Atlanta Braves

Predictions by preseason publications:

Baseball Digest picks the Braves 4th in the N.L. West Strengths are cited as: improving pitching, good power, outfield could be deep, speed in spots, and an adequate infield. Outlook: on the rise

The Sporting News 1982 Baseball Yearbook picks the Braves 4th in the N.L. West. Braves team owner Ted Turner said, “We’re going to be knee deep in pitching, and we’re going to be strong at virtually every position. The Dodgers are the over-the-hill gang. The Reds are going downhill. Houston is tough, but our pitching will hold its own with theirs.”

Street and Smith picks the Braves 4th in the N.L. West. Braves owner Ted Turner said, “Maybe I’m crazy, but I think our pitching is good enough to win the division.” Street and Smith ended the Braves section saying, the Braves should improve, but they’re a dark horse as a contender.

Baseball Illustrated, Baseball 1982, and Baseball Forecast 1982 all felt that the Braves will also finish 4th in the N.L. West. Baseball Scorecard predicts that Atlanta will finish in 5th place in the N.L. West.

Projected 1982 Braves rotation: Phil Niekro, Rick Mahler, Bob Walk, and Rick Camp

Projected 1982 Braves lineup: 1B - Chris Chambliss, 2B - Glenn Hubbard, SS - Rafael Ramirez, 3B - Bob Horner, C - Bruce Benedict, RF - Claudell Washington, CF - Dale Murphy, LF - Rufino Linares

Chicago Cubs

Predictions by preseason publications:

Baseball Digest picks the Cubs 6th in the N.L. East saying, The Cubs are condemned to stay in the hold. Strengths are cited as: improving catching, some right-handed starters, and left-handed hitting. Outlook: lots of work.

The Sporting News 1982 Baseball Yearbook picks the Cubs 6th in the N.L. East. Vice President and General Manager of the Cubs Dallas Green was quoted as saying, “I’m no Messiah, but I guarantee nobody will outwork us. Right now, running the Cubs may be the toughest job in baseball, but it’s also the best job.”

Street and Smith picks the Cubs 6th in the N.L. East. In a winter letter to Cubs players new GM Dallas Green is quoted as saying, “The Cubs have gained the reputation of being somewhat laissez faire in their approach to work. The word is, there is not a lot of pressure to work hard. Many use day baseball as the perfect excuse not to work. Other [N.L.] clubs know that if you stay close to the Cubs they’ll beat themselves by not paying attention to fundamentals…that deep down they don’t care about being a Cub or being successful. I realize these are generalizations and don’t necessarily apply to everyone, but…I know for a fact that most of you are out of shape. A Cybex test of your legs alone proves that to me. And the fact that many of you have broken down during the season substantiates this.”

Baseball Illustrated, Baseball 1982, Baseball Forecast 1982 and Baseball Scorecard also all felt that the Cubs will finish 6th in the N.L. East.

Projected 1982 Cubs rotation: Ferguson Jenkins, Doug Bird, Dickie Noles, and Randy Martz

Projected 1982 Cubs lineup: 1B - Bill Buckner, 2B - Bump Wills, SS - Larry Bowa, 3B - Ryne Sandberg, C - Jody Davis, RF - Leon Durham, CF - Gary Woods, LF - Steve Henderson

Cincinnati Reds

Predictions by preseason publications:

Baseball Digest picks the Reds 2nd in the N.L. West saying the Reds, ‘continue to be dangerous’. Strengths are cited as: power continues, solid starters and improving bullpen, fair speed, enough defense. Outlook: could make it

The Sporting News 1982 Baseball Yearbook picks the Reds 1st in the N.L. West. The expert concluded, even with the acquisition of Cedeno, who predicts he’ll steal 50 or more bases, the Reds still lack overall speed. The need for improved catching has been solved, but left-handed pitching is needed to balance the staff.

Street and Smith picks the Reds 2nd in the N.L. West. Manager John McNamara said, “But we’re a lot stronger, defensively, in the outfield; we’re solid in the infield, and our young pitching is maturing.” This is a team that is difficult to draw a line on because its complexion has changed drastically. Regardless of the losses (player departures in the offseason), though, the Reds will be a definite threat again this year.

Baseball Illustrated and Baseball Scorecard predict a 3rd place finish for the Reds. Baseball Forecast 1982 sees the Reds finishing in 2nd, while Baseball 1982 sees the Reds finishing in 5th place in the N.L. West.

Projected 1982 Reds rotation: Mario Soto, Bruce Berenyi, Frank Pastore, and Tom Seaver

Projected 1982 Reds lineup: 1B - Dan Driessen, 2B - Ron Oester, SS - Dave Concepcion, 3B - Johnny Bench, C - Alex Trevino, RF - Paul Householder, CF - Cesar Cedeno, LF - Eddie Milner

Houston Astros

Predictions by preseason publications:

Baseball Digest picks the Astros 1st in the N.L. West saying the Astros’ pitching depth may be the most formidable in the game. The Astros’ infield is solid. The outfield and the catching are more than adequate. Strengths are cited as: deep in starters, solid bullpen, adequate outfield, catching, good speed. Outlook: slight edge over rest.

The Sporting News 1982 Baseball Yearbook picks the Astros 3rd in the N.L. West. TSN notes that if Houston is to emerge as a National League West Division contender for the fourth straight year, strong pitching and steady defense are musts.

Street and Smith picks the Astros 3rd in the N.L. West. Pitching will make Houston a Western Division factor, but the Astros seem to lack the overall strength and balance of the Dodgers and Reds.

Baseball Illustrated and Baseball Scorecard predict a 2nd place finish for the Astros. Baseball Forecast 1982 sees the Astros finishing in 3rd. Baseball 1982 expects a 1st place finish for Houston in the N.L. West.

