Apr 28, 2012; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Washington Nationals right fielder Bryce Harper (right) and starting pitcher Stephen Strasburg during batting practice before a game against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports

“’World Series or Bust.’ That’s Probably the slogan this year. But I’m comfortable with that.”  Washington Nationals Manager Davey Johnson

Davey Johnson once led a young, talented team with a history of losing to 98 wins, only to come up short against the St. Louis Cardinals. The following year, his 1986 Mets won 108 regular season games and a World Series title. Over 25 years later, the confident Johnson hopes history repeats itself, as his Washington Nationals squad enters 2013 as a World Series favorite.

Despite their great 98 win season in 2012, the Nationals season ended in heartbreak in the NLDS. Closer Drew Storen could not get the final out in the decisive Game Five, yielding four runs with two outs in the ninth inning, sending the Cardinals to the NLCS.

GM Mike Rizzo’s offseason free agent signing of Rafael Soriano (42 saves/2.26 ERA) ensures that the Nationals have a closer with postseason experience. The signing will allow the Nationals to use Storen and Tyler Clippard, who both could close for a number of MLB teams, in setup roles.

The only major change to the lineup for 2013 is center fielder Denard Span. The addition of Span gives Washington a premier defender in centerfield. Just as important, it frees Bryce Harper (25 HR) from playing a premium defensive position, and allows him to transition into a slugging corner outfielder. Completing the athletic outfield is the hirsute Jayson Werth who batted .300 in 2012, though he missed significant time with injury. All three players run well, many fly balls deep in the gaps will die in their gloves.

The double play combo of 2B Danny Espinosa (17 HR/20 SB) and SS Ian Desmond (25 HR/21 SB) both possess rare power-speed combination for middle infielders. Corner men Ryan Zimmerman (25 HR/95 RBI) and Adam LaRoche (33 HR/100 RBI) are dependable producers who provide steady veteran leadership.

If the lineup goes through a dry spell, Johnson can rest easily, his starting rotation is equally deep. The righty-lefty duo of Stephen Strasburg (15-6/197 SO) and Gio Gonzalez (21-8/2.89 ERA) front the rotation and are followed by Jordan Zimmerman and Ross Detwiler. Veteran right hander Dan Haren was signed to a one year deal to be the fifth starter. Haren had a mediocre 2012, but returning to the National League could help him return to form.

One of the few concerns that the Washington Nationals will face entering this season is how they respond to playing as favorites. Davey Johnson is the perfect manager for that role. He has always employed an edgy style and excels at getting the most out of young and talented players. His bold assertion that this year is “World Series or Bust” serves to challenge and motivate his confident young bunch right out of the gate.

The Washington Nationals franchise has emerged from a deep slumber that began in Montreal. Their talent level and youth, combined with the financial resources of owner Ted Lerner should have this team comfortably in contending position for the foreseeable future. GM Mike Rizzo has constructed a team with an eight man deep lineup that can buzzsaw through the regular season and the starting pitching and bullpen depth necessary to win a closely fought postseason series.

And this year, Stephen Strasburg gets to take his rotation turn when October rolls around.

March 19, 2013; Clearwater, FL, USA; Philadelphia Phillies right fielder Domonic Brown (9) runs back to the dugout at the end of the fifth inning at Bright House Networks Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

After ruling over the National League East for five years, the Philadelphia Phillies suddenly looked old in 2012. Battling a barrage of injuries and underperformance, the Phillies finished out of the postseason with an 81 wins. Philadelphia’s aging roster will have to summon up a valiant effort in order to make the playoffs in the difficult NL East.

GM Ruben Amaro Jr. make some minor additions to the roster to gear up for this years run. Speedy Ben Revere was acquired from the Minnesota Twins and will start in center field for the Phils. Revere is a one dimensional offensive player, he offers no power and has a low OBP. The Phillies parted with back of the rotation starter Vance Worley to get Revere.

Delmon Young was signed to a one year deal to provide power in the outfield. He brings 20 HR/100 RBI potential, but there have always been questions concerning his character.

Long time Texas Ranger Michael Young was brought in via trade to start at third base in Citizens Bank Park. Young has driven in 90 or more runs six time in his career, but his slugging numbers dropped precipitously last year. Hopefully a change of scenery will help him shrug off last years lethargic performance.

