Division Analysis

This page will be updated as we begin to analyze the NL East for the 2008 season. Look for power rankings, as well as more detailed analysis on each team. For now, here’s a cursory overview of the NL East.

Philadelphia Phillies
After winning the NL East last year, the Phillies look to continue their success in 2008. Their offense anchored the team down the stretch as they overtook the New York Mets. They are going to have to deal with the revamped Mets rotation next season.
For our full 2008 Preview of the Philadelphia Phillies, click here.

New York Mets
Coming off the worst September collapse in the history of baseball, the rest of the baseball world discovered what we already knew: The Mets suck. They’re trying as hard as they can to counter the suckage with the addition of Johan Santana - one of the games best starters.  But we’ll find out in 2008 if Santana is the addition they needed to go all the way, or if he’s just a money pit that only helps marginally.
For our full 2008 Preview of the New York Mets, click here.

Atlanta Braves
The Braves come off last season hungry to regain the division title. Their young offensive talent is good but can’t carry the load without a solid rotation and a better bullpen than last year.  The Braves took steps to solve both issues by signing Tom Glavine and adding some arms to the ‘pen.  With a healthy rotation, they could shock the division and return to their rightful home - the top of the division.
For our full 2008 Preview of the Atlanta Braves, click here.

Washington Nationals
The Nationals are in no-man’s land. They have some talent but appear to be meandering and need some serious directional help to be taken seriously. This year they need to break .500, but it won’t be easy in the NL East.
For our full 2008 Preview of the Washington Nationals, click here.

Florida Marlins
The Marlins have a lot of prospects and potential for the future, but they always have. They can only ever convert that young talent into tangible results for a short time period before trading away their best prospects and lapsing back into oblivion.  They’re back in oblivion this year after trading away Dontrelle Willis and Miguel Cabrera and their brightest point may be shortstop Hanley Ramirez.
For our full 2008 Preview of the Florida Marlins, click here.