Prior Weeks Ranking

Current Ranking

Team

2002

Record

1

Anaheim

96-66

Strengths:  Winner of the first ever IBC World Series Title!  What else needs to be said.  Ok……I’ve always got something to say….so:  Arod…Gonzo…Salmon…Olerud….Boone…its solid vets like those who will help a team defend the IBC WS title.  Arod is a huge addition to the middle of the Halos lineup.  Arod and Boone make for a heck of a Gold Glove combination up the middle and nobody can cover the bag at 1b like Mr. Smoothy, John Olerud.  Burnett has fantastic stuff and will be counted on to take the lead role that Morris held down in the Halos 2002 charge to their championship.  Rick Reed was brought in to provide veteran stability along with IBC world series vet, Kevin Appier.  Smoltz is as good as they come at protecting a lead in the 9^th and some off-season work on the bullpen has made it a strength.  The backup appears to be solid with super utility guy Chris Woodward leading the bench brigade.

Weaknesses:  Relying on Tony Alvarez, CF to be the leadoff hitter and sparkplug is placing a lot of pressure on a rook.  The #5 spot in the rotation is a question mark and big things are expected of Brett Myers……but all in all…..minor technicalities for a team ready to defend its title in 2003.

2003 Outlook:  Texas seems to be building a strong franchise and the new Seattle team will provide some tough competition for the defending IBC Champions.  Should be a dog fight in the AL West from the first game of the season all the way through to the final week. 

2

San Francisco

101-61

Strengths:  This team had the first IBC World Series Title….ripped from its grasp.  How will they respond in 2003?  Vlad…..Helton…..A Jones…..Pudge…a heart of the order that will bring most pitchers to their knees…….however….believe it or not…...Defense is the calling card of this brides maid.  Not a weak link on the field.  There are a ton of young arms and high ceiling talent in the rotation and bullpen.  The Giants are looking for them to rise to the challenge in 2003.

Weaknesses:  Biggest question will be how the pitching staff adjusts to the many off-season changes.  Young fireballer’s Cordero and Ligtenberg will be depended on to close the door late in games.  Can Geoff Jenkins and Pudge stay healthy for a full season?  Inquiring minds want to know.  Redmond and Eaton at the back end of the rotation will need to prove their metal in the tough NL West.  Polanco will not give the Giants the typical production you’d expect from a corner infielder, but he can flash some serious leather at 3b. 

2003 Outlook: This team battled hard during the second half of the season with the Pittsburgh Pirates….only to come up slightly short during the regular season.  They got their revenge and more in the NLCS sweeping the Pirates on their way to the Big Dance.  A change of divisions looked like it was going to provide an easier regular season path to the post season…but now with the additions of two new teams in Colorado and Arizona…this could be the toughest division in the NL in 2003.  A strong regular season should provide a second consecutive post season birth for the Giants.

3

Cincinnati

84-78

Strengths:  A team that looks posed to make a run at the IBC World Series in 2003.  A lot of expectations are going to be riding with this team going into next season.  A rotation comprised of Colon, Mulder, Vazquez, Wolf and Nuggie……should take him far.  If the newly acquired Ken Griffey can stay healthy…the offense could be a juggernaut!  With a current MLB MVP and a former MLB MVP holding down the heart of the lineup, opposing pitchers will be looking at their schedules praying they miss this team during their rotation.  Is this the return of the BIG RED MACHINE? 

Weaknesses:  Worries began to creep into the mind of the Reds last year as the invincible Mariano Rivera dealt with nagging shoulder injuries.  If Rivera goes down again it could pose a problem closing out games…..then again…how tough is it really going to be to close out the ninth with a 10 run lead?  Not much help will be found on this teams bench and its bullpen will be the over riding question mark going into the season.

2003 Outlook:  This is the Power Rankings pick to win it all in 2003.  What was once the toughest division in the IBC…..the exit of the Pirates and Cubs franchises opens the way for the Big Red Machine to roll to the division title.  If they get there and the bounces go their way…..an IBC world series title would be a nice way to break in their new stadium.

4

Toronto

95-67

Strengths:  This rotation is like a fine wine…..aged to perfection!  Johson….Maddux….Moyer……Throw in a young power arm like Beckett and he’s definitely in an environment that he can learn from the best.  Valdes makes for a very solid #5.  Guardado had a break out season in 2002 and should prove to be a solid stopper combined with Foulke in the late innings.  The offense is very balanced…..speed at the top….power in the middle and professional hitters bring up the back end.  Soriano has speed and power…Thome hits tape measure shots….and Jones and Walker can flat out “rake”.  This could be the team in 2003 that keeps “The Curse” alive.

Weaknesses:  Sooner or late…..age will come into play with the starting rotation.  Maddux, Johnson and Moyer are all in the mid to late 30’s and decline is inevitable.  Beckett provides a nice flavor of youth….however blister problems bothered him during the 2002 season causing him to miss considerable time.  There are a lot of question marks in front of Guardado and Foulke in the bullpen.

2003 Outlook:  This team is going to cause the Red Sox some heart ache in 2003.  Power Rankings pick to win the AL East and challenge for the 2003 IBC World Series title.

5

Boston

103-59

Strengths:  The three aces just can’t be touched.  Pedro…..Zito…..Lowe!  Francisco Rodriguez was “da Stopper” in the Angels MLB run to the World Series.  Garciaparra and The Big Donkey provide an intimidating 3-4 punch in the middle of the batting order but it gets a bit thin outside of them.  Wilson and Pena are young and have solid potential to have good seasons.

Weaknesses: The defending AL East champs are putting a lot of pressure on the kid with ice in his veins, relying on him to close the door in 2003 and looking over that BoSox offense…there are going to be a lot of close ones that need to be closed out.  Garciaparra and Dunn are a fearsome tandem in the middle of the order……but its going to be tough for them to rack up the RBI’s with the “ancient one” and the young Felipe Lopez hitting in front of them.  This offense could use a bounce back season from Preston Wilson and continued improvement from the young Carlos Pena.  It just may be time for Tex to take over at the Hot Corner, as well.

