash in 2013. Here is their lineup:

1. S. Reyes SS              111 OPS+
2. S. Cabrera LF           158 OPS+
3. R. Bautista RF           137 OPS+
4. R. Encarnacion DH    152 OPS+
5. L. Lind 1B                  96 OPS+
6. R. Lawrie 3B              97 OPS+
7. L. Rasmus CF            85 OPS+
8. R. Arencibia C            89 OPS+
9. S. Bonifacio 2B           77 OPS+

The pitching rotation is what blows away everyone about the Toronto Blue Jays. They traded for Josh Johnson and Mark Buehrle for Escobar and Hechavaria  with the Marlins. Also they traded for 2012 Cy Young Award winner RA Dickey. The knuckle baller will most likely pitch opening day.

1. R. RA Dickey 2.73 ERA
2. R. Josh Johnson 3.81 ERA
3. L. Mark Buehrle  3.74 ERA
4. R. Brandon Morrow 2.96 ERA
5. L. Rickey Romero  5.77 ERA

The bullpen is led by closer Casey Janssen who pitched to a 2.54 ERA and recorded 22 saves. Darren Oliver, Sergio Santos, Brad Lincoln, and JA Happ are also notable names in the bullpen. All pitched well in 2012 except Santos who was injured, but had had a very successful 2011.

I project 93 wins for the Blue Jays in 2013

The Brewers will have to craw through 2013

The Brewers don't seem bright in 2013. The one bright spot on their team was their lineup. Although it is without Prince Fielder, it still produced in 2012 and everyone expects it to do the same in 2013. Here is how it may look in 2013:

1. L. Aoki CF       110 OPS+
2. R. Weeks 2B    94 OPS+
3. R. Braun LF      158 OPS+
4. R. Ramirez 3B   137 OPS+
5. R. Lucroy C      133 OPS+
6. R. Gonzalez SS 107 OPS+
7. L. Gamel 1B      Not enough games
8. R. Gomez RF    102 OPS+

The pitching rotation for the Brewers used to be their greatest strength, now it is one of their greatest weaknesses. They lost Greinke and Marcum in 2012. The only two pitchers worth noting are Yovani Gallardo (3.66 ERA) and  Tom Gorzelanny (2.88 ERA). The other spots are up for grabs and Gallardo may be traded before the end of 2013.

Francisco Rodriguez holds the record for the most saves in a single season and was a bright spot in the bullpen for the Brewers in 2012, but he still has not signed with any team and it doesn't look like he'll return to Milwaukee. John Axford was great in 2011, but he took a step back in 2012. It doesn't look bright for the Brew Crew in 2013.

I project 72 wins for the Brewers in 2013.  




 

New York, New York

It's so nice they named it twice, well at least it is nice for one team in New York. The Yankees lost a lot of power in the 2013 off season, but they should still be able to contend, but with a new strategy. The Mets however are still rebuilding, but may do better than 2012.

The 2000 Subway World Series

The Bronx Bombers might have to be renamed "The Bronx Hit and Runners," because a few of their big bats will not be present in their 2013 lineup, but it is faster than ever. Nick Swisher departed for Cleveland, Russel Martin signed with the Pirates, Alex Rodriguez is injured, Raul Ibanez signed with the Mariners, and Eric Chavez signed with the D-Backs. All these players contributed heavily to the power of the Yankees, but Travis Hafner and Kevin Youkilis will try to replace some of this power in 2013.

1. L. Ichiro RF           95 OPS+
2. R. Jeter SS            114 OPS+
3. L. Cano 2B            149 OPS+
4. S. Teixeira 1B        116 OPS+
5. L. Granderson LF  116 OPS+
6. R. Youkilis 3B        99 OPS+
7. L. Hafner DH         121 OPS+
8. R. Cervelli C           No recent stats
9. L. Gardner CF        92 OPS+  in 2011

The rotation for the Yankees is pretty good, with CC Sabathia as the ace, followed by two veterans and two young pitchers. In 2012 the Yankees' rotation was strong throughout the season and especially strong in the playoffs. David Phelps will compete with Phil Hughes and Ivan Nova in spring training for a spot. Nova is a bit shaky and Hughes is having back problems so the chances of Phelps making the rotation are strong.

