Preview/Prediction

After years of being a seller, A’s GM Billy Beane spent the winter of 2008-09 in the uncharacteristic role of buyer, adding OF Matt Holliday (via trade) and 1B/DH Jason Giambi (via free agency).

At this time last winter I wrote the moves “(had) placed the organization in a position where it can either compete for the division title or, if the team is non-competitive in mid-summer, flip soon-to-be-free-agent Holliday for prospects at the trade deadline.”

Six years ago, Javier Vazquez came into Yankee spring training, being touted as the "ace" of a shaky Yankees pitching staff, but also looked at as the future of the most storied franchise in baseball.

Early on, Vazquez didn't disappoint and was even named to the 2004 American League All-Star team. 

Next week begins the second "Manny" era in Cleveland baseball. The timing is perfect, Eric Wedge had been in my life so long he was starting to feel like a relative; a relative that I routinely cursed at.

So for those who plan to root for the Tribe this year, let me see if I can shed some light on what to expect from the ball team this Summer.

By: Eddie Dice

(www.sportscappingpros.com)

Baseball Season has sprung upon us and optimism is spread all over camp. The 0-0 Washington Nationals are zero games back of the dominant Phillies and the upstart Atlanta Braves. This is what makes opening day special and keeps fans all across the nation glued to the TV all summer long.

For years the NL East has been dominated by one team. In the '90s, it was the Braves, and with a three-year reign the Fightin' Phillies are now the beasts of the East.

Phillies

As the smell of Grapefruit and Cactus exits the collective nostrils of Baseball fans across America it can only mean one thing: Time to play ball. And as the San Francisco Giants break camp and head north to the city by the bay they do so with the best record in the Majors through spring training and more wins than any other team.

This article is the third installment of a six-part series in which I analyze each division in baseball and tell you exactly how I believe things are going to shake out this season.

I am by no means a credible source—merely a casual fan who knows a little about baseball and would like to share his observations and thoughts.

Today we take a look at the NL East, the home of the reigning league champs for two years running.

NL East

The Phillies made a valiant attempt to defend their championship last season, but came up shy as they eventually fell to the Yankees in the World Series. Nonetheless, the loss to the Bronx Bombers should not diminish the club’s accomplishments during the season—an NL East title (with a 93-69 record) and a second straight National League pennant.

The Atlanta Braves posted a record of 86-76 last season, an improvement of 14 games over their 72-90 mark of 2008.

The ballclub made several changes this winter and heading into the new season, it appears that it may have to take a step back before it can take a step forward.

The biggest holes to fill will be the departure of RHP Javier Vazquez from the starting rotation and closer Rafael Soriano from the bullpen. Additionally, they’ll have to find replacements at first base (Adam LaRoche), second base (Kelly Johnson) and left field (Garrett Anderson).

This is my sixth and final division preview before the 2010 season kicks off in the first week of April.  The AL East is home to some strong teams that hold high aspirations for 2010, including a World Championship.  Here is the breakdown (in alphabetical order):

Baltimore Orioles

Tick, Tock, Tick, Tock.

The wait is almost over for Chicago Cubs baseball.  If your glass is half-full, then you're probably very optimistic about this season.

On the other hand, you might not be so rosy about this Cubs squad and might not think too much of 2010.

Either way, the 25-man roster has been finalized, and manager Lou Piniella will head out to the dugout for his fourth season on the north side.

This squad is likely his least talented in his four seasons, but anything can happen in the game of baseball.