Ray Searage and the Pirates Effect

Ray Searage was a left handed pitcher for the Mets, Brewers, White Sox, and Dodgers in the 80s. He ended his career with a 3.50 ERA in 287.2 innings and 193 strikeouts. By no standards was a he an overpowering pitcher, but he is dominating the game now. He is currently the pitching coach for the Pittsburgh Pirates and a huge reason for their recent success. in August of 2010 he earned the position and has improving pirates pitchers ever since.

Ray Searage and Garret Cole

To show the success that Searage has had with Pirates pitchers I will use ERA+. ERA+ is a pitcher's
ERA as compared to league average and adjusted for home ballpark. The higher the ERA+ the better, anything below 100 is below league average. By comparing the ERA+ of pitchers before and after they came to the Pirates and worked with Ray Searage, we can see the improvement.

Mark Melancon pitched for the Boston Red Sox in 2012 and logged 45 innings. His ERA+ with the Red Sox was 68. In 2013, his first season with the Pittsburgh Pirates Melancon improved his ERA+ to an astounding 256 in 71 innings.

Searage came to the Pirates at the end of the 2010 season and in 2010 Jeff Karstens had an ERA+ of 82 in 122 innings pitched. in the following season Karstens logged 162 innings with a 110 ERA+, 28 points higher.

Paul Maholm had a terrible ERA+ of 78 in 2010 over 185 innings pitched. He followed that with a 102 ERA+ in his 2011 campaign which included 162 innings pitched.

Joel Hanrahan

Joel Hanrahan was the highly though of closer for the Pirates in the 2011 and 2012 seasons, before being traded to the Boston Red Sox. His ERA+ in 2010 was 112 which in 70 innings is very respectable, but in 2011 his ERA+ was 203 which is absolutely fantastic.

Francisco Liriano was an All Star in 2006 overshadowed by Cy Young Award winner Johan Santana, but Liriano quickly fell out of sorts. In 2012 with the Twins and White Sox Liriano had an ERA+ of 78 and in 2013, his first season with the Pirates Liriano had a 118 ERA+.

Jason Grilli is the current closer for the Pirates and did not even play in 2010. In 2009 he played with the Rockies and Rangers and had an ERA+ of 89, but then 2011 Grilli pitched his first season with the Pirates and recorded an ERA+ of 151.

AJ Burnett 

AJ Burnett was acquired by the Pirates from the Yankees in the 2011 off season. In 2012 Burnett had an ERA+ of 83 and in 2012 he record his best season since 2005 with a 107 ERA+.

Ray Searage is one of the best, if not the best pitching coach in the Major Leagues. He is in part responsible for the success of the Pirates, and should receive more recognition for the players he helps.

National League All Star Game Selection

The National League seems like the dominant league this All Star Game with several producing players at each position. Below are my top two picks for each position. I will also give 2 bonus picks because there is no DH for the National League, but there will be in the All Star Game.

Jonathon Lucroy

Catcher:
Jonathon Lucroy - Milwaukee Brewers - .325/.394/.483
Yadier Molina - St. Louis Cardinals - .305/.349/.442

First Base:
Paul Goldschmitt - Arizona Diamondbacks - .299/.354/.521
Matt Adams - St. Louis Cardinals - .325/.337/.474

Second Base:

Troy Tulowitzki

Chase Utley - Philadelphia Phillies - .319/.378/.517
Dee Gordon - Los Angeles Dodgers .280/.331/.372

Third Base:
David Wright - New York Mets .296/.345/.403
Nolan Arenado - Colorado Rockies .305/.333/.409

Shortstop:
Troy Tulowitzki - Colorado Rockies .350/.450/.661
Hanley Ramirez - Los Angeles Dodgers .261/.336/.469

Outfield 1:
Giancarlo Stanton - Miami Marlins  .313/.411/.611

Andrew McCutchen

Carlos Gomez - Miluakee Brewers .312/.388/.566

Outfield 2:
Yasiel Puig - Los Angeles Dodgers .340/.430/.606
Justin Upton - Atlanta Braves - .301/.380/.575

Outfield 3:
Andrew McCutchen - Pittsburgh Pirates .304/.425/.469
Seth Smith - San Diego Padres .310/.419/.548

Bonus Players:
Michael Morse - San Francisco Giants .298/.371/.574
Freddie Freeman - Atlanta Braves .297/.388/.512

The pitchers will be chosen by St. Louis Cardinals manager Mike Matheny because they won the National League Pennant. These are my picks for the pitchers.

Johnny Cueto 

Starting Pitchers:
Johnny Cueto - Cincinnati Reds - 1.68 ERA 92 k
Tim Hudson - San Francisco Giants 1.75 ERA 50 k
Julio Teheran - Atlanta Braves 1.83 ERA 66 k
Adam Wainwright - St. Louis Cardinals 2.32 ERA 81 k
Zack Greinke - Los Angeles Dodgers 2.50 ERA 83 k
Micheal Wacha - St Louis Cardinals 2.45 ERA 75 k
Jeff Samardjiza - Chicago Cubs 2.54 ERA 67 k
Clayton Kershaw - Los Angeles Dodgers 3.32 ERA 55 k
Stephen Strasburg - Washington Nationals 3.15 90

Relief Pitchers:

Huston Street

Kenley Jansen - Los Angeles Dodgers 3.60 ERA 42 k
Francisco Rodriguez Milwaukee Brewers 2.33 ERA 41 k
Sergio Romo - San Francisco Giants 3.52 ERA 19 k
Huston Street - San Diego Padres 1.23 ERA 24 k
Craig Kimbrel - Atlanta Braves 1.77 ERA 37 k
Jonathon Papelbon - Philadelphia Phillies 1.91 ERA 19 k
Aroldis Chapman - Cincinnati
Reds 1.80 ERA 18 k

Trade Candidates

Starting Pitchers:

Jeff Samardzija has been pitching great this season and the Cubs have not been playing well. Losing teams are always prone to trade veteran players for prospects. Samardzija is pitching to a 1.68 ERA in 75 innings with 64 strikeouts. Possible suites for the 29 year old right hander  would be the Baltimore Orioles, the Toronto Blue Jays, the Los Angeles Angels, the New York Yankees, the Texas Rangers, and even the Colorado Rockies.

