Countdown to Opening Day: 2013 MLB Predictions

By Andrew Marcus
Sportswriter for Montgomery Media

Follow me on Twitter @amarcus515

Now that I have analyzed every roster over  past month I am ready to make my 2013 predictions. In the past  I have been pretty good a picking 5-or-6 playoffs teams with always two horrendous missteps. If I could get anything right it would be my World Series winner, but I know a July trade or significant injury will shape the season in a way that I cannot calculate at this point.
However I am not backing down on the Machine the operates in Ohio. For the second straight season I am going with Baker's bunch...

2013 MLB Predicted Standings (playoff teams in red)

AL East (predicted win total)
Rays (93-69)
Red Sox (89-73)
Blue Jays (85-77)
Orioles (84-78)
Yankees (81-81)

What kind of year could a healthy Longo have?

AL Central
Tigers (96-66)
Indians (86-76)
Royals (81-81)
White Sox (77-85)
Twins (68-94)

AL West
Rangers (92-70)
Angels (91-71)
Athletics (83-79)
Mariners (77-85)
Astros (62-100)

NL West
Giants (88-74)

Dodgers (85-77)
Diamondbacks (83-79)
Rockies (82-80)
Padres (71-91)

Hamels could add a Cy Young to the resume

NL Central
Reds (95-67)
Cardinals (86-76)
Cubs (80-82)
Pirates (77-85)
Brewers (75-87)

NL East
Nationals (99-63)
Braves (91-71)
Phillies (84-78)
Mets (73-89)
Marlins (59-103)

2013 MLB Playoff Predictions

NLWC: Braves over Cardinals
NLDS: Reds over Giants
NLDS: Nationals over Braves
ALWC: Red Sox over Angels
ALDS: Rays over Rangers
ALDS: Tigers over Red Sox
NLCS: Reds over Nationals
ALCS: Rays over Tigers

World Series: Reds over Rays

2013 Award Winners Predictions

AL MVP: Evan Longoria (Rays)
NL MVP: Matt Kemp (Dodgers)

AL Cy Young: Yu Darvish (Rangers)
NL Cy Young: Cole Hamels (Phillies)

AL Rookie of the Year: Wil Myers (Rays)
NL Rookie of the Year: Travis d'Arnaud (Mets)

AL Manager of the Year: Ron Washington (Rangers)
NL Manager of the Year: Bruce Bochy (Giants)

AL Comeback Player of the Year: Victor Martinez (Tigers)
NL Comeback Player of the Year: Troy Tulowitzki (Rockies)

Countdown to Opening Day: #1 Detroit Tigers

By Andrew Marcus
Sportswriter for Lansdale Reporter

Follow me on Twitter @amarcus515

#1 Detroit Tigers: Welcome to Detroit Rock City, State, & Universe

PROJECTED LINEUP

CF Austin Jackson
RF Torii Hunter
3B Miguel Cabrera
1B Prince Fielder
DH Victor Martinez
SS Jhonny Peralta
LF Andy Dirks
C Alex Avila
2B Omar Infante

PROJECTED ROTATION
Justin Verlander
Max Scherzer
Anibal Sanchez
Doug Fister
Rick Porcello

BULLPEN

Closer: Phil Coke

Set-up: Joaquin Benoit

Top Prospect: Nick Castellanos (OF)

When a team can make a sound argument for having the best hitter and best pitcher in baseball you know they have a good team. Led by American League 2012 MVP Miguel Cabrera and 2011 MVP Justin

Verlander the Tigers are battled tested and ready to take over.
After being swept in the World Series by the Giants last October they went out and added Torii Hunter to an already to strong lineup. They also bring back Victor Martinez, who missed the entire year with an injury. Add in a constantly improving lead-off hitter in Austin Jackson and you are looking at one tough lineup for opposing pitcher's to navigate.
And this is not your typical American League offensive powerhouse. They can pitch too. Verlander is joined in the rotation by Max Scherzer, Anibal Sanchez, Doug Fister and Rick Porcello. All five of those right handers seem to be get better each season.
The only downfall to this team may be the ninth innings. They have talented relievers, but none they are willing to name their closer. Jose Valverde could not do it in the postseason and refuse to bring him back. They would rather go with a committee.
No closer is not quite a small problem, but nothing a July trade cannot fix. The Tigers want to be peaking in October - and they looked poised to do so.

THEY CALL ME MR. SUNSHINE - It turns out Miguel Cabrera or Justin Verlander will not be MVP this
season. Instead Max Scherzer wins the Cy Young, Prince Fielder takes the MVP award and the Tigers flirt with 110 wins. Phil Coke gets the first shot at closing and never falters. No worries, no problems, just a parade in October around Comerica Park.

