tipmypitch

The most conservative of the Rigged Five (no more Power Fiver.  College football is a perfectly rigged system that would make William “Boss” Tweed blush) realizes they are woefully behind in the money race.  Why, of the Five, they are the last to expand is testament to their cautious nature that leads to resistance.  Now the Big 12 realizes change is not necessarily bad.  Especially after ESPN air drops bags of money for ACC broadcasting rights.

The process of their expansion is reflective of the pretentiousness of the Rigged Five.  The Big 12 will entertain, consider, review, appraise and decide who the lucky two or four schools will be offered invitations to join.  The Big 12 will not soil their collective hands by, God forbid, pursuing like a meth addicted prostitute schools that might be a good match.  This method of expansion again points to the conservative nature of the Big 12.  Do note that the ACC, SEC, Big 10 and PAC 12 had no hesitation engaging in salesmanship and promotion to successfully entice schools to join their respective conference.  And the Big 12 wonders why it finishes fifth in a five horse race?

The obvious question is expanding by two schools or four?  I’m predicting two.  Four seems  revolutionary for the Big 12.  Too much, too soon.  They sip their tea, they do not gulp. Thank you very much.

I’m not about to review all schools mentioned as candidates (I don’t have that kind of time.  You should be thankful), but I will take a look at schools that make above average expansion candidates.

Houston, Cincinnati, Central Florida and South Florida offer the best fit.  I’m doubtful about BYU and any MWC schools receiving invitations to join which I will address later.

Houston and Cincinnati offer geographic sense (not that geography matters to most expansion) that reflects the careful approach of the Big 12.  Houston secures the sizable population of southeast Texas while providing a relative short travel distance for Baylor, TCU and Texas.  Economically, a nice fit.  The Cougars also offer a football program that has won 13 games twice in recent years (2015 and 2011) along with a serviceable stadium capacity of 40,000.  Plus, nothing beats Texas based football.

Cincinnati, depending upon how the Big 12 partners the schools once expansion is complete, offers a possible travel buddy for far flung West Virginia.  As does Houston, they offer a stadium with 40,000 seats and plenty of local support.  The Cincinnati media market (#36 per Nielsen data, April, 2016) pales in comparison to Houston’s (#10), but the Big 12 would gently stretch their eastern reach by including the Bearcats and let’s toss in the obligatory Ohio recruiting benefit as well.

If, a big if, the Big 12 truly wants an east coast presence, then prepare for South Florida (#11 media market) and Central Florida (regardless of their horrid 0-12 record in 2015.  #19 media market) to receive invites.  Most mavens/experts overlook the immediate impact of the Big 12 entrenching themselves in the fourth most populous state in the nation.  The benefit is instant.  However, given the cautious past of the Big 12, I do not anticipate the 12 expanding to 14.

And now, the BYU question.  Over the last half-dozen years, BYU has inquired about Big 12 membership only to be denied, rejected and sent away.  Why would the Big 12 have a sudden change of heart now?  Sure, BYU brings a rabid fan base and half the state of Utah, but that is akin to bragging about bringing half a sandwich to a picnic.  If the Big 12 does look west, the media markets of reportedly considered schools (BYU, Boise and Colorado State) are small at best, trivial at worst.  Do not claim that BYU brings the Salt Lake City market for that belongs primarily to the Utes of Utah.  BYU brings Provo and surrounding small towns.  The school has always overestimated (hallucinated?) its perceived national appeal.  Ask the Cougars about the substantial aches and pains of their ill-planned journey into independent football status.  Not exactly what they thought.

To those wondering about the academic status of considered expansion schools, perceived or real, stop wondering.  Big 12 expansion is all about football revenue.  Certainly, once the winners are announced, the Big 12 will be quick to emphasize various academic accomplishments of the new members to the media, but in the end, football considerations rule the day and decision.

Expansion is messy and sometimes creates unintended consequences.  Assuming a smooth inclusion of two (or four) schools may be a tad optimistic.  Big 12 football is dominated by the presence of the University of Texas.  Yeah, those guys.  The school with a television channel devoted to all things Longhorn.  The school with an alumni base that can raise millions overnight.  The school with the bookstore that sells six-figures worth of UT gear every home game weekend.  In the end, who is to say that Texas finds agreeable the expansion invitees?  Maybe.  Which implies maybe not.  Would Texas make a call to the Big 10?  The PAC 12?  If Texas leaves the Big 12 does that action serve as removing the foundation of the Big 12?  Stay tuned.

Everything that could go wrong, did go wrong.  With perfection.

First, the positive.  Mike Trout, Mike Trout, Mike Trout.  He will be the greatest baseball player you will see during your lifetime.

The starting pitching has been a disaster.  Matt Shoemaker is here today and in Salt Lake City tomorrow.  Hector Santiago is ineffective.  Jered Weaver, when on, is a pleasure to watch.  Off speed stuff in the sixties.  Unbelievable.  Yet, when he is off, he gets hammered.

The bullpen is as inconsistent as the starting pitching.  On behalf of both starters and relievers, the injuries have been as hurtful as a dog bite.  A junkyard dog bite.