Jason Hammel is another steady Cubs pitcher who played with the Baltimore Orioles last year. Hammel is 31 years old and throughout his career he ranks as a 4th or 5th starter. In 2014 he is pitching to a 3.04 ERA in 64 innings with 54 strikeouts. Destinations for Hammel might include the Colorado Rockies, the Texas Rangers, the New York Yankees, or Los Angeles Angels.

Justin Masterson is not finding much success in 2014 and will be a free agent at the end of year. Masterson's ERA has risen up to 5.21 after his start last night, but he has the potential to be a number 1 or a really good number 2 starter. Masterson is 29 years old and if he wants to get a big pay day this off season he needs to improve, but for now he is a potential trade target for many teams. A team like the Boston Red Sox might be in on Masterson, somewhere he has played before.

David Price is without a doubt the biggest name being
bounced around in rumors. Price is pitching to a 4.42 ERA in 77 innings with 84 strikeouts. The ERA is bound to go down and Price is almost expected to be successful. The Rays traded James Shields two seasons ago for Wil Myers and Jake Ordizzi to the the Royals. Price may get an even bigger pay out that Shields. If Price is traded during the season the Texas Rangers, Atlanta Braves, Cincinnati Reds, and Arizona Diamondbacks seem like logical destinations for the hard throwing southpaw.

Relief Pitchers:

JJ Putz is nearing the end of his career and like all old relief pitchers the Yankees should be involved. Putz is on the DL now but he will be ready to go way before the trade deadline. He is 37 years old and has not had a bad season since 2009. The Baltimore Orioles, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Los Angeles Angels may also be in on the veteran.

Mike Adams has been succesful for most of his career but now it appears he might change his team yet again. The crafty right handed pitcher has a 2.51 ERA this season and the Phillies are looking to get rid of some salary. The same teams who may be in on Putz should be in on Adams. Adams is 2 years younger than Putz at 35.

Infielders:

Alexei Ramirez has been raking for the White Sox with a .324/.357/.483 slashline and 9 stolen bases this season. He is a short stop by trade but can probably play second base easily. He is 32 years year old and will likely be a big addition this season.

Adam Dunn is a first baseman by trade, but projects more as a designated hitter. An American League team is likely to trade for Dunn if is he to be traded. Dunn has a .236/.391/.458 slashline this season which is pretty good for him in recent years. Dunn is 34 years old and can definitely provide power for any team.

Ruben Tejada has been the Mets' problem the past two seasons, but now they are trying to push him onto someone else. A team rebuilding may take a bid at Tejada, but the Mets won't get much in return for him. The Cubs, Phillies, White Sox, Astros, or Marlins may be potential landing spots for Tejada

Aaron Hill is 32 years old and has a .255/.314/.404 slashline this season. Hill is a second baseman, but can likely play third, although he has never done so in recent years. Hill would be a great addition for the Orioles,
Yankees, Braves, or Giants if Scutaro is not back by then.  

Chase Utley has been raking this year. He is a long shot to be traded but his .333/.389/.546 slashline is very appetizing to competing ball clubs. Chase Utley would likely to be dealt to the same teams Hill would be, but it is not likely in my eyes.

Outfielders:

Matt Kemp: Matt Kemp is currently playing on the bench for the Dodgers and not providing much for the team. He has a .262/.325/.450 slashline in 43 games this season. Kemp is a super star with a heavy contract and one team that may be in on Kemp is the Boston Red Sox. The Red Sox though Jackie Bradley Jr. would fill the hole Ellsbury left, but they were wrong. Its time for the Red Sox to get the other end of the big trade they made in 2012. The Reds, Rangers, and Mariners might be other teams interested in the 29 year old outfielder.

Ichiro Suzuki is 40 years old, but still great on defense and still getting on base. The Yankees have too many outfielders and Ichiro wants to keep playing. A team that desperately needs an outfielder would trade for Ichiro, but it seems he will finish the year the the Yankees.

Alex Rios was traded from the White Sox to the Rangers not too long ago, but he would be a good trade candidate this off season. He is tearing it up with a .330/.361/.498 slashline this season, but he is 33 years old. Rios can play any outfield spot, but more of a corner outfielder. The Red Sox may go to Rios instead of Kemp, but the Giants, Nationals, or Mariners might be in on Rios.

Big Seasons in 2014

Some players flat out had a terrible 2013 season, others made progress towards becoming better players, and some took a decline. Here are some names that I predict will have great 2014 seasons.

I have no idea why Belt is petting a baby Giraffe 

Brandon Belt

Brandon Belt is entering his age 26 season and has shown that he has patience at the plate. In 2012 and 2013 he had a .360 on base percentage, with his batting average rising from .275 to .289. Belt finally has a secure spot in the Giants lineup and is a much needed part of their offense. Belt showed much more power in 2013 hitting 17 home runs instead of 7 the year previous and 39 doubles instead of 27 the previous year. You can expect Belt to get on base, hit more home runs, and drive in plenty of runs, making 2014 his best year yet.