Projected 1982 Astros rotation: Joe Niekro, Nolan Ryan, Don Sutton, and Bob Knepper

Projected 1982 Astros lineup: 1B - Ray Knight, 2B - Phil Garner, SS - Dickie Thon, 3B - Art Howe, C - Alan Ashby, RF - Terry Puhl, CF - Tony Scott, LF - Jose Cruz

Los Angeles Dodgers

Predictions by preseason publications:

Baseball Digest picks the Dodgers 3rd in the N.L. West stating that most important of all they have solid starting pitchers. Manager Tommy Lasorda says, “I don’t think anyone has given our pitching staff, as a whole, enough credit. We got what we needed from them when we needed it. I don’t put our staff second to any in this league or the other.” The Dodger defense, particularly in the infield, isn’t quite up to that of some teams, but as shortstop Bill Russell suggested, “We must be doing something right. Since I’ve been here we’ve won four pennants and now a world championship.” Strengths are cited as: starting pitchers, deep power, fair defense in outfield, adequate behind the plate. Outlook: aging, but dangerous.

The Sporting News 1982 Baseball Yearbook picks the Dodgers 2nd in the N.L. West. The experts say that it is the solid core of veteran talent that made the Dodgers a winner last year, and nowhere are they more solid than in their pitching, especially their starters. All winter Manager Tommy Lasorda has been spouting such things as, “Dodger Blue again in ‘82.” It may be that he’s got the right material to make it happen again.

Street and Smith picks the Dodgers 1st in the N.L. West. S & S said that the Dodgers should win a close divisional race. The Dodgers are likely to repeat as world champions. The team is well balanced and improved its bench strength.

Baseball Illustrated, Baseball Scorecard and Baseball Forecast 1982 all agree with Street and Smith predicting a 1st place finish for the Dodgers. Baseball 1982 feels the Dodgers will finish 2nd in the N.L. West.

Projected 1982 Dodgers rotation: Fernando Valenzuela, Jerry Reuss, Bob Welch, and Burt Hooton

Projected 1982 Dodgers lineup: 1B - Steve Garvey, 2B - Steve Sax, SS - Bill Russell, 3B - Ron Cey, C - Mike Scioscia, RF - Pedro Guerrero, CF - Ken Landreaux, LF - Dusty Baker

Montreal Expos

Predictions by preseason publications:

Baseball Digest picks the Expos 1st in the N.L. East stating the Expos starting lineup may be the strongest in baseball. Their pitching staff is solid, with four proven starters. The Expos are the class of the division. GM John McHale said, “We have as good a starting rotation as any team in the National League.” Strengths are cited as: maturing pitching, catching, outfield defense, balanced hitting with power, bullpen depth, plenty of speed. Outlook: best shot yet.

The Sporting News 1982 Baseball Yearbook picks the Expos 1st in the N.L. East. TSN wrote that after playing their role of contender to the hilt for the past three seasons, the Expos are front-and-center favorites to win the National League East in ‘82. Outfielder Warren Cromartie is quoted saying, “We’ve been building for this for three years. We’ve had the playoff experience now and we know we can win. We can’t wait to get this season started.”

Street and Smith picks the Expos 1st in the N.L. East. Montreal appears to have the talent to win a second straight Eastern title. There is evidence to suggest the N.L.’s team of the 1980’s will be the Montreal Expos. Look for the Expos to win it again.

Baseball Illustrated, Baseball Scorecard and Baseball Forecast 1982 all agree predicting a 1st place finish for the Expos. Baseball 1982 predicts the Expos will finish 2nd in the N.L. East.

Projected 1982 Expos rotation: Steve Rogers, Bill Gullickson, Scott Sanderson, and Charlie Lea

Projected 1982 Expos lineup: 1B - Al Oliver, 2B - Rodney Scott, SS - Chris Speier, 3B - Tim Wallach, C - Gary Carter, RF - Warren Cromartie, CF - Andre Dawson, LF - Tim Raines

New York Mets

Predictions by preseason publications:

Baseball Digest picks the Mets 4th in the N.L. East saying as for the Mets and (Cubs), only vigorous infusions of youth and money will bring them to life. The Mets are a little further advanced, particularly in pitching, but fourth place would be their highest mark. Strengths are cited as: promising starters, good bullpen, some speed, fair infield defense. Outlook: some progress

The Sporting News 1982 Baseball Yearbook picks the Mets 5th in the N.L. East. The experts weighed in saying, now, with George Bamberger running the show on the field, the Mets are known as the ‘Orioles North'. The only thing missing was talent. One problem the Mets didn’t solve was a desperate need for starting pitching. Bamberger’s staff was loaded with ifs as spring training opened. What it all boils down to is that the Mets have too many question marks to be considered contenders.

Street and Smith picks the Mets 5th in the N.L. East saying the Mets finally have reason to expect improvement this year. Manager George Bamberger doesn’t have the talent to work with that he had during his 2 1/2 seasons at Milwaukee. With the recent addition of the devastating Foster, they appear to be on the verge of contending again.

Baseball Illustrated predicts a 4th place finish for New York. Baseball Scorecard and Baseball Forecast 1982 agree on a 5th place finish, while Baseball 1982 has set the Mets sights on a 3rd place finish.

