Another NL East Prediction

From RBI Magazine:

http://www.rbimagazine.com/2009/03/2009-rbi-magazine-season-preview

NL East:

1. Phillies

-Even though they got worse, they’re still the class of the NL East.

-Same team, same result. Still looking good and primed to make another run. Hamels injury and fifth starter something to watch.

-Until proven otherwise, they’re still the team to beat in the division.

-A majority of last season’s World Series’ championship team is back, which should translate to a successful season


2. Mets
-Disappointing season after disappointing season, Minaya should be run out of New York soon.

-The new, improved bullpen should prevent a third straight September slide.

-Much of last year’s team is back, but now the bullpen has a few big arms, which should keep them close in the divisional race

-This is the year they don’t collapse…I think


3. Braves

-Revamped pitching staff brings the Braves close to where they were in the 90s.

-They’ll be competitive, but they’re young talent is still developing.

-The lineup isn’t too impressive and the pitching staff has too many injury risks to keep them competitive for 162 games.

-Revamped staff could be best in NL East. But, can Francoeur come back and will Chipper stay healthy? Both are big ifs.


4. Marlins

-Marlins won’t sell the house for a World Series this year, but with a new stadium coming, they will probably use their method to win one soon.

-In love with young pitching staff led by horse Ricky Nolasco. And when you have Hanley in the order, good things will come.

-No team is more consistently competitive with fewer resources than Florida.

-Hanley Ramirez continues his assault on National League pitching. Be afraid.


5. Nationals

-Quote of the offseason: “When you go to a club at 4 in the morning, and you’re just waiting, waiting, a 600-pounder looks like J-Lo. And to me this is Jennifer Lopez right here. It’s 4 in the morning. Too much to drink. So, Nationals: Jennifer Lopez to me.” –Julian Tavarez on why he signed with Washington

-NL East doormat will continue to get stomped on. Dunn signing helps with power, but Milledge, Dukes need big seasons, or else.

-Moving from Montreal hasn’t saved this debacle of a franchise.

-It’s hard not to love the lineup, but where is the pitching?