Justin Masterson

Justin Masterson is going to be a free agent at the end of 2014 season, and historically players preform pretty well in the final year of their contract. Masterson had the second best season of his career in 2013 posting a 3.45 ERA in 193 innings pitched, striking out 195. His best season was 2011 where he had a 3.21 ERA in 216 innings pitched with 158 strikeouts. In 2012 Masterson took a step back and posted a 4.93 ERA, but 2014 will be different. In 2013 we saw a significant decline in hits allowed, previous to 2013 Masterson allowed an average of 207 hits a season, in 2013 he allowed just 156. Previous to 2013 Masterson struck out just an average of 152 per season, and in 2013 he struck out 195. Masterson is a ground ball pitcher striking guys out, he is heading a very good direction and a very big pay day.

Josh Hamilton

Josh Hamilton signed a mega deal with the Los Angeles Angels and did not perform as expected in the first year of the contract. Hamilton had his worst season since 2009 posting a 108 OPS+ although he did play 151 games, hit 21 home runs, and drove in 29 RBIs. We all know the ball does not carry as well in Los Angeles as it does in Texas, but Hamilton has serious power. I think the first year in LA was just Hamilton adjusting. He came into spring training of 2013 lighter, because in Texas he would lose weight quickly throughout the season. Now that he understands what will occur throughout the season in Los Angeles and the fact that it is also very hot in LA, Hamilton will have a great 2014 season.

Coincidentally Lincecum started to do better since he
cut his hair in 2013. 

Tim Lincecum

It seems like I say this every year, but Lincecum has not performed worse than the season before. In 2012 Lincecum had the worst season of his career posting a 5.18 ERA. In 2013 Lincecum dropped his ERA to 4.37. This is similar to the 2010-2011 season drop in ERA Lincecum experienced. In 2010 Lincecum's ERA was at a career high 3.43, in 2011 his ERA dropped 69 points to 2.74. Lincecum started throwing much earlier this off season in a warehouse in Seattle, so he is ready for the season. He said he is just concentrating on getting outs, not strikeouts. You will see a drop in ERA once again. We will probably never see the Lincecum of old again, but you will see a highly effective pitcher. I'm predicting a 75 point drop in ERA and a 3.62 ERA for Lincecum in 2014.

The Los Angeles Dodgers

The Dodgers are definitely a power house not just in the National League, but in the Major Leagues. They have a star studded lineup packed with big names. They have so many big name players that they do not have enough places on the team to play them all. With a surplus of players in the outfield and now a traffic jam at second base, who knows what the Dodgers lineup may look like throughout the season.

The lineup for the Dodgers will generally look the same, but without Mark Ellis. The Dodgers did make two international signings, inking two infielders. Those infielders are Erisbel Arruebarrena and Alex Guerrero. The other infielders they have are veteran Chone Figgins and Dee Gordon. I would move Hanley Ramirez over to third base to get both Dee Gordon and one of the new signings in the lineup. Another problem is the surplus of outfielders. The Dodgers have Matt Kemp, Andre Ethier, Carl Crawford, and Yasiel Puig, all all star quality outfielders. One of them would have to play the bench, platoon, or be traded Here is how I would make the lineup for the 2014 Los Angeles Dodgers.

1. L. Carl Crawford LF 108 OPS+
2. R. Yasiel Puig RF 160 OPS+
3. L. Adrian Gonzalez 1B 126 OPS+
4. R. Hanely Ramirez 3B 190 OPS+
5. R. Matt Kemp CF 105 OPS+
6. R. AJ Ellis C 93 OPS+
7. R. Alex Guerrero 2B no data available
8. L. Dee Gordon SS 75 OPS+

The pitching rotation for the Dodgers is also set up with three guys who had great 2013 seasons. The best pitcher in baseball
Clayton Kershaw, then Zack Grinke, and finally Korean pitcher Hyun-Jin Ryu. These three guys baffled hitters all season long and they will be in the rotation once again with new addition Dan Haren. The fifth spot will be a battle between Chad Billingsely, Paul Maholm and Josh Beckett. Here is how the rotation for the Dodgers may look in 2014.

1. L. Clayton Kershaw   194 ERA+
2. R. Zack Greinke 135 ERA+
3. L. Hyun-Jin Ryu  119 ERA+
4. R. Dan Haren  81 ERA+
5. R. Chad Billingsley  107 ERA+ in 2012

The bullpen is led by hard throwing closer Kenley Janson. In my opinion he is currently the third best closer in the Major Leagues behind Craig Kimbrel and Aroldis Chapman. The rest of the bullpen is also composed of all stars and former closers. Brian Wilson, JP Howell, Chris Perez, Brandon League, Paco Rodriguez, and whichever starter doesn't make the rotation.

The Kansas City Royals

The Royals are a team that I have high hopes for in the 2014 season. They made a few key additions to their team in the off season, to heavily improve parts of their team that were very weak. They are probably one of the most well balanced teams in the Major Leagues and may very well displace the Tigers for first place in the central in 2014.

The lineup consists of not one great player but several above average players. They have 4 guys that c
an hit 20 home runs and maintain a high on base percentage. With names like Billy Butler, Eric Hosmer, and Alex Gordon, the Royals are well set for 2014. New additions Norichika Aoki and Omar Infante will anchor the top of the lineup followed by several sluggers. Here is how the lineup may look in 2014.