REAL TALK - They are the clear cut pick to win the World Series and most experts probably feel foolish not to select them to do make the Fall Classic. However, when you have THIS much talent it is foolish to not have a establish closer in the ninth inning. All the "I's" need to be dotted and "T's" need to be crossed when you have a good to chance to win it all. Get a damn closer Detroit!

Breakout: Austin Jackson (OF)

Bust: Alex Avila (C)
Fantasy Baseball Sleeper: Rick Porcello (RHP)

LAST YEAR'S RECORD: 88-74 (1st in AL Central)

PROJECTED 2013 FINISH: 96-66 (1st in AL Central)

**Check back tomorrow for the MLB PREDICTIONS**

Countdown to Opening Day: #2 Washington Nationals

By Andrew Marcus
Sportswriter for Lansdale Reporter

Follow me on Twitter @amarcus515

#2 Washington Nationals: The Aftermath of shutting down Strasburg

PROJECTED LINEUP

CF Denard Span
RF Jayson Werth
LF Bryce Harper
3B Ryan Zimmerman
1B Adam LaRoche
SS Ian Desmond
2B Danny Espinosa
C Kurt Suzuki
P Stephen Strasburg

PROJECTED ROTATION
Stephen Strasburg
Gio Gonzalez
Jordan Zimmermann
Dan Haren
Ross Detwiler

BULLPEN

Closer: Rafael Soriano

Set-up: Drew Storen

Top Prospect: Anthony Rendon (3B)

If only the National fans could look at the loss to the Cardinals in the postseason and blame it on the missing ace. Shutting down Stephen Strasburg did not directly effect their chances because they recieved strong starting pitching. The Cardinals were just more clutch and if anyone was to blame it was Drew Storen and a bullpen that

blew the lead on multiple occasions.
It was a young group's first experience in the playoffs and it should not derail their 2013 hopes. The Nats come back with more bullets this season and the signing of closer Rafael Soriano probably had a little bit to do with Storen and the bullpen's finish.
The Nats are leaving no stone unturned as they know how quickly a window of opportunity can disappear. Dan Haren adds depth to maybe the best starting rotation in baseball and Denard Span gives them a leadoff hitter who can pick it in the big center
field at Nationals Park.
They are counting the kiddies to take the next step. If phenoms Stephen Strasburg and Bryce Harper live up to all the hype this team could cruise to 100 wins and top seed in the National League. Injuries are the only thing that could derail this train.
How quickly they have gone from worst to first - and their window seems to be open as long as Harper and Strasburg dawn the curly W.

THEY CALL ME MR. SUNSHINE - A one of a kind 20 year old gets thrown into the three-hole of a very
talented lineup and never looks back. Harper plays 162 games and puts up a stat line Mickey Mantle and Ken Griffey Jr. dreamed of at that age. All those years of earning the top overall pick finally pay off and the Nats own the MVP and Cy Young in Strasburg.






REAL TALK - They probably have the most talent on paper and they are the most likely team to win 100 games, especially since they get to beat up on the Mets and Marlins. Recent history has proven it is hard to be the best team from April to October. But if they are hot come playoff time this team will be tough to beat.

Breakout: Ross Detwiler (LHP)

Bust: Gio Gonzalez (LHP)
Fantasy Baseball Sleeper: Jayson Werth (OF)

LAST YEAR'S RECORD: 98-64 (1st in NL East)

PROJECTED 2013 FINISH: 99-63 (1st in NL East)

**Check back tomorrow for the Detroit Tigers**

Countdown to Opening Day: #3 Texas Rangers

By Andrew Marcus
Sportswriter for Lansdale Reporter

Follow me on Twitter @amarcus515

#3 Texas Rangers: With or Without Yu

PROJECTED LINEUP

2B Ian Kinsler
SS Elvis Andrus
3B Adrian Beltre
DH Lance Berkman
RF Nelson Cruz
C AJ Piersynski
1B Mitch Moreland
LF David Murphy
CF Leonys Martin

PROJECTED ROTATION
Yu Darvish
Matt Harrisn
Derek Holland
Alexi Ogando
Nick Tepesch

BULLPEN

Closer: Joe Nathan

Set-up: Robbie Ross

Top Prospect: Jurickson Profar (SS)

As Josh Hamilton walks away to greener pastures and greener pockets (cha-ching) there has been some chatter that back-to-back losses in the World Series will be as close as this group gets. But hold the sad violin sounds. This group still has plenty of talent - talent that is underrated and up and coming. Go ahead and pick the A's to repeat as West champs or go with Hamilton's new home and the Angels. These Rangers are far from done competing. I am not guaranteeing a World Series appearance, but the Rangers are not going anywhere and are a force in the American League.
The bullpen is deeper and getting healthier and the rotation is similar, now its led by a sophomore Yu Darvish who I expect to find his control and contend for a Cy-Young award.
The offense may not hit as many homers, but it is still above average led by Ian Kinsler, Nelson Cruz, and MVP candidate Adrian Beltre. And let's not forget some of the top prospects in the game Jurckison Profar and Mike Olt are a phone call away.
Don't count the Rangers out yet. They want to beat Hamilton and the Angels more so than ever.

