2011 MLB Predictions (II)

The 2011 predictions enter the second half of the season in pretty good shape so far.

http://slavieboy.blogspot.com/2011/03/2011-mlb-predictions.html

In the AL East, we run the table 1-5 so far. There are three contenders (Bos - NYY - TB) for two playoff spots. Toronto has to make a run NOW and Baltimore is on pace to lose 100.

In the AL Central, our projected champion Twinkies have been hurt but have to make a run NOW. The Royals may indeed lose 100 games as projected. The Indians are a big-time upside surprise, the Tigers to a lesser degree and the ChiSox are about as expected. Three teams battling it out for the one playoff spot.

In the AL West, we missed on Sea - Oak 3-4 but that could right itself. Texas and the LA Angels battle for the on playoff spot, Seattle has to make a run NOW to get back in it and Oakland may lose 100.

So basically, eight teams in serious contention, three more that could get back into it and three that are toast.

In the NL East, Phillies and Braves 1-2 as expected. Both will make the playoffs. The Mets are a bit of a surprise so far in the three spot, but waving the white flag by dealing K-Rod to the Brew-crew will not help on the field or on the back pages in New York. Washington and Florida will have to make a run NOW or resign to lose 100 games.

In the NL Central, the Brewers make a statement by acquiring K-Rod. Pittsburgh is still a major surprise to the upside. They may need to make a deal by the deadline to show the players they think they can win. St. Louis and Cincinnati are still in contention. The Cubs may lose 100 and the Astros may lose 110.

In the NL West, all playing to form except the DBacks surprising to the upside. If the Rockies are within 10 games with more than a month to go, they are still in contention. The Dodgers and Padres appear to be mailing it in and may both lose 100.

So for the NL, eight serious contenders, three that have to make a run soon, and four that are playing for next year (soon to be made five by the Mutts)

Of my predicted playoff teams, the Twins and Rockies are in some distress but not panic, YET.

The projected Giants - Red Sox World Series remains in play. The Giants may need to add a bat...and a catcher....and a SS....to finish the deal, which means Sabean making deals, which means trouble. Hopefully, he doesn't use defense of the title as a mandate to mortgage the future.

Best chances to win the World Series as of today:

AL
Red Sox
Yankees
Rangers
AL Central Champ = playoff cannon fodder

NL
Phillies
Giants
Braves
Brewers - Cards - Reds
NL Central champ = playoff cannon fodder (for now)