1. L. Norichika Aoki RF 99 OPS+
2. R. Omar Infante 2B 101 OPS+
3. L. Alex Gordon LF 103 OPS+
4. R. Billy Butler DH 116 OPS+
5. L. Eric Hosmer 1B 118 OPS+
6. R. Salvador Perez C 105 OPS+
7. L. Mike Moustakas 3B 77 OPS+
8. R. Alcides Escobar SS 53 OPS+
9. R. Lorenzo Cain CF 80 OPS+

Some of the best facial hair in
the Major Leagues

The pitching rotation is led by stub James Shields who had a very good season in 2013. He was by the Rays in exchange for prospect Wil Myers who also put up good numbers for the Rays. They did lose Ervin Santana to free agency, but signed lefty Jason Vargas. In fact it was just announced that they will have hard throwing prospect Yordano Ventura be the number five starter. So this is how the rotation for the Royals may look in 2014.

1. R. James Shields 131 ERA+
2. R. Jeremy Guthre 102 ERA+
3. L. Jason Vargas 94 ERA+
4. L. Bruce Chen  126 ERA+
5. R. Yordana Ventura not enough data

Greg Holland emerged as a legitimate closer this past season, but his other comrades in the bullpen did well in late innings. Those other guys in the pen are Luke Hochevar,  Tim Collins, Kelvin Herrera, Wade Davis, and Aaron Crow. The Royals are well set for 2014 in terms of late inning relief.

The Chicago Cubs

The Cubs are having a pretty low key off season but added some interesting pieces. They finished low in the standings in 2013 and are probably going to finish in a similar position in 2014. They did add Jason Hammel and Jose Veras.

The lineup for the Cubs is pretty well balanced lineup with a few young stars in Starlin Castro and Anthony Rizzo. With a few other important parts in their lineup their lineup may be able to compete with front of the division teams. Jorge Soler the Cuban prospect may make his Major League debut sometime in 2014. Here is how the lineup for the Cubs may look.

1. L. Ryan Sweeney LF 109 OPS+
2. R. Starlin Castro SS 72 OPS+
3. L. Anthony Rizzo 1B 101 OPS+
4. R. Mike Olt 3B not enough data
5. L. Nate Schierholtz RF 107 OPS+
6. R. Justin Ruggiano CF 90 OPS+
7. L. George Kottaras C 98 OPS+
8. R. Darwin Barney 2B 56 OPS+

The pitching rotation for the Cubs is nothing above average, in fact the five that comprise the rotation pitching just near league average. Here is how the rotation for the Cubs may look in 2014.

1. R. Jeff Samardzjiza 91 ERA+
2. R. Edwin Jackson  79 ERA+
3. R. Jason Hammel 85 ERA+
4. R. Jake Arrieta  85 ERA+
5. R. James McDonald 62 ERA+

The bullpen has the new addition of Jose Veras as closer for 2014. Other notable names in the bullpen are Kyuji Fujikawa, Pedro Strop, and Wesley Wright. A pretty uneventful roster for the Cubs, but they will play hard and probably still lose close to 100 games.

The Toronto Blue Jays

Jose Reyes

The Blue Jays did not add much to their this off season but they still have some very good parts to their team. They have an excellent combination of speed power combination with excellent defense. The Blue Jays will have to compete with the stacked AL East.

Jose Reyes is the spark at the top of the lineup that scores all the runs. The Jose Bautista and Edwin Encarnacion can hit up to 80 home runs combined and score much needed runs. Here is how the lineup in 2014 may look
.

1. S. Jose Reyes      SS 113 OPS+
2. S. Melky Cabrera LF 88 OPS+
3. R. Jose Bautista RF 132 OPS+
4. R. Edwin Encarnacion DH 145 OPS+
5. L. Adam Lind 1B 132 OPS+
6. R. Brett Lawrie 3B 94 OPS+
7. L. Colby Rasmus CF 127 OPS+
8. S. Maicer Iztirus 2B 65 OPS+
9. L. Josh Thole C 38 OPS+

Sike that's the wrong blue jay. 

The Blue Jays made an attempt to upgrade their rotation with the Marlins by acquiring Josh Johnson and Mark Buehrle, but Josh Johnson is now with the Padres and Buehrle did not come through well last season. They do have RA Dickey and Brandon Morrow at the top of their rotation, but the rest of the rotation may be up in the air. Here is how I would set up the rotation in 2014.

1. R. Brandon Morrow 73 ERA+
2. R. RA Dickey  97 ERA+
3. L. Mark Buehrle  98 ERA+
4. L. JA Happ  90 ERA+
5. R. Kyle Drabek not enough data

Casey Jannsen is the closer for the Blue Jays, definitely not the best in the league, but he gets the job done. Hard throwers Sergio Santos and Steve Delabar also make their homes in the Blue Jay bullpen. Lefties Brett Cecil and Aaron Loup also get integrated into late innings to make interesting
match ups.

The Pittsburgh Pirates

Andrew McCutchen

The Pirates have the reigning National League MVP patrolling their outfield, they also a few other very important parts to their team. They did in fact lose Justin Morneau to free agency when he signed with the Colorado Rockies, and AJ Burnett when he signed with the Philadelphia Phillies. Nonetheless the Pirates have a very good core of young players that look to compete in 2014.

The power comes from Andrew McCutchen and Pedro Alvarez who proved to be a terrifying duo in 2013. Starling Marte is also emerging as a great talent in the outfield. The Pirates may not have the strongest lineup in the league, but the top of it is stronger than many in the National League. Here is how the Pirates may stack up in 2014.

