NL West preview

Arizona Diamondbacks 90-72

This is easily the toughest National League division to pick. Four of the five teams can easily win it, but I like Arizona because of their pitching. Webb and Haren is a ridiculously good 1-2 combo, and they should give the Diamondbacks a little more room for error this year. It’s crazy to think that they won 90 a year ago while being outscored by their opponents, but if some parts of their young offense can emerge, this could be the National League’s best team. Keep an eye on Justin Upton, Stephen Drew and Chris Young. All three have the potential to breakout this year.

Los Angeles Dodgers 84-78

If they insert Ethier in over Pierre soon (which is what should happen right away) they have a chance to win the wild card. Lots of young talent to like here too, with Loney, Clayton Kershaw, Ethier and a few others looking to contribute. The X factor here is clearly Andruw Jones, who was awful last year, but it’s hard to argue with the two-year, $36 contract they gave him. If he can hit 40 homers, and the rotation stays healthy, this could be a very good team.

Colorado Rockies 79-83

They’ll be able to hit, that’s for sure, but a rotation anchored by Jeff Francis and Aaron Cook isn’t good enough to win this division. Simply, they’ll have to outscore other teams, which may not be that difficult with Matt Holiday and Troy Tulowitzski patrolling the middle of the order.

San Diego Padres 78-84

San Diego has great starting pitching but will struggle to score runs. Have you heard that before? It’s been the case with this team the past four seasons. The bullpen looks a little bit more shaky this time around after Trevor Hoffman’s unforgettable collapse against Colorado in the play-in game last season. The Padres better hope Kevin Kouzmanoff can break out and save this lineup.

San Francisco Giants 74-88

Zito, Cain, and Lincecum are about as good of a one through three as you’ll find anywhere. Expect a bounce back year from Zito as well, who isn’t as good as the contract they gave him, but isn’t as bad as he pitched in the first half last year. Here’s the problem: Aaron Rowand is their best hitter and it really isn’t even close. Nobody is young either, so it’s hard to see guys like Ray Durham, Rich Aurilia, Dave Roberts, Omar Vizquel, and a Molina brother improve all that much. Seriously, all those guys are in their starting lineup.