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Of course, these things are really just ways to start arguments, but still . . .
[url=http://sportsline.com/mlb/story/10637459]Power Rankings[/url]
] 1 Mets
There is no question Santana was the missing piece. This isn't a perfect No. 1 overall pick, but they have the most potential to be dominant with no real weakness, assuming Santana can go his 230 innings. Unlike the Red Sox, they rely less on aging vets in the lineup and they should be far more motivated after last year's epic collapse.
2 Red Sox ·
They remain the pick here to cruise in the AL. Losing Curt Schilling won't hurt as much, because they were able to hang on to developing young arms Jon Lester and Clay Buchholz. We do see some soft spots in middle relief and setup: Hideki Okajima is closer to his second-half self (4.56 ERA) than his first half (0.83).
3 Tigers
They have to win now and the world should get to see what Miguel Cabrera can do with a great supporting cast. Dontrelle Willis should have a nice rebound, too. We might have picked them No. 1 overall, but: 1. We are not sure Jeremy Bonderman (elbow) is healthy; 2. Todd Jones is tough to rely on at closer; 3. Joel Zumaya (shoulder) is out until at least July.
4 Phillies
It is not too often a lineup can boast a trio of MVP candidates. The question is whether the pitching staff is deep enough after Cole Hamels and Brett Myers to limit the opposition in Citizens Bank Park. We're not sold on Brad Lidge's ability to keep the ball in the ballpark or to stay level-headed.
5 Indians
A deep pitching staff should keep them in the race even if they have some injuries. That is something that can't be said for many (or any?) other teams. They very well could have won last year, but we are disappointed they didn't add much this winter. They should have done something, particularly adding a corner outfielder.
6 Yankees ·
Their offseason was about retaining their veterans, which is understandable. But they are counting on some old players at risk of breakdown and some young pitchers who haven't proven themselves over a full pro season of 180 innings. |
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