THEY CALL ME MR. SUNSHINE - After a sluggish two weeks in April there is no more time wasted and Jurickson Profar and Mike Olt are on the first train from Round Rock. It may mean Olt moves to left field
and Kinsler goes to first base, but they do whatever it takes to get all of their top offensive players in the lineup. The youngsters' energy rubs off on veterans Lance Berkman and A.J. Piersynski and the Rangers roll in the A.L. West.

REAL TALK - Behind an improved Yu Darvish and new look offense that still scores tons of runs the Rangers can win the West. Yes, the Angels are better and the A's are not to be taken lightly, but I get the hunch if you give up on Ron Washington's group too soon they will come back and shove it in your face.

Breakout: Yu Darvish (RHP)

Bust: David Murphy (OF)
Fantasy Baseball Sleeper: Matt Harrison (LHP) 

LAST YEAR'S RECORD: 93-69 (2nd in AL West)

PROJECTED 2013 FINISH: 92-70 (1st in AL West)

**Check back tomorrow for the Washington Nationals**

Countdown to Opening Day: #4 Cincinnati Reds

By Andrew Marcus
Sportswriter for Lansdale Reporter

Follow me on Twitter @amarcus515

#4 Cincinnati Reds: Cuban Missile Crisis

PROJECTED LINEUP

CF Shin-Soo Choo
2B Brandon Phillips
1B Joey Votto
RF Jay Bruce
3B Todd Frazier
LF Ryan Ludwick
SS Zack Cozart
C Ryan Hanigan
P Johnny Cueto

PROJECTED ROTATION
Johnny Cueto
Mat Latos
Homer Bailey
Bronson Arroyo
Mike Leake

BULLPEN

Closer: Aroldis Chapman

Set-up: Johnathan Broxton

Top Prospect: Billy Hamilton (OF)

Now that the Reds have finally come to their senses and put Aroldis Chapman back into the closer's role they can pick up where they left off last season. Who knows what would have happen if Johnny Cueto did not get hurt in the playoff series against the Giants.
The past cannot be changed, so instead they took a good look at themselves and sured up their weaknesses in the offseason - or they think they did.
Shin-Soo Choo was brought over from Cleveland to play center field and bat leadoff, something the Reds sorely missed last season. Choo played mostly right field for the Indians and is not your prototypical leadoff guy, but his career on base percentage says he should be able to get the job done.
In the big picture, Choo is just holding the positition down until Billy Hamilton can prove he get play the outfield and get on base at the big league level. Just a year ago Hamilton stole 155 bases in the minors, but was an infielder and not quite ready for big league pitching.
The starting pitching should be fine, as the same five that made every start last season has a chance to do it again. With Chapman back in the bullpen and Jonathan Broxton moving to a set-up role, the bullpen should be deeper than ever.

THEY CALL ME MR. SUNSHINE - Joey Votto is able to set a career high in RBIs thanks to the table setters hitting in front of him. With Choo and Brandon Phillips it the 1-2 spots for this offense, which has already been one of the better ones in the N.L., the Reds have the best year since the 1970s. The power extends deep with guys like Todd Frazier and Ryan Ludwick also surpassing the 20 home run mark. This modern day Big Red Machine team is balanced and dangerous.

REAL TALK - The big down fall could come from pitching, but I like them to be one of the best teams all season and make a run at a title. Johnny Cueto never seems to get the respect of a bonafide ace, but he seems to be one. I guess if Cueto does take a step back and the back-end of Bronson Arroyo and Mike Leake cannot get it done they could disappoint in Cincy - but I would not count on it.