Projected 1982 Mets rotation: Charlie Puleo, Pete Falcone, Mike Scott, and Craig Swan

Projected 1982 Mets lineup: 1B - Dave Kingman, 2B - Wally Backman, SS - Ron Gardenhire, 3B - Hubie Brooks, C - John Stearns, RF - Ellis Valentine, CF - Mookie Wilson, LF - George Foster

Philadelphia Phillies

Predictions by preseason publications:

Baseball Digest picks the Phillies 3rd in the N.L. East stating it will be up to Pat Corrales to guide the Phillies’ circus of temperamental and aging stars. And that may be quite a job. Chances are they’ll slip a little more. Strengths are cited as: infield defense, power in spots, outfield defense, some speed, fair bullpen. Outlook: could fade

The Sporting News 1982 Baseball Yearbook picks the Phillies 2nd in the N.L. East. TSN writes, After 1981’s sobering tumble from baseball’s top perch, the Philadelphia Phillies will attempt a return to that position in 1982 with a new owner, a new manager and a variety of new players.

Street and Smith picks the Phillies 3rd in the N.L. East writes, Philadelphia seems to lack the pitching to overtake the Expos. Although they’ve been remarkably successful in recent years, the Philadelphia Phillies are in a state of upheaval as they enter the 1982 season with new ownership, a new manager, and several new players. The Phils will contend for another title, but they’ll need better pitching to beat out Montreal.

Baseball Illustrated, Baseball Scorecard, and Baseball Forecast 1982 all agree that the Phillies will finish 3rd in the N.L. East. Baseball 1982 predicts a 4th place finish in the N.L. East.

Projected 1982 Phillies rotation: Steve Carlton, Mike Krukow, Larry Christenson, and Dick Ruthven

Projected 1982 Phillies lineup: 1B - Pete Rose, 2B - Manny Trillo, SS - Ivan de Jesus, 3B - Mike Schmidt, C - Bo Diaz, RF - Vukovich/Dernier, CF - Garry Maddox, LF - Gary Matthews

Pittsburgh Pirates

Predictions by preseason publications:

Baseball Digest picks the Pirates 5th in the N.L. East saying that not even their most ardent supporters could envision finishing near the top. Not even the return of ancient Willie Stargell is going to help the Pirates, who have been going steadily downhill since the glory year of 1979. The pitching and defense is not up to the mark. Strengths are cited as: sporadic power, fair starting staff, experienced bullpen, speed in spots Outlook: too many holes

The Sporting News 1982 Baseball Yearbook picks the Pirates 4th in the N.L. East. TSN says the prospects of the once-mighty Bucs forging their way into a full season role as contenders appear slim. The pitching is suspect, the offense seems to lack enough run produces and the defense figures to range from slightly above average to adequate. Manager Chuck Tanners said, “We have people capable of doing exceptional things and we have depth. We’ll be competitive. Nobody is going to run away and hide.”

Street and Smith picks the Pirates 4th in the N.L. East writes that the Pittsburgh Pirates are in a rebuilding state and have been steadily going downhill since their world championship three seasons ago. There will have to be a marked improvement in their pitching if the Pirates are to challenge in the East this season, and it remains to be seen how they’ll perform in the middle of the infield.

Baseball Illustrated and Baseball 1982 see a 5th grade finish for the Pirates in the N.L. East. Baseball Forecast 1982 and Baseball Scorecard both predict a 4th place finish in the N.L. East.

Projected 1982 Pirates rotation: Rick Rhoden, John Candelaria, Don Robinson, and Manny Sarmiento

Projected 1982 Pirates lineup: 1B - Jason Thompson, 2B - Johnny Ray, SS - Dale Berra, 3B - Bill Madlock, C - Tony Pena, RF - Dave Parker, CF - Omar Moreno, LF - Easler/Lacy

St. Louis Cardinals

Predictions by preseason publications:

Baseball Digest picks the Cardinals 2nd in the N.L. East saying the Cardinals are on the upswing, their infield is outstanding, their catching is solid, and the outfield, if Lonnie Smith cuts it in center, will be up to snuff. The Cardinals chances really boil down to the pitching, which is most solid in the bullpen. Strengths are cited as: solid bullpen, infield defense, overall hitting, right-handed starters, speed in spots Outlook: solid threat

The Sporting News 1982 Baseball Yearbook picks the Cardinals 3rd in the N.L. East. Starting pitcher Bob Forsch is quoted as saying, “Our pitching will be the question again. Just as it was last year. And the year before that. And the year before that.” For the second straight year, GM/Manager Whitey Herzog has accomplished a rather major facelift of his team. Where others have talked trade, Herzog has acted.

Street and Smith picks the Cardinals 2nd in the N.L. East saying the Cardinals will be even stronger defensively in ‘82. Not since 1968 have the Cardinals won a title of any kind, and Herzog has made wholesale changes for two reasons: 1) to weed out discontents and 2) to give the Cardinals the balance they lacked for so many years, when they were so dependent on their hitting. The Cardinals seem to lack the only thing they need to win the division: another proven starting pitcher.

Baseball Illustrated, Baseball Forecast 1982 and Baseball Scorecard all envision a 2nd place in the N.L. East. Baseball 1982 sees a N.L. East title in the St. Louis Cardinals future.

Projected 1982 Cardinals rotation: Joaquin Andújar, Bob Forsch, Steve Mura, and John Stuper

Projected 1982 Cardinals lineup: 1B - Keith Hernandez, 2B - Tom Herr, SS - Ozzie Smith, 3B - Ken Oberkfell, C - Darrell Porter, RF - George Hendrick, CF - Willie McGee, LF - Lonnie Smith

San Diego Padres

Predictions by preseason publications:

Baseball Digest picks the Padres 6th in the N.L. West concludes that the Padres are light years away from nursing along their young team to contender status. Strengths are cited as: left side of infield, outfield speed, catching potential, some starting pitchers Outlook: keep an eye on for the future

The Sporting News 1982 Baseball Yearbook picks the Padres 6th in the N.L. West. Manager Dick Williams is quoted saying, “It may take us a couple of years to become competitive, but we have the foundation to build on.” It goes on to say that Williams is keenly aware the Padres lack power and have a surplus of left-handed hitters. However, the Padres never before have had as many good, young players at the key positions. Williams’ biggest job will be to construct a presentable starting pitching rotation. Williams’ team likely won’t have enough starting pitching to escape last place, but it could cause a lot of trouble with the addition of a right-handed power hitter.

