Spring Is Here...

Spring is officially here. I tell by the smell of pine and rosin. (Does rosin actually have a scent??)Baseball has started the regular season!

The Florida Marlins are off to a good start at 5-1 already. There is hope on the horizon with a new stadium in downtown Miami and a commitment to build a contender through youth. Here is how I view the team:

• Starting Pitchers - They might have the one of the best overall rotations in baseball with Josh Johnson, Ricky Nolasco, Chris Volstad, and Andrew Miller. They match up with any other rotation in the majors and will keep the Marlins competitive through the season. You cannot have too many good starters in an organization.
• Relief Pitchers - The part of team was completely re-worked. Matt Lindstrom is now the closer. He has the stuff but does he have the mental make-up? The rest of the cast looks promising but has been mediocre early on. This is probably the key to making the playoffs.
• Hitting - With Mike Jacobs and Josh Willingham gone you would think there would be a power shortage, but they still have 30 home run potential with Ramirez, Uggla, and Cantu. Team speed is greatly improved with Cameron Mayben and Emilio Bonifacio. Mayben has the potential to be a super star like Ramirez. Cody Ross and Jeremy Hermida are the outfield corners and are adequate.
• Fielding - The changes here will be noticeable. Cantu at first is an upgrade over Jacobs. Bonifacio will be better than Cantu at 3B even though he is out of position. Mayben can already play major league defense in center. Moving Hermida from right to left helps to hide him. John Baker and Ronny Paulino are serviceable behind the plate.

So where do I think they will finish? I think they will 86-88 wins, finish second to the Phillies, and be in contention to the end for the wild card spot. The Mets, Braves, and Nationals round out the NL East.

I cannot wait to get out to some games this summer.