Predictions for the NL West Division

Last year in the NL West, it was a wide-open race for the division crown. Neither team had the division sealed until the last game of the season.

Here are my predictions for the NL West for this upcoming Season:

San Francisco Giants:

PROJECTED FINISH: FIRST IN NL WEST

Reasons why: This team is talented, young, and has pitching and depth. They have a great rotation and bullpen and their lineup has some good bats in it. My only concern is whether or not they can stay healthy. If they can, all roads lead to the division title. If not, the division is ripe for the taking for any team out there.

Arizona Diamondbacks:

PROJECTED FINISH: SECOND IN NL WEST

Reasons why: This team made a significant step forward under the watchful eyes of Kirk Gibson and Alan Trammell. They proved they could hang with the big boys, but I still think they’re a year or two away from being serious contenders. They still have to find ways to win games against opponents outside of their division as well as the other league. Look for them to be in the middle of a playoff race when all is said and done.

Los Angeles Dodgers:

PROJECTED FINISH: THIRD IN NL WEST

Reasons why: This team is a wild-card. They’re always in the playoff hunt until mid August, when they usually suffer a mid-season collapse. Their lineup has some holes and their rotation leaves something to be desired. Especially at the top. I look for them to finish in the middle of the pack.

Colorado Rockies

PROJECTED FINISH: FOURTH IN NL WEST

Reasons why: This team has a lot of talent, but they don’t have enough depth. Their rotation is below average, and their lineup leaves something to be desired. Don’t expect a big year from these guys. It could be a very miserable one throughout. Todd Helton, who I think is close to being done, is the lone bright star on an otherwise miserable team throughout.

San Diego Padres

PROJECTED FINISH:  FIFTH IN NL WEST

Reasons why: This team isn’t awful, but they’re not very good. They have a lot of holes and don’t have many marketable players to trade. They’ll battle the Rockies for last place. Look for them to have a tough year.