MLB: Ranking each division from worst to best
By Travis Koch
National League East
The NL Central will improve in 2018; however, it won’t quite make up the distance from the next ranked division.
Washington Nationals
Far and away the heavyweights of the division, don’t be surprised if the Nationals have wrapped things up by the end of August. Though, everyone knows the Nats will be good, what about their divisional opponents?
New York Mets
The Mets could be good. New York’s story remains the same: starting pitching MUST stay healthy. Noah Syndergaard and Jacob DeGrom have the ability between the two of them to lead the Mets to a wildcard berth. That being said, New York needs close to 200 innings from each of them to make that happen.
On the other hand, Matt Harvey continues to look unconvincing, and the team still has yet to see if former top prospect Zach Wheeler is big league capable.
Atlanta Braves
Excitement is brewing for the Braves, as the team’s bulk of young talent is gradually surfacing on MLB turf. Ronald Acuna, the Braves’ top prospect and MLB’s #2 overall prospect, should reach the big leagues at some point in 2018. Acuna will join other young talents such as Dansby Swanson, Johan Camargo, and Ozzie Albies. Atlanta is on their way to eventual success, but, for 2018, an upgrade from a bad team to an average team will satisfy.
Philadelphia Phillies
The Phillies will be an interesting watch in 2018. They liken the Braves in young talent. Continued progress from outfielder Nick Williams and starting pitcher Aaron Nola is key for the present and the future. Maikel Franco and Vince Velasquez need to prove that they can live up to their talent. And boy would it be nice if Rhys Hoskins could follow-up his unbelievable home run tear from last season.
Philadelphia also boldly signed MLB veterans Carlos Santana and Jake Arrieta. The signings set a good precedent for the Phillies this season, implying they have every intention to compete for a playoff spot.
Miami Marlins
Lastly, the Marlins have no chance of success in 2018 after losing their five best players. The rebuild has unfortunately just begun. Thus, they have a long way to go before they’re taken seriously again.