1. L. CC Sabathia 3.34 ERA
2. R. Hiroki Kuroda  3.32 ERA
3. L. Andy Pettitte 2.87 ERA
4. R. Phil Hughes 4.23 ERA
5. R. David Phelps 3.34 ERA in bullpen and rotation

The bullpen for the Yankees in 2012 was without Mariano Rivera, he is hinting again that this upcoming season may be his last. Rivera's 2012 replacement, Rafael Soriano, left the Yankees to sign with the Nationals, so that is major blow to the Yankees, but they still have great set up man David Robertson. Boone Logan, David Aardsma, and Joba Chamberlain are also notable names, but they are basically wild cards.

I project 91 wins for the Yankees in 2013.

"You see David, you are the favorite third baseman in the city"

The Mets flirted with signing Michael Bourn for a long time, but he eventually signed with the Cleveland Indians. The Mets also lost outfielder Scott Hairston to free agency, who signed with the Cubs. Additionally Jason Bay was released by the Mets and signed with the Mariners. They still have a pretty decent lineup, but it is not the best. Catching prospect Travis d'Arnaud should be called up sometime in the season.

1. R. Tejada SS 90 OPS+
2. L. Murphy 2B 102 OPS+
3. R. Wright 3B 143 OPS
4. L. Davis 1B 110 OPS+
5. R. d'Arnaud C .975 OPS in AAA
6. L. Duda RF 98 OPS+
7. L. Baxter LF 115 OPS+
8. L. Nieuwenhuis CF 91 OPS+

The starting rotation for the Mets won't be as good or as heart warming in 2013 without RA Dickey, but I think it will still shock many people. With the addition of Shaun Marcum and many prospects, it may be even better than 2012's rotation. Dillon Gee may hold the 5th spot in the rotation until the well praised prospect Zach Wheeler (3.26 ERA in AA-AAA in 2012) comes up to the majors.

1. L. Johan Santana 4.85 ERA
2. R. Shaun Marcum 3.70 ERA
3. L. Jon Niese 3.49 ERA
4. R. Matt Harvey 2.73 ERA
5. R. Dillon Gee 4.10 ERA

The bullpen for the Mets is up in the air. For a while there was rumors about signing Jose Valverde, but now it seems like they won't even bother. Bobby Parnell is expected to close games in 2013 and he had much success in 2012 with a 2.49 ERA. Frank Francisco and Brandon Lyon found themselves in the bullpen for the Mets as well. Francisco didn't have a great season in 2012, while Lyon pitched to a 3.10 ERA.

I project 74 wins for the Mets in 2013.

O-H-I-O

It looks like a promising season for baseball fans in the state of Ohio. The Indians made some awesome additions and the Reds are looking to win the National League Central once again. Who will be the dominant team in Ohio: The Tribe or The Big Red Machine?

The Indians' Bullpen Mafia

The Indians made some tremendous additions to their starting lineup this off season. They signed right fielder Nick Swisher, center fielder Michael Bourn, and first baseman Mark Reynolds too add to an already strong lineup. The Indians also signed veteran Jason Giambi who I believe can make the roster. They have a nice combination of speed and power and I think they can compete with the Tigers in 2013.

1. L. Bourn CF     99 OPS+
2. S. Cabrera SS  115 OPS+
3. S. Swisher RF   126 OPS+
4. S. Santana C     122 OPS+
5. L. Kipnis 2B      103 OPS+
6. R. Reynolds 1B  107 OPS+
7. L. Giambi DH     74 OPS+
8. L. Chisenhall 3B  108 OPS+
9. L. Brantley LF      113 OPS+

The pitching rotation for the Indians is a bit of a question. They traded right fielder Choo in a three team deal with the Reds and Diamond Backs to acquire pitcher Trevor Bauer, who is considered as a top prospect and Major League ready. I think Ubaldo Jimenez will find success in 2013, and Justin Masterson will show us what he is made of. The Indians should sign or trade for a starter to really strengthen their rotation. The perfect candiditates are Lohse and Capuano, both are available and both can make a big impact.