The offense is missing after Kole Calhoun, Mike Trout and Albert Pujols.  Sure, Mr. Pujols will never see a .300 batting average again, but he does drive in runs.  Yunel Escobar enjoys his time off.  Come on.  You expect him to play everyday?  Please.   Left field has been a disaster.  C.J. Cron does what he can at first base.

Sixteen games under .500.  Ouch.  Time for change.  Billy Eppler needs a new manager.  Mike Scioscia had a good run.  But too long of a run.  Time to walk the beach.

Very little went well for the Padres during the first 81 games.  Sure, expectations were low, but meeting low expectations is not the goal.

While the second  half will not differ from the first half, do NOT trade a solid core of offense.  Keep Matt Kemp, Wil Myers and Jon Jay.  Conventional wisdom says to trade Mr. Kemp, but why?  He drives in runs and plays everyday.  Mr. Myers is beginning to realize his substantial capability.  Mr. Jay covers a great deal of ground in the outfield.

Christain Bethancourt is the catcher of the future.  Trade Derek Norris and begin the future.

Speaking of trades; Melvin Upton, Brett Wallace and Alexi Ramirez should move on.  Give the kids at El Paso and San Antonio a shot.  The kids can’t do any worse than their predecessors.

I advocate the same for the entire pitching staff less Drew Pomeranz and Colin Rea.  The bullpen walks far too many batters.  Their collective base on balls per nine innings is unimpressive to plain old bad.

Here’s to next year.  By the way, those of you who attend a Padres game from today forward, you are most kind.

Fire John Farrell.  Now.   Dave Dombrowski must do the deed.  Now.  Each day with Mr. Farrell as manager leads to additional slippage in the ultra-competitive A.L. East.  Torey Lovullo guides the Sox to success in the second half.

The offense has been consistent and perhaps the best in the A.L.  Change little to nothing. Granted, Christian Vazquez usually looks baffled with a bat in his hands, but he calls a good game and seems to enjoy the confidence of the pitching staff.  The base running has been exceptional.  This year, Sox runners take the extra base as never before.

Travis Shaw is not a third baseman.  He commits the cardinal sin of thinking before throwing.  A healthy Brock Holt, Chris Young and Blake Swihart makes for a steady left field.  Hanley Ramirez has played a serviceable first base to date.  A hoped for surprise.

Having 60% of a starting pitching staff does not survive the Dog Days of summer.  David Price, Rick Porcello and Steven Wright need company.  Why is Clay Buchholz allowed to wear a Red Sox uniform?  Mr. Buchholz needs to be released immediately, though late May would have been ideal.  Eduardo Rodriguez must find his former self for a successful Red Sox second half.

Koji Uehara is slipping.  Junichi Tazawa, Matt Barnes or Tommy Layne should handle the eighth in place of Mr. Uehara.

Raise a good beer to the second half.

The Pepper Hamilton report damns Baylor.  Baylor, at last, discovers worshiping at the altar of football is akin to heresy.  But, the money is so sweet, tempting and incredibly irrational.  The Pepper Hamilton report rejects any claim from Baylor regents and administration regarding lack of knowledge, surprise, presence of rogues or general mystery about the crime of rape committed by their students who play football.  Baylor created a land of rape and chaos from 2009 to the present.

Ken Starr (still employed at Baylor as a law professor.  Sweet irony) claims that he was unaware of the crimes of rape and sexual assault committed multiple times by various football players.  Mr. Starr is hard pressed to prove this lack of knowledge.  His claim is ludicrous and a complete lie.  What university president and chancellor (Mr. Starr served as both during the time frame covered by the Pepper Hamilton review) remains detached from his Power Five football program?  All that revenue, profit and river of green generated by any Power Five football school always receives the dearest attention from the man or woman in charge of that university.  He fully embraced his football program.  He protected his football program.  He chose to ignore sexual assault because the pursuit of that crime would have led to a decline in Baylor revenue.  Presidents and chancellors either prevent or create a lack of institutional control.  Given Mr. Starr’s bowed posture at the altar of football, he, along with the board of regents, fellow worshipers of football generated revenue, created a climate of crime and fear.  Institutional control was as foreign as Latin.

Pepper Hamilton’s findings include, “University administrators . . . directly discouraged complainants from reporting or participating in student conduct processes”.  Fancy language for administration did not want to consider much less acknowledge the crime of rape or offer rape victims access to pursuing investigation of their sexual assault.  The act of daily administration begins with the president/chancellor’s office.

Additionally, Pepper Hamilton interviewed “witnesses” from the president’s office, executive council and office of general counsel.  Is Mr. Starr’s claim of ignorance to be believed given his daily interaction with his own immediate employees, executive council and legal arm of Baylor resulted in years long conversation void of the crime of rape committed by Baylor football players?  No whispers?  No hushed conversations?  Complete and utter ignorance since 2009?

“Administrators engaged in conduct that could be perceived as victim blaming . . .”  Baylor’s culture is established by the board of regents and Mr. Starr.  The board of regents is as culpable of this crime and acceptance of sexual assault as Mr. Starr.  After all, the Baylor board of regents engaged Pepper Hamilton to review all things rape centered at Baylor.  Ironic that concerns about Title IX implementation leads to the public confirmation of a private school’s crime.  Their collective and individual hands are as bruised and filthy as Mr. Starr’s.