Street and Smith picks the Padres 6th in the N.L. West. S & S states that the San Diego Padres keep changing managers, players, and coaches without improving their lot in the N.L. West. The Padres seem destined to finish last for the fourth year in a row because of weak starting pitching, a lack of power and a below-average bench. To become competitive, the Padres must develop better pitching and one more power hitter.

Baseball Illustrated, Baseball Forecast 1982, Baseball 1982, and Baseball Scorecard all predict a 6th place finish in the N.L. West for the Padres.

Projected 1982 Padres rotation: Tim Lollar, John Montefusco, Juan Eichelberger, and John Curtis

Projected 1982 Padres lineup: 1B - Broderick Perkins, 2B - Tim Flannery, SS - Garry Templeton, 3B - Luis Salazar, C - Terry Kennedy, RF - Sixto Lezcano, CF - Ruppert Jones, LF - Gene Richards

San Francisco Giants

Predictions by preseason publications:

Baseball Digest picks the Giants 5th in the N.L. West saying, Oh, sure the Giants have made some effort to shore up their pitching, tighten their infield and beef up their desire….. Strengths are cited as: outfield potential, bullpen solid, enough starting pitchers, some speed. Outlook: could move up

The Sporting News 1982 Baseball Yearbook picks the Giants 5th in the N.L. West. For the second straight winter, the Giants busily altered their roster, looking for the proper chemistry to narrow the gap. Manager Frank Robinson said, “I will not accept mediocrity and I will not allow the players to accept it.”

Street and Smith picks the Giants 5th in the N.L. West. Street and Smith concludes that the Giants should be strong in the outfield and should get standout relieving. Their starting pitching appears questionable. It would appear the Giants are taking a gamble on some of their new pitching.

Baseball Illustrated and Baseball Forecast 1982 agree that the Giants will finish in 5th. Baseball Scorecard predicts a 4th place finish in the N.L. West while Baseball 1982 predicts a 3rd place finish in the division.

Projected 1982 Giants rotation: Bill Laskey, Rich Gale, Atlee Hammaker, and Renie Martin

Projected 1982 Giants lineup: 1B - Reggie Smith, 2B - Joe Morgan, SS - Johnnie LeMaster, 3B - Darrell Evans, C - Milt May, RF - Jack Clark, CF - Chili Davis, LF - Jeffrey Leonard

Baltimore Orioles

Predictions by preseason publications:

Baseball Digest picks the Orioles 2nd in the A.L. East. The Orioles have even greater problems, particularly with their once-vaunted pitching staff, which sagged badly last year. They are a team loaded with ifs. Strengths are cited as: infield corners, starting pitchers, fair speed, respectable defense, catching. Outlook: never underestimate

The Sporting News 1982 Baseball Yearbook picks the Orioles 3rd in the A.L. East. Manager Earl Weaver said, “Nothing’s going to change because this is my last year. I still want to win as much as ever and I’m not going to manage any differently. I also expect the players to respond the same way as in the past. Why should I expect anything else?” The 1982 Orioles are full of more question marks than any other Baltimore team in recent memory. GM Hank Peters says, “Sure, we’re counting on some people who had bad years to come back. If the players reset those years, we’ll be in trouble. But I don’t think it’s unreasonable to expect some people to improve on last year’s performances.”

Street and Smith picks the Orioles 4th in the A.L. East. The Orioles appear to have a definite problem on the left side of the infield and some of their pitchers are getting long in the tooth. Manager Earl Weaver has come to be regarded as a genius, and rightly so for the way he has maneuvered the Orioles to six division championships and five 100-victory seasons in a dozen years, But he may have to cross the boundary from genius to magician to make those numbers this year.

Baseball Illustrated and Baseball Scorecard forecast a 3rd place finish for the Orioles. Baseball Forecast 1982 predicts a 5th place, while Baseball Forecast 1982 predicts a 2nd place finish for Baltimore.

Projected 1982 Orioles rotation: Dennis Martinez, Scott McGregor, Mike Flanagan, and Jim Palmer

Projected 1982 Orioles lineup: 1B - Eddie Murray, 2B - Rich Dauer, SS - Cal Ripken Jr., 3B - Lenn Sakata, C - Rick Dempsey, RF - Dan Ford, CF - Al Bumbry, LF - Lowenstein/Roenicke, DH - Ken Singleton

Boston Red Sox

Predictions by preseason publications:

Baseball Digest picks the Red Sox 5th in the A.L. East. Strengths are cited as: infield corners, starting pitchers, fair speed, respectable defense, catching. Outlook: never underestimate

The Sporting News 1982 Baseball Yearbook picks the Red Sox 5th in the A.L. East. TSN asks, was 1981 a fluke or are the Red Sox legitimate contenders? Manager Ralph Houk said, “I think we’’ll be a better team this year.” On paper, the Red Sox do not seem to be able to match the arms of some of their East Division opponents. But, again, there is potential. Overall, it’s a new look team that Hook believes can erase any doubt that still might exist among skeptical followers. Only time will tell.

Street and Smith picks the Red Sox 5th in the A.L. East. The experts say the Red Sox have enough quality players in the starting lineup that they would be extremely competitive in the other division. They don’t have enough pitching to win it in the one they’re in however. Once again, the Red Sox should have little trouble scoring runs. But defensively, there are shortcomings.