Another Texas Ranger, relief pitcher Mike Adams was signed to a two year contract to be a primary setup man for Jonathan Papelbon. The right hander brings an excellent career line of 2.28 ERA/1.06 WHIP/.207 BAA to the Phillies bullpen.

The Philadelphia Phillies best hopes still rest on the arms of their big three pitchers. Cole Hamels has ascended to the role of staff ace, going 17-6 with a 3.05 ERA in 2012. Cliff Lee may have had the best year in history for a guy who went 6-9, he had a 3.16 ERA and a 1.11 WHIP, but suffered from terrible run support. Philadelphia needs a bounceback year from Roy Halladay, who pitched to a 4.49 ERA and made only 25 starts. At the back of the bullpen, Charlie Manuel has one of the best closers in the business, Papelbon, at his disposal.

The Phillies lineup needs old stalwarts Chase Utley and Ryan Howard to be productive once again. Utley was once a premier player but his career has been derailed by injuries. He has not had a complete season since 2009. Howard missed the first three months of the 2012 season and returned to strike out 99 times in 260 AB. Shortstop Jimmy Rollins keeps on rolling along hitting 23 HR and swiping 30 bags.

Catcher Carlos Ruiz was an offensive leader for Philly last year, batting .325 while slugging 16 HR. Unfortunately Chooch will miss the first the first 25 games for violating the MLB ban on amphetamines.

A player who might provide an injection of both youth and offensive firepower could be Domonic Brown. For three years Brown has crumbled under the weight of high expectations. But after hitting 7 HR and driving in 16 runs in spring training, Brown will get the opportunity to play every day in 2013.

The Philadelphia Phillies are going to have to channel their inner Rocky Balboa if they plan on going 15 rounds with the Braves and Nationals in the NL East this year. While they are no longer the favorites, the Phillies do have the weapons to stay in playoff contention.  Hamels and Lee have performed at an elite level for years and Halladay could easily revert back to that level.

In order to challenge for a wild card spot the Phillies must score more runs. A fully recovered Ryan Howard slugging 40 HR and driving in 130 runs would go a long way towards making that a reality. Expecting a full season from Chase Utley at this point is a bit of a reach. The outfield of Brown, Revere and Young has too many question marks. Brown has never succeeded at the MLB level, Revere is one dimensional and Young is inconsistent.

The aging Philadelphia Phillies will scrap to the end, but the Braves and Nationals are younger and more talented. Unfortunately the championship window for this bunch probably closed last year.

August 22, 2012; New York, NY, USA; New York Mets pitcher Matt Harvey (33) throws a pitch during the first inning of a game against the Colorado Rockies at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Mets finally seem to be headed in the right direction. Since Yadier Molina’s home run cleared the fence at Shea Stadium in 2006, the Mets have been beset by an epic September collapse, terrible management decisions, a slew of injuries and involvement in America’s biggest Ponzi scheme. As the Mets head into 2013 GM Sandy Alderson has built the Mets in part by trading veteran assets for highly rated prospects.

This offseason Alderson dealt National League Cy Young winner R.A. Dickey for a package centered around catcher Travis d’Arnaud and pitcher Noah Syndergaard. D’Arnaud, Baseball America’s #23 rated prospect, batted .333 with 16 HR in 67 games in Triple-A in 2012. He will likely start the season at Triple-A, but should be called up by midseason. Syndergaard is Baseball America’s #54 rated prospect but will not figure in the Mets 2013 plans.

The Mets other major move of the offseason was locking up their only star David Wright to an eight year $138 million contract extension. Wright enjoyed a bounceback 2012, with a batting line of .306 BA/.391.OBP/.492 SLG. The six time All-Star is one of the premier infielders in the National League.

Wright and slugging first baseman Ike Davis should give the Mets a solid number three and four hitters in the lineup. Despite a terrible first half in 2012, Davis wound up leading the Mets with 32 HR and finishing second to Wright with 90 RBI.

Despite the presence of Wright and Davis, the 2013 New York Mets are not yet postseason contenders. The two highest paid outfielders on owner Fred Wilpon’s payroll are the recently departed Jason Bay and the long departed Bobby Bonilla. This years outfield includes a cast of characters such as Marlon Byrd, Collin Cowgill, Kirk Nieuwenhuis and Lucas Duda.