Breakout: Mat Latos (RHP)

Bust: Ryan Ludwick (OF)
Fantasy Baseball Sleeper: Homer Bailey (RHP)

LAST YEAR'S RECORD: 97-65 (1st in NL Central)

PROJECTED 2013 FINISH: 95-67 (1st in NL Central)

**Check back tomorrow for the Texas Rangers**

Countdown to Opening Day #5 Tampa Bay Rays

By Andrew Marcus
Sportswriter for Lansdale Reporter

Follow me on Twitter @amarcus515

#5 Tampa Bay Rays: The Friedman Philosophy

PROJECTED LINEUP
CF Desmond Jennings
SS Yunel Escobar
3B Evan Longoria
RF Ben Zobrist
LF Matt Joyce
DH Luke Scott
1B James Loney
C Jose Molina
2B Kelly Johnson

PROJECTED ROTATION
David Price
Matt Moore
Jeremy Hellickson
Alex Cobb
Jeff Niemann

BULLPEN

Closer: Fernando Rodney

Set-up: Jake McGee

Top Prospect: Wil Myers (OF)

I know it is not all General Manager Andrew Friedman's philosophy, but as the head figure we all see for the Rays, I like to tip my hat to him and bow down for the work he has done with a roster that is around 60 million for everyone. The Yankees have more money in three infielders (Jeter, Rodriguez, Texeira) that will all start the year on the Disabled List.
I believe Billy Beane has altered his thinking to more of a  Friedman style. So this guys needs a movie. At least he has made the World Series in recent years. And every year they let big free agents walk and still win 90 games.
This year they traded James Shields before his free agent years come up and brought back an impact bat to help the offense get back on track. They saw they needed defensive help and loaded up the bench with glove guys. The starting lineup does not look overpowering, but bench guys like Sean Rodriguez and Ryan Roberts will really help the Rays over a full season.
If Longoria can stay healthy the Rays are going to be able to contend again. Matt Moore has a chance to really take off in his sophomore season and the Rays smartly signed him to a friendly five year deal before he reach David Price land, which means they have only a few more years left with the reigning Cy Young winner, because he is now out of the Rays price range.
Signing their prospects early is important, but also they ability to find talent and mold them into strong major leaguers is crucial. If they pan out they can eventaually trade them for  Alex Cobb and Jeff Niemann are supposed to be the back-end of the rotation this season, but if they failed or need to be traded for help elsewherreinfe, Chris Archer, Jake Odorizzi, Mike Montgomery, and even Roberto Hernandez (Fausto Carmona) all wait in the wings.

THEY CALL ME MR. SUNSHINE - The Rays rule stays in effect (rookie get called-up May 1st) and after a mediocre April call-ups to Wil Myers and Jake Odorizzi (the two top prospects in the Shields' trade) head over to Tropicana Field. Their youth, excitement  and skills spark this team to new heights. With a healthy year of Evan Longoria, a dynamic lead-off hitter in Desmond Jennnings, and Rookie of the Year Wil Myers, the Rays roll in the challenging A.L. East.

REAL TALK - Other than Longoria there are not that many flashy names, but I believe the combination of players Freidman has put together and Joe Maddon has to manage might be his best job yet. A lot leans on the maturation of starters Matt Moore and Jeremy Hellickson. But if those two give the Rays a strong trio with David Price, the A.L. should be on the lookout. 

Breakout: Matt Moore (LHP)

Bust: Alex Cobb (RHP)
Fantasy Baseball Sleeper: Desmond Jennings (OF)

LAST YEAR'S RECORD: 90-72 (3rd in AL East)

PROJECTED 2013 FINISH: 93-69 (1st in AL East)

**Check back tomorrow for the Cincinnati Reds**

Countdown to Opening Day: #6 Atlanta Braves

By Andrew Marcus
Sportswriter for Lansdale Reporter

Follow me on Twitter @amarcus515

#6 Atlanta Braves: Up, Up, and a Hey

PROJECTED LINEUP
SS Andrelton Simmons
RFJason Heyward
LF Justin Upton
1B Freddie Freeman
CF BJ Upton
2B Dan Uggla
3B Juan Francisco
C Evan Gattis
P Tim Hudson

**Brian McCann out until early May

PROJECTED ROTATION
Tim Hudson
Kris Medlen
Paul Maholm
Mike Minor
Julio Teheran

BULLPEN

Closer: Craig Kimbrel

Set-up: Jordan Walden

Top Prospect: Julio Teheran (RHP)

I still shake my head in disbelief that the Atlanta Braves found a way to bring in, not only B.J. Upton this off season, but the younger and uber-talented Justin Upton in as well. The Diamondbacks had enough of his skyscraping ceiling for whatever petty reason and let him travel East rather easily.
The return of Martin Prado to the D'Backs is worth something because he can be the glue to a offense, but Justin Upton can be the  cement. If more motivation was what they thought the phenom Upton needed, well he has it competing with his brother everyday and another child-freak in Jason Heyward.
Upton, Upton and Heyward make up a trifecta in the outfield, and if they can gel, this team could go far with those three five-tool monsters in the middle of the order.
You are bringing in some heavy duty hitters into a team that won 96 games a season ago. Never thought I would say this but Washington may have the sexier names. But the Braves are just as talented. It would not surprise me one bit if they had more wins than the Nationals, and the rest of the National League for that matter.
I never like to pick a team to win it all the first season they are all together, this core group that includes Freddie Freeman and Andrelton Simmons, but they have a World Series championship in their future.