Baseball Illustrated, Baseball Forecast 1982 and Baseball Scorecard all predict a 4th place finish for the Red Sox. Baseball 1982 believes the Red Sox will finish 6th in the A.L. East.

Projected 1982 Red Sox rotation: Dennis Eckersley, Mike Torrez, John Tudor, and Chuck Rainey

Projected 1982 Red Sox lineup: 1B - Dave Stapleton, 2B - Jerry Remy, SS - Glenn Hoffman, 3B - Carney Lansford, C - Allenson/Gedman, RF - Dwight Evans, CF - Rick Miller, LF - Jim Rice, DH - Carl Yastrzemski

California Angels

Predictions by preseason publications:

Baseball Digest picks the Angels 5th in the A.L. West. Strengths are cited as: balanced attack, good power, outfield strength, two starters Outlook: too much help needed

The Sporting News 1982 Baseball Yearbook picks the Angels 5th in the A.L. West. Angels owner Gene Autry said this about free agent signee Reggie Jackson, “he’s controversial. I think he’ll stir things up. I think he’ll do them well. Those straight-laced fellows, I think he’ll get them excited.” DH Don Baylor said, “Reggie makes everyone a little better hitter. We may have the same type of contagious offense we did in ‘79.” TSN saw it as ‘wishful thinking perhaps’. Manager Gene Mauch said, “If there is any uncertainty, and I love this team, it is the pitching staff.” Much also said about Jackson, “I’m tickled to death to have Jackson.” Finally, Rick Burleson says, “The bottom line on Reggie is he’s a winner. He’s quality.”

Street and Smith picks the Angels 5th in the A.L. West. The Angels are baseball’s version of the Over the Hill Gang. They believe Manager Gene Mauch will need to ‘find some pitching’. The Angels stars may be getting old but who haven’t all lost their glitter. Mauch went on to say, “I don’t think our pitching is as bad as people think.” S & S gets the last word in when it states, ‘neither is it (Angels pitching) good enough to win a pennant.

Baseball Illustrated, Baseball Forecast 1982 and Baseball Scorecard all predict a 5th place finish. Baseball 1982 believes the Angels will rise to 3rd in the A.L. West.

Projected 1982 Angels rotation: Ken Forsch, Geoff Zahn, Mike Witt, and Steve Renko

Projected 1982 Angels lineup: 1B - Rod Carew, 2B - Bobby Grich, SS - Tim Foli, 3B - Doug DeCinces, C - Bob Boone, RF - Reggie Jackson, CF - Fred Lynn, LF - Brian Downing, DH - Don Baylor

Chicago White Sox

Predictions by preseason publications:

Baseball Digest picks the White Sox 4th in the A.L. West. The White Sox could conceivably rise to the top despite defensive deficiencies. They do have a strong young pitching staff. The question is whether the pitchers can overcome mediocre fielding. We (Baseball Digest) think not, one reason to relegate the Sox to fourth place. Strengths are cited as: young starters, catching, middle of infield, improved punch Outlook: a dark horse

The Sporting News 1982 Baseball Yearbook picks the White Sox 2nd in the A.L. West. The White Sox possibly have the most potent batting order in the club’s history. But everything has its price and the price the White Sox paid for added punch could be higher than they thought. Most obviously, they could suffer on defense. Barring serious injury, however, the White Sox appear to have enough hitting and pitching to overcome any defensive lapses. The pitching staff is the envy of most teams in baseball.

Street and Smith picks the White Sox 1st in the A.L. West. As silly as this sounds, it’s possible, too that the White Sox will be the Yankees opponent in the 1982 league championship series. The White Sox’ shortcomings, lack of depth and defense. The White Sox will need that young pitching to continue the maturation process. In the eyes of the new ownership, anything short of a division title will be a disappointment in 1982.

Baseball Illustrated, Baseball Forecast 1982, Baseball 1982 and Baseball Scorecard all predict that the White Sox will finish 2nd in the A.L. West this season.

Projected 1982 White Sox rotation: LaMarr Hoyt, Richard Dotson, Britt Burns, and Dennis Lamp

Projected 1982 White Sox lineup: 1B - Tom Paciorek, 2B - Tony Bernazard, SS - Bill Almon, 3B - Rodriguez/V. Law, C - Carlton Fisk, RF - Harold Baines, CF - R. Law/LeFlore, LF - Steve Kemp, DH - Greg Luzinski

Cleveland Indians

Predictions by preseason publications:

Baseball Digest picks the Indians 6th in the A.L. East. Strengths are cited as: right-handed starters, infield corners, outfield speed Outlook: not enough punch

The Sporting News 1982 Baseball Yearbook picks the Indians 6th in the A.L. East. No one will deny that the Cleveland Indians are consistent. Name another team that has finished sixth in each of the last four years. Indians President Gabe Paul said, “Part of the reason we ended up in sixth the last couple of years is that we play in the American League East. There is not better division in baseball. We need to strengthen our pitching. That has been our main priority over the last few years. Those who say we don’t have any direction have not taken a look at our trades. Most of them have brought us pitchers.” The Indians will probably have their best pitching in recent memory, and it may be enough to pull them out of their sixth-place rut. But they lack the bench depth, relief pitching and the power to compete with the elite members in the A.L. East Division.

Street and Smith picks the Indians 6th in the A.L. East. The Indians have enough pitching but no enough of everything else. If the Indians’ youngsters come through in a hurry, they have enough starting pitching to keep them afloat in the dangerous waters of the A.L. East. But the bullpen appears leaky and ultimately could be responsible for their sinking.

Baseball Illustrated and Baseball Forecast 1982 each also believe the Indians will finish in 6th place. Baseball Illustrated predicts a step up to 5th place for Cleveland. The most optimistic is Baseball 1982 as they predict a 2nd place finish for the Tribe in the A.L. East.