An interesting player to watch in the early stages of the 2013 season is Jordany Valdespin. Valdespin has had a memorable spring batting .347 with four HR and one Justin Verlander 97 MPH fastball to the groin HBP. Currently Valdespin is seeing time at second base while starter Daniel Murphy recovers from an injury. When Murphy returns, Valdespin could see time in the outfield. Manager Terry Collins has been so impressed with Valdespin that he recently told NY radio station WFAN that he is considering the youngster for the leadoff role.

The biggest reason for optimism around Citi Field centers around the Mets young pitching. Rookie Matt Harvey dazzled during a 10 game call up, pitching to a 2.73 ERA and a 1.14 WHIP. At some point in 2013, Zach Wheeler, Baseball America’s #11 prospect, should be in the Mets rotation. Opening day starter Jonathon Niese will be in his fourth full season as a Met, but is only 26 years old. He pitched to a 1.17 WHIP in 30 starts last year. This being the Mets, not all the news can be good, both Johan Santana and Shaun Marcum are struggling with arm issues and may miss several starts to open the season.

The New York Mets bullpen is a work in progress. Newly named closer Bobby Parnell possesses triple digit heat, but has melted down when given the opportunity to close in the past. Veteran relievers Brandon Lyon and LaTroy Hawkins will likely join lefty Josh Edgin in the setup role.

If the New York Mets aren’t on the rise, at least they have stopped their free fall. The signing of David Wright could signal that the Mets will once again spend like a big market team. And with the contracts of Santana and Bay expiring after 2013, the Mets should be able to pursue a free agent outfielder.

With absolutely no offensive production from the outfield and a rotation already plagued by injuries, the Mets will find it tough to compete in the NL East this season. The Citi Field faithful should be happy if Harvey builds on his rookie season and d’Arnaud and Wheeler make positive contributions. It will be difficult for the Amazins to leapfrog Washington, Atlanta or Philadelphia in the standings in 2013, at least there is hope for the future in Flushing.

Mar 20, 2013; Jupiter, FL, USA; Miami Marlins right fielder Giancarlo Stanton (27) reacts in the dugout in the fourth inning during a spring training game against the Washington Nationals at Roger Dean Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

The Miami Marlins charged into 2012 with a new stadium, a bevy of free agents, a new manager and a $118 million dollar payroll. During a Titanic like season, core players Hanley Ramirez, Anibal Sanchez and Gaby Sanchez were traded. Following the season, the fire sale was completed when the Marlins shed about $160 million in salary obligations in a trade with the Blue Jays.

Shedding expensive players in the name of rebuilding is not always a poor choice. However Jeffrey Loria just stuck Miami and Dade County taxpayers with a huge chunk of the cost for Marlins Park. According to Forbes Magazine

 “The stadium’s financing scheme means there will be some $3 billion in interest expenses on the construction loans that will be paid by city and county taxpayers.”

The Miami Marlins trade with the Blue Jays symbolized how far and fast the Marlins had fallen. Last year’s big free agent Jose Reyes was packaged with starting pitchers Josh Johnson and Mark Buehrle and valuable utility man Emilio Bonifacio for a package of young players and prospects.

Three of the players received from the Jays may have an impact in Miami in 2013 or the near future. Adeiny Hechavarria is projected to be the Marlins starting shortstop. He features Gold Glove caliber defensive skills but is not a proven hitter. Starting pitcher Henderson Alvarez went 9-14 with a 4.85 ERA in 31 starts for Toronto. Center fielder Jake Marisnick was the top rated prospect in the trade, but will likely begin 2013 in Double-A.

The Marlins pieced together the rest of their roster by signing retreads like Placido Polanco to play third base. Possibly to remind the dozens of loyal Marlins fans of their last title, Juan Pierre was signed to a one year free agent contract and will get an opportunity to start in the outfield.

Now that Loria has reversed course and made the Marlins a small market team once again, there is little hope for 2013. Besides the Pink Flamingoes home run sculpture, the only reason to go Marlins Park is Giancarlo Stanton. Stanton may have the most pure power in baseball, but nobody will throw him a strike in this lineup.

Justin Ruggiano had a strong season in 2012, but has been hobbled by an injury in the spring. Hopefully for the Marlins, 1B Logan Morrison can revert back to his 23 HR form of 2011.

