The National League West is one of the toughest divisions in MLB. All the teams have the potential and talent to be contenders. It’s time to see how these teams attack up going into 2022.
Though baseball is still in a lockout, it does not mean we can’t look ahead as there will eventually be a season. So, it’s time to look at the NL West including the reigning division champions the San Fransisco Giants, Los Angeles Dodgers, Colorado Rockies, San Diego Padres, and Arizona Diamondbacks. Here is a division preview and how the teams are stacking up at this point.
National League West Questions
The Colorado Rockies are the most intriguing team in the NL West. On paper, they have one of the best lineups and rotation, but they struggle to put it all together. The rotation led by German Marquez looks to be the strong suit in 2022. They have a nice mix of young and veteran players. Therefore, they could be dangerous to face with Charlie Blackmon and CJ Cron in the middle of the order. Also, keep an eye on Yonathan Daza and Brendan Rodgers who are some of the promising youngsters on the roster.
Another NL West team the Diamondbacks are coming off a disappointing 2021 season and is projected to finish at the bottom again. Though the line-up with David Peralta, and Ketel Marte looks to be dangerous and a key to success. The rotation is a strength when they are healthy as there are some talented young pitchers.
As for the Padres, they had a promising 2021 season just missing the postseason and even leading the NL West for a while. They are a talented team with a high-energy offense. Fernanado Tatis Jr. has become one of the biggest stars in the game, and it will be fun to see the numbers he puts up. When the lockout ends it has been reported that the Padres want to participate in the free-agent frenzy looking for an outfielder. The Padres are still rebuilding the bullpen, even after signing Luis Garcia Their biggest need is still a bona fide closer.
More Questions
After coming off winning the division with a 108-win campaign edging out the Dodgers, the Giants are aiming for a repeat. They lost Buster Posey to retirement and Kevin Gausman to free agency. Those two will be tough to replace. Though they still have Brandon Belt and Brandon Crawford who are coming off stellar seasons. It will be interesting to see if the Giants can build on last year.
Once again, the Dodgers are projected to win the division as they are considered the better team. They have some good players and a decent rotation. The Dodgers window could be closing as their roster ages and other teams are getting better. Their lineup is still dangerous with Cody Bellinger and Chris Taylor who has emerged into a good player. It’s the bullpen that may be a weakness unless they make a move after the lockout ends. They will be an interesting team to watch in 2022.
The National League West will be one of the most interesting divisions in MLB. Therefore, fans need to keep an eye on these teams. There are more updates to come as we get closer to the season.
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