THEY CALL ME MR. SUNSHINE - There have not been this many smiles it Atlanta since 1995 when the won with ease every day the Braves had a hall-of-famer take the mound, which was 60 percent of the time. From day one these Braves smash and smash with a smile. Brothers of other mothers get in on the act and Justin Upton earns NL MVP in his first season in Atlanta while the Diamondbacks finish fourth behind the lowly Colorado Rockies.

REAL TALK - I think it will take some time for the Braves to put it all together. Some tinkering needs to be done with this pitching staff as well. The bullpen is borderlined overused over the last few seasons and the rotation is no lock to be lights out. The Braves have the feel of a streaky team - but look out when the streak is a hot one.

Breakout: Andrelton Simmons (SS)

Bust: Kris Medlen (RHP)
Fantasy Baseball Sleeper: Mike Minor (LHP)

LAST YEAR'S RECORD: 94-68 (2nd in NL East)

PROJECTED 2013 FINISH: 91-71 (2nd in NL East)

**Check back tomorrow for the Tampa Bay Rays**

Countdown to Opening Day: #7 Los Angeles Angels

By Andrew Marcus
Sportswriter for Lansdale Reporter

Follow me on Twitter @amarcus515

#7 Los Angeles Angels: Hamilton gets his wings

PROJECTED LINEUP
LF Mike Trout
SS Erick Aybar
1B Albert Pujols
RF Josh Hamilton
DH Mark Trumbo
2B Howie Kendrick
C Chris Iannetta
3B Alberto Callaspo
CF Peter Bourjos

PROJECTED ROTATION
Jered Weaver
C.J. Wilson
Tommy Hanson
Jason Vargas
Joe Blanton

BULLPEN

Closer: Ernesto Frieri

Set-up: Ryan Madson

Top Prospect: Kaleb Cowart (3B)

Back to the checkbook. It turns out Albert Pujols and C.J. Wilson was not enough, so General Manager Jerry DiPoto dipped back into the club's deep pockets once again and signed the top free agent available. With Josh Hamilton in the fold, as well as a full season of Rookie of the Year Mike Trout, the Angels expect nothing less than a parade in DisneyLand that does not include Mickey and Minnie - just Angels.
The foursome of Pujols, Wilson, Hamilton, and Trout will have a big impact on the 2013 season. I doubt Trout will duplicate his insane numbers as a 20 year old, but he should still put up all-star numbers. People worry about the health of Hamilton and Pujols, but I'd bet it be another year of .300, 30, 100 for El Hombre and strong numbers for the newest Angel, only once again in 130 games - not 160.
C.J. Wilson, as well as Tommy Hanson, Jason Vargas, Joe Blanton need to pick up their weight and help Jered Weaver and the rotation. You cannot win every game 9-8, and Wilson and Hanson need to make their staff a strength.
For all the big names in the ballpark, they have a lot of profile names that need to perform like they are getting paid to. A first place finish should not be a far-fetched dream, but injuries and inconsistencies are not far-fetched for some of the these players and that could be a nightmare.

THEY CALL ME MR. SUNSHINE - A modern day Ruth and Gehrig, Hamilton and Pujols and the numbers that combination collect this seasons steals the summer story lines. Mike Trout scores 150 runs for the boppers in the middle of the order and they easily hold the most prolific offense in the majors, close to one of the best of all-time. With players always on base the RBI totals for even Mark Trumbo and Howie Kendrick reach career highs.

REAL TALK - With talents like Trout, Weaver, Pujols and Hamilton it cannot go so wrong that they are breaking up the band Boston style at the trade deadline, but they will need to take care of their bodies and make sure they can play at least 140 of the 160. The more days the top of batting order consists of those headliners, the better chances they can regain control in the A.L. West

Breakout: Jason Vargas (LHP)

Bust: Peter Bourjos (OF)
Fantasy Baseball Sleeper: Erick Aybar (SS)

LAST YEAR'S RECORD: 89-73 (3rd in AL West)

PROJECTED 2013 FINISH: 91-71 (2nd in AL West)

**Check back tomorrow for the Atlanta Braves**

Countdown to Opening Day: #8 San Francisco Giants

By Andrew Marcus
Sportswriter for Lansdale Reporter

Follow me on Twitter @amarcus515

#8 San Francisco Giants: Giants of the Decade?