1. R. Justin Masterson 4.93 ERA
2. R. Ubaldo Jimenez 5.40 ERA
3. R. Brett Myers 3.31 ERA in the bullpen
4. R. Trevor Bauer 2.42 ERA in minors
5. R. Zach McAllister 2.98 in minors

The Indians have a decent bullpen anchored by their closer Chirs Perez. They deem the name "Bullpen Mafia" and part of that mafia is Vinnie Pestano who has impressed everyone with a sub 3.00 era two consecutive seasons. Expect the Bullpen Mafia to whack teams in the late innings.

I project 87 wins for the Indians in 2013

Brandon Phillips and Joey Votto. The faces of the Reds

The Reds are a contender almost every year, but in recent seasons they are knocked out of the playoffs pretty early. They have a great rotation, a powerful lineup, and a great bullpen. The lineup for the Reds changed a bit from 2013 with the addition of Choo and the subtraction Scott Rolen.

1. L. Choo CF     131 OPS+
2. R. Phillips 2B   96 OPS+
3. L. Votto 1B     174 OPS+
4. L. Bruce RF     118 OPS+
5. R. Ludwich LF 128 OPS+
6. R. Frazier 3B    115 OPS+
7. R. Cozart SS    79 OPS+
8. R. Hanigan C    88 OPS+

The pitching rotation is led by the most under rated starting pitcher, Johnny Cueto. He is followed by some young talent and an established veteran. The well above average rotation pitches in a small park which makes the low ERA's even more amazing.

1. R. Johnny Cueto 2.78 ERA
2. R. Matt Latos 3.48 ERA
3. R. Bronson Arroyo 3.74 ERA
4. R. Homer Bailey 3.68 ERA
5. R. Mike Leake 4.58 ERA

The bullpen is topped off with the Cuban Missile, Aroldis Chapman (1.51 ERA). There has been talk about moving him to the rotation, but if the flame thrower is put in the already great rotation, you might as well kiss his career good bye. The other parts of the bullpen are Jonathon Broxton (2.48 ERA), Sean Marshall (2.51 ERA), Logan Ondrusek (3.46 ERA), and Jose Arrendondo (2.94 ERA).

I project 94 wins for the Reds in 2013  

  

The Cubs and the Astros

This should be a short post, because there isn't much to write about these two clubs. Basically they are doomed for 2013. Sorry in advance to all the Cubs and Astros fans, but these two teams have a snowball's chance in hell to even be in competition for a playoff spot let alone a winning season.

The Cubs are a franchise with a very rich fan base and they really want to win every year, but everyone knows about their cursed franchise. The Cubs have a bright future with a great farm system. I think many prospects have the chance to make it to the big league team out of spring training. Here is how their lineup should look:

1. L. DeJesus CF 106 OPS+
2. R. Castro SS    105 OPS+
3. L. Rizzo 1B      119 OPS+
4. R. Soriano LF  121 OPS+
5. R. Hairston RF 117 OPS+
6. S. Navarro C    96 OPS+
7. R. Barney 2B    79 OPS+
8. R. Vitters 3B    .869 OPS in AAA

The lineup for the cubs isn't bad but the pitching isn't any better. The Cubs traded away Ryan Dempster and Paul Maholm. They did sign Edwin Jackson to a deal this off season.

1. R. Jeff Samardzija 3.81 ERA
2. R. Edwin Jackson 4.03 ERA
3. R. Matt Garza 3.91 ERA
4. R. Carlos Villanueva 4.16 ERA
5. R. Travis Wood 4.27 ERA

Long time beloved Cubs pitcher, Kerry Wood retired in the middle of the 2012 season and left the bullpen in even more of a mess. Basically the bullpen is still a mess for the 2013 season, and a decision for Carlos Marmol has to be made. In order for him to get a save he needs to walk the entire ballpark first. Can the Cubs keep putting that much on a win?

I project 59 wins for the Cubs

If you asked me to name the Astros' starting lineup, I couldn't. If you asked me to name Astros' starting rotation, I couldn't. If you asked me to name the Astros' bullpen, I couldn't. They traded away almost every valuable piece on their team and got back at least something for it.

The lineup for the Astros is up in the air. This is the best thing I can put together. I won't bother putting their OPS+ after their name.

1. S. Paredes CF
2. R. Altuve  2B
3. L. Pena 1B
4. R. Carter DH
5. R. Laird 3B
6. R. Castro C
7. R. Greene SS
8. L. Martinez RF
9. S. Grossman LF

The rotation for the Astros is a bit more respectable than their AAA lineup. They acquired Phillip Humber, but Bud Norris may be traded soon enough.