Projected 1982 Indians rotation: Len Barker, Bert Blyleven, Lary Sorensen, and Rick Sutcliffe

Projected 1982 Indians lineup: 1B - Mike Hargrove, 2B - Jack Perconte, SS - Mike Fischlin, 3B - Toby Harrah, C - Ron Hassey, RF - Von Hayes, CF - Rick Manning, LF - Miguel Dilone, DH - Andre Thornton

Detroit Tigers

Predictions by preseason publications:

Baseball Digest picks the Tigers 1st in the A.L. East. The Tigers appear primed for 1982 in what may be baseball’s toughest division. With the addition of Herndon and Lemon the Tigers rounded out what should be one of the better outfields in baseball. Manager Sparky Anderson said, “We catch the ball better than either team that played in the World Series. I mean we’re stronger up the middle with our infield. But what these teams have that we still don’t is pitching depth.” They figure to be the most improved team in the A.L. Strengths are cited as: top three starters, up the middle, outfield speed, some power, adequate over-all defense Outlook: a slight edge

The Sporting News 1982 Baseball Yearbook picks the Tigers 4th in the A.L. East. “With the trades we’ve made,” Manager Sparky Anderson said, “we can compete with anybody and I mean anybody. Most of these guys have been through a pennant once now, they know what it feels like and that’s got to help us, too. I started looking forward to spring training the day last season ended.” The pitching does not draw such raves from Anderson and GM Jim Campbell. They had pitching stats of improvement to keep them warm over the winter, but there was a nagging doubt about depth.

Street and Smith picks the Tigers 2nd in the A.L. East. Detroit has a few holes, lacking a quality first baseman and hitting from the DH, but the Tigers have a sparkling double-play combination and a splendid outfield. Anderson said, “I’ve always thought our infield was second to none defensively, and now with Lemon and Herndon in our outfield we’ve improved a lot out there.” The Tigers at last are a team on the move and there’s no telling how far and how fast they’ll go in 1982.

Baseball Illustrated predict that the Tigers will finish in 6th place. Baseball Scorecard and Baseball Forecast 1982 each predict a 5th place finish. Baseball 1982 forecasts a 4th place finish in the A.L. East for Detroit.

Projected 1982 Tigers rotation: Jack Morris, Dan Petry, Milt Wilcox, and Jerry Ujdur

Projected 1982 Tigers lineup: 1B - Enos Cabell, 2B - Lou Whitaker, SS - Alan Trammell, 3B - Tom Brookens, C - Lance Parrish, RF - Chet Lemon, CF - Kirk Gibson, LF - Larry Herndon, DH - Hebner/Turner

Kansas City Royals

Predictions by preseason publications:

Baseball Digest picks the Royals 3rd in the A.L. West. Too many veterans and a pitching staff that has seen better days. The Royals are a team in decline which will do well to finish third. There are just too many problems. Strengths are cited as: speed, middle of infield, two starters, right-handed bullpen Outlook: fading, but dangerous

The Sporting News 1982 Baseball Yearbook picks the Royals 3rd in the A.L. West. GM John Schuerholz said, “Depending on how the outfield situation is resolved, and the questions of starting and relief pitching, we have an outstanding nucleus to go with. Taking our top six to eight players, I challenge anybody to show the Royals are not as strong as any team in baseball.” Third baseman George Brett said, “I think we can come back and make 1982 another memorable one.”

Street and Smith picks the Royals 3rd in the A.L. West. Kansas City is capable of winning but fall short in the pitching department. The Royals have proved in the past they can win. Manager Dick Howser said, “I have a great deal of confidence in our starters, in addition to Dan Quisenberry in the bullpen. Our immediate concern is to improve our offense.” Considering the quantity and quality of proven talent, the Royals, as a whole, could be underrated going into 1982.

Baseball Illustrated, Baseball Scorecard and Baseball Forecast 1982 all agree that Kansas City will finish in 3rd place. Baseball 1982 predicts a 5th place finish for the Royals.

Projected 1982 Royals rotation: Larry Gura, Vida Blue, Paul Splittorff, and Dennis Leonard

Projected 1982 Royals lineup: 1B - Willie Aikens, 2B - Frank White, SS - U.L. Washington, 3B - George Brett, C - John Wathan, RF - Jerry Martin, CF - Amos Otis, LF - Willie Wilson, DH - Hal McRae

Milwaukee Brewers

Predictions by preseason publications:

Baseball Digest picks the Brewers 4th in the A.L. East. There was never a question they had the hitting to win. Manager Buck Rodgers said, “You can say you can win, but until you prove it, you don’t know. I think we’ve proved it.” The Brewers may do it again. Strengths are cited as: great power, good bullpen, fair defense, balanced starting staff, some speed Outlook: better pitching could move up

The Sporting News 1982 Baseball Yearbook picks the Brewers 2nd in the A.L. East. Buck Rodgers said, “We can play. We can be the villains or the heroes. We have confidence now we can beat anybody in baseball.” Relief ace Rollie Fingers said, “I just want to play in one more World Series. That’s all I’m thinking about.” The rest of the Milwaukee players are thinking along those same lines. Rodgers also said, “We have to improve our bench and probably improve our starting pitching.” The Brewers’ offense has been likened to dynamite just waiting for the fuse to burn down. Rodgers concluded, “Our team we put on the field is not too shabby.”

Street and Smith picks the Brewers 3rd in the A.L. East. Other teams in the division are loaded, too, the Milwaukee Brewers in particular. The pitching staff remains suspect, however, and Rollie Fingers can’t be THAT good again, can he? Milwaukee maintained a relatively pat hand over the winter, but when you’re holding a full house there’s nothing wrong with saying, “I’ll play these.” Although the Brewers appear solid in every other way, the pitching is too questionable to make them the favorite.