1. R Jose Tabata RF 119 OPS+
2. S. Neil Walker 2B 115 OPS+
3. R. Andrew McCutchen CF 158 OPS+
4. L. Pedro Alvarez 3B 116 OPS+
5. R. Starling Marte LF 122 OPS+
6. R. Russel Martin C 100 OPS+
7. R. Gaby Sanchez 1B 117 OPS+
8. R. Clint Barmes SS  58 OPS+

Add caption

The pitching rotation for the Pirates seems to always perform no matter who is in it. The Pirates always pick up someone and they do phenomenal. They got Francisco Liriano and he performed great, also with AJ Burnett, and plenty other players. This year it may be Edison Volquez, but young gun Garret Cole will be in the rotation and ready to play. Here is how the roation may look in 2014.

1. L. Francisco Liriano  117 ERA+
2. R. Garret Cole  109 ERA+
3. L. Jeff Locke  100 ERA+
4. R. Edison Volquez  60 ERA+
5. L. Wandy Rodriguez  99 ERA+

The bullpen was stripped of Joel Hanrahan last season and Jason Grilli emerged as a great closer. Additionally Mark Melancon came through as a stellar set up man. The bullpen for the Pirates is composed of several other decent arms which combat their half decent rotation.

The Cleveland Indians

The Indians made some interesting moves this off season. It was a good move to let Ubaldo Jimenez sign with the Baltimore Orioles and an excellent move to sign David Murphy, a possible lighting in a bottle. The Indians are also going to try catcher Carlos Santana at third base, a very interesting move, but I would much rather use him as a designated hitter.

The lineup for the Indians will look very interesting, well balanced to say the least. A cluster of switch hitters, balanced with power, speed, and high on base percentages. The combinatio
n of Kipnis, Swisher, and Santana will be a great one for the Indians. Here is how the lineup for the 2014 Cleveland Indians may look.

1. L. Michael Bourne CF 93 OPS+
2. L. Jason Kipnis 2B 133 OPS+
3. S. Carlos Santana DH 137 OPS+
4. S. Nick Swisher 1B 117 OPS+
5. S. Asdrubal Cabrera SS 98 OPS+
6. L. David Murphy RF 77 OPS+
7. R. Yan Gomes C 133 OPS+
8. L. Michael Brantley LF 107 OPS+
9. R. Mike Aviles 3B 84 OPS+

Nick Swisher

The pitching rotation will be without Ubaldo Jimenez a very important part to the team toward the end of the 2013 season, but a few players will need to step up in 2014. Trevor Bauer who was acquired in a trade with the Arizona Diamondbacks last year will hopefully come to be the player everyone expects him to be. Justin Masterson and the word extension is being fluttered around, but he is set to hit free agency and make band given the current market for starting pitching. Here is how the rotation may look for the Indians in 2014.

1. R. Justin Masterson 109 ERA+
2. R. Josh Tomlin        61 ERA+ in 2012
3. R. Corey Kluber       98 ERA+
4. R. Zach McAllister   100 ERA+
5. R. Trevor Bauer      
not enough data

The bullpen will be without closer Chris Perez, but John Axford will be filling the position. Still part of the Bullpen Mafia is Vinnie Pestano, but Joe Smith signed with the Angels. With a combination of several other relievers the Indians still have a bullpen sufficient to stay in games come the late innings.  

The Philadelphia Phillies

Two notable additions were made by the Phillies this off season with AJ Burnett and Marlon Byrd. Roy Halladay did in fact retire this off season leaving the Phillies' rotation, but Hamels and Lee at the top make it a steady rotation.

The Phillies' lineup heavily depends on if the important players can remain healthy. That is Ryan Howard, Chase Utley, and Carlos Ruiz. Marlon Byrd will supply a much needed right handed bat in the lineup, but this is how the lineup may look in 2014.

1. L. Ben Revere         CF  92 OPS+
2. S. Jimmy Rollins     SS  85 OPS+
3. L. Chase Utley        2B 125 OPS+
4. L. Ryan Howard      1B 114 OPS+
5. R. Marlon Byrd       RF 138 OPS+
6. L. Dominick Brown LF 123 OPS+
7. R. Carlos Ruiz          C 90 OPS+
8. L. Cody Asche        3B  90 OPS+

The rotation as mentioned will be without Roy Halladay and now with AJ Burnett. The Phillies are in an in between phase in term of rebuilding their rotation. They have two absolute great pitchers at the top of their rotation.

1. L. Cliff Lee               133 ERA+
2. L. Cole Hamels          106 ERA+
3. R. AJ Burnett             107 ERA+
4. R. Kyle Kendrick         81 ERA+
5. R. Roberto Hernandez 78 ERA+

The bullpen for the Phillies may have a new look come the trade deadline as they are trying to free up money. Jonathon Papelbon or Mike Adams may be traded because they have the highest salaries of the bullpen arms. Other people in the bullpen include Brad Lincoln and Miguel Gonzalez.

The Detroit Tigers

Miguel Cabrera 

The Tigers made way more subtractions than additions this off season which is why I rank them with the worst off season. They traded Prince Fielder for the definitely non equivalent Ian Kinsler and traded a legitimate pitcher in Doug Fister for practically nothing, The Tigers definitely will not win the American League Central in 2014.

The Tigers will have a very old and a very right handed heavy lineup in 2014, although the defense will improve with Miguel Cabrera moving back to first base. Rajai Davis will be joining the team in the outfield giving the team and exceptional amount of speed on the base pads. This is how the lineup for the Tigers may look in 2014.