1. R. Bud Norris 4.65 ERA
2. R. Phillip Humber 6.44 ERA
3. R. Jordan Lyles 5.09 ERA
4. R. Lucas Harrell 3.76 ERA
5. R. Brad Peacock

The bullpen includes one common name, Jose Veras. He pitched to a 3.63 ERA in 2012. Lefty Wesley Wright pitched to a 3.27 ERA in 2012, so that's a bright spot. Prospect John Ely may come up during the season and pitch out of the bullpen, or the rotation, but it won't have an effect.

I project a record setting season for the Astros, but not in the good way. 40 wins and 162 losses, the worst record for a team since the 1962 Mets. If the Astros somehow make the playoffs, I will eat my hat.

The BRAVE and ROYAL family

The Braves made it to the playoffs, but were eliminated in a heartbreaking wildcard game. We will always remember the first wild card game as "The Infield Fly Game" and not Chipper's final game. The Royals on the other hand finished in third place and wanted to improve on that in 2013.

Chipper Jones leaves Turner Field to the Uptons

With Chipper Jones' departure the Braves made some very nice upgrades and changes. In the lineup they lost the speed demon of Michael Bourn but added the young and talented BJ Upton to man center field. They also traded away prospect Randal Delgado and utility man Martin Prado to get Chris Johnson and the other Upton, Justin. Here is what the revenge seeking Braves lineup will look like in 2013:

1. R. B. Upton CF   109 OPS+
2. R. Simmons SS     101 OPS+
3. L. Heyward RF    117 OPS+
4. R. J. Upton LF     107 OPS+
5. L. Freeman 1B     113 OPS+
6. R. Uggla 2B          98 OPS+
7. L. McCann C        87 OPS+
8. R. Johnson 3B      115 OPS+

The pitching rotation for the Braves is a bit weaker without Tommy Hanson, but it is still anchored by Tim Hudson and he has some nice support behind him. Kris Medlen came on the scene in 2012 and blew everyone away. The 5th spot may be a battle between Teheran and Minor, but for now I will just slot one of them in.

1. R. Tim Hudson 3.62 ERA
2. R. Kris Medlen 1.57 ERA
3. R. Brandon Beachy *2.00 ERA *81 IP
4. L. Paul Maholm 3.67 ERA
5. L. Mike Minor 4.12 ERA

The Braves have one of the best bullpens in baseball. With the flame throwing right handed closer, Craig Kimbrel coming in the 9th inning. They also acquired young hard throwing rich hander Jordan Walden. Also in the bullpen are lefties Johnny Venters and Eric O'Flaherty and right hander Christian Martinez who should repeat good years.

I project 92 wins for the Braves in 2013

Billy Butler, The king of the Royal monarchy tips his crown to
the fans

The Royals are planning on contesting the Tigers for the American League Central in 2013. They made some bug improvements to their team and should not be taken lightly in the upcoming season.

The young Royal lineup will have all of its pieces healthy for 2013 and should produce fairly well. Here is how it may look:

1. R. Escobar SS     98 OPS+
2. R. Cain CF          100 OPS+
3. L. Gordon LF      125 OPS+
4. R. Butler DH        140 OPS+
5. L. Hosmer 1B      82 OPS+
6. R. Perez C           117 OPS+
7. L. Moustakas 3B  93 OPS+
8. R. Francoeur RF   81 OPS+
9. L. Getz 2B            85 OPS

The major over hall for the Royals was the starting rotation. They added the big name, Big Game James Sheilds. The also added Ervin Santana, Jeremy Guthrie (mid season), and Wade Davis. This rotation is a great improvement for the Royals, here is how it should look:

1. R. James Shields 3.52 ERA
2. R. Jeremy Guthrie 4.76 ERA
3. R. Ervin Santana 5.16 ERA
4. R. Wade Davis *2.43 ERA *As reliever
5. L. Bruce Chen 5.07 ERA

The Royals have an excess of starters so you can assume the ones who don't make the rotation will either be put in the bullpen or the minor leagues. Speaking of the bullpen, closer Greg Holland had a pretty good year in 2012 and will like to repeat it in 2013. The other names in the bullpen are lefty Tim Collins, and righty Aaron Crow. An addition like Francisco Rodriguez or a gamble with Jose Valverde would be a good addition for the Royals.