2003 Outlook:  The Red Sox have the horses at the front of their rotation to carry them a long way…..however an injury to one of the big three or to Garciaparra or Dunn and this team could have some problems.  We pick them to win the Wild Card as is….but it wouldn’t take much for another team to slip in and steal it away.

6

Seattle

104-58

Strengths:  The one thing that sticks out the most about this team is its line-up.  Damon leading off is one of the best leadoff hitters in the game, then Alomar and we all know about him, then comes the heart of the order.  Abreu, Bagwell, Burks followed by Posada. Wilkerson, Perry, Vizquel to end it. There is no way any AL West pitcher can pitch around this lineup. It’s a murderer's row I tell ya!.... I like to call the Mariner’s bullpen…"The Bullpen". Sasaki one of the best in the biz. Rhodes, Nelson are two great set-up men. And to top it off you have Scott Strickland as your mop-up. Man he could easily be at least a set-up reliever on most teams. The 5th reliever out of this pen. That’s all i need to say.  If you want to win a World Series you must win with defense. Vizquel to Alomar. Alomar to Vizquel. You can just watch a 10-hour movie on how you play D. “D with style”!!!....

Weaknesses:  To be honest there is no weakness on this team.  It’s like perfect.  Well balanced in every category.  There’s just this one itssy bitsy thing that bothers me in Ropers rotation.  Nothing big though.  Lieter is great.  Always has been always will.  Mussina is Mussina.  You can always depend on him, very consistent.  It’s Hampton, Radke, Person that bothers me.  Hampton is the Mariner’s carry over so Mike should not be a problem.  Radke can easily turn it around.  His IP was lowered this year due to an injury.  Only 118 IP.  4.72 ERA is nothing to be proud of and then there is Person and his 5.44 ERA, 1.44 WHIP.  Not very good, but still just a #5 starter.  Well his starters are still better than ¾ of the league so why is this a weakness??? Even I can’t tell you that.  Oh yeah….one more bench hitter and the Mariners are good to go.

2003 Outlook:  Lets see here..... Seattle is in the toughest division in the IBC. We also have the 1st IBC World Series winners... the Angels.... and a DAMN GOOD TEAM in Texas. Oh and great off-season work by Kbel I might add.... ;-). (Already one of the favorites for the GM of the year!) And Oakland whose not quiet up their but still a decent team. As far as the Mariners 2003 out-look goes, it wouldn't surprise anyone if this team knocks off the Angels, Rangers, and A's to win the West. Easily can and probably will  surpass 100 wins.... again...chances to win the 2003 IBC title, 6 - 1.

7

Colorado

96-66

Strengths:  This young team surprised many and made it to the playoffs in 2002 in what was suppose to be a season in which the young players gained experience.  Now, add young phenom Mark Prior and fellow Cub Carlos Zambrano to the rotation with Kerry Wood and Japanese import Kazu Ishii and this rotation looks poised for great things in 2003.  If they can figure out the mystery of pitching in Coors Field the NL West had better watch out.  The offense is lead by Japanese import Ichiro, who is the spark plug that gets things going.  Veteran 2^nd sacker Mclemore is coming off a career season and Beltran is starting to show the power speed combo many scouts projected he’d display at this level.  Delgado anchors the middle of the lineup and provides most of the power and RBI production.  The bullpen is lead by one of the best in Trevor Hoffman and should be able to provide solid support in the late innings.

Weaknesses:  The Rockies are counting on big years from youngsters Hall, Byrd, Blalock and Hill to provide support for the top of the batting order, we’ll have to see if the youngsters can live up to the hype.  Talent wise this group of youngsters rates at the top, only time will tell if they can live up to the expectations.

2003 Outlook:  This team will get plenty of competition from the Giants and Diamondbacks within its division, however they should push the Giants as hard as anyone, within the division and if that Giant rotation doesn’t produce, watch out!…the Rockies are poised for another run at the post season.

8

New York (n)

103-59

Strengths:  Manny and Maggs hold down the heart of this high scoring offense, probably the two best right handed hitters in the majors.  Lofton can still rake havoc on bases and when healthy, Fonzie is an ideal #2 hitter.  The rotation features former Cy Young winner Tom Glavine and the promising youngster Jeff Weaver.  Astacio is coming off a tough season in NY, but Lackey proved to be a valuable asset to the Halos in their run to the 2002 MLB title.  Lilly needs to have a strong season after battling injuries in 2002.  The pen is lead by Damaso Marte…a former minor league journeyman who came out of nowhere in 2002 to dominate. 

Weaknesses:  While Lofton can still create havoc on the bases, he has lost a step or two in CF and his arm is below average at best these days.  While the lineup is very imposing…it appears it  could be susceptible to tough right handed starters.   Wilson and Lee are coming off of big years and need to repeat them and Astacio needs to rebound from a sub par performance in 2002.  If Pedro doesn’t bounce back well, there is going to be a lot of pressure on Lackey and Lilley to perform. 

2003 Outlook:  The Mets ran away with the NL East title in 2002, however it looks like they may have a bit more competition in 2003.  Still the odds on favorite to win the NL East in 2003.

9

St Louis

82-80

Strengths:  Garcia and Oswalt lead a strong rotation with lone lefty Carlos Hernandez sandwiched between all the right handers.    The offense is loaded with youth and talent.  Pierre and Spivey are dangerous at the top, Casey is a professional hitter when healthy and Pujols and Kearns will get plenty of opportunities to drive in runs.  LoDuca, Rollins and Higgy will make things tough on opposing pitchers in the latter part of the order.  The much improved bullpen features a few power arms in Koch, Looper and Kline, which pose as nice compliments to Rincon and Graves. 

Weaknesses:  The lone lefty in the starting rotation, Carlos Hernandez, was plagued by shoulder problems in 2002.  They need him to have a healthy 2003 campaign.  Staff leader Freddy Garcia…had an All-Star performance in the first half of 2002, then disappeared during the second half.  The Cards need the Garcia that almost won the Cy Young in 2001 to re-appear in 2003 and lead this young staff. Young Austin Kearns will be asked to carry a heavy load batting #5 in the lineup.  That said…this team is pretty solid top to bottom.