1. R. Rajai Davis           LF 88 OPS+
2. R. Austin Jackson     CF 103 OPS+
3. R. Miguel Cabrera     1B 187 OPS+
4. S. Victor Martinez    DH 111 OPS+
5. R. Ian Kinsler           2B 105 OPS+
6. R. Torii Hunter          RF 114 OPS+
7. L. Alex Avila             C 87 OPS+
8. S. Steve Lombardozi 3B 69 OPS+
9. R. Jose Iglesias         SS 77 OPS+

Max Scherzer

The pitching rotation for the Tigers is still one of the best in baseball with Justin Verlander and Max Scherzer. Doug Fister is also no longer in the rotation which would have made it one of the best in baseball, but the Tigers want to save that money to extend Scherzer. Filling in the 5th spot in the rotation will probably be Drew Smiley, but here is how the rotation may look in 2014.

1. R. Justin Verlander   121 ERA+
2. R. Max Scherzer       145 ERA+
3. R. Anibal Sanchez     163 ERA+
4. R. Rick Porcello        97 ERA+
5. L. Drew Smiley        178 ERA+ in bullpen

The Tigers solved their closer problem by signing veteran closer Joe Nathan. They also added to their bullpen by adding Joba Chamberlain looking to rebuild his career and hard throwing Ian Krol acquired in the Fister deal. Lefty Phil Coke and young gun Bruce Rendon.

Atlanta Braves

The Braves went on an extension frenzy this off season. They extended Freddie Freeman, Craig Kimbrel, Jason Heyward, Andrelton Simmons, and Julio Teheran. Although they extended plenty of players they caught bad news in the past few weeks with word that Kris Medlen and Brandon Beachy may be needing Tommy John Surgery. The Braves still have a good team in place for the 2014 season regardless of their losses.

The young lineup will still be supported by the powerful core of the Heyward, Upton, and Freeman 3-4-5 combo. They loss Brian McCann to free agency when he signed with the New York Yankees, but the emergence of Evan Gattis as a major power threat nullified the loss. Here is how I would make the lineup for the Braves in 2014.

1. R. Simmons      SS 87 OPS+
2. R. Johnson       3B 121 OPS+
3. L. Heyward      RF 111 OPS+
4. R. J. Upton      LF 122 OPS+
5. L. Freeman      1B 144 OPS+
6. R. Gattis           C 106 OPS+
7. R. Uggla          2B 83 OPS+
8. R. B. Upton     CF 53 OPS+

Ervin Santana

The pitching rotation for the Braves had a late addition when Kris Medlen's health was in jeopardy. With the news that he might and most probably will require Tommy John surgery the Braves went out to acquire the best remaining free agent pitcher on the market, Ervin Santana. The Braves will have a new look possibly without Medlen and Beachy, but here is how it may look.

1. L. Mike Minor     120 ERA+
2. R. Julio Teheran   121 ERA+
3. R. Ervin Santana   127 ERA+
4. R. Gavin Floyd      84 ERA+
5. L. Alex Wood       124 ERA+ 11 starts

*R. Kris Medlen 124 ERA+
*R. Brandon Beachy 87 ERA+

The bullpen is off course anchored by the best closer in the game, Craig Kimbel who will be shining with his new extension. Also in the bullpen is former Angel Jordan Walden and Johnny Venters making for a good late inning lefty-righty combination. The other guys in the pen are really up in the air.

The Seattle Mariners

The Mariners made one of the biggest headlines of the off season by signing Robinson Cano to a mega contact of 10 years $240 Million. The addition of Cano changed the entire team for the Mariners. Now with second base open they can trade Nick Franklin for a pitcher or even an outfielder.

Other additions besides Robsinson Cano include Willie Blomquist, Corey Hart, and Logan Morrison. The Mariners should really consider signing Kendrys Morales, the best hitter still on the market, to get some protection for Cano. Jesus Montero was supposed to be the big hitter for the Mariners but he did not come through and Mariners GM said he has "no expectations" for Montero. Here is how the lineup for the Mariners may look in 2014.

1. L. Dustin Ackley CF 90 OPS+
2. S. Willie Bloomquist SS 101 OPS+
3. L. Robinson Cano 2B 145 OPS+
4. R. Corey Hart 1B 120 OPS+ in 2012
5. L. Kyle Seager 3B 118 OPS+
6. S. Justin Smoak DH 113 OPS+
7. L. Michael Saunders RF 106 OPS+
8. R. Mike Zunnino C 78 ERA+
9. L. Logan Morrison LF 96 OPS+


The rotation for the Mariners is led by the King himself, Felix Hernandez. Hisashi Iwakuma was stud in 2013 season and Taijaun Walker will make the team from the get go this season. Here is how the rotation for the Mariners may stack up in 2014.

1. R. Felix Hernandez  121 ERA+
2. R. Hisashi Iwakuma 138 ERA+
3. R. Taijaun Walker    105 ERA+
4. R. Erasmo Ramirez   74 ERA+
5. R. Hector Noesi ?      57 ERA+
   

The big addition of the bullpen was Fernando Rodney and he will control the closer's position. Charlie Furbush, Danny Farquhar, and Tom Wilhilmson all take spots in the bullpen as well. The Mariners really need to improve their pitching to compete with the Rangers and Angels in 2014.

