Today’s MLB preview is on one of the clear favorites to contend this season, and I don’t see much of an argument against that likely occurrence.
The Los Angeles Dodgers did not stand pat following the 2014 campaign. There’s been a bit of housecleaning done, and I like the new approach the front office is pretty clearly taking.
The Dodgers have joined those teams that are more about run prevention than anything else. That might not be the most exciting brand of baseball, but it’s what is in vogue right now and it’s also what’s winning right now.
The starting rotation here is first rate. Clayton Kershaw is putting together a Hall of Fame career. Zack Greinke and Hyun-jin Ryu are a very imposing convo behind the staff ace. Brandon McCarthy left his ridiculously unlucky metrics in Arizona and rediscovered his ability to win with the Yankees. He’s a plus ion the fourth slot. Whether Brett Anderson can stay healthy enough to hold down the bottom tier in the rotation is a question, but if he’s able to give this team even 120 innings, Anderson is a potentially terrific #5.
The bullpen is a a bit more concerning. Kenley Jansen needs to come back from his injury in his normal form. The Dodgers might be lacking a true setup stud at this point, but they’re loaded with depth and if this isn’t an area of strength now, I have confidence moves will be made as necessary to remedy any ailments.
The middle infield should be much stronger with Howie Kendrick and Jimmy Rollins. The latter might be past his prime somewhat, but I like his chances of putting up better numbers in his new home and his defense is still adequate. Kendrick isn’t a superstar but he’s damn good. Adrian Gonzalez is still well above average, and Juan Uribe is still reliable as well as being an asset in the clubhouse.
The departure of Matt Kemp clears up some of the mess that existed in the LA outfield. Joc Pederson is a wait and see prospect in center field, Carl Crawford remains injury prone in left field and Yasiel Puig might infuriate at times, but the kid is a terrific player. There’s plenty of depth on hand as well. As for behind the plate, the Dodgers really appear to like Yasmani Grandal. He’s a guy with a high ceiling and I believe he takes a big step forward this year.
There isn’t much not to like here. I think this team has clear sailing to the top of the NL West and should surpass 90 wins. As for the post-season, that could be another story. But getting there should be no problem at all for the Dodgers.