The eMLB's version of the NFC West in 2010, the division looks to rebound from having four teams (sadly yes, 4) under 500 for most or all of the season. While optimism fills the air, its looking like 2011 will not be that much better.
The Carolina Yankees were taken over by CEO Chris Broskey and now what once was a Charlotte NC headquarters is now in Charlotte MI (btw, its actually pronounced SHAR - LOTTE) Broskey brings an energy back to the league its been missing since his departure several years ago. Activity will not be lacking here, and yes he has one hell of a nice team page. Charlotte took a youthful approach this draft, but I like what he's done with his lineup. Tabata has a lot of potential although maybe a little early yet for him to be more than a 3rd or 4th OF this year. If health allows this could be a dangerous lineup led by Votto, Utley, Cruz, and Hanley. The pitching will be questionable however, a few guys who could be valuable assets are anything but a sure thing. It looks like Verlander will be carrying a big load on his shoulders.
The Killer Eagles appear to be looking towards the future, trading away quite a bit to move up and gain two extra first round selections. Team management will always try to put together a competitive bunch but this season will be extremely hard to keep up being behind the 8ball to start the season. However, being in a low level division could prove to be a saving grace considering how many games will be played between these 4 teams.
Mid-Michigan heads into 2011 still trying to make their first birth into the Championship Playoffs. Not sounding like a pessimist but I am not really liking their chances to end that streak this season. They will definitely need to rely on the strong duo of Lincecum and Lee, with John Danks being a very good #3 guy. Im not sure the Tigers will have enough offensive fire power to keep up with the top tiered teams though. Miguel Cabrera is a beast and will put up monster numbers but there are a lot of question marks with the rest of the lineup. Rumor out of MidMichigan has GM Keith Baker hiring Cabrera a designated driver, so hopefully there will not be any more 3am calls from the Eaton County drunk tank
Gaylord heads into 2011 as a consensus pick to come out as GL Division champ, but there are some issues that may come up this season that will be hard to overcome. Currently has several offensive players who are likely candidates to end up on the DL for either lengthly periods of time or frequent trips. (Posada, Roberts, Beltran, Furcal, Willingham) The rotation is unspectacular if anything, but has a few guys that prove to be excellent value for where they were drafted. But truth is, Carlos Zambrano and AJ Burnett would scare the hell out of me.
With all that being said, while this might not be the mighty Texas division it might prove to be the most competitive since I dont believe there's a clear cut favorite to win it. I could honestly see any of the four teams coming out as division champs. This is what my gut tells me....
1. Gaylord Dingers:
Wagner will make the necessary moves to keep a step ahead of the rest of the division.
2. Charlotte Oreos:
The lack in pitching could land them lower but I love the lineup
3a. Olivet Killer Eagles:
The lineup should be competitive but lack of speed avg and bb are going to hurt and the pitching is not going to make things any easier
3b. Mid Michigan Tigers:
Will probably fight with the Eagles for position in either lottery or consolation.
I almost put Broskey at 13. I like the stars, but starting Maybin and Tabata could prove to be a mistake. The pitching is frightening - and not in a good way. He could have 2-3 SP wind on on the DL. I think Larry, Broskey and Keith are all pretty even.
ReplyDeleteYep, I could see any of us 3 being in lottery if not two of us. BUT, pressure is on Wagner this year because its his division to lose
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