Art Briles is a worthless man.  He crawls from the same stagnant, repulsive slim as his players who engaged in sexual assault and physical assault (Baylor football coaches recruit well-rounded football players.  They commit two types of assault, not just one).  I trust that Mr. Briles will be the recipient of multiple lawsuits from the Baylor students who were sexually and physically assaulted by his football players.  Perhaps a new application of law will be established.  Subject matter for one of Mr. Starr’s law classes.

The same words apply to Ian McCaw, the athletic director during Mr. Briles reign.

Mr. McCaw and Mr. Briles, candidly the entire football coaching staff, should publicly respond to Pepper Hamilton’s statement, ” . . . the University and Athletics Department failed to take effective action in response to allegations involving misconduct by football staff.”

Address, “Baylor failed to take appropriate action to respond to reports of sexual assault and dating violence reportedly committed by football players.  The choices made by football staff and athletics leadership, in some instances, posed a risk to campus safety and the integrity of the University.”

Two words that damn Mr. Briles and Mr. McCaw:  choices and integrity.  These two enablers made abhorrent choices.  They are empty of integrity.

Comment on, “In those instances (reports of sexual assault committed by football players), football coaches or staff met directly with a complainant and/or a parent of a complainant and did not report the misconduct.”

Expand on, “. . . some football coaches and staff took improper steps in response to disclosures of sexual assault and dating violence . . .”

Illuminate, “The football program also operates an internal system of discipline . . . relies heavily upon individual judgement in lieu of clear standards for discipline . . . ad hoc internal system of discipline lacks protocols for consistency with University policy . . . improperly insulates football players from appropriate disciplinary consequences . . . puts students . . . and the institution at risk of future misconduct.”

Respond, “. . . created a cultural perception that football was above the rules.”

Indeed.

The perfect cherry on top of this stench of university generated deceit is the consideration by the Baylor board of regents to suspend Mr. Briles for one year, then allow him to resume his coaching duties as penance for his considerable sin.  Ludicrous.  Ridiculous.  Franz Kafka and Joseph Heller would blush at the bottomless farce of the Baylor regents.

Parents everywhere, do not send, enroll, permit, consider your daughter as a Baylor student.  Her physical safety is of no concern.  Ask the board of regents.

First:  New York.

Pitching:  As long as injury remains a stranger, the entire staff is a dream.  Choose from Matt Harvey or Jacob deGrom or Noah Snydergaard as the number one starter.  Steven Matz will be blessed as the next great Mets starter during 2016.  Zach Wheeler returns sometime in July.  A perfect second-half boost.  Bartolo Colon is 100 years old and logged almost 200 innings pitched last year.  Jeurys Familia had a great 2015.  2016 will be equally impressive.  Hansel Robles or Antonio Bastardo should throw the eighth inning, not Addison Reed.  In fact, Erik Goeddel and Sean Gilmartin should receive more appearances and innings than Mr. Reed.  Jeremy Blevins and Logan Verrett complete a deep bullpen.  Oh yeah, Josh Edgin returns in May.  Life is tough in Queens.

Offense:  A stout offensive trio is found in Michael Conforto, Yoenis Cespedes (his agent should receive an award for the contract accepted by the Mets.  All that is missing is Mets administration agreeing to load and unload Mr. Cespedes’ dishwasher) and Curtis Granderson.  Alejandro De Aza waits for at bats.  David Wright is old and brittle.  Well, old for a 33 year old.  Lucas Duda received at bats and produced.  Look for even better numbers in 2016.  Why Matt Reynolds is not christened the starting shortstop over Asdrubal Cabrera and Wilton Flores (will these two ever embrace the idea of a walk?) is a mystery.  Neil Walker takes over second.  Travis d’Anaud handles the catching.

Players in the system who can help:  Dilson Herrera (2b, assuming he does not make the team after spring training), Gavin Cecchini (ss, though reduce the errors), Jayce Boyd (lf) and Paul Sewald (relief).

Second:  Miami.

Pitching:  Wei-Yin Chen and Jose Fernandez lead a solid group of starters.  Adam Conley should be the #3 guy.  Tom Koehler and Jarred Cosart complete the first five.  The bullpen will miss Carter Capps.  Who sets up A.J. Ramos?  Given Mr. Capps absence, David Phelps and Edwin Jackson are included in the bullpen shuffle.  Bryan Morris and Mike Dunn are part of an unimpressive collection of relievers less Mr. Ramos (who is very good).  The bullpen is the Marlins weak link.

Offense:  A fine young outfield in need of one adjustment . . . shifting Christian Yelich to center and sitting Marcell Ozuna on the bench.  Derek Dietrick in left and the ever impressive Giancarlo Stanton in right provide plenty of offense.  Justin Bour and Martin Prado (32 and the old man of the infield) handle the corners while the Marlins hope for another stellar year from both Dee Gordon and Adeiny Hechavarria.  J.T. Realmuto will get the bulk of the games behind the plate less the occasional appearance from future manager, Jeff Mathis.

Players in the system who can help:  Nick Wittgren (relief), Greg Nappo (relief) and Brian Ellington (relief).  Those of you wondering, yes, the Fish have the best relief development in MLB.  Given the shallowness of the Marlins’ bullpen, these guys should get a long look this year.

Third:  Washington.