2003 Outlook: With the Cubs and Pirates running for the hills the Cards are ready to challenge the Big Red Machine for NL Central supremacy.  While they should give the Reds a run for their money….We just can’t see them beating out our pick for the 2003 IBC WS.  A close second place finish in the NL Central and a shot at the NL Wild Card appears in their future.

10

Arizona

66-96

Strengths:  The 2002 winner of the “Trader Bob” award, this team’s roster seems to roll over faster than an intern at the White House.  As last season’s record dictates…this team is one of the Power Rankings high jumpers of the off-season.  The GM should be commended for turning this franchise from a door-mat into a contender.  The starting rotation is now a strength, lead by the young lefty Jarrod Washburn coming off a big 2002 season.  Schmidt is finally living up to his potential and the southpaw phenom Oliver Perez makes for a tough top three.  Sturtze is the D-backs franchise player combined with the young lefty Fossum will give the D-backs a talented young rotation.  The offense should provide plenty of run support for the young pitching staff.  Renteria isn’t your typical leadoff hitter, but his strong 2002 campaign makes him the best fit for the job.  Walker should provide solid production from the #2 spot and Edmonds and Rolen provide a great left right combo in the middle of the order.  Japanese import “Godzilla” put up huge numbers in Japan….we’ll just have to wait and see if his power translates to the MLB game.  Drew is coming off a tough season…but when healthy still possess a great power and speed combination.

Weaknesses:  The Bullpen is improving but could still use a bit of work.  The D-backs will place a lot of pressure on the young Oliver Perez and they need him to give them a lot of quality innings in 2003.  The bench should provide plenty of support as there are lots of solid pitch-hit options for the manager late in a game.  They could use a bit more production at 1b, however Daubach will suffice as the D-backs are not going to be relying on him to give them significant offense. 

2003 Outlook:  The D-backs are in a tough division and will have to battle with the Rockies and Giants all season.  If they can get a solid performance from their bullpen this team could surprise a lot of people in 2003.  While a 3^rd place finish behind two strong teams like the Rockies and Giants would be nothing to be ashamed of…..don’t be surprised if this team sneaks up on the NL West spoils the two team race.

11

Texas

66-96

Strengths:  The starting rotation is definitely going to carry this squad.  This GM has made some great moves, bringing in young starters Pineiro and Padilla and the savy southpaw Kirk Rueter.  The biggest coup of the off season thus far definitely has to be the deal that brought in staff ace, Curt Schilling.  He immediately brought respectability to the franchise and leadership to the young guns.  Albie Lopez will provide decent innings from the #5 spot.  The bullpen looks vastly improved, as well.  Hard throwing lefty, Billy Wagner will be shuttin’ the door in the 9^th, with a solid lefty/righty set up crew of Embree and Karsay.  The offense should provide sufficient run support for the starting staff with late bloomer David Roberts starting things off.  Erstad is a slasher in the #2 spot and combined with Roberts should provide good speed at the top of the batting order.  Reigning ROY Eric Hinske will carry a large burden in only his second season in the majors in the #3 spot but offers a solid power/speed combination.  The heart of the order could use a few upgrades…but all in all it should produce enough runs to keep this team in contention late into the season.  A solid bench will provide good support during the long season.

Weaknesses:  Infield defense is going to be an issue with this squad, with Mark Ellis being the only above average defender.  Larkin has lost many a steps at SS and Nevin isn’t exactly known for his soft hands at 1b.  Hinske got off to a tough start in the field in 2002, but really turned things around in the second half, showing marked improvement.  The Rangers need him to remain consistent at the hot corner with the young arms on the mound.

2003 Outlook:  The Texas Rangers are another one of the Power Rankings ‘high jumpers” of the off-season.  After struggling through a tough first season, GM “Kbelrulz” has swiftly turned this franchise around in his first winter at the helm.  Having the defending IBC World Series Halos and the new team in Seattle doesn’t help his post season chances in 2003, but Beware!  This squad is ready to take on anyone, at any time or any place!

12

Philadelphia

84-78

Strengths:  This team has a very imposing middle of its batting order that will make any pitcher sweat.  G. Anderson, Slammin’ Sammy, and Jeff Kent will provide the necessary thump in the heart of the Phillies order to consistently put runs on the board.  When healthy Stewart is still one of the best at the top of the order.  Spezio is coming off a break out season at the plate and will need to continue to improve to provide solid production from 1b.  The rotation is lead by future HOFer Roger Clemens, he can still bring it with the best of ‘em on most nights. Ramon Ortiz was a victim of “Age Gate” last winter, but had a coming out party in 2002, helping the Halos to their first ever MLB WS Title.  Lopez burst onto the scene in 2002 from the Mexican Leagues, as a result of keen scouting on the part of the O’s.  He should prove to be a solid #3.  After a very mediocre 2001, Johan Santana stepped into the Twinkies MLB rotation when Radke was sidelined with an injury and made a statement.  He will be the only lefty in the Phillies rotation so they are counting on a strong follow-up season from the young southpaw.  Lyons roll over stats will provide for solid production from the #5 spot.  The bullpen is anchored by sporadic, yet talented closer Kelvin Escobar and a stable of solid middle relief arms round out the pen.  The Phillies also maintain a solid bench that should provide good late inning match ups and could decide a few games during the season.  Spiezio and Ausmus can flash leather with the best of ‘em at their respective positions.

Weaknesses:  Defense is probably the biggest weakness I can see.  The Phillies will rely on youngsters D. Jimenez to anchor the middle infield “D” at SS and Joe Crede to maintain the Hot Corner.  The kid has the tools to be a solid defensive SS in the future, he just needs reps and some fine tuning of his footwork.  Jimenez has played mostly 2b and 3b in the majors thus far, however his natural position is SS and with time there he should show marked improvement.  Crede will be in his first full season in the majors and will take some time to get comfortable.  Stewart’s arm in LF unfortunately resembles Chuck Knoblach’s and his recent hamstring injuries have sapped some of his range.  Stewart still seems to have trouble reading balls hit in front of him, right at him and direction over his head.  Garrett Anderson is going to have to cover a lot of ground in CF. 