The Marlins starting rotation leaves much to be desired. Ricky Nolasco, who sports a career 4.49 ERA is the most accomplished of the bunch and will serve as the top starter. The bullpen is not much better. Steve Cishek has been an effective reliever for the Marlins, getting 15 saves in 2012. This will be his first season as the full time closer. Jon Rauch was signed as a free agent in the offseason to set up for Cishek. He had a 3.59 ERA in 57.2 IP for the Mets in 2012.

The best hope for the Miami Marlins and their fans lay in the farm system. Christian Yelich is Baseball America’s #15 prospect entering 2013, he could be starting for the Marlins by July. Hard throwing Cuban Jose Fernandez is Baseball America’s #5 prospect entering 2013. He is considered a future ace and could be in Miami by midseason.

But for the near future, things look bleak for the Marlins. A successful season would be beating the Mets for fourth place in the NL East and manager Mike Redmond staying silent on the subject of Fidel Castro.

March 3, 2013; Lake Buena Vista, FL, USA; Atlanta Braves right fielder Justin Upton (8), right fielder Jason Heyward (22) and center fielder B.J. Upton (2) talk prior to the game against the Detroit Tigers at ESPN Disney Wide World of Sports complex, Champion Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

The Atlanta Braves enter 2013 seeking a return trip to the postseason minus the face of the franchise. After 19 years with the Braves, Chipper Jones took his 468 career HR and 1623 RBI and will wait on his Florida porch for a Cooperstown call in five years. To help replace Chipper’s bat in the lineup the Braves signed free agent B.J. Upton and traded for his brother Justin.

Atlanta Braves GM Frank Wren wasted little time locking up B.J. Upton to a $75 million 5 year deal in November. Though he does not hit for a high average, he almost joined the 30-30 club in 2012. B.J. Upton will give the Braves a plus defender in center field and can be counted on to approach his career batting line of .255/.336/.422.

In January Wren pulled off a trade that added B.J.’s little brother to the Braves lineup. A package highlighted by Martin Prado was sent to Arizona in exchange for Justin Upton and Chris Johnson. Justin Upton had a relatively down year in 2012, but he seems to bounce back in odd numbered years. In 2009 and 2011, he averaged 28 HR and 87 RBI.

Johnson had a decent 2012, hitting 15 HR and driving in 76 between Houston and Arizona. He will battle Juan Francisco for the departed Chipper Jones third base spot.

With a number of young starting pitchers ready to contribute, the Braves were able to send Tommy Hanson to the Angels in exchange for reliever Jordan Walden. In three years with the Angels, Walden has a 3.06 ERA and a .225 BAA in 114.2 IP.

The Braves primary challenger in the NL East will be the Washington Nationals while the aging Phillies remain dangerous. The Braves have a deep and consistent lineup. The Uptons along with Jason Heyward give manager Fredi Gonzalez a trio of athletic outfielders outfielders with 20-20 potential. The Braves also have a strong infield consisting of home grown youngsters Freddie Freeman and Andrelton Simmons along with veteran 2B Dan Uggla. While C Brian McCann has been slowed by injuries, he has hit 20 HR in five consecutive seasons.

The Braves pitching is also deep. The rotation is fronted by Tim Hudson and Kris Medlen. Medlen went 9-0 in his final twelve starts and may have been baseball’s best pitcher after the All-Star break. Paul Maholm, Julio Teheran and Mike Minor will fill out the rotation while Brandon Beachy looks to return mid-season.  At the back end of the bullpen, the Braves can count on baseball’s best closer Craig Kimbrel to nail down 40 plus saves. Setting up Kimbrel are proven setup men Eric O’Flaherty and Jonny Venters.

The Washington Nationals have been coronated  favorites this preseason, but their divisional rival Atlanta will be a worthy challenger all year. The Atlanta Braves have the lineup and pitching depth to be considered a serious postseason threat themselves. There is a strong possibility that these two teams will slug it out for the NL East crown, with the loser securing a wild card berth.

March 2, 2013; Tampa, FL, USA; New York Yankees first baseman Mark Teixeira (25) works out prior to the game against the Detroit Tigers at George M. Steinbrenner Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Yankees have been a fixture in the postseason, appearing in the playoffs 17 of the past 18 years. But a slew of preseason injuries have put a damper on Yankee spirits during preseason. Though Brian Cashman appeared to have plugged the holes in his lineup during the offseason, additions may be needed before the Yankees head north.