Pitching:  Max Scherzer, less his win total, had a solid 2015.  Will the Nationals finally allow Stephen Strasburg a second opportunity to pitch 200 innings or better?  This upcoming season will be Mr. Strasburg’s fifth full year of baseball.  Dare he approach his 2014 innings total of 215?  Gio Gonzalez slipped in 2015.  Tanner Roark and Joe Ross bring up the rear.  Jonathan Papelbon provided one of my favorite moments in 2015 when he smacked Bryce Harper.  Here’s hoping for a repeat.  Felipe Rivero is waiting for Mr. Papelbon’s departure so that he may assume the closer role.  Shawn Kelly and Yusmeiro Petit provide a hint of bullpen depth.  Blake Treinen, Aaron Barrett and Oliver Perez are average.

Offense:  I am not a Bryce Harper fan.  Color me biased.  Sure, he had a fine season last year, but I don’t care.  Why Jayson Werth starts in left or anywhere for any team is a mystery.  Clint Robinson will replace Mr. Werth as the season progresses.  Ben Revere should have a solid 2016.  Wilson Ramos threw out 24 of 54 baserunners in 2015.  Impressive.  Ryan Zimmerman hasn’t enjoyed a full season since 2013.  Anthony Rendon, Danny Espinosa and the vastly overpaid Daniel Murphy complete the infield.

Players in the system who can help:  Trea Turner (ss) and Wilmer Diffo (ss.  Watch out, Mr. Turner).

Fourth:  Philadelphia.

Pitching.  Ouch.  Aaron Nola should be the #1 starter followed by Jerad Eickhoff.  Why?  Because the rest of the starters are a collective yawn.  In no particular order Jeremy Hellickson, Charlie Morton, Vince Velasquez and Brett Oberholtzer do not impress.  These guys will keep the bullpen far too busy.  Sadly, the bullpen resembles the starters.  Hector Neris, Jeanmar Gomez and Dalier Hinojosa need to be sorted into closer, eighth inning and seventh inning roles.  Any team featuring Ernesto Frieri and Edward Mujica are in dire need of restructuring the relief corps development from rookie ball forward.

Offense:  Odubel Herrera in center has a bright future.  Why is Peter Bourjus in right field?  He is a defensive disaster awaiting disassembly.  First to third will be a common theme for opposing baserunners with balls rolling into right field.  Tyler Goeddel probably replaces Mr. Bourjus by mid-May.  Cody Asche in left is hopefully more productive than Cody Asche at third base.  Ryan Howard’s swan song is 2016.  Time to retire.  Maikel Franco is as talented as Odubel Herrera.  Same goes for Cesar Hernandez.  Andres Blanco should take the shortstop job from Freddy Galvis.  Cameron Rupp, during his short time in the Bigs, has tossed 27 of 73 baserunners.

Players in the system who could help:  Brock Stassi (1b), Angelo Mora (2b), J.P. Crawford (ss), Roman Quinn (cf), Reiner Roibal (starting pitching), Mark Leiter (starting pitching) and Jimmy Cordero (relief).

Fifth:  Atlanta.

Pitching:  Julio Teheran and Jhoulys Chacin should be one-two.  After those two, close your eyes.  Bud Norris, Matt Wisler, Mike Foltynewicz and Williams Perez are a collective crash. Arodys Vizcaino and Jason Grilli battle for the closer spot (and de facto eighth inning appearances).  Alexi Ogando offers a third man in the ‘pen.  The remainder of the men who sit and wait are, well, um, not of major league quality.  I was polite.

Offense:  Michael Bourn and Kelly Johnson platoon in left.  Ender Inciarte was under the radar in 2015.  But, then again, he plays for Atlanta.  Nick Markakis rues the day he left Baltimore.  Adonis Garcia, Erick Aybar and Jace Peterson hopefully improve on their respective 2015 numbers.  Freddie Freeman is the Paul Goldschmidt of the East (however, Paul now has teammates who can play.  Freddie, not so much).  A.J. Pierzynski (39 and catching in Atlanta.  The heat.  The humidity.  Yuck) and Tyler Flowers will split the catching duties so neither passes out during a game.

Players in the system who could help:  Everyday position development is barren.  Ryan Weber (starting pitching).

First:  Chicago.  I despise  agreeing with the masses, but the Cubs are the team to beat in the Central in 2016.  Goats beware.

Pitching:  Jake Arrieta found himself and success in 2016.  Jon Lester, John Lackey, Kyle Hendricks and Jason Hammel are an impressive group of starters.  Hector Rondon will be followed by Travis Wood (a convincing bullpen conversion in ’15), Pedro Strop, Justin Grimm and another 2015 convert to the ‘pen, Clayton Richard.  A quality bullpen.

Offense:  Anthony Rizzo and Kris Bryant (no forced AAA appearance in April this season) will crush the ball this year.  Justin Hayward is overpaid and very average.  Dexter Fowler covers a lot of grass in center.  Kyle Schwarber and Addison Russell had offensively similar years in 2015.  Both need to cut down on strikeouts and invite a base on balls to enter their daily life.  Ben Zobrist brings stability and flexibility.  Jorge Soler will wait for one of the outfielders to falter.  Miguel Montero and the ancient David Ross handle the catching duties.

Players in the system who could help:  Wilson Contreras (c) and Billy McKinney (rf).