2003 Outlook: The Phillies are poised to make a run at the NL East title in 2003.  They weren’t able to stay with the high scoring Mets in 2002, but many upgrades to the roster may prove to be the deciding factor in 2003.  We feel if anyone in the NL East can knock the Mets off the top stop in 2003 it will be the Phillies.

13

Houston

70-92

Strengths:  That's an easy question. Pats rotation. Morris, Jennings, Nomo,
Milton, Park. Morris is an ace type pitcher with a deadly curve. Remember
seeing Reggie Sanders in NLCS drop down to his knees on a curve, just that curve was a strike. Couldn't stop laughing. lol..... Jennings who is
successful at Coors. Someone quick.... tell me the last time a pitcher was
successful at Coors Field?!?!?!?!? Now don't say Hampton now.... Nomo and his freaky deaky windup. One of my favorites. Finish the rotation strong with Eric Milton and Chan Hooooooooooooo Park.... You know if you spell Park backwards you get Krap which sounds like Crap..... lol.... that’s what he's been doing in the MLB, but shall be fine in the almighty IBC SIM..... 1 more strength.... He has an assistant GM..... Who in hell has an assistant GM!!!!!!! oh my... now we are getting to be serious here.....

Weaknesses:  Not much as a stand-out weakness.... maybe get this team a
bonifide Closer... (i.e. Wagner, Riveria, Hoffman).... some pop at the end
of the line-up would be a plus.... and maybe try to improve his prospects.... I don't really no much about them.... so I can't tell you what
I really think about them... :-(... lol..

2003 Outlook:  Could still win his division. Became much easier when the
Pirates GM went and ran and became the Mariners GM when he had the chance. Projection: 85 wins..... but with all that still his best bet for October is the Wild Card...... if Rotation does what’s its suppose to and Bonds keeps getting walked every at-bat, very tough team to deal with.

14

Chicago (A)

100-62

Strengths:  Paul Konerko was a huge offensive force in 2002 and looks to build upon that success anchoring the middle of the ChiSox offensive attack.  After a down year in 2002, expect big things from Troy Glaus in 2003 and Carlos Lee just seems to get better every season.  Kendall and Womack will provide plenty of speed at the top of the batting order.  The staff is lead by the Big Texan Southpaw Andy Pettitte.  Plagued by a sore elbow in 2002 Pettitte didn’t log as many innings as you’d want from your ace, but when he was healthy enough to start….he posted great numbers.  The White Sox will depend on young righty Jon Garland to compliment Pettitte at the head of the rotation.  The Goggle wearin’ Canook is waiting to slam the door shut on all the ChiSox close games in 2003.  Coming off a 52 save season in 2002 there may not be a more dominant closer in the game heading into 2003.  Romero is a quality setup man and will be tough on lefties in 2003.

Weaknesses: The ChiSox chased the Tigers for the better part of 2002 before finally catching and passing them in the final couple months of the season.  The primary focus of the winter season appears to be upgrading the starting rotation, which appears to be the biggest weakness on this 2002 playoff team.  You’d typically like a bit high OBP from your leadoff hitter than Womack provides and Dustan Mohr seems a bit of a stretch at the #3 spot given his rather bland 2002 MLB stats and the fact he may not have an every day job MLB job in 2003.  This teams defense is not going to help out its young pitching staff much in 2003.  Mohr a natural corner OFer is a big question mark in CF and Carlos Lee does not play a good LF.  That should lead to some big holes in the OF for balls to drop into.  Pettitte is a solid starter, but may be a stretch at the #1 spot.  Garland doesn’t appear ready to carry the load of a #2 yet and the 3-5 spots in the rotation are up in the air.  The rotation should be a major concern for the White Sox this winter.  Don’t expect much help from the bench next season.

2003 Outlook:  The ChiSox were able to win 100 games last year and the AL Central title.  There doesn’t appear to be much more competition within the division so another AL Central title is well within grasp.  However, given the short comings of the starting rotation it is possible KC, Detroit or Cleveland may step up and take the AL Central title in 2003.

15

Tampa Bay

86-76

Strengths: Bullpen.... Bullpen..... Did I mention the Drays strength is his
bullpen? Give Nen a 1 run lead and you might as well call the game after the 8th. Dotel who just happens to be MLB set-up man of the year. Tampa even has one of those damn side-arm pitchers than is just hurtful to look at in Bradford..... With the likes of Kolb and Cruz you can't go wrong with this pen..... Berkman and Palmeiro is one of the best 3-4 hitters in the IBC.
"Back to Back" will be the phrase used a lot with those 2.... I do believe
only Magglio and Manny is better...

Weaknesses: Need to fill out the back end of the rotation. After Miller and
Daal there is really nothing there. Start Saarloos. Sim does wonders for
young players. And give any 2 prospects in your farm a crack at the
rotation... I am sure they can do just as good as Burba and Davis did. 1 or
2 bench hitters would help....

2003 Outlook: AL East is tough, but this team has a good chance of coming 3rd again. With a few deals here, with a few deals there, ya never know. If Pbish spent half the time talking trades than working on his website(the best site in the IBC I might add) I'm sure it will help one way or the other....

16

New York (a)

67-95

Strengths: The Yankees have brought in a young sparkplug to get their offense moving in 2003, Endy Chavez.  If his AAA numbers translate well to the majors he might have found a gem.  Biggio will provide solid numbers out of the #2 spot and Byrnes projects nicely with his roll over stats from IBC 2002.  Frank Thomas has hired a personal trainer this winter and vows to make a statement in 2003.  Thomas, Lowell and Durazo should provide solid power and production from the middle of the order.  A healthy Kevin Brown in 2003 would go a long way to bringing glory back to the pin stripers.  A couple lefties help to balance out the rotation, Kenny Rogers coming off a big season and Estes, still trying to live up to his talent.  Contreras will prove to be the pick of the 2002 New Player Draft, you heard it here first.  The young man with a howitzer attached to his right shoulder will be responsible for closing out the 9^th.  Vizcaino can bring it in the high 90’s and is just wild enough to keep hitters from getting too comfortable at the plate.  He’ll need to repeat the success he found in 2002.