Baseball Illustrated, Baseball Scorecard and Baseball Forecast 1982 all believe that the Brewers will capture 1st in the A.L. East. Baseball 1982 predicts a 3rd place finish for the Brewers.

Projected 1982 Brewers rotation: Mike Caldwell, Pete Vuckovich, Moose Haas, and Bob McClure

Projected 1982 Brewers lineup: 1B - Cecil Cooper, 2B - Jim Gantner, SS - Robin Yount, 3B - Paul Molitor, C - Ted Simmons, RF - Charlie Moore, CF - Gorman Thomas, LF - Ben Oglivie, DH - Howell/Money

Minnesota Twins

Predictions by preseason publications:

Baseball Digest picks the Twins 7th in the A.L. West. Strengths are cited as: catching, middle of infield, right-handed starters, fair bullpen Outlook: still on skids

The Sporting News 1982 Baseball Yearbook picks the Twins 6th in the A.L. West. The Minnesota Twins make their move into the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome in downtown Minneapolis this season, amidst a wave of stadium enthusiasm tempered only be skepticism over Calvin Griffith’s baseball team. Griffith said, “We’re not talking about false hope, players who might make it. We’re talking about players who are going to wind up on All-Star teams some day. Kids like Kent Hrbek and Gary Gaetti are going to be stars. We have a chance to get something going here. These kids are for real.” More likely, the reality is the Twins are going to be out of contention by Memorial Day, about the time the sun comes out in Minnesota and the novelty of the dome wears off.

Street and Smith picks the Twins 7th in the A.L. West. Griffith said, “We think we’re one or two players away from contending, just like in 1964.” Moving their act indoors to the Metronome could be a nightmare to an already beleaguered pitching staff. The Twins appear to be a year or more away.

Baseball Illustrated, Baseball Scorecard and Baseball Forecast 1982 each predict a cellar finish of 7th place in the A.L. West for Minnesota. Baseball 1982 predicts a 6th place finish for the Twins.

Projected 1982 Twins rotation: Brad Havens, Roger Erickson, Al Williams, and Bobby Castillo

Projected 1982 Twins lineup: 1B - Kent Hrbek, 2B - Rob Wilfong, SS - Roy Smalley, 3B - John Castino, C - Butch Wynegar, RF - Mickey Hatcher, CF - Bobby Mitchell, LF - Gary Ward, DH - Johnson/Vega

New York Yankees

Predictions by preseason publications:

Baseball Digest picks the Yankees 3rd in the A.L. East. The winning chemistry may be eroding. The pitching staff could spring leaks. Strengths are cited as: left-handed starters, fine bullpen, outfield depth, balanced attack Outlook: money players on the wane

The Sporting News 1982 Baseball Yearbook picks the Yankees 1st in the A.L. East. No longer are they the Bronx Bombers. The New York Yankees have been transformed, as if by wizardry into the Bronx Burners, a team built for speed. Owner George Steinbrenner said, “We had a meeting in Tampa during the winter. I had all my baseball people there, nine of them. And I asked the question: ‘Can we win without Reggie Jackson?’ The answer was yes. Nine times. It was unanimous.” Manager Bob Lemon said, “We certainly have enough speed to capitalize on it. It looks like we’re going to do a helluva lot of running. I like our pitching.” What the Yankees have is a star at every position, and some on the bench, some great arms on the mound and speed to burn on the bases.

Street and Smith picks the Yankees 1st in the A.L. East. The New York Yankees will win the division title, American League Championship, and World Series. Game, set, and match. The Yankees have quality players at every position and experienced depth behind them, but it will be no cakewalk. Steinbrenner might have to sit back and relax and enjoy what could be the best New York Yankee team he’s ever assembled.

Baseball Illustrated and Baseball Scorecard each believe the Yankees will finish 2nd. Baseball 1982 for sees a 1st place finish for New York. Baseball Forecast 1982 feels the Yankees will finish 3rd in the A.L. East.

Projected 1982 Yankees rotation: Ron Guidry, Tommy John, Dave Righetti, and Mike Morgan

Projected 1982 Yankees lineup: 1B - Dave Collins, 2B - Willie Randolph, SS - Bucky Dent, 3B - Graig Nettles, C - Rick Cerone, RF - Ken Griffey, CF - Jerry Mumphrey, LF - Dave Winfield, DH - Gamble/Piniella

Oakland A’s

Predictions by preseason publications:

Baseball Digest picks the A’s 1st in the A.L. West. For two years running he has got more out of the Oakland A’s than most people thought possible. That outfield was undoubtedly the best in the game, with speed, power and great defensive ability. As a team, the A’s are young and figure to be contenders for quite some time. Catcher Mike Heath said, “This team has the capability of winning the next five years. The future is where it’s at for us as far as I’m concerned.” The pitching staff could spring leaks. Strengths are cited as: outfield defense, speed, power, starting pitchers, adequate catching Outlook: best of weak lot

The Sporting News 1982 Baseball Yearbook picks the A’s 1st in the A.L. West. The A’s may not go wire-to-wire again in 1982, but it’s a safe bet they will finish in the money, even if they don’t collect the winner’s purse. Strong pitching and a solid gold outfield should once again be enough to carry the A’s to great heights in a weak division. If the A’s are to continue what they started last season their record against the better teams must improve.

Street and Smith picks the A’s 2nd in the A.L. West. The Athletics remain the mystery team of the American League and perhaps all of baseball. The mystery: how do they continue to win with an infield that appears to have been recruited from the ranks of a pickup softball team? The Oakland outfield is nothing short of superb. The Athletics appear to be improved, but not by much.