Second:  Pittsburgh.

Pitching:  I’m choosing the Pirates over the Cardinals due to a leap of faith in starting pitching and the first four guys (or should I say last four guys) in the bullpen.  Gerrit Cole is entering the territory of exceptional.  Francisco Liriano gets better with each passing season.  Candidly, my leap of faith rests with the last three of the rotation:  Jon Niese, Jeff Locke and Ryan Vogelsong.  If these three can end the season with eras sandwiched between 3.50-3.75 and whips south of 1.35, the Pirates take the wild card.  If not, third place.  The bullpen’s success centers on Mark Melancon (what a 2015!), Tony Watson (see Mark Melancon), Jared Hughes and Arquimedes Caminero.

Offense:  As impressive as Starling Marte, Andrew McCuthen and Gregory Polanco (room to improve) were in 2015, this year will be better.  Production galore awaits.  Francisco Cervelli was one of the better offensive catchers last year.  Jung Ho Kang enjoyed a pleasant introduction at third.  If Jordy Mercer and Josh Harrison handle the middle without substantial injury and a combination of John Jaso, Michael Morse and David Freese (time for a new position)  effectively share first base, the Pirates give the Cubs a run for their money.

Players in the system who can help:  Josh Bell (1b), Max Moroff (2b), Dan Gamache (3b), Adam Frazier (ss) Willy Garcia (lf), Nick Kingham (starting pitching), Steven Brault (starting pitching) and Tyler Glasnow (starting pitching).  Yes, the Pirates have the best player development in the N.L. having earned a 3.6 (maximum of 4.0) in my winter review of the 2015 season.

Third:  St. Louis.

Pitching:  Adam Wainwright returns.  34 and not getting any younger.  Jaime Garcia has not thrown more than `129.2 ip in a season dating back to 2012.  Michael Wacha, Mike Leake and Carlos Martinez complete the starting rotation.  Trevor Rosenthal handles the ninth.  Does Seung Hwan Oh throw the eighth?  Probably.  Kevin Siegrist, Tyler Lyons and Jordan Walden should receive more appearances than Seth Maness and Jonathan Broxton.

Offense:  Brandon Moss at first or a declining Matt Adams?  Tough choice regarding a lack of choice.  Jhonny Peralta is out until late June or early July.  Matt Carpenter and Kolten Wong need to supply the hits.  Yadier Molina had non-Yadier seasons in ’14 and ’15.  Matt Holiday hopes to play 130 games.  Randal Grichuk (323 ab) and Stephen Piscotty (233 ab) need to prove their true ability during a full season.  Tommy Pham waits for the same chance.

Players in the system who can help:  Aldemys Diaz (ss), Jeremy Hazelbaker (rf) and Tim Cooney (starting pitching).

Fourth:  Milwaukee.   This was tough.  Both the Brewers and Cincinnati Reds are awful.  The Brewers are less awful.  Congratulations.

Pitching:  Starting pitching is woeful.  Wily Peralta cannot be the Brewers’ #1 starter.  I’m going with the following three becoming the #1, #2 and #3 starters as the season progresses:  Taylor Jungmann, Chase Anderson and Jimmy Nelson.  Matt Garza hopes to last the entire season.  What saves the Brewers is their bullpen.  No pun intended.  Saves the Brewers . . . Fine.  Don’t laugh.  Anyway, Milwaukee’s ‘pen is highly underrated and unappreciated.  Sure, a closer has yet to be identified for the 2016 season, but Will Smith, Jeremy Jeffress, Michael Blazek, Corey Kneel and Tyler Thornburg offer a deep and talented group from which a closer will be found.  These guys will be busy April forward.

Offense:  Ryan Braun and Jonathan Lucroy provide the bulk of the hits.  Jonathan Villar shows promise at short.  Chris Carter will offer 20/80 as well as an obp south of .300.  Same obp registers for Scooter Gennett and Aaron Hill.  Kirk Nieuwenhuis in center will enjoy all the at-bats he’s ever dreamed of.  If Keon Broxton can hit the cutoff man quicker than Domingo Santana or Rymer Liriano, Keon wins the right field job.  As the year wears on, do the Brewers move Mr. Lucroy to first base or elsewhere so Brewers’ fans can enjoy the dynamic arm of Martin Maldonado throwing out baserunners?

Players in the system who can help:  Orlando Arcia (ss) and Kyle Wren (lf).

Fifth:  Cincinnati.

Pitching:  Gonna be a long 162 games for the Reds.  Homer Bailey had 2 starts last year and 23 in 2014.  He is the #1 starter?  Anthony DeSclafani and Alfredo Simon don’t offer much following Mr. Bailey.  Neither does John Lamb.  Raisel Iglesias and Brandon Finnegan should move to the front of the rotation as soon as possible.  The Reds do not have a closer.  The Reds have J.J. Hoover and Jumbo Diaz in the bullpen.  They are looking for help. Lots of help.

Offense:  The outfield is a mess.  Jay Bruce had consecutive bad years in ’14 and ’15.  Billy Hamilton hates to walk.  And does his awful obp prove the point.  Adam Duvall and Jake Cave share left field because Jesse Winker needs another year of development.  The infield is probably Eugenio Suarez at third, Zack Cozart at short and the long suffering Brandon Phillips and Joey Votto on the right side wondering “Why are we here?”  Ramon Cabrera should start at catcher.