Two major power sources in the Yankees lineup will miss significant time to start the year. Curtis Granderson broke a bone in his forearm in a spring training game and will miss the first four weeks of the season. More troubling is Mark Teixeira, who injured his wrist playing with Team USA during the World Baseball Classic. Teixeira’s injury may be worse than first reported. Besides their power bats, both players are solid fielders.

The lethal combination of Brennan Boesch and Juan Rivera are currently the replacements for Granderson and Teixeira.

Former bitter rival Kevin Youkilis ($12 million one year) was signed to replace the injured Alex Rodriguez. Though Youkilis has faded the past two years, he will provide the New York Yankees with a right handed power bat. In 438 AB between the Red Ox and White Sox in 2012 he hit 19 HR despite batting only .226. Rodriguez will reportedly be back around the All-Star break, but how effective he will be is unknown.

Ichiro Suzuki was a bright spot for the Yankees down the stretch and in the postseason in 2012. He hit .322 for the Bronx Bombers after being acquired in a July trade. Though Suzuki is 39 years old, he rarely misses a game and managed 29 steals in 2012. He was signed to a $13 million two year deal in the offseason.

To replace the departed Raul Ibanez the Yankees signed Travis Hafner to fill the DH role. Though Hafner has not exceeded 400 AB since 2008, he still slugs in the neighborhood of .450. In 2012 he hit 12 HR in 219 AB.

The Yanks re-signed number two starter Hiroki Kuroda ($15 million one year)and presumed three man ($12 million one year) Andy Pettitte. Kuroda was the Yankees best pitcher in 2012, going 16-11 with a 3.32 ERA and a 1.16 WHIP in 219.2 IP. Pettitte was off to a fine start before a line drive off his leg derailed his season. In 75.1 IP he had a 2.87 ERA and a 1.14 WHIP. Staff ace CC Sabathia spent the offseason recovering from left elbow surgery and should be set to start opening day.

The closers role will once again be manned by Mariano Rivera ($10 million one year). In 2011 Rivera had 44 saves, a 1.91 ERA and a 0.90 WHIP. Rafael Soriano, who filled in brilliantly for an injured Rivera, signed with the Nationals in the offseason.

Effective setup men Boone Logan, Joba Chamberlain and David Robertson will return in 2013. The wild card in the bullpen may be former Mariners closer David Aardsma. Aardsma was signed last offseason despite needing Tommy John surgery, may be the Yankees 2013 version of Jon Lieber.

Catcher Russell Martin signed with the Pirates and will be replaced by a combination of Chris Stewart, Francisco Cervelli and Austin Romine (who’s already been optioned to Triple-A).

This is the first time in many years there are so many questions surrounding the New York Yankees leading into a season. Despite the injuries and the aging roster, the Yankees still have significant resources to add players. It’s tough to imagine Rivera and Boesch being the long term solutions to the Yankees injury woes if Teixeira or Granderson are worse than expected.

Given the amount of talent on the New York Yankees roster and their ability to accept payroll, they should be able compete for the AL East title. But for the first time in years, they will not be a prohibitive favorite out of the gate. In order to make it 18 out of 19 postseasons, Joe Girardi will have to coax the maximum out of his aging roster while waiting for the next round of Yankee prospects to develop.

Feb 24, 2013; St. Louis, MO, USA; Boston Red Sox relief pitcher Joel Hanrahan (52) pitches against the St. Louis Cardinals at Roger Dean Stadium. The Red Sox defeated the Cardinals, 5-3. Mandatory Credit: Scott Rovak-USA TODAY Sports

The Boston Red Sox offseason helped clean up the mess brought on by trying to build a more “sexy team.” According to Terry Francona, the Boston ownership group became more concerned with marketing and NESN ratings by the end of his and Theo Epstein’s time with Boston.

They told us we didn’t have any marketable players, that we needed some sizzle,” Epstein is quoted as saying. “We need some sexy guys. Talk about the tail wagging the dog. This is like an absurdist comedy. We’d become too big. It was the farthest thing removed from what we set out to be.

Owners like John Henry should realize the most marketable players are those on 95 win teams. Current Red Sox GM Ben Cherington has made solid additions this offseason giving the Red Sox a chance to compete in the American League East in 2013.