I project 84 wins for the Royals in 2013.

The Birds and the ... Nats?

The Orioles and the Nationals made it to the post season last season. Both clubs were underdogs entering 2012, but now in 2013 they are regarded as strong contenders for their respected divisions.

The Orioles showed that they can compete with the Rays, Yankees, Red Sox, and Blue Jays in the American League East. They will again have to prove that they are fit to compete in 2013.

The offense for the Orioles is stronger than most, but not the strongest. The big bat is the face of their franchise, Adam Jones. He along with Chris Davis, Matt Weiters, and J.J. Hardy provide the power that propels the team to victory We can't forget about 2013 Rookie of the Year favorite Manny Machado who came onto the scene in mid 2012, he will be key to the success of the Orioles. Here is how their lineup will look in 2013.

1. S. Roberts 2B *105 OPS+ *2010 stats
2. L. Markakis RF 126 OPS+
3. R. Jones CF 125 OPS+
4. L. Davis 1B 121 OPS+
5 S. Wieters C 107 OPS+
6. R. Hardy SS 88 OPS+
7. R. Machado 3B 98 OPS+
8. L. McLouth LF 90 OPS+
9. R. Riemold DH *111 OPS+ *2011 stats

The pitching rotation for the Orioles is unproven and for the most part young. The only guys who have a given spot in the rotation for 2013 are Wei Yu Chen and Jason Hammel. Tommy Hunter, Dylan Bundy, Zach Britton, and Jair Jurjjens all have to work to earn a spot onto the club.

The bullpen for the Orioles was probably their biggest strength in 2012. Jim Johnson held down the back end and closed the door all season for the O's. Ayala set up very well and maintained a low era as he did in seasons previous. It seems as if the Orioles will have the strategy as they did last year: Just get outs.

I project 89 wins for the Orioles in 2013.

The Nationals won the National League East and shocked everyone with their large spread of young talent. They added some big names and are on a quest to win it all 2013.

The Nationals have a beautiful assortment of young players and veterans in their lineup. For the younf player, phenom Bryce Harper will man left field while Espinosa and Desmond will play the middle infield. The Nationals traded Michael Morse, but they have decent production from every position. Lets look at the lineup.

1. L. Span CF            105 OPS+
2. R. Desmond SS     126 OPS+
3. L. Harper LF         119 OPS+
4. R. Zimmerman 3B  121 OPS+
5. L. LaRoche 1B      128 OPS+
6. R. Werth RF          125 OPS+
7. S. Espinosa 2B       94 OPS+
8. R. Ramos C           105 OPS+

Unlike the Orioles the pitching rotation for the Nationals is almost set in stone. There will be no innings limit on Stephen Strasburg and the newly acquired Dan Haren will be a great veteran presence. Here is how the rotation shapes up:

1. R. Stephen Strasburg  3.16 ERA
2. L. Gio Gonzalez          2.89 ERA
3. R. Jordan Zimmerman 2.94 ERA
4. R. Dan Haren              4.33 ERA
5. L. Ross Detwiler         3.40 ERA

The bullpen for the Nationals has a new look to it as well. Rafael Soriano will take over as closer after a fantastic season with the Yankees, Drew Storen will become a setup man, and Tyler Clippard will remain to dominate in the late innings. The Nationals have a great bullpen, but no great left handed reliever, they should consider trading for one if they want to fix their only hole.

I project 96 wins for the Nationals in 2013.

I Love Livin' in Los Angeles

The Angels and the Dodgers added some big pieces last season and this off season. The two power houses have a lot to prove in 2013, lets see what will be key.

The Angels have one of the best lineups in all of the land. Super star rookie of the year Mike Trout will man center field, three time MVP Albert Pujols will man first base, and 2010 MVP Josh Hamilton will man either right field or left field for the Halos. The rest of the lineup has some pop as well, this is how I would place them along with positions.

