Vancouver has had a long run of success, and that will not change this year. Although some of the stars are starting to age, there is a nice pipeline of younger players entering their primes to pick up the slack. The Canadians are a powerful offensive team, but rely just as much on a strong and adept pitching staff. Overall, I can easily see this team winning another World Series this season and will be surprised if they don't at least get close again.
The Las Vegas franchise changed owners, and changed names, but stayed in place. Aaronbrown is a relatively new owner (10 seasons), but looks to be a good addition to the world. It looks like he will be a player in the Intl market by leaving $20 mil in player payroll, and having a max prospect budget. Vegas did allow one starter, and several key bullpen arms to bolt. They made a couple key trades, one of which replaced the starter and another to bring a solid defensive catcher into the fold. Great young players were promoted and will contribute as they grow into their roles. Overall, I'm excited to see how much this team can accomplish this year. They won't challenge Vancouver for the division, but should be the top wild card team.
Last year was a rough one for Fresno. The pitching staff was in shambles, but the rebuilding process is starting to take shape. Somehow they snagged super reliever William Masato off Rule V (I guess Richmond couldn't use him?). Brad Park and Pep Kim have been promoted and start to help. The defense won't help very much (Sisler is a far below avg SS). The offense should be a little better, but not much. Overall, Fresno should be marginally better than my prediction as cazanski rebuilds.
The Isotopes struggled horribly at the plate last season, only scoring 572 runs. The pitching was mediocre, but should have been better due to the talent available. The Topes budgeted $95 but only spent $54. They have already dabbled in the Intl market picking up a relief pitcher. Could they be planning something bigger? The starting staff didn't get any better as they relegated Tabaka to the pen and Mujica was allowed to walk. The bullpen is mostly castaways. Overall, I can't help but think this team could be better if it had spent the money to upgrade. Instead, they will just continue to lose and get the draft picks/internationals. It is what it is.
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