Shane Victorino ($39 million 3 year contract) was an integral part of the Phillies postseason teams from 2007 through 2011. “The Flyin’ Hawaiian” is a proven leadoff or number two hitter, with double digit steals and homers every season since 2007. Victorino is a  heart and soul type player who should thrive in the electric atmosphere of a Boston pennant drive, the polar opposite of Carl Crawford. His presence as a player other teams hate has been missing from the Sox the last two years.  He is a solid defender who can transition to leftfield if Jacoby Ellsbury remains in center.

Two time All-Star Joel Hanrahan was received in a trade from the Pittsburgh Pirates. The hard throwing righty has rung up 76 saves in 84 chances the last two years.  His bouts of wildness may give Sox Nation an occasional case of agita, but he averages far more than a strikeout per inning.  How Hanrahan responds to adversity and whether he can close games during a pennant race will go a long way in determining his and the Sox fate in 2013.

Starting pitcher Ryan Dempster signed a $26 million contract for two years. Dempster has been a remarkably consistent for a poor team the last five years.  After being traded to the Texas Rangers, he had two rough starts, but bounced back and pitched well down the stretch.  Dempster is fantastic addition to the Red Sox rotation.  He profiles as a dependable number two or three starter.

The Mike Napoli saga was one of the more drawn out stories of the offseason. Originally signed to a multi year deal, a bad hip brought his price tag down to $5 million for one year. For that price, with a career .863 OPS, he is an economical option at first base

Koji Uehara brings a sub one WHIP from 2010 to 2012 to the Sox bullpen. Uehara is a dependable setup man, boasting a career average of over a strikeout per inning.

The words Drew and healthy are oxymorons to all who stride Yawkey Way. Perhaps Stephen ($9.5 million one year) can be the first Drew brother to live up to a Scott Boras contract in Boston. Though he has been injured the previous two seasons, from  2007 through 2010 he played in over 130 games with double digit homers and 60 plus RBI. Slick fielding Jose Iglesias and prospect Xander Bogaerts are waiting in the wings should Drew falter.

The Sox signed right handed slugger Jonny Gomes to provide power as a DH/OF option. He hit 18 HR and drove in 47 runs in 333 AB for Oakland in 2012. With David Ortiz currently struggling with an Achilles injury, Gomes could be a see more action than anticipated.

The makeup of this years club should be much better than Boston’s 2012 team. The Los Angeles Dodgers saved the Red Sox from years of payroll Purgatory by relieving them of the burdensome contracts of an oft-injured Carl Crawford and a fading Adrian Gonzalez. The tenure of new manager John Farrell should be much smoother than that of his predecessor, Bobby Valentine.

The key to their success is Jon Lester and Clay Buchholz. The two top starters suffered down years in 2012 and need to rebound in order for Boston to compete. Jacoby Ellsbury’s return from injury, paired with the offseason additions,should give the Red Sox a competent lineup. Youngster Will Middlebrooks had a successful rookie season in 2012 and Bogaerts could have an impact in 2013. The bullpen is deep, with Andrew Bailey, Josh Bard and Uehara setting up Hanrahan.

The Boston Red Sox will not be favored to win the division or a wild card berth in 2013. But Cherington has given them a chance to compete for the postseason after a terrible 2012. If things break their way the Red Sox might surprise this season.

Mar 9, 2012; Fort Myers, FL, USA; Baltimore Orioles starting pitcher Dylan Bundy (49) pitches against the Boston Red Sox at JetBlue Park. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

The Baltimore Orioles were the Cinderella team of 2012. After beating the Rangers in the Wild Card Game, they came within a Jim Johnson blown save of avenging Jeffrey Maier. Now comes the hard part for manager Buck Showalter and his boys, proving last year was not a fluke.

Much of the team that Showalter employed last year is back, GM Dan Duquette made no major additions. Cornerman and DH Mark Reynolds took his power bat and 200 strikeouts to Cleveland. Utility man Robert Andino and starting pitcher Joe Saunders both signed with the Seattle Mariners.

The Orioles most important addition is from their farm system. Baseball America’s #2 rated prospect entering 2013 is Dylan Bundy. Bundy’s meteoric rise in 2012 took him from Low-A ball to a mid September major league call up to fortify the Orioles bullpen. Along the way he posted a 2.08 ERA and 0.92 WHIP in 104 minor league innings. Though Bundy may be put on a Strasburgian innings limit, he would be Baltimore’s most talented starter if he makes the opening day roster.

