Who Are the Real Favorites to Win the World Series
by Cary Greene
February 26, 2022
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I’m not buying oddsmakers predictions, but PECOTA and Steamers both have their merits. Still, I use a different method to single out the teams who are most likely to win the World Series.
My picks as things presently stand? In the NL I like the Giants and the Brewers. The Giants aren’t even picked in the Top 10 by most oddsmakers. Presently, they are my favorites to win not only the NL Pennant, but the Series itself. The pitching is just too strong. The Braves, pending their ability to bring Freddie Freeman back, are also a threat to steal the whole thing again, it’s possible.
In the AL I like the White Sox and the Astros but I think it’s more wide open. The Rays, the Red Sox, and the Yankees all have an opportunity. Each of these teams has the right mix, they’re focused on pitching and yet, the hitting is very close to where it needs to be.
A key international free-agent may greatly influence which AL team emerges with the Pennant -Seiya Suzuki. Another key free agent is Carlos Rhodon. Will the White Sox bring him back or will another team overpay for him and thus steal him away? Key trade targets across baseball include Matt Olson, Sean Manaea, Matt Chapman and Chris Bassett (all A’s).
Remaining free agents like Carlos Correa could instantly put a team over the top. Regarding the Yankees, if Steinbrenner isn’t keen on spending, they very likely won’t be good enough. I don’t think he’s going to go all out, it’s just not his modus operandi.
My dark horse picks are the Rays and the Mets. The Rays with oodles of stud, young players could simply crash their roster in the second half and the effect on both sides of the ball could be devastatingly effective. Meanwhile, Steve Cohen does seem like he’s going all in with the Mets. I don’t think they’re done yet.
Let’s hope for a 2022 season. It could be a great one!
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