1. S. Aybar SS      109 OPS+
2. R. Trout CF       171 OPS+
3. L. Hamilton RF  131 OPS+
4. R. Pujols 1B      141 OPS+
5. R. Trumbo DH   126 OPS+
6. R. Kendrick 2B  106 OPS
7. S. Callaspo 3B   98 OPS+
8. R. Wells LF        91 OPS+
9. R. Iannerra C      107 OPS+

The lineup is very right handed heavy. I can see the Angels trading for a left handed designated hitter and moving Trumbo to third base or left field although he isn't so great defensively. A bat like Justin Morneau would put the Angels over the top.

The Angels lost Zack Greinke and Dan Haren this off season to free agency but they still retain one of the best starting pitchers in Jered Weaver. The Angels also traded for Jason Vargas and Tommy Hanson.

R. Jered Weaver 2.81 ERA
L. CJ Wilson 3.83 ERA
R. Tommy Hanson 4.48 ERA
R. Jason Vargas 3.85 ERA
R. Joe Blanton 4.71 ERA

The rotation isn't the best but they can definitively outscore any team and with that pitching it is enough to win a sufficient amount of games. There is one starter still left in the free agent market, that is Kyle Lohse. He would be a great addition to their rotation and to sign him to a one year deal may be a difference maker in the AL West.

The Angels' bullpen also got some nice additions. Ryan Madson will pitch for the Angels either as a closer or a set up man after having Tommy John's surgery. The lefty Sean Burnett joined the Halos this off season as well, he and the other lefty, Scott Downs, will be critical in match ups in late innings. Kevin Jepsen made himself seen in 2012 by putting up good numbers, and the emergence of Ernesto Frieri was huge for the Angels. Frieri put up great numbers for the Angels in 2012.

I project 92 wins for the Angels in 2013 as the team stands now.

The Dodgers are spending money like no tomorrow. They made the huge trade with the Red Sox during the season, signed Greinke to a mega contract, and signed Korean pitching phenom Ryu to a contract as well. The Dodgers are stacked and expected to do well in 2013.

The Dodgers added the big bat of Adrian Gonzalez and speed demon Carl Crawford in 2012. They let Shane Victorino join the Red Sox, but are willing to take the risk with Crawford coming off injury. Their well balanced looks as follows:

1. L. Gordon SS     56 OPS+
2. L. Crawford LF 107 OPS+
3. R. Kemp CF      147 OPS+
4. L. Gonzalez 1B   116 OPS+
5. R. Ramirez 3B    106 OPS+
6. L. Ethier RF       123 OPS+
7. R. Ellis C            118 OPS+
8. L. Schumaker 2B 96 OPS+

The Dodgers have the best pitcher in baseball. I don't care what anyone says, Justin Verlander or Felix Hernandez. The best pitcher in baseball is undoubtedly Clayton Kershaw. Josh Beckett joined the rotation in 2012. Ryu will be joining the rotation in 2013 as well, he will fun to watch.

L. Clayton Kershaw 2.53 ERA
R. Josh Beckett 4.65 ERA
R. Chad Billingsly 3.55 ERA
L. Hyun-Jin Ryu 2.66 ERA* in Korean league
L. Ted Lilly 3.14 ERA

The Dodgers have an excess of starting pitchers. They include Chris Capuano and Aaron Harang. Both had pretty good seasons in 2012 and could provide a good return whether it be prospects, relievers, or a more reliable short stop.

Kenley Jansen impress many people in 2012 taking on the closer's role for a majority of the season. Brandon League joined the Dodgers mid season and pitched well for them in 2012. Randy Choate departed to join the Cardinals, but JP Howell will replace him as a credited left handed reliever. Javy Guerra also performed very well in 2012. The Dodgers' bullpen inst one of the best, but it better than average. It is good enough to hold a game, but is the weakest part of their team.

I project 93 wins for the Dodgers in 2013

San Francisco Giants and Detroit Tigers

I will be evaluating teams in pairs or trios and I thought the first two should be the National League and American League champions respectively.

The San Francisco Giants put together their team of oddballs every year and they are usually underrated. A major factor of their winning formula is team chemistry. With the addition of Hunter Pence this past season that chemistry has sky rocketed. He was a major reason why they won the World Series.

Playing in one of the most beautiful and largest ballparks in baseball the Giants have one of the best pitching rotations in baseball. The key to their success has always been suppressing the other team. They can't win if they can't score.