Players in the system who can help:  The aforementioned Jesse Winker (lf), Alex Blandino (ss) and Zach Weiss (relief).

First:  Arizona.

Pitching:  Signing Zach Greinke makes all the difference.  Sure, the money is insane, unwarranted and reeking of bad counsel, but Mr. Greinke can pitch.  By the way, so can Shelby Miller and Pat Corbin.  Robbie Ray and Rubby De La Rosa complete an impressive starting five.  Brad Ziegler, a stiff desert wind would send Mr. Ziegler a good ten feet in the opposite direction, is a fine closer who is looking for more save opportunities.  And he will receive his wish.  Tyler Clippard is another quality addition to the pitching staff.  Leading to his eighth inning appearances will be Randall Delgado.  Daniel Hudson, the promising Silvino Bracho and Josh Collmenter form a group of relievers as solid as the starters.

Offense:  Perhaps greater America will hear of Paul Goldschmidt in 2016.  A marvelous ball player.  Across the diamond is Jake Lamb who is poised for a break out 2016.  Get those at bats, Mr. Lamb.  Acquiring Jean Segura from Milwaukee was well done.  Chris Owings can field, though he cannot hit.  In the outfield, we find lots of youngsters.  A.J. Pollock roams center and can hit.  David Peralta in right has as much potential as Mr. Pollock.  Yasmany Tomas likely plays left.  Behind the plate is Wellington Castillo who will be subbed by Tuffy Gosewisch.  Undoubtedly, the catching combo with the coolest names in all of MLB.

Players in the system who could help:  Brandon Drury (3b), Zach Borenstein (lf) and Socrates Brito (rf and assuming he does not make the Snakes out of spring training).  Pitching help is a couple of years away.  Thus, those signings.

Second:  San Francisco.

Pitching:  Almost as impressive as the Snakes, but not quite.  Next to Zach Greinke and Clayton Kershaw, Madison Bumgarner is the best starter in the West.  Without him, the Giants are a third place team.  Johnny Cueto is usually a #1 starter, but not with the Giants which is a great reality for the Giants.  Jeff Samardzija, Jake Peavy and Chris Heston complete a solid staff.  Matt Cain is the odd starter out.  The bullpen shines with Santiago Casilla, Sergio Romo, Javier Lopez (getting better with age), George Kontos, Hunter Strickland and Josh Osich.  This bullpen is the best in the West.

Offense:  More punch than most realize.  Granted, the outfield is not stocked with 35/90 guys, but Angel Pagan, Denard Span and Hunter Pence form a defensive gem of an outfield.  If any of the three slip, Gregor Blanco is looking for a chance.  The punch lies with the infielders.  Matt Duffy, Brandon Crawford and Brandon Belt offer long ball results.  Buster Posey is the final part of the Giants punch.  Joe Panik had an impressive last year.  Kelly Tomlinson, much as Gregor Blanco, is looking for at bats.

Players in the system who can help:  Jarrett Parker (lf and assuming he does not make the team at the end of spring training) and Michael Broadway (relief).

Third:  Los Angeles.  A note about this franchise.  The owners are bastards.  Why am I denied the third consecutive year the opportunity to enjoy Vin Scully broadcasting tv games?  Dodger owners are greedy sons of bitches.  I hope all of you are plagued by flat tires, disappointing dental news and and hair loss.

Pitching:  Clayton Kershaw begins and ends the conversation about L.A.’s starting pitching.  Scott Kazmir as the #2 guy is indicative of a team bound for a disappointing season.  Brett Anderson is injured.  Hyun-Jin Ryu hasn’t pitched in a long time.  Alex Wood must step into his potential.  Mike Bolsinger makes the fifth guy.  Thankfully, the bullpen is full of talent.  Kenley Jansen had a marvelous 2015.  Chris Hatcher, J.P. Howell, Pedro Baez and Luis Avilan will receive many a call in 2016.

Offense:  The outfield is loaded with whiners and loafers.  Andre Ethier will bitch and  moan about playing time.  Carl Crawford will sulk upon inevitable injury (remember how good he was in Tampa?).  Yasiel Puig is elsehwere bound by 7/31/16.  I don’t care how good a year he has up to that date.  Most of his teammates despise him.  Think Ted Cruz at a republican softball game.  Joc Pederson is a candidate for return to AAA if he does not lose the long ball addiction at the cost of his overall offensive peformance.  Scott Van Slyke  is the most productive outfielder, but he hardly plays.  Adrian Gonzalez has another stellar year.  The Dodgers were fortunate to lure Howie Kendrick for a return year.  Justin Turner earned a well deserved start at third base this year.  Corey Seager must endure an entire season of N.L. pitching, then I will believe the mavens praise.  Enrique Hernandez is a brewing talent.  Chase Utley will practice sliding.

Players in the system who can help:  Lots of talent at the A+ level entering AA in 2016.  However the distance from AA to MLB is considerable.  Austin Barnes (c), Jharel Cotton (starting pitching), Julio Urias (starting pitching) and Juan Gonzalez (relief).

Fourth:  San Diego.  A distant fourth.