A healthy Brian Roberts would add a dimension to the Baltimore Oriole offense that they missed much of last year. Roberts was limited to 17 games in 2012 due to injury. He has a lifetime .280/.351/.413 batting line and averages 36 steals and 101 runs scored every 162 games. A healthy Roberts would help the Birds add to their middling 712 total runs scored in 2012.

Utility man Alexi Casilla was claimed off the waiver wire from Minnesota to provide depth in case of another Roberts injury.

The loss of Nick Markakis in September from a broken thumb hurt the Orioles in the ALDS against the Yankees. Markakis is a solid hitter and right fielder who has twice driven in 100 runs in his career. A full season from the career .819 OPS man would also give the Orioles a valuable offensive boost.

The rest of the lineup remains intact from last year’s playoff team. Catcher Matt Wieters has developed into an elite backstop and Adam Jones is a premier center fielder. Manny Machado was called up midseason and provided a nice spark down the stretch.

The rotation lacks an elite option, unless Bundy can fill that role. Wei-Yin Chen had an impressive first year pitching to a 4.02 ERA and Chris Tillman may finally have developed into a consistent starter. The bullpen was a strength for the Orioles in 2012 as Jim Johnson emerged as star closer with 51 saves. Valuable setup men Pedro Strop, Darren O’Day and Luis Ayala all return in familiar roles.

Despite a strong lineup, the Orioles only outscored their opposition by seven runs in 2012. They were an incredible 29-9 in one run games and 16-2 in extra inning games. Part of their success in one run and extra inning games should go to Buck Showalter, perhaps the best manager in the game. However, a repeat performance in either category is highly unlikely.

The Baltimore Orioles will be hard pressed to repeat the success they enjoyed in 2012. The reward for a tremendous year is another season in the stacked AL East, where every divisional game is hotly contested. If Showalter can squeeze strong seasons from his starters, the lineup and bullpen are strong enough to keep pace and challenge for the division title or wild card. If not, 2012 may end being a one hit wonder for the fans at Camden Yards.

March 9, 2013; Tampa, FL, USA; New York Yankees relief pitcher Mariano Rivera (42) throws a pitch in the fourth inning against the Atlanta Braves at George M. Steinbrenner Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

The great Mariano Rivera has nailed down 608 games for the New York Yankees over the past 18 years. No other closer in history comes close to his numbers or his aura. When “Enter Sandman” played in the Bronx in October, the game was considered in the books. No other closers, even Eckersley or Gossage, ever had the air of invincibility that Mariano Rivera possessed in the postseason.

However, the end of an era draws near, as Rivera announced that 2013 will be his final season. Never in baseball’s history has a player who appeared in so few innings had such an impact upon his team and the game. Since Mariano Rivera is without question the greatest relief pitcher of all-time, where does he fit in among the games all time great pitchers?

Rivera stands out even among the relief pitchers he will surely join in Cooperstown in six years. His regular season ratios are better than those of Rich Gossage and Dennis Eckersley. And when the games mattered most, in the postseason, Rivera was even more brilliant. Perhaps the most amazing thing about Rivera was the fact he accomplished everything after an initial failure. In his first postseason as closer, he allowed a series changing home run to Sandy Alomar Jr. in the 1997 ALDS.

Not surprisingly, Rivera’s ERA and WHIP are far better than the great starting pitchers of his era. The triumvirate of Roger Clemens, Greg Maddux and Pedro Martinez all trail him by around a run per nine innings. But to proclaim a one inning pitcher the greatest of his time is to ignore a basic truth. Each time through a lineup, a pitchers stats deteriorates. In 2012, a pitchers WHIP went from 1.30 to 1.41 from first to third time through a lineup. This deterioration holds up historically. The great Rivera’s weakness is that he rarely faced a batter a second or third time. (In 1995 Rivera started 10 games with a 5.76 ERA).