Weaknesses:  A strength of the team in 2002, the pen appears to be a bit shaky going into 2003.  Vizcaino had a breakout season in 2002, but is still untested in the closer role.  Farnsworth can match heat with Vizcaino, but is coming off a season in which he posted a 7+ ERA.  The Yankees are counting on him returning to 2001 form.  Borbon didn’t fair much better in 2002.  The bullpen could prove to be the Yankee’s Achilles heel in 2003.  If Brown can’t stay healthy it could be a long season for the Yankees.  Don’t expect much help from the bench.

2003 Outlook:  Unfortunately, the Yankee’s reside in probably the toughest division in the AL and possibly the toughest division in all of IBC so the outlook isn’t real good in 2003.  If Brown can stay healthy and Contreras translates well to the IBC in his first season in America, the Yankees could make a little noise, but the most likely scenario has them battling it out with the O’s and D-Rays for 3^rd.

17

Kansas City

84-78

Strengths:  Kansas City is going to have a very interesting team in 2003.  I’m not sure how this team is going to gel, but there is definitely some talent mixed in there.  The rotation is lead by Kevin Millwood, who’s coming off a huge bounce back season in 2002.  Nobody really knows how old El Duque is, but when the guy is healthy he can still be as good as anyone.  Ponson finally started putting all the tools together in 2002, which bodes well going into the 2003 season.  Young Mickey Callaway and  Miguel Batista round out a solid starting rotation, which is a good start cause we all know you can’t get to October baseball without good pitching.  The offense has a lot of potential if guys can stay off the DL.  Castillo is a solid leadoff man and Ray Durham brings a great power speed combination to the plate.  When healthy Floyd, Alou and Juan Gone can drive in runs with the best of ‘em.  Wooten looks like the Pillsbury Dough Boy, but hits like a Mack Truck and Alex Sanchez burst onto the scene in 2002.  He’s yet another potential leadoff candidate.   Kim leads the bullpen crew and should close out many KC wins in 2003.  The bench has some quality help that should be a benefit during the long season.

Weaknesses:  Defense will be a problem that this team is going to have to work through in 2003.  Durham is playing out of position at SS, Wooten can mash, but could have troubled trying to catch full time.  Randal Simon is a liability at 1b and he’s going to get a workout fielding throws from Durham at SS.

2003 Outlook:  The Royals play in a division that could allow them to make a run at the post season.  The key in 2003 will be keeping the heart of the batting order off the DL.  Randal Simon can hit just about any pitch thrown, but the GM might want to consider taking advantage of Durham’s offense and move him up to the #2 spot behind Castillo. Simon would seem like a better fit to drive in runs behind Gonzo.  This team is hot on the heels of the ChiSox and stands as good a chance as any of winning the AL Central.

18

Baltimore

72-90

Strengths: Baltimore has a strong young rotation lead by Odalis Perez and Kip Wells, both of whom experienced major coming out parties in 2002.  Hard throwing Cuban Danys Baez holds down the middle spot in the rotation and the O’s are counting on a big return in 2003 for Joe Mays.   The bullpen should provide solid support in 2003.  Williams, while not flashy, gets the job done in the 9^th, and Reed was as good as any set man in 2002.  Brazelton should be a fixture in the rotation soon.  The offense is anchored by the right-handed power of Sheffield and Sexon.  3^rd sacker Aramis Ramirez had a huge 2001 season, but regressed in 2002.  The O’s need him to bounce back in 2003, and his production will be vital to their success in a tough AL East division.  Milton Bradley has a lot of potential but needs to develop quickly.  If David Ortiz can stay healthy for a full season he could put up some very good numbers from the DH spot and provides the left handed power to balance out the lineup.   On occasion, O’Leary, Hatteberg and Blum can dial it up from the left side, as well.

Weaknesses: Bradley’s OBP is quite low at this point for a leadoff hitter and needs to increase it significantly to be affective.  Castillo’s career is fading and it looks to be time for Brazelton to take him place in the rotation.  Mays needs to have a strong comeback season in 2003 and the young starters need to repeat their 2002 performance for the O’s to have a chance in the tough AL East.  O’Leary’s skills seem to be declining quickly.  Ideally, this team could use a solid #2 hitter, which would allow Sheffield to move back to an RBI producing spot in the batting order and better utilize his skills as a run producer.  Hatteberg is a liability behind the plate, but his offense is good for a catcher. 

2003 Outlook: Baltimore is looking to improve on its 4^th place finish in 2002.  The AL East is a tough division and it will take solid years from all the youngsters to keep the O’s in the playoff hunt.  Just not sure they have the horses to run with the Jays and BoSox yet. Looks to be in the heat of the battle for 3^rd place in the AL East again in 2003. 

19

Atlanta

N/A

Strengths:  The new Atlanta GM had a very successful new team draft and following a couple trades has built a team with a lot of promise going into the 2003 season.  Koskie, Sweeney, Jeremy Giambi and Millar will provide for a stable middle of the batting order.  Hollandsworth put up very good numbers while in Colorado, but tailed off after a mid season trade to Texas.  His overall numbers still make him a decent candidate in the leadoff spot.  Coming off a good season at 3b, Bell will provide above average power for a second baseman.  Youngster Borchard should arrive on the scene in Chicago soon and could become a force in the OF.  Matt Clement had a break out MLB season in 2002 and will be asked to lead the Braves pitching staff.  Ortiz provides a very good #2 starter. It gets a little shaky after that with Hernandez, Hamilton, Villone and young prospect Foppert battling it out for the final 3 spots.  Colbrunn provides great right-handed power off the bench.  A decent bullpen corps lead by Benitez should be able to hold most of the leads its given to protect.

Weaknesses:  While Clement had a break-out MLB season in 2002, his ERA the prior two seasons were 5.05 and 5.14, respectively.  Only, time will tell if Clement has finally figured it out.  After Ortiz the rotation is a bit suspect.  Batters hit .283 off Hernandez in 2002, which isn’t a good sign.  Foppert is a shining young star on the near horizon, but still needs to prove him self at the MLB level.  While most of the infield provides solid “D”, Valentine is a liability at SS and Giambi is best suited for DH duties, unfortunately, stuck in the NL he’ll have to play LF.

