Predictions '09: Cleveland Indians

Lets face it, last year was a bust for the Cleveland Indians. Expected to compete for the AL Central title last year, the Indians started 2008 terribly. They managed to pick themselves up at the end and finish with an even 81-81 record, good enough for a 3rd place finish and 7.5 games back of the 1st place White Sox. This year the Indians will rely on a potent lineup and a deep bullpen to win them games. Mark DeRosa comes in as their new 3rd baseman and Kerry Wood was signed to be their new closer, a position that has been almost nonexistent in recent years. The starting rotation features reigning Cy Young award winner Cliff Lee. Fausto Carmona dealt with the injury bug last year, but expects to bounce back with another impressive season similar to 2007 (19-8/3.07 ERA/215 IP). The rest of the rotation is troublesome. Jake Westbrook had Tommy John surgery and is out until at least midseason. Jeremy Sowers, Anthony Reyes, and Aaron Laffey are expected to round out the rotation, with Carl Pavano and others fighting for a chance to break in. Going back to the lineup, the leadoff man will be All-Star CF Grady Sizemore, a 5-tool player with MVP ability. Travis Hafner has been plagued with injuries in his career, but he will be given another chance as the team's DH. Victor Martinez, Kelly Shoppach, Jhonny Peralta, and Ryan Garko are expected to bring even more offensive prowess to this deep lineup. Something to watch for: Matt LaPorta, the top prospect they got in the C.C. Sabathia trade to the Brewers, will be fighting for at-bats and could emerge as a surprise contributor.

Highlights: Grady Sizemore will once again flash his amazing ability, given that he stays healthy. This guy will be their leadoff man, but could be a number 3 or 4 hitter for any club. Cy Young winner Cliff Lee and Fausto Carmona are two very good pitchers at the top of the rotation.

Question Mark: The starting rotation falls off after Lee and Carmona. The number 3,4, and 5 pitchers will need to be very good in order for the Indians to compete. Who will step up with an unexpected good season? The injury bug has also plagued this team, and injuries to Sizemore, Peralta, Martinez, or Kerry Wood could self-destruct their efforts to rise to the top.

Keys to Success: The bullpen will be called upon often to hold leads, and its a good thing they have a deep and talented bullpen. Kerry Wood will be their new closer, a role he found success in with the Cubs last year.

Prediction: 3rd place