As Spring Training gets into high gear, several teams are working in both familiar and new faces for Opening Day and beyond. Some teams made bigger splashes in the offseason than others. But every team now starts with a clean slate and a new season. In an early post, some teams to keep an eye out for in 2019 were looked at. But more teams have caught the attention of the masses, as well as the rest of baseball.
Here are some more teams looking to make an impact in 2019.
The National League East can turn into one of the most competitive divisions in 2019. The Atlanta Braves are looking to continue their accent and lead over the pack. Meanwhile, several big names are finding new homes in many of these squads.
Image by Karl L. Moore and courtesy of baseballamerica.com
The Braves struck gold last season and found themselves holding the division pennant. Now with spring training, Atlanta can work on what needs improvement, along with what has shown to work. With young weapons and an imposing bullpen, the Braves stand as one the favorites to win the NL East. Not to mention they have Nick Markakis and Brian McCann returning for the new campaign.
Philadelphia has been on the move and look to take the division from Atlanta. The Phillies have brought in quite a few prominent players on board, including Andrew McCutchen and Jean Segura. Plus, Aaron Nola is turning into a formidable young ace after his breakout year last season. Philadelphia is not only one of the favorites to take the division, but also to bring in Bryce Harper. If Philly has Nola on the mound and Harper in the batter’s box, they could turn into a terror in the NL.
Both teams have brought in big names to their respective camps as well. Robinson Cano, has come to the Big Apple wearing the Mets’ colors, while Patrick Corbin enters 2019 as a Washington National. Both franchises have made other acquisitions. But they still have work to do if they want that coveted division title.
The National League West has recently made the loudest noise these past few days. Along with the Los Angeles Dodgers working in a significantly different roster, Colorado and San Diego have put down big bucks for two of the NL’ best infielders.
Oct 28, 2018; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Manny Machado (8) throws to first in a double play against the Boston Red Sox in the ninth inning in game five of the 2018 World Series at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
For 10 years and $300 million, San Diego has brought in Manny Machado for 2019. Machado was one of two free agents that the baseball world has been stopping for. After FINALLY signing, he now has a home for 2019. When Machado praised the Padres for their farm system, many fans and experts rolled their eyes, given the fact he just signed a fat, juicy contract. But, Machado DOES have a point. Hopefully, this farm system will kick in for San Diego soon. But even with acquiring a two-way All-Star, they still have ways to go before they can become playoff contenders.
For now, Machado may not be the solution to all of the Padres’ problems. But if he’s willing to learn as much as possible, he could solve many of them. Plus, he can help solve a significant number of them.
DENVER, CO – APRIL 06: Nolan Arenado of the Colorado Rockies receives the Rawlings Gold Glove and Platinum Glove Award before the Rockies home opener against the Atlanta Braves at Coors Field on April 6, 2018 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images). Image courtesy of The Denver Post
The Rockies have laid down a big cash pile as well. This time, they have extended Nolan Arenado’s tenure as a Rocky. With a confirmed eight-year, $260 million extension, the Rockies have their star player for the long run. It’s not difficult to see why. Colorado’s season-by-season improvement, as well as more starters rising to the occasion, has fans excited for the future.
Both the Padres and the Rockies have taken over the conversation, as well as plans on becoming the next teams to fear. Both the LA Dodgers and Arizona Diamondbacks have work to do in finding more star attractions. This could blow the NL West wide open for the next regular season.
Featured image courtesy of The Sports Post
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