2003 Outlook:  The Braves face some pretty stiff intra-divisional competition with the Mets and Phillies.  It may be asking a bit much to expect them to overtake these two tough divisional foes, however they appear to be a team on the rise and with a solid core of talent and a good farm system, they are poised cause their divisional foes some headaches in 2003 and my be ready to compete for the division title in 2004.

20

Chicago (n)

73-89

Strengths: The Cubs sport a strong young rotation anchored by Tim Hudson.  He’s small in stature but huge on the mound!  Hard throwing youngster Ben Sheets is just coming into his own and that should scare NL Central opponents.  The rotation is filled out with some talented young right handers…..Lohse, Roa and Stark.  Heck, if Stark can pitch in Coors Field then the kid can pitch anywhere.  Alfonseca and Crudale will shut the door in the late innings and King provides a solid option against lefties.  Marcus Giles will be counted on to get the offense started while surprise 2002 IBC rookie David Kelton will translate some impressive rookie numbers into 2003.  CFer Torri Hunter, coming off an MVP type MLB season will be holding down the #3 spot in the lineup.  Ryan Klesko and world series veteran Tino Martinez will provide good power from the left side to balance out Hunter.  Even though Hernandez threatened to break the strike out record in 2002, he produced above average power for a middle infielder.  Torri Hunter can cover ground in CF as good as anyone in the game. 

Weaknesses:  Outside of Hudson, the rotation is very young and will need some time to mature.  Charles Johnson is showing his age behind the plate and his skills are deteriorating quickly.  Marcus Giles didn’t have a real good MLB season in 2002, but he took his game up a notch after being demoted to AAA.  A lot of pressure is going to reside on him to get the Cubs offense going in 2003.  Kelton is an offensive force based on his role over stats he’s a defensive liability at the hot corner and Mark DeRosa, a middle infielder, is playing out of position in RF.

2003 Outlook:  The NL Central used to be the toughest division in the IBC.  A couple key defections seem to have weakened the competition a bit, but there is still plenty of talent remaining and a couple young teams ready to make their mark in 2003.  The Cubs are going to have to leapfrog the Might Red Machine, the Cards and Astros in order to stake a claim to the 2003 NL Central title.  Seems to be a lot to ask of this club….but watch out, they may just sneak up on a few teams next season.

21

Cleveland

59-103

Strengths:  Roy Halladay finally had the break out season that people had been waiting for.  He clearly established himself as a staff ace and one of the most dominant pitchers in the AL in 2002.  Brian Giles is one of the most under rated hitters in the game….he hits for average, he hits for power, he gets on base….the guy is a machine at the plate.  Who better for the young disciple, Pat Burrell to learn from.  They make one of the best young 3-4 combo’s in the league.  Tony Armas had an off-season in 2002 but the Indians are expecting big things from him in 2003.  Chan Ho Park had a rough start to his career in Texas….but after the All Star break and after he got over the injuries he posted a respectable ERA of 4.28 and is ready to earn some of that bank roll he’s getting’ paid.  Mark Kotsay is a quality CFer and has a cannon for an arm.  He should prove to be a valuable hitter in front of Giles and Burrell.  Hee Seop Choi is a candidate for 2003 MLB rookie of the year the Indians are banking on the SIM treating him very good in 2003.  Jeff Cirillo can flash the leather at 3b with the best of ‘em.  Mike Redmond has posted great numbers the past couple seasons in a platoon role. 

Weaknesses:  Kotsay is going to need to fill the role of leadoff hitter, as there appears to be no other option.  After Roy Halladay the rotation becomes a big question mark.  The Indians are relying on Chan Ho Park to make a strong come back.  Armas needs to give the Indians a lot of solid innings in 2003 and he’s coming off a down season.  Behind the top three there will be a lot of young arms fighting it out for the last two spots in the rotation.  The offense could definitely use a lot of help.  Outside of Kotsay, Giles, Burrell and Redmond it’s looking pretty bleak.  The Indians need Choi to have a big rookie year to balance things out.  The bullpen doesn’t have a proven closer and will be an area of concern going into 2003. 

2003 Outlook:  If the Indians can fill some holes they might have a chance to sneak up on the AL Central.  The division doesn’t look to be real tough right now and a sleeper like the Indians might be able, with a few key trades, make a move and take the division title in 2003.  There remains a lot of question marks going into 2003, however and the pitching staff could use some attention.

22

Oakland

N/A

Strengths:  The strength of the Oakland team is its starting rotation.  Moss, Byrd, Ohka and Finley make for a very solid top 4.  They are all coming off strong 2002 seasons and Finley will be a good mentor for the young southpaw, Moss.   Orlando Cabrera’s defense is under rated and his bat can hold its own.  He was finally given the green light on the base paths in 2001 and he’s developed into a legitimate base stealing threat that pitchers have to pay attention to.  Halter and Relaford are both great utility men and will provide a lot of help off the bench.  Eric Young is getting old, but still can tear up the base paths when he gets on.  Sophomore, Shea Hillenbrand is the closest thing this team has to a legit middle of the order threat.  There will be a lot of pressure on Hilly to produce in 2003 and improve on his strong 2002 rookie season. 

Weaknesses:  The teams starting 1^st bagger just got sold to Japan so it looks like the veteran Zeile will be taking over at 1b.  His production isn’t what you’d expect out of your 1^st baseman, but given the circumstances he is the best option available.  There are no true middle of the order hitters in this lineup so it’s not going to scare many opposing pitchers, but that may just allow them to sneak up on some teams.  The A’s are another team without a proven closer going into the 2003 season.  It might be worth it for the A’s to look into what’s available on the open market.

2003 Outlook:  It doesn’t look good for the A’s in 2003.  The AL West is going to be a very tough division and they just don’t look like they have the horses to run with the leaders.  This team could use some attention as the minor leagues are barren of talent and it appears the lineup could use some help.  Look for the A’s to struggle during 2003 and hopefully start building a team that can be competitive in 2004. 