PROJECTED LINEUP
CF Angel Pagan
2B Marco Scutaro
C Buster Posey
3B Pablo Sandoval
RF Hunter Pence
1B Brandon Belt
LF Gregor Blanco
SS Brandon Crawford
P Matt Cain

PROJECTED ROTATION
Matt Cain
Madison Bumgarner
Ryan Vogelsong
Tim Lincecum
Barry Zito

BULLPEN

Closer: Sergio Romo

Set-up: Santiago Casilla

Top Prospect: Gary Brown (OF)

The only thing harder to do than win a World Series is to win the World Series in back-to-back to years. It was impressive enough that the Bruce Bochy-led bunch has done in two-out-of-three years in this 30 team, 11 postseason games to win in-it-all era.

So with all professional sports being copycat leagues, let's take a deeper look inside of the Giants' success. Becuase while it is going to be very hard to repeat, the boys by  the Bay have just a good a shot to be in the Fall Classic as anyone else.
The main focus is starting pitching. The group of Matt Cain, Madison Bumgarner, Barry Zito, Tim Lincecum, and Ryan Vogelsong keep the Giants in every ball game. And they need to. The Giants never are offensive juggernauts and their ballpark would not let them be. So another focus is playing to the ball park.
They do have loose, motivated professionals. Pablo Sandoval, Hunter Pence, and Buster Posey are the furthest from business-like ballplayers. They love to play the game and they love to win. Other than the MVP Posey, the roster is full of clutch hitters. Posey is clutch and iconic.
So they have their pitching and a middle-of-the-order star. There are two things left that make the magic work. They have manager in Bochy that fits perfect with his players and the front office. And they also have a very smart General Manager in Brian Sabean. His mid-season under the radar acquisitions never seem to fail. Marco Scutaro's performance in the playoffs last season is Exhibit A.
The Giants are not the richest club in baseball, but they have a plan, they stick to it, and they are in the mix every season because of it.

THEY CALL ME MR. SUNSHINE - You thought last year was dominant winning 94 games and the World Series, wait to take a peak at a dynasty if formation. Tim Lincecum rebounds to Cy Young form and Brandon Belt finds his power stroke. The Giants are just on another level than every other team in the majors and Buster Posey makes back-to-back MVP awards.





REAL TALK - There is definitely good vibes going around A T & T Park and clearly more chemistry than any other N.L. West team trying to load up and dethrone them. The Giants went through an off season on the red carpet after 2010 and did not fair well in their repeat efforts. They can be more prepared for those talk shows and commercials, but the target on their back around baseball makes it nearly impossible to repeat in this era.

Breakout: Gary Brown (OF)

Bust: Marco Scutaro (2B)
Fantasy Baseball Sleeper: Ryan Vogelsong (SP)

LAST YEAR'S RECORD: 94-68 (1st in NL West)

PROJECTED 2013 FINISH: 88-74 (1st in NL West)

**Check back tomorrow for the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim**

Countdown to Opening Day: #9 Boston Red Sox

By Andrew Marcus
Sportswriter for Lansdale Reporter

Follow me on Twitter @amarcus515

#9 Boston Red Sox: My worst Valentine

PROJECTED LINEUP
CF Jacoby Ellsbury
2B David Pedroia
DH David Ortiz
1B Mike Napoli
3B Will Middlebrooks
RF Shane Victorino
C Jarrod Saltalamacchia
LF Jonny Gomes
SS Stephen Drew

PROJECTED ROTATION
Jon Lester
Ryan Dempster
Clay Buchholz
Felix Doubront
John Lackey

BULLPEN

Closer: Joel Hanrahan

Set-up: Andrew Bailey

Top Prospect: Jackie Bradley Jr. (OF)

This is not the first time in Major League Baseball that a team of high hopes did so little with their talent. Yes, the Red Sox were hindered by injuries all season, but you cannot deny the impact Bobby Valentine had on the group.
He called out the team leaders and sped up the Kevin Youkilis leaving town process. Time and time again he said and did the wrong thing. Even the talented and healthy lost motivation during the season. Decision after decision failed to be correct and Adrian Gonzalez, Carl Crawford and Josh Beckett were also out the door.
It seems moving those big contracts will not hurt the Sox, but it is still up in the air. What's not up in the air is the firing of Bobby Valentine. He'll probably never coach in the majors again. I mean his only job offer was an athletic director at a small college.
New manager John Farrell, former pitching coach for the Red Sox, does not promote himself as a miracle worker, but he should be able to get struggling pitching in the right direction. Anything is better than Bobby V.