Pitching:  Tyson Ross and James Shields make for a nice one-two, but then not much follows.  I’m out of patience with Andrew Cashner.  Drew Pomeranz should leave the ‘pen and join the starters.  Colin Rea and Brandon Maurer (survivor of a Seattle Mariners upbringing) have potential, but need time to develop.  The bullpen is awful.  Once a Padres specialty, now a grimace.  Kevin Quackenbush was the only consistent reliever in 2015 who returns in 2016.  Nick Vincent was inconsistent.  Signing Fernando Rodney is the equivalent of announcing “I got nothing!” in the ninth inning.  Give Michael Dimock and Jay Jackson a chance.  The result could be no worse than Crooked Hat entering the game.

Offense:  If Jon Jay returns to form, if Melvin “Don’t Call Me B.J” Upton has an obp above .325 and if Wil Myers is healthy and becomes a decent first baseman, maybe Pads fans have reason to cheer.  If not, this team is a day at the beach without sun block.  Matt Kemp is probably trade bait come late July.  Same with Derek Norris.  However, with Christian Bethancourt and Austin Hedges waiting in the wings (both have tremendous arms and toss rates), any Norris deal is good for the future.  Yangervis Solarte had a respectable 2015 at third base.  Alexei Ramirez will weigh his standard less than 160 pounds by the end of August and flutter into the San Diego Bay.  Second base belongs to Cory Spangenberg for good or bad.

Players in the system who can help:  The aforementioned closing duo of Michael Dimock and Jay Jackson, Rocky Gale (c.  In case the Padres want another cannon behind the plate), Hector Gomez (ss), Alex Dickerson (lf) and Travis Jankowski (cf).  Candidly, the last two mentioned probably become starters in the outfield on 8/1/16.

Fifth:  Colorado.

Pitching:  Jorge De La Rosa is the Rockies #1 guy.  No offense to Mr. De La Rosa, but he’s a four or five guy on most other teams.  The interchangeable and ineffective group of Chad Bettis, Jordan Lyles, Tyler Chatwood, Chris Rusin and David Hale follow.  Shuffle and deal.  The order does not matter.  The bullpen does have some strength.  Jake McGee or Jairo Diaz should close and/or pitch the eighth.  Jason Motte, Chad Qualls and Justin Miller are respectable.

Offense:  At least the Rockies can hit.  Nolan Arenado and DJ LaMahieu are a great two to build an offense around.  Carlos Gonzalez still plows a long ball.  Charlie Blackmon and Gerardo Parra are the next best in the line up.  Ben Paulson and Mark Reynolds share first base.  Maybe they combine for 35 dingers.  Jose Reyes needs to take care of his non-baseball issue.  Nick Hundley actually had a productive offensive year in 2015.  Who knew?

Players in the  system who can help:  Christian Adames (ss.  Assuming he is sent to AAA when spring training ends) and Carlos Estevez (relief).  The Rockies have talent that is years away.  Most of their better prospects were in A+ and A ball during 2015.

First:  Houston.  The Astros aren’t sliding or slipping.

Pitching:  Starting pitching is young and loaded.  Loaded.  Dallas Keuchel, Collin McHugh, Lance McCullers and Scott Feldman are impressive and more.  Adding Doug Fister makes for a miserable four-game series versus whomever.  The ‘pen is in a bit of a mess.  Who closes?  Ken Giles or Luke Gregerson?  Tony Sipp and Will Harris are solid.  Josh Fields and Pat Neshek complete a very impressive bullpen less the closer contest.

Offense:  Jose Altuve, Evan Gattis (home run or a great swinging strike out), Carlos Correa (yeah, he’s that good), George Springer and Luis Valbuena form a productive core of offense.  Colby Rasmus and Carlos Gomez, while lacking standing at the plate, run down their fair share of fly balls and line drives.  Jon Singleton either sticks in Houston or is banished to AAA during 2016.  Jake Marisnick hopes for at bats.  Jason Castro probably backs up Max Stassi since Max throws out baserunners.

Players in the system who could help:  Alfredo Gonzalez (c), A.J. Reed (1b), Matt Duffy (3b), Colin Moran (3b), Tony Kemp (lf), Domingo Santana (rf), Jon Kemmer (rf), Joseph Musgrove (starting pitching) and James Hoyt (relief).  Yes, investing in scouting, signing and development pays off over time.

Second:  Oakland.

Pitching:  Sonny Gray builds on a great introduction.  Jesse Hahn is not far behind.  Chris Bassitt, Jarrod Parker (healthy at last?) and Kendall Graveman complete a worthy starting staff.  Sean Doolittle is the closer.  Ryan Madson and Liam Hendriks make for more than manageable eighth and seventh innings.  Fernando Rodriguez (an impressive 2015) is looking for opportunity.  Why the A’s signed Marc Rzepcznski and Jon Axford is a mystery. Bring up the kids.

Offense:  Josh Reddick, Billy Butler (I admit to a pathetic 2015, but Country Breakfast will bounce back), Danny Valencia, Stephen Vogt and Billy Burns offer varied offense.  Why Billy Beane traded for Khris Davis is a head scratcher.  Khris is a the antithesis of Billy’s obp emphasis.  Marcus Semien and Jed Lowrie make a fine up the middle defense.  Yonder Alonso, while never realizing his power potential in San Diego, but then again, Petco is where fly balls go to die, does possess gap power.  Mark Canha, Chris Coghlan and Josh Phegley wait for at bats.  Any team with Sam Fuld is to be admired.  Coco Crisp is preparing to exit.