23

Detroit

93-69

Strengths: The Tigers tried to hang onto the AL Central lead as long as they could in 2002, but they just didn’t have the horses to stay ahead of the hard charging ChiSox.  Bellhorn had a great power season for a middle infielder in 2002 and Finley continues to hit for good power late in his career.  Nick Johnson, on a basis of his roll over stats will anchor the middle of the lineup.  Wells continues to put up solid numbers and Simontacchi will make for another solid starter.  Percy is one of the best at closing out games.  Osuna and Yan are decent set-up men, however the pen gets a little shaky after that. 

Weaknesses: Burkett, Helling and Neagle all give up a lot of runs so the offense will have to put up crooked numbers when they are on the mound.  Catalanotto was one of the best leadoff hitters in the majors in 2001, but suffered through an injury-riddled season in 2002.  The Tigers need him to return to his 2001 form if they are going to challenge in the AL Central.  The offense looks to be centered around HR hitters and has very little speed.  It could be a tough way to win in Comerica National Park. 

2003 Outlook: The Tigers need to have good seasons from all their starting pitchers if they are going to compete in 2003 and the offense needs Catalanotto to be healthy all season.  The AL Central appears to be one of the weaker divisions so there is a good chance the Tigers could be in the thick of things late into the season.

24

Florida

73-89

Strengths: The Marlins have a lot of good young talent in their rotation.  Kennedy is developing into one of the better young lefty starters in the game today.  Fogg is a very good young right hander which compliments Kennedy nicely.  Ainsworth is one a great young pitching prospect and could be a future top of the rotation starter.  Asby is the lone vet in the rotation and will be spending a lot of time working with the youngsters on pitching strategy.  Izzy is a good young closer and Hawkins and Borowski will make for a strong group to take care of the late game innings.  There isn’t a lot of speed at the top of the batting order…but Kennedy and Kotsay are two very good young lefty hitters that put the ball in play.  Cuddyer is young, but will eventually bring very good power from the right side to the middle of the batting order.  Phelps is one of the best young right-handed hitters to reach the majors the past couple seasons.  Fullmer provides good power from the left side. 

Weaknesses: Defense is going to be a big issue for this team.  Dmitri Young is a huge defensive liability at 3b and could set records if he plays the whole season at 3b.  Phelps, who can hit as well as anyone, has issues behind the plate.  Fullmer does not play a very good 1b and while he has great tools, young Angel Berroa is still very inconsistent at SS.  The defense could end up causing the young pitching staff some tough outings in 2003.  Chacon is coming off a tough season in 2002 and will be a huge question mark in the #3 spot of the rotation.

2003 Outlook:  It looks like 2003 is going to be a learning year for the young Marlins team.  They have some very good talent that just needs time and repetitions at the major league level in order to develop.  We are not expecting the young squad to compete for a playoff spot in 2003, but they’ll be a lot of fun to watch.

25

San Diego

68-94

Strengths: Jacques Jones leads the Padres attack on offense.  He’s coming off a great 2002 season and looking to continue to improve.  Mike Cameron provides decent power from the right side of the plate and Gold Glove defense in CF and speed on the bases.  Raul Ibanez had his coming out party in 2002 and surprised everyone by driving in over 100 runs for the first time in his career.  Vazquez can cover either 2b or SS and had a solid rookie season.  He looks to improve on his hitting versus left handed pitching in 2002 and could earn a full time job at one of the middle infield positions.  Sean Burroughs is a great talent, but struggled in his rookie season with nagging injuries and got sent back down to AAA.  Jay Payton seems to be coming into his own since his move to Colorado, coincidence?  The bullpen looks to be improved over last season and the rotation has some decent young arms.

Weaknesses:  The Padres need to find an everyday SS or 2b to play along side Vazquez.  The top two guys in the rotation are coming off injuries so it will be interesting to see if they bounce back strong in 2003 and give the Padres enough innings to justify their placement at the top of the rotation.  Mendez just doesn’t look like he’s going to pan out as an everyday MLBer.  The Padres need Mantei to regain his pre-injury form and take over the closer role.  This team just really needs its youngsters to mature and get to the MLB to fill some holes.

2003 Outlook:  The NL West looks to be a tough division in 2003 with the additions of new teams in Colorado and San Francisco and a revamped team in Arizona.  It will probably be another year or two before the Padres are ready to compete for the division title.  Some of those young hitting prospects need to reach the majors and fill some holes in the Padres offense.

26

Los Angeles

N/A

Strengths: Shawn Green is one of the most under rated all round players in the game today.  He has a great power speed combination on offense and is very under rated on defense.   Travis Hafner is a great hitting prospect that can hit for power and average.  Look out for him in the ROY competition in 2003.  Phillips and Punto could develop into a dynamic duo in the middle infield with a few years of maturation.  The rotation has a couple talented young arms in Pena, Harang and Rauch.  Mesa appears to have had a rebirth and has 87 saves over the past two seasons. 

Weaknesses: Rowand is has a good line drive stroke, however a poor 2002 season and a motorcycle accident this winter make him a huge question mark going into 2003.  Raul Mondesi is probably one of the most over rated corner Ofers the past 5 years.  He’s, never had a 100 RBI season and his OPS appears to be headed the wrong direction the past three years.  It doesn’t look like he’s going to provide Green with much protection in the lineup.  The starting rotation has all kinds of issues.  Pena isn’t ready for the majors and Crawford posted a 5.5 ERA in AAA.  Looks like someone’s Boston favortism is getting in the way of his logic.  Harang has some solid potential, however his 4.8 ERA in 2002 doesn’t bode well for his 2003 IBC SIM season.  6-10 right hander Rauch, has some great potential but is coming off an average AAA season and his cup of coffee in the majors seems to reflect that he’s not quite ready for that level yet.  It seems the rotation is going to make for a very long season in LA. 

2003 Outlook:  Dodger fans should see a lot of runs scored in 2003, unfortunately it will be by the opponent.  This team has some good young talent, but the rotation is going to get pounded hard and often in 2003.  The young combination of Phillips, Punto and Hafner will make for a solid young infield in a few years, but in 2003 it looks like the Dodgers will be fighting to stay out of the cellar in the NL West.