THEY CALL ME MR. SUNSHINE - It is amazing what a clear mind and healthy body can do for a clubhouse. The Red Sox make the biggest win total jump in the Major Leagues behind a revamped rotation and a few emerging bats. While Pedroia and Ortiz are still doing their thing, it is third basemen Will Middlebrooks and outfielder Jackie Bradley Jr. that put the Sox back into the playoffs one year removed from a 69 win season.

REAL TALK - It is going to take gutsy performance to go from worst to first, but I do believe it is doable, barring health setbacks to key players such as Jacoby Ellsbury, Dustin Pedroia and Jon Lester. The bullpen was fixed in the off season with additions of Joel Hanrahan and Koji Uhera and the starting pitching can only go up. Another A.L.East team that could finish first or fifth, but I'm leaning toward a team in the Wild Card mix.

Breakout: Will Middlebrooks

Bust: Stephen Drew
Fantasy Baseball Sleeper: Jon Lester

LAST YEAR'S RECORD: 69-93 (5th in AL East)

PROJECTED 2013 FINISH: 89-73 (2nd in AL East)

**Check back tomorrow for the San Francisco Giants**

Countdown to Opening Day: #10 Los Angeles Dodgers

By Andrew Marcus
Sportswriter for Lansdale Reporter

Follow me on Twitter @amarcus515

#10 Los Angeles Dodgers: Magic assists in a slam dunk

PROJECTED LINEUP
LF Carl Crawford
RF Andre Ethier
CF Matt Kemp
1B Adrian Gonzalez
SS Hanley Ramirez
3B Luis Cruz
2B Mark Ellis
C A.J. Ellis
P Clayton Kershaw

PROJECTED ROTATION
Clayton Kershaw
Zack Greinke
Josh Beckett
Chad Billingsley
Hyun-Jin Ryu

PROJECTED BULLPEN

Closer: Brandon League

Set-up: Kenley Jansen

Top Prospect: Yasiel Puig (OF)

Not many teams would ever consider bringing on the payroll the Dodgers did at the All-Star break a season ago. Hanley Ramirez plus a Boston brigade of underachievers was a risky move. If it works Magic Johnson and the front office looks smart, and if it doesn't they are in a world of hurt.
They did not stop spending at the break, as this off season they bought Zack Greinke and-spent a ton to talk with Hyun Jin-Ryu. However there for still are some questions, such as the bullpen, third base, Carl Crawford, and it could go south quickly. The hope is MVP talents Matt Kemp , Adrian Gonzalez, and Hanley Ramirez will be able to hide any of their inefficiencies.
Matt Kemp still needs to stay healthy. Adrian Gonzalez will benefit from never stepping in the outfield or playing for the disfunctional Bobby Valentine. Hanley Ramirez just needs to stay motivated and maybe he will play up to his full potential.
There are a lot of ifs on this large payroll club, but there is a lot of talent and they should be in the mix for a playoff spot.

THEY CALL ME MR. SUNSHINE - The stars come out at night and in L.A. this lineup loaded with former all-stars gels and swells up scoreboards. The Dodgers have have dynamic offense, led by MVP candidate Matt Kemp, but the top two-starters, Clayton Kershaw and Zack Greinke are the difference makers. They are the best team all-season and never slow up.

REAL TALK - Behind the bright lights of the big names and big contracts there are some questions marks.The difference may be the back end of the rotation. If they can get quality pitching from Josh Beckett, Chad Billingsley, and Hyun-Jin Ryu they are going to be tough to beat.

Breakout: Hanley Ramirez

Bust: Carl Crawford

Fantasy Baseball Sleeper: Brandon League

LAST YEAR'S RECORD: 86-76 (2nd in NL West)

PROJECTED 2013 FINISH: 86-76 (2nd in NL West)

**Check back tomorrow for the Boston Red Sox**

High School Softball: Preseason Top Players and Teams

By Andrew Marcus
Sportswriter for The Lansdale Reporter

Follow me on Twitter @amarcus515

Welcome to the wonderful world of spring sports.

High School Softball, in my opinion, is at its best in the suburbs of Philadelphia. The teams that The Lansdale Reporter, The Mercury, The Times Herald, and Montgomery Media cover always seem to be in the mix for district and even state championships. There are always a handful of players that commit to Division-One schools and more that you can count that go on to play Division Two and Three.

So without further adieu...Here is one man's opinion on the best teams and the best players in a specific coverage area prior to the 2013 season.