Baseball Illustrated, Baseball Scorecard, Baseball 1982, and Baseball Forecast 1982 all believe that the A’s will finish 1st in the A.L. West.

Projected 1982 A’s rotation: Matt Keough, Rick Langford, Mike Norris, and Steve McCatty

Projected 1982 A’s lineup: 1B - Dan Meyer, 2B - Davey Lopes, SS - Fred Stanley, 3B - Wayne Gross, C - Mike Heath, RF - Tony Armas, CF - Dwayne Murphy, LF - Rickey Henderson, DH - Cliff Johnson

Seattle Mariners

Predictions by preseason publications:

Baseball Digest picks the Mariners 6th in the A.L. West. Strengths are cited as: good power at home, fair infield defense, fair overall speed Outlook: nothing but problems

The Sporting News 1982 Baseball Yearbook picks the Mariners 7th in the A.L. West. In their first five seasons, they have spent most of their time crawling around the basement of the American League West. Manager Rene Lachemann said, “We’ve lost a lot of offense. What we accomplished (with winter trades) was to improve our defense and pitching, but it was at the expense of losing a tremendous amount of offense.” The M’s will have to have a lot of prayers answered if they expect to improve in 1982.

Street and Smith picks the Mariners 6th in the A.L. West. The Mariners could have a solid double-play combination with Julio Cruz and Todd Cruz. Pitching coach Dave Duncan will be working with a staff of young and, in some cases, tender arms that show some promise.

Baseball Illustrated, Baseball Scorecard, and Baseball Forecast 1982 all predict a 6th place finish for Seattle. Baseball 1982 envisions the M’s finishing in 7th place in the A.L. West

Projected 1982 Mariners rotation: Floyd Bannister, Gaylord Perry, Mike Moore, and Jim Beattie

Projected 1982 Mariners lineup: 1B - Gary Gray, 2B - Julio Cruz, SS - Todd Cruz, 3B - Manny Castillo, C - Jim Essian, RF - Al Cowens, CF - Henderson/Simpson, LF - Bruce Bochte, DH - Richie Zisk

Texas Rangers

Predictions by preseason publications:

Baseball Digest picks the Rangers 2nd in the A.L. West. The Rangers have spent the last four or five years always a step away. Their infield may be exceptional, catching is second to none and the outfield can be more than adequate. Texas has one of the stronger pitching staffs in the league. The Rangers are the team most likely to overtake the A’s if they slip a bit. Strengths are cited as: solidified infield, catching, outfield punch, superior bullpen Outlook: in the running

The Sporting News 1982 Baseball Yearbook picks the Rangers 4th in the A.L. West. Executive Vice President Eddie Robinson said, “Well, we’ve at least made progress in the last few seasons. I rate us in 1982 as being one bat away from a pennant. TSN asked, how about one outfield away from winning a pennant? Robinson answered, “Give me the one bat and I’ll take my chances.” Manager Don Zimmer agrees saying, “I’ve got to go along with the theory that one more bat will push us over the top.” The pitching staff was underrated last season, and should again be a strength. Zimmer said, “I think this staff can be even better. It can be our strong point and I don’t know of a manager anywhere who doesn’t want that to be the case.”

Street and Smith picks the Rangers 4th in the A.L. West. The Rangers have proved that they cannot win. Perennial bridesmaids, the Rangers have enough talent to contend. But they are beginning to wear a little thin in spots, and this time it would be a surprise were they to win. Zimmer said, “I think we can win it all.” If the Rangers have a pitching problem it is in the bullpen depth. The Rangers are a team, however, that seldom does the expected. So maybe this will be the yer they will do the most unexpected thing of all and win the division title.

Baseball Illustrated, Baseball Scorecard, Baseball Forecast 1982 and Baseball 1982 all agree that the Rangers will finish 4th in the A.L. West.

Projected 1982 Rangers rotation: Charlie Hough, Frank Tanana, Doc Medich, and Rick Honeycutt

Projected 1982 Rangers lineup: 1B - Dave Hostetler, 2B - Mike Richardt, SS - Mark Wagner, 3B - Buddy Bell, C - Jim Sundberg, RF - Larry Parrish, CF - George Wright, LF - Grubb/Sample, DH - L. Johnson/Mazzilli

Toronto Blue Jays

Predictions by preseason publications:

Baseball Digest picks the Blue Jays 7th in the A.L. East. Strengths are cited as: fair up the middle, some speed, right-handed pitcher Outlook: progress minimal

The Sporting News 1982 Baseball Yearbook picks the Blue Jays 7th in the A.L. East. The Blue Jays have only one way to go, but the climb to sixth place appears too big a challenge for 1982.

Street and Smith picks the Blue Jays 7th in the A.L. East. New manager Bobby Cox said, “This is a lot like Atlanta was four years ago. There’s a good basis in the farm system, but it’s going to take another three or four years to get competitive.” Meanwhile, the Blue Jays seem light years behind the other six clubs in the most competitive division in baseball.

Baseball Illustrated, Baseball Scorecard, Baseball Forecast 1982 and Baseball 1982 all form a consensus that the Blue Jays will finish in 7th place in the A.L. East.

Projected 1982 Blue Jays rotation: Jim Clancy, Dave Stieb, Luis Leal, and Jim Gott

Projected 1982 Blue Jays lineup: 1B - Willie Upshaw, 2B - Damaso Garcia, SS - Alfredo Griffin, 3B - Iorg/Mulliniks, C - Ernie Whitt, RF - Jesse Barfield, CF - Lloyd Moseby, LF - Barry Bonnell, DH - Mayberry/Nordhagen