09' NL preview

Here is your eagerly awaited 2009 Norunsupport NL preview.

NL East - Atlanta Braves
I tried not to pick the Braves. I tried to realistic about Chipper's health and Fanceour's declining stats. I tried to tell myself they don't have a true leadoff hitter. At the end of the day, it comes down to the arms. The Mets ace is hurting. The Phillies ace is hurting. Derek Lowe is throwing out of his mind. The Braves also have a wonderful mid-season pickup built in with a mid-summer return for Tim Hudson. Case closed.

NL Central - St Louis Cardinals
I don't love anybody in this division and yet I don't hate anyone either. The Cardinals somehow were in contention last year with Carpetner still out and Pujols missing some time. I think with a full season from Pujols and the development of the young arms and bats, the Red Birds could be flying in October. I think the Brewers are due for a step back and the Reds and Astros aren't quite there yet. And finally, the Pirates and Cubs are... well the Pirates and Cubs.

NL West - Arizona Diamondbacks
I can't be the only one envisioning Manny having a "hamstring injury" sidelining him for months at a time? I am also entrigued by the Giants pitching, but at the end of the day I have to go with the Snakes. They fell apart last year but I think the young bats are seasoned and ready to strike.

NL Wild Card - San Fansisco Giants
As long as they can close out 2-1 victories all season that pitching staff will carry them. They have great arms 1-5 and should hit just enough to fill Pac Bell in October.