2015 Preview: Houston Astros

When talking about the Houston Astros, the focus has always been on the future. But today, I tell you I think the Astros are built well enough as currently constructed to compete this year.

Do I think they will win make the playoffs? No.

Do I think they will be in the playoff hunt heading towards the trade deadline? I say no tentatively.

Do I think they will once again lose 90 games? No.

While the future in Houston is certainly very bright, the present isn’t going to be quite the disappointment the past few years have been.

Breakout Candidate Profile: Avisail Garcia

Looking for that next outfielder that’s going to hit you a decent to high average, hit some home runs, steal some bases, and score some runs? Basically do everything you need to help you win your league? Then look no further than White Sox outfielder Avisail Garcia.

2014 Outlook: Milwaukee Brewers

I look at the 2014 Milwaukee Brewers, and I like what I see.

When I first started putting together my power rankings, I was almost completely under the assumption they would be in the bottom five teams. But the more I looked at them and stacked them up with the rest of the league, I quickly changed my mind.

2014 Outlook: Toronto Blue Jays

When I look at the Toronto Blue Jays of the past few years, they have been one of baseball biggest puzzles to try and solve.

All of the pieces are there for them to be successful. When they went out last winter and unloaded a lot to get some major players they thought could help them get to the top. And while everyone said it was a now or never type of deal for them, I disagree. I look at the talent they put out on the field and think, this is a team that could be good for a couple solid years.

2014 Outlook: Baltimore Orioles

I didn't know how to start my Baltimore Orioles preview other than to say, I don't know how the Orioles have been so successful the past few years.

When you look at the Os, they definitely have some of the brightest young talent in the big leagues, I think, highlighted by their corner infielders, Manny Machado and Chris Davis. Of course, you can't leave out Adam Jones, Nick Markakis and JJ Hardy, who have been a staples in this lineup as well.