The Arizona Diamondbacks

The Diamondbacks made some significant moves this off season in pitching and offense. The big bat added was Mark Trumbo and the big pitcher added was Bronson Arroyo. The Diamondbacks will have to compete with the Giants and Dodgers in 2014, so they may not have as many wins as they deserve.

Adam Eaton will not be in the lineup for the 2014 Arizona Diamondbacks due to a trade with the Angels and White Sox to acquire Adam Eaton. Here is how the lineup for the 2014 Diamondbacks may look.

1. L. Gerardo Parra CF      99 OPS+
2. R. Martin Prado 3B        105 OPS+
3. R. Paul Goldschmitt 1B   160 OPS+
4. R. Mark Trumbo  LF      109 OPS+
5. R. Cody Ross RF           104 OPS+
6. L. Arron Hill 2B              124 OPS+
7. L. Miguel Montero C       83 OPS+
8. L. Didi Gregorius SS       94 OPS+

The Diamondbacks have a solid but not great pitching rotation. They traded Ian Kennedy for Joe Thatcher during the season, but replaced him with Bronson Arroyo. Other members of the rotation include Brandon McCarthy and Daniel Hudson. Here is how the rotation may look in 2014.

1. L. Patrick Corbin         112 ERA+
2. R. Bronson Arroyo       101 ERA+
3. R. Brandon McCarthy   84 ERA+
4. R. Randall Delgado        90 ERA+
5. R. Trevor Cahill            96 ERA+

The bullpen is anchored now by the newly acquired closer acquired Addison Reed. Other very notable names in the bullpen are JJ Puttz, David Hernandez, Joe Thatcher, and Brad Ziegler. The Diamondbacks have one of the best bullpens in the National League.  

The Los Angeles Angels

The Angels were big spenders these past 2 off seasons by signing big names like Albert Pujols, CJ Wilson, and Josh Hamilton. This off season they did not sign anyone to a mega contract, but made several well places and simple moves.

One well made move was trading Peter Bourgeois to the Cardinals for third baseman David Freese position that has been weak for the Angels. Also the Angels traded Mark Trumbo to the Diamondbacks in a three team deal to acquire prospect pitcher Tyler Skaggs and starter/reliever Hector Santiago.  To fill the hole at DH the Angels added veteran Raul Ibanez. Here is how I would make the lineup for the Angels in 2014.

1. S. Erick Aybar        SS 93 OPS+
2. R. Mike Trout        CF 179 OPS+
3. L. Josh Hamilton    RF 108 OPS+
4. R. Albert Pujols      1B 116 OPS+
5. L. Raul Ibanez       DH 124 OPS+
6. R. David Freese     3B 101 OPS+
7. R. Howie Kendrick 2B 118 OPS+
8. L. JB Shuck           LF 98 OPS+
9. R. Chris Iannetta    C 109 OPS+

The Angels rotation often gets a bed rep, but the 1-2 punch is one of the best in baseball, Jered Weaver and CJ Wilson. The rest of the rotations is Hector Santiago, Tyler Skaggs, and Joe Blanton, which does not sound so good.

1. R. Jered Weaver    115 ERA+
2. L. CJ Wilson         111 ERA+
3. L. Hector Santiago 120 ERA+
4. R. Joe Blanton       62 ERA+
5. L. Tyler Skaggs      75 ERA+

The closer for the Angels is going to be Ernesto Frieri with other significant named being Joe Smith, Sean Burnett, Kevin Jepson, and Garret Richards. The Angels have the outscore the other team strategy for the 2014 season.

The Milwaukee Brewers

The Brewers are set up to have another bad season with very few additions and lost some pretty big parts of their team. They did sign free agent starter Matt Garza to strengthen their rotation, but regardless the Brewers do not look good in 2014.

Corey Hart signed with the Mariners, so the Brewers signed Mark Reynolds as his replacement at first base. The Brewers also traded outfielder Aoki to the Royals in exchange for Wil Smith, not the actor. They still have a solid lineup, but it will have to work together to be successful in 2014. Here is how the lineup may look in 2014.

1. R. Jean Segura         SS 103 OPS++
2. S. Rickie Weeks        2B 80 OPS++
3. R. Ryan Braun           LF 134 OPS+
4. R. Carlos Gomez      CF  126 OPS+
5. R. Aramis Ramirez     3B 125 OPS+
6. R. Jonathon Lucroy     C 114 OPS+
7. R. Khris Davis          RF 153 OPS+
8. R. Mark Reynolds     1B 96 OPS+

The pitching rotation for the Brewers looks pretty decent, but compared to other powers in the NL Central they are not that good. I don't have much to say about the rotation for the Brewers, so here is how their rotation may look in 2014.

1. R. Matt Garza          106 ERA+
2. R. Kyle Lohse          117 ERA+
3. R. Yovani Gallardo     94 ERA+
4. R. Marco Estrada      102 ERA+
5. R, Tyler Thronburg   195 ERA+

After trading him last deadline the Brewers will also reunite with Francisco Rodriguez, the team he was upset to be traded to by the Mets. He will most likely be the closer as John Axford signed with the Cleveland Indians.  Jim Henderson, Michael Friers, and Will Smith all all probably be in the bullpen in 2014.

The New York Yankees

The Yankees were very busy this off season making some of the biggest stories this winter. The departure of Robinson Cano opened the door to sign outfielder Jacoby Ellsbury from their rival, the Boston Red Sox. They also landed superstar pitcher in Japan Masahiro Tanaka, who finished 24-0 in the Nippon League.

