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MLB Season Preview

Friday, 19 March 2010 - David London

With April a few weeks away, preseason baseball is in full swing as we approach opening day. Some stories to follow heading into the new season:

Yankees Begin Quest to Repeat

The Yankees won their 27th World Series this past season, but that didn’t stop them from making splashes during the offseason. Among the acquisitions include Outfielder Curtis Granderson from the Detroit Tigers along with Javier Vazquez from the Atlanta Braves. Granderson will bring a nice combo of speed and power along with solid play with the glove. Look for his offensive numbers to increase in the hitter friendly ball park while Vazquez will likely face a drop off for the same reason. However I’m not complaining if he’s my number four starter. He’d be a one or two on most teams. The Yankees also brought in Nick Johnson.

Certain Places With New Faces

It was a rather busy offseason as there were several big names that were traded. Roy Halladay was traded to the Phillies after being with the Blue Jays his entire career. Cliff Lee was shipped to the Mariners as they make a push for the AL West Crown. John Lackey also changed coasts as he will be the latest player to take part in the Yankees-Red Sox rivalry.

Trouble In The Twin City

The Twins started off the offseason with plenty of attention as the new stadium along with their unusual spending of money. However Joe Mauer has still not been signed to a long term contract. That is not a big concern as it is expected to get done at some point. The Twins now focus their attention on their bullpen as Ole Reliable Joe Nathan is likely out for the season with a torn ligament in his elbow. Nathan has been closing for Minnesota since 2004.

AL West Heating Up

The AL West has served as a playoff spot for the L.A. Angels for years, but that is not as sure a thing as years past with the Mariners and Rangers bringing up the rear. The Athletics continue an afterthought with what seems to be one rebuilding year after another. The Mariners brought in Cliff Lee to form a solid 1-2 in the rotation with King Felix. Chone Figgins and Milton Bradley were also brought in to help the offense as they will likely match the Angels small ball type strategy. The Rangers are also a threat as their rotation turned the corner last season and Neftali Feliz is expected to make an impact on the mound.

Medical Staff Remains M.I.A in Queens, NY

The Mets had an awful season which gave new meaning to Murphy’s Law. Throughout a baseball season, players will have to deal with injuries, but the Mets were just ridiculous. The medical staff embraced the role as laughing stock as they mishandled one injury after another. They’re off to a great start as they continue their ways. Jose Reyes has been diagnosed with a minor thyroid problem and will be out for several weeks. Carlos Beltran waited until mid-January to have his knee surgery and will return in May at the earliest after going elsewhere for a second opinion. I don’t think you’ll find anyone that would blame him.

City of Brotherly Love Looks To Continue Run

The Phillies failed to repeat as Champions as they ran into a solid Yankee team. They didn’t stand pat as they brought in Roy Halladay to form one of the best 1-2 punches in the NL with Cole Hamels. The Phillies have depth on the mound and at the plate. Placido Polanco was also brought in to set the table for big bats Chase Utley and Ryan Howard.