Pitcher                            IP             Batters Faced            ERA            WHIP
Tom Seaver            4483.0        19369                       2.86              1.12
Roger Clemens        4916.2         20240                      3.12              1.17
Pedro Martinez         2827.1         11394                       2.93              1.05
Rich Gossage *        1448.1           5932                        2.63              1.18
Dennis Eckersley*    807.1            3204                        2.85             1.00
Mariano Rivera*       1169.2          4644                         2.05            0.97
* In relief only

The cult of Mariano’s cutter has been in session in all week. But unlike greats like Tom Seaver and Sandy Koufax, Rivera never had to develop a repertoire of pitches. His fastball and devastating cutter were flashed brilliantly an inning at a time. Rivera never needed to develop an off speed pitch like a changeup or curveball..

Qualifying Mariano Rivera among the all-time greats is a tricky proposition. How much of his success was based on the Yankee teams of the mid 1990’s through the 2000’s? Unlike Koufax and Steve Carlton, who carried teams to a World Series, Rivera’s greatness was based upon his ability to hold leads his team had provided. The fact that relief pitchers who are used for one inning began with Bruce Sutter in the early 1980’s makes it even harder to put Rivera’s greatness in perspective.

The following is clear, Mariano Rivera is the greatest reliever of all time. Up for debate is whether he is the greatest postseason pitcher of all time or the greatest pitcher of his generation. The fact that a one inning pitcher is even in the debate speaks volumes about the quality of his career.

Mar 2, 2013; Port Charlotte, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Rays relief pitcher Fernando Rodney (56) during a spring training game against the Baltimore Orioles at Charlotte Sports Park. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

The little market team that could, the Tampa Bay Rays keep chugging up the nasty American League East hill towards another 90 win season.This offseason GM Andrew Friedman tried to provide fuel for his engine by trading for the Minor League player of The Year, Wil Myers.

Friedman employed his stock market strategy of selling high when he swapped pitchers James Shields and Wade Davis to the Royals for a package of prospects centered around Wil Myers. Shields and the 200 quality innings he consistently provided will be sorely missed down the stretch this season.

To acquire a prospect of Myers quality, the Rays had to part with talent. Myers may start the season in Triple A, but will certainly be starting in a corner outfield position by midseason. In 2012 Myers hit 37 home runs with a batting line of .313 BA/.387 OBP/.600 SLG between Double-A and Triple-A. He is rated Baseball America’s #4 Prospect entering 2013.

The Rays also acquired well regarded pitching prospect Jake Odorizzi and left handed pitcher Mike Montgomery in the trade, as well as third base prospect Patrick Leonard.

As usual, Friedman added undervalued players who seemed to slip through the cracks. Yunel Escobar, a solid major league shortstop, was acquired in a trade for mid-level prospect Derek Dietrich. Starting 1B James Loney was signed for the bargain bin price of $2 million and will bring his slick glove and career .282 BA/.339 OBP/.419 SLG to Tropicana Field.

The Rays kept the back end of the bullpen together this offseason. Closer Fernando Rodney, had 48 saves, a 0.60 ERA and a crooked cap, had his team option exercised insuring another season as a Ray. Valuable setup men Joel Peralta ($6 million two years) and Kyle Farnsworth ($1.25 million one year) will also be back with the Rays in 2013.

The steady leadership of Friedman and manager Joe Maddon have given the Rays more bang for their buck than any team in the past decade. Lineup mainstays Evan Longoria and Ben Zobrist should produce enough to keep the Rays in games. But the Rays true strength lies in their pitching that led the AL in ERA at 3.19.

AL Cy Young winner David Price went 20-5 with a 2.56 ERA in 2012. He will be joined in the rotation by fellow homegrown talents Matt Moore, Jeremy Hellickson,Alex Cobb and Jeff Niemann. Roberto Hernandez (nee Fausto Carmona) and Chris Archer, a product of the Matt Garza trade, will also be in the running for a rotation spots.

Life can be precarious for a small market team. One bad signing or misguided trade can doom a small market team for years. But Friedman has been adept at flipping players like Garza at the right time and acquiring solid prospects that produce at the major league level. The Rays also excel at plugging in low priced, but productive players like Luke Scott and Loney in their lineup.

The little engine that could will need to climb a steep hill again in 2013. After years of battling the Yankees and Red Sox in the AL East, the Blue Jays and Orioles have now emerged as legitimate contenders. The Rays lineup is not overwhelming, but the rotation and bullpen, along with Joe Maddon’s steady hand, will keep the Rays in the hunt all season. And don’t be surprised to see the Tampa Bay Rays emerge from the fray and appear in the postseason again in 2013.