Tim Lincecum had the most horrendous season of his career. With a 5.18 ERA in one of the largest ballparks his ERA+ was just 67. That is well below average. In the playoffs he was pushed into the bullpen and ended up being a difference maker. I expect that Lincecum and the Giants have worked this off season and will continue to work on fixing whatever the problem is. I expect Lincecum to have a bounce back season, but if he does not I expect the Giants to put him into the bullpen. The rest of the rotation looks as such:

R. Matt Cain: 2.79 ERA
L. Madison Bumgarner: 3.37 ERA
R. Ryan Vogelsong: 3.37 ERA
R. Tim Lincecum 5.18 ERA
L. Barry Zito: 4.15 ERA

The Giants' lineup was anchored by National League MVP, Buster Posey. Full of characters that the fans love the Giants' lineup is both productive and entertaining. I will be using OPS+ which is on base percentage plus slugging percentage fixed to compare the player to league average and the ballpark he plays in.

1. S. Angel Pagan 121 OPS+
2. R. Marco Scuttaro 99 OPS+
3. S. Pablo Sandoval 124 OPS+
4. R. Buster Posey 172 OPS+
5. R. Hunter Pence 103 OPS+
6. L. Brandon Belt 124 OPS+
7. L Gregor Blonco 95 OPS+
8. L. Brandon Crawford 85 OPS+

The bullpen for the Giants is held down by Sergio Romo, Santiago Cassilla, and Jeremy Afeldt. Brian Wilson may return to the Giants in 2013 if he is willing to take on a lesser salary.

I project 94 wins for the Giants in 2013

The Detroit Tigers became World Series favorites when they signed Prince Fielder last year, but now they are even stronger than before. They will get Victor Martinez back as their every day designated hitter, Torii Hunter as their right fielder, Omar Infante as their second baseman, and Anibal Sanchez as their number four starter.

The American League triple crown winner and MVP will man third base for the Tigers. Miguel Cabrera is a force to be reckoned with. Now he is in an even more protected lineup. The sky is the limit for the numbers he may put up. Here is how the Tigers lineup may look in 2013:

1. R. Austin Jackson 130 OPS+
2. R. Torii Hunter 132 OPS+
3. R. Miguel Cabrera 165 OPS+
4. L. Prince Fielder 152 OPS+
5. S. Victor Martinez  131 OPS+* 2011
6. R. Alex Avila 100 OPS+
7. R. Jhonny Peralta 85 OPS+
8. L. Brennan Boesch 77 OPS+
9. R. Omar Infante 93 OPS+

The Tigers are credited for having one of the best starting rotations in baseball. Some say it is the best, but I wouldn't go that far. I think it is top ten, but number one. Anchored by Justin Verlander it is as follows:

1. R. Justin Verlander 2.64 ERA
2. R. Rick Porcello 4.59 ERA
3. R. Max Scherzer 3.47 ERA
4. R. Anibal Sanchez 3.86 ERA
5. L. Drew Smyly 3.99 ERA

The pitching rotation is strong and for the most part young. These five guys can match any rotation in a five game series, but the bullpen is a bit messy. Jose Valverde seems to be departing Detroit to find a new home. He had a terrible season and the Tigers have faith in young pitching prospect Bruce Rondon. They think the flame throwing right hander can handle the ninth inning in the big league. Octavio Dotel, Phil Coke, and Joaquin Benoit hold down the late innings in Detroit and did a pretty good job with it 2012.

I project 93 wins in 2013 for the Tigers

Let There Be Baseball!

It has been a very busy off season. Many players have new homes and many players are a lot richer. Unfortunately I couldn't cover all the news this off season.

 One of the major headlines was the wellness clinic in Miami. Some of baseball's biggest names were connected to the clinic. The reason why it is such a big deal is because they are being accused of PED usage. Nelson Cruz, Gio Gonzalez, Alex Rodriguez, Melky Cabrera, Bartolo Colon, Ryan Braun, Francisco Cervelli, Jesus Montero, and Jhonny Peralta were a few of the names in the reports.

I hope you have been following the latest updates with the MLB Trade Rumors link on the right hand side of the page. Empires are forming in baseball and they are often on top of it.

Soon enough I will be making posts about each team and what they will need to do this season with projected lineups and pitching rotations. Then after all of that my MVP, Cy Young, Rookie of the Year, standings, and World Series Predictions.