27

Pittsburgh

66-96

Strengths:  The Pirates have a great young hitter in Aubrey Huff.  All the kid needs is a chance to play and he’s going to put up the numbers.  Matt Lawton played the whole 2002 season with a bum shoulder, talk about a gamer.  Off-season surgery has hopefully fixed the problem and he’ll be recovered by ST and ready to get back to his old numbers.  He puts up solid OBP for a leadoff hitter when he’s healthy.  Piazza is still one of the best hitting catchers around and when he’s dialed in he punishes the ball to right and center fields.  The starting rotation is pretty strong focusing on Woody Williams, Cory Lidle, Steve Trachsel, Tim Wakefield and Ryan Jensen, however he could use a lefty in there to help balance it out.  Jorge Julio was a dominant young closer in 2002 and should be good again in 2003. 

Weaknesses:  This team has one of the best DH’s in the league, unfortunately the move to the NL won’t help and they should look to trade him back to an AL team.  Unfortunately, with Edgar retiring after the 2003 season and coming off an injury plagued 2002, his trade value is down a bit.  Ben Grieve needs to regain his 2000 form that made his look like he was going to be a perennial 30HR, 100 RBI middle of the order bat.  Luckily, at the age of 26 he still has lots of time to find that stroke again.  Tatis has loads of talent at 3b, but hasn’t been healthy enough lately to display it.  Rumors have it his attitude dipped a bit after his monster 1999 season and he hasn’t taken his re-hab seriously. 

2003 Outlook:  This team needs to deal Martinez and Franco to an AL team and get some hitting in return.  Look to upgrade at 2b, OF or SS.  The Pirates are in a tough division and will need some offensive help in order to compete in 2003. 

28

Minnesota

49-113

Strengths: Another GM that decided to go young in 2002 and begin the rebuilding process.  The Twins appear to be moving in the right direction and have brought in some nice young talent.  Kris Benson, now fully recovered from surgery, will lead the young pitching staff.  Thomson and the inconsistent Dempster will eat innings.  Maybe this will be the year that Dempster finally harnesses all of that potential.  Zach Day has a good arm and will help give the back end of the rotation some stability.  The twins finally got rid of Ryan Minor at 3b and brought in someone who can play the position.  Bill Mueller is a proto-typical #2 hitter with solid plate discipline and is a good contact hitter.  His defense is under rated at the hot corner and the pitching staff is going to enjoy having him covering their backs.  The bullpen is made up of a collection of talented young arms and if Anderson can come back strong from an injury riddled 2002 season, it should prove to be adequate.  Wigginton is going to get the leadoff spot by default as there doesn’t appear to be a better option.  Wigginton displayed good power and decent OBP in his major league debut last season, but would be better suited further down the lineup.  Overbay and Kielty are two hitters that tore up the minor leagues and now are ready to show what they can do at the major league level. 

Weaknesses:  The team could use a true leadoff hitter, as Wigginton doesn’t really fit the mold but will have to do for now.  Thomson and Dempster have been very sporadic over the course of their careers.  It’s likely that will continue in 2003.  The team needs to develop a young short stop that can take over for Vizcaino in the near future, who’s best days appear to be behind him.  Encarnacion is better suited in a corner OF position.  He doesn’t read balls off the bat well enough in CF and doesn’t have adequate range to cover CF. The bullpen could be an issue if Anderson falters. 

2003 Outlook:  The Twins don’t compete in a real tough division, but they are still going to need some time for the young arms to develop.  The ownership appears to have a solid development plan and more importantly, they are sticking to it.  Look for improvement on the 2002 season and with an outside chance to win 70 games if the pitching develops quickly.

29

Montreal

N/A

Strengths:  Reggie Sanders and the Crime Dog will provide some decent power for the middle of the lineup and if David Segui could ever stay healthy for a full season he’d be a nice complimentary bat.  Ben Davis had a very nice 2^nd half in 2002 and may be ready to display the talent everyone has been raving about for years.  Franky Menechino is Brooklyn tough and plays larger than his 5’8” stature.  Shumpert’s value is in his versatility, however on this squad he’ll probably have to take a starting role.  Eric Owens plays that game as hard as anyone, day in and day out.  He’s a true “Dirt Dog”. 

Weaknesses:  Where do I start?  His Closer isn’t in baseball anymore.  His starting SS is retiring.  His starting rotation is in shambles.  Hidalgo gets shot in the arm in his home country during the winter.  This poor team needs some luck to shine on them.  Unfortunately, Segui’s cat-like reflex’s around 1b are going to be wasted while he’s in the OF in order to keep McGriff’s bat in the lineup.  The bullpen won’t hold many of the leads its offense manages to hand over to it in the later innings.

2003 Outlook:  Probably not expecting a lot in 2003, but at least there are a few promising young arms on the horizon in Aaron Heilman, Boof Bonser and Eric Junge.  Will fight to stay out of the cellar in the NL East most of the year.

30

Milwaukee

71-91

Strengths:  Unfortunately, the Brew Crew gets the dubious honor of holding down the bottom spot in the 2002-2003 off-season Power Rankings.  Dye, Minky and Mo provide the thunder from the middle of the Brewers batting order.  Minky may be included by means of guilt by association and really is more of a line drive hitter with solid plate discipline.  Goodwin and Febles have good speed and Ordonez can still flash the leather as good as anyone at SS.  Sele is a solid vet that eats innings.  Petrick still has the tools to be a good hitting catcher, but his prospect star has lost its luster. 

Weaknesses:  The rotation is filled with rehab projects, so the Brewers are hoping they can stay healthy in 2003.  Febles and Godwin just don’t seem to put up good enough OBP in order to be productive at the top of the order on a consistent basis.  This team needs to find a leadoff hitter.  Trujillo is young and unproven and will have his hands full closing games out this early in his career.  For all the flashy plays that Ordonez makes at SS, he can’t hit a lick. 

2003 Outlook:  It doesn’t look good for the Brew Crew faithful in 2003.  Not a lot of talent to build around or to trade in order to start a successful rebuilding process.  The Brew Crew is going to need a lot of things to go right in order to be competitive next season.  The best plan seems to be to build around Dye and Minky.