Players in the system who could help:  Rangel Ravelo (1b), Colin Walsh (2b), Chad Pinder (ss, but reduce the errors), Jake Smolinski (lf), Ryan Dull (relief) and Brendan McCurry (relief).

Third:  Anaheim (as long stated on these pages, I refuse the ridiculous official name of this franchise.  Sorry, Arte).

Pitching:  The only reason I’m choosing the Angels over the Rangers is their pitching.  Garrett Richards is the real deal.  A number one starter.  Jered Weaver is a master of illusion.  Any starting pitcher who delivers off-speed stuff in the low 70s and lives to tell the tale is astonishing.  C.J. Wilson will never be worth the money spent, but if he can get through the fifth inning, the Angels have a chance.  Here’s what is impressive.  We have yet to discuss Andrew Heaney, Matt Shoemaker, Hector Santiago, Nick Tropeano and the healing Tyler Skaggs (he could be as good as Mr. Richards).  A deep group of starters.  As for the bullpen, Huston Street, Joe Smith and Fernando Salas are a fantastic three inning combo.  Jose Alavarez is waiting for more innings.

Offense:  Albert Pujols is not completely healed.  His foot continues to bother him.  He should dh full-time if his ego allows.  Mike Trout is a first ballot Hall of Famer.  I live in Southern California, thus have the April through early October treat of watching him play.  And, no, I’m not an Angels fan.  Daniel Nava will get all the at bats he dreamed of as a Red Sox while  playing left field and first base for the Angels.  Kole Calhoun had a very good 2015 in right field.  I’m not buying the notion that the Angels are stronger up the middle with Johnny Giovotella and Andrelton Simmons at second and short.  Yunel Escobar seems more comfortable at third than short given a fine 2015.  C.J. Cron should play more first base than dh if the Angels want any offensive production out Mr. Pujols.  Carlos Perez and Geovany Soto form an impressive defensive combo, but once Jett Bandy is deemed ready, Mr. Soto leaves Anaheim in favor of Mr. Bandy because Mr. Bandy can hit.

Players in the system who could help:  The worthy majority of 2-9 guys are entering AA this year.  Any call up from Salt Lake City is for a brief appearance.  Michael Brady (starting pitching) and Cory Rasmus (relief).

Fourth:  Texas.

Pitching:  Most of the Rangers fortune settles on Yu Darvish having a successful return from T.J. surgery.  Mid-May is the proposed time of returning to the mound.  We shall see. Cole Hamels, Colby Lewis (getting better with age), the promising Chi Chi Gonzalez and Derek Holland complete the starters.  Yet, one well placed injury lands the starting staff in considerable trouble.  Shawn Tolleson closes followed by Sam Dyson, Keone Kela, Tim Wilhelmsen and Sam Freeman.  A worthy set of ‘pen mates.

Offense:  A lot of deep ball talent with Prince Fielder, Adrian Beltre, Shin-Soo Choo and Mitch Moreland.  Getting on base is Delino DeShields and Rougned Odor.  If Ian Desmond (the Rangers paid far too much for his services) and Elvis Andrus can get on base close to a third of their at-bats, the Rangers may battle for a wild card spot.  Robinson Chirinos and Chris Gimenez likely share the catching duties.  Josh Hamilton awaits a fateful 2016.  He either finds his lost baseball self or disappears.

Players in the system who could help:  Might be a couple of years before substantial 2-9 assistance is available.  No starter or reliever stands out in either AAA or AA.

Fifth:  Seattle.  Most likely the worst team in the A.L.

Pitching:  Felix Hernandez is a loyal soul.  All that talent stuck with a dysfunctional organization.  Hisahi Iwakuma is a worthy partner of Mr. Hernandez when healthy.  Wade Miley had a decent second half with the Red Sox in ’15.  Taijuan Walker improves each year.  Nathan Karns had a respectable 2015.  A group that is better than advertised.  Now for the bullpen.  A mess.  Either Joaquin Benoit or Tony Zych (who traveled from AA to the Bigs in 2015) is the default closer.  Frankly, not a lot of candidates exist.  Charlie Furbush is the last of the effective relievers.  Vidal Nuno and Evan Scribner pitch the early innings.

Offense:  Thin.  Adam Lind, Ketel Marte and Kyle Seager provide the 2016 highlights.  If Robinson Cano watches Mr. Marte perhaps Mr.Cano rekindles his fire for the game.  Franklin Guiterrez most likely takes either left field from Nori Aoki or center from Leonys Martin.  Seth Smith remains in right.  Chris Iannetta and Steve Clevenger do not hit or throw out baserunners to any notable degree.  Perhaps Mike Zunino is the better choice behind the plate.  With enough at-bats, Jesus Montero might generate some production at the dh spot.  Hopefully Seattle fans enjoy many a sunny day as they watch a cloudy 2016 season.

Players in the system who could help:  Chris Taylor (ss.  A few more at-bats at AAA would help), Dario Pizzano (lf), Edwin Diaz (starting pitching) and Matt Anderson (relief).