The Yankees also added Brian McCann a big addition given that they recieved barely any production from the catching position in 2013. The Yankees also went on to sign Carlos Beltran to replace Curtis Granderson who signed with the Mets. Minor additions include Kelly Johnson, to man third base due to A-Rod' suspension and Brian Roberts to replace Cano at second base. Here is how I would make the lineup in 2014.

1. L. Brett Gardner         LF 108 OPS+
2. R. Derek Jeter            SS 114 OPS+ in 2012
3. L. Jacoby Ellsbury     CF 114 OPS+
4. S. Carlos Beltran        RF 128 OPS+
5. S. Mark Teixeira        1B 115 OPS+ in 2012
6. L. Brian McCann        C  115 OPS+
7. R. Alphonso Soriano DH 112 OPS+
8. L. Kelly Johnson        3B 99 OPS+
9. S. Brian Roberts        2B 89 OPS+

The Yankees bolstered thier pitching rotation by adding Masahiro Tanaka the Japanese Phenom who went 24-0 with a 1.27 ERA. He has pitched in two spring training games and his splitter is masterful, no wonder why people have been saying it is the best in the world. Fan favorite Any Pettitte retired for a second time and Phil Hughes signed with the Twins. Here is how the rotation may look in 2014 with the fifth spot up in the air.

1. L. CC Sabathia           85 ERA+
2. R. Hiroki Kuroda        122 ERA+
3. R. Ivan Nova             130 ERA+
4. R. Masahiro Tanaka    1.27 ERA in Japan
5. R. Michael Pineda       101 ERA+ in 2012

The bullpen for the Yankees took a serious blow as member since 1995 retired, Mariano Rivera. David Robertson is going to take over as closer, but the rest of the bullpen is not very impressive. Boone Logan was replaced by Matt Thornton and the rest of the pen is up in the air, but David Phelps and Adam Warren will make the team as starters or relievers.

The St. Louis Cardinals

The Cardinals lost a big piece of their team this off season to the New York Yankees, that is of course Carlos Beltran. Having a switch hitter with so much experience in the lineup for the Cardinals was so big. They did go on to sign Jhonny Peralta to play short stop, a move that I think is very stupid.

The Cardinals decided to trade one of the fan favorites and most clutch players, David Freese. In return for Freese the Cardinals acquired Peter Bourjos. This is another question because in order to have both Matt Adams and Allen Craig in the lineup, one of them will have to play the outfield and leave no room for Bourjos. Here is how I think the lineup in 2014 will look.

1. L. Jon Jay            CF 102 OPS+
2. L. Matt Carpenter  3B 143 OPS+
3. R. Allen Craig       RF  131 OPS+
4. R. Matt Holliday    LF 144 OPS+
5. R. Yadier Molina    C 131 OPS+
6. L. Matt Adams     1B 131 OPS+
7. R. Jhonny Peralta  SS 119 OPS+
8. L. Kolten Wong     2B not enough data

The pitching rotation for the Cardinals is anchored by one of the best in baseball, Adam Wainwright. Young guns Shelby Miller and Michael Wacha came on the scene in 2013 and will hope to have another great season in 2014. Heree is how the rotation will look for the Cardinals in 2014.

1. R, Adam Wainwright 123 ERA+
2. R. Shelby Miller        119 ERA+
3. R. Michael Wacha     131 ERA+
4. L. Jamie Garcia         102 ERA+
5. R. Lance Lynn          91 ERA+

The bullpen for the Cardinals will be anchored by new closer and flamethrower Trevor Rosenthall. He is a great pitcher and I am glad that the Cardinals decided to keep in the bullpen and give him an definitive role. Other names in the bullpen are Joe Kelly, Jake Westbrook, and Randy Choate.

The Boston Red Sox

The Red Sox are reigning World Series Champions, but I'm not very sure if they'll be able to uphold that title in 2014. Many important pieces of their 2013 success have departed and the team did not replace these figures.

The lineup for the Red Sox took a significant decline upon the departure of Jacoby Ellsbury, Jarrod Saltalamacchia, and most likely Stephan Drew. They did replace Salty with AJ Pierzynski, but Ellsbury is being replaced with Jackie Bradly Jr, and Drew by Xander Bogaerts. They still have a very powerful lineup and here is how it may look in 2014.

1. S. Shane Victorino       RF 119 OPS+
2. R. Dustin Pedroia        2B 116 OPS+
3. L. David Ortiz            DH 160 OPS+
4. R. Mike Napoli           1B 129 OPS+
5. L. AJ Pierzynski            C 94 OPS+
6. R. Johnny Gomes        LF 111 OPS+
7. R. Will Middlebrooks   3B 88 OPS+
8. L. Jackie Bradly Jr.     CF 69 OPS+
9. R. Xander Bogaerts     SS 88 OPS+

Ortiz after the Boston Bombing "This is our
F****** city"

The pitching rotation for the Red Sox may be up in the air for the 2014 season with Ryan Dempster announcing that he is going to sit out the season. Also Jon Lester is in a walk year and the other members of the rotation may just be flat out inconsistent. Anyway this is how the rotation may stack up.

1. L. Jon Lester       109 ERA+
2. R. Clay Buchholz 234 ERA+ in 14 starts
3. R. Jake Peavy      101 ERA+
4. R. John Lackey    116 ERA+
5. L. Felix Doubront  94 ERA+

The bullpen is why the Red Sox won in the playoffs this past season. They lost several pieces throughout the season to injury. Koji Uehara ended up being the closer and he was phenomenal. Other notable parts of the bullpen for the Red Sox are Junichi Tazawa, Craig Breslow, and off season acquisition Edward Mujica.