Check back to this blog all season for stats and scores. Go to www.thereporteronline.com/section/sports for stories everyday.

JRC Philly Area's Top 10 Pre-Season Teamsant

Jackie Bilotti

1. North Penn Maidens - A very competitive team entering the 2012 season took giant leaps behind a giant surprise in freshman pitcher Jackie Bilotti. Back for her sophomore season, her pin point accuracy really gives teams fits.They did lose their captain Jess Mower, but retunring all-leaguers, Michelle Holweger and Alexa Gable just to name a pair, are all over the field. Returning to the District One championship would not be as shocking as it was a season ago.

2. Spring-Ford Rams - The Rams lost a few dynamite players to graduation  but there is still plenty of explosive options in the lineup, anchored by junior Cassie Alexy.Like the Maidens of the S.O.L. this Pac-10 powerhouse brings back Jenna Lee to the circle, who faced some of the most feared lineups the area has to offer in the playoffs as a freshman. Lee's improvement could be the difference maker.

3. Methacton Warriors -  Youth seems to be the trend here. I feel the earlier you get players experience, the better you will be in the long run. The Warriors will be breaking in a new pitcher this season with the graduation of hurler Madeline Lowery, but they return four all-leaguers to their PAC-10 lineup.

4. Hatboro-Horsham Hatters - The Hatters have been heavy hitters in the Suburban One Continental Conference, with two state championships since 2008, however they lost their Division-One shortstop Val Sadowl (UConn) and pitcher Maggie Shaffer was all-world in her four years (Guilford College in North Carolina). The Hatters still have impact players in the middle of diamond, led by outfielder Heather Lutz and catcher Daria Edwards and should once again be a force.

Nikki Alden

5. William Tennent Panthers - This team has tools and the O'Toole's. Amber and Kaitlyn O'Toole make up a strong core of returning sticks and Nikki Alden enters his junior year as the clear cut option in the circle. The Suburban One National Conference will not be a joy ride, but if the Panthers play to their potential they will be in the mix for a district playoff appearance.

6. Lansdale Catholic Crusaders - It is hard to imagine life after Mary Cate Scott, but the all-league pitcher is at LaSalle University now and it is up to some young, athletic girls to get the job done. While they have been custom to winning 1-0 games over the last four seasons, this year they should be on the right side of a few slug-fests.

7. Upper Dublin Flying Cardinals  - Ambler is where you will find the story of a hardworking group finally getting a payoff. Kristen Ganderton returns to the circle for her senior season, while the offense led by Ashleigh Sharp is loaded with experience. If everything bends right the Cards could be a looking at a strong season, with a possible league title, deep district run, and a state playoff appearance.

8. Souderton Indians - The Indians did a lot of mixing and matching last season as they looked for the perfect formula. With a more set lineup this season, led by first basemen Haley DeLany, the ladies are feeling confident they can put a strong season together. 

Alex Cominitski

9. Pennridge Rams - One thing we do know is the Rams are going to be in every game this season with Paige Decew in the circle. Last year she transformed herself into one of the top pitchers in the area with a tremendous run in the postseason and nearly beating top-seeded Pennsbury. Offense is a concern, but coach Paul Koehler preaches fundamentals and manufacturing runs. Don't sleep on the Rams.

10. Wissahickon Trojans - There really is no good way to replace a player, a pitcher, and a leader such as Katie Ziegler, but the Trojans are prepared to respond to the doubters with another strong season. They return a ton of offense and are planning to put senior Emma Goodrich into the circle.

Other possible title contenders: Springfield, Central Bucks West, Plymouth-Whitemarsh, Germantown Academy, Archbishop Wood

Pre-Season All-Area
FIRST TEAM

Cassie Alexy (Spring-Ford)
Michelle Holweger (North Penn)
Paige Decew (Pennridge)
Nikki Alden (William Tennent)
Haley DeLany (Souderton)




SECOND TEAM

Jackie Bilotti (North Penn)

Alex Cominitski (Wissahickon)
Bridey Harkins (Lansdale Catholic)
Heather Lutz (Hatboro-Horsham)
Sarah Rambo (Methacton)

THIRD TEAM
Briana Kofer (Spring-Ford)
Kim Machalette (Springfield)
Erin Maher (North Penn)
Alexa Gable (North Penn)
Susan Janfrancisco (Plymouth-Whitemarsh)

HONORABLE MENTION
Nicole Casagrand (Hatboro-Horsham)
Greta Sheridan (Lansdale Catholic)
Daria Edwards (Hatboro-Horsham)
Ashliegh Sharp (Upper Dublin)
Rachel Holden (Abington)