AL East - New York Yankees. For the record, I hate the Yankees, but I am picking them to win their division.
AL Central - Minnesota Twins. A young team came within one game of punching their ticket to the playoffs. If I were their GM, I would make a push to acquire Joe Crede to shore up third base, but beyond that - I think the decision to stand pat and hope this young rotation takes a step forward was pretty wise. Sign Mauer and Morneau to long term contracts ASAP.
AL West - Anaheim Angles. Their outfield is loaded.
AL Wildcard - Tampa Bay Rays. Can they regress a little from last season and still clinch a spot in the playoffs? Why not?
Most improved AL team - New York Yankees. Will a few big name signings help them make up that eight game deficit in the AL East? Um, yes. I think it will.
Most disappointing AL team - Boston. While the Red Sox played reasonably well over the course of the second half of last season - I think an entire year without Manny Being Manny will actually have a measurable impact on their lineup.
NL East - New York Mets. These guys have to win the division at some point, right?
NL Central - Chicago Cubs. Here are three major factors determining this team's fate in 2009. Fukudome needs to figure out how to translate his success in Japan to the MLB. If he can hit for an average close to .300 this season, this lineup is going to be incredibly dangerous. On the pitching end, Rich Harden needs to stay healthy and give the Cubbies 6 strong innings every time he pitches. He can miss a couple of starts throughout the year, but Cubs fan need to be praying for this kids arm and shoulder health. Finally, if the Cubs can work out a trade with the San Diego Padres for Jake Peavy before the All Star break . . . good night NL Central.
NL West - Los Angeles Dodgers. This was the toughest division for me to call, given the fact that Manny is still a giant question mark. My guess is that he will eventually come to terms with the Dodgers and shore up their lineup.
NL Wildcard - Philadelphia Phillies. Returning champs should make a strong run again this season.
Most improved NL team - Washington Nationals. Let's just say that this team has nowhere to go but up. The acquisition of Adam Dunn should help them shore up their lineup a bit.
Most disappointing NL team - Milwaukee Brewers. You lose your two best starters and chances are you won't improve much the next season. It's science.
