Miami Marlins: 56-106 (2018: 63-98)
GiphyThe Miami Marlins, with yet another new look and one of the saddest offseason tanks in MLB history, are not going to be contenders in 2019. Their fanbase along with their management has embraced the rebuild (again), especially with moves such as sending away C J.T. Realmuto. Go to sleep, fighting fish of Florida. We'll see you in 2022 when your farm system is ready to make a run for it.
New York Mets: 80-82 (2018: 77-85)
GiphyThe New York Mets still aren't quite ready to make a run for a World Series, despite moves bringing in 2B Robinson Cano and IF Jed Lowrie to help a young, struggling infield. With Jacob deGrom ready to shine again after his 2018 Cy Young campaign and a very solid bullpen, if the offense can step up in 2019, the Mets can be contenders in years to come.
Washington Nationals: 88-74 (2018: 82-80)
GiphyOk, here come the big boys. The top three contenders in the National League East have had terrific offseasons, capitalizing on big moves to build the ultimate roster. The team these moves hurt the most is the Washington Nationals, who are not the favored landing spot for the former National and All-Star caliber OF Bryce Harper, who entered free agency in 2018. Still, with arguably the best starting rotation in baseball and young players like Juan Soto, Trea Turner, and Adam Eaton complimenting veterans like Ryan Zimmerman and Anthony Rendon, this team is still in the running for a Wild Card spot or better.
Philadelphia Phillies: 92-70 (2018: 80-82)
GiphyThe Phillies are primed to return to 2000's form with their multiple offseason additions. The one star that could align and give the city of Philadelphia new life is OF Bryce Harper, who reportedly is interested in signing with the Phillies and a few other organizations for a LONG time and a BIG paycheck. Still having 2018 Cy Young finalist Aaron Nola, slugger Rhys Hoskins and outstanding 3B Maikel Franco on top of new additions in Andrew McCutcheon, J.T. Realmuto, Jean Segura, and David Robertson, the main question coming into this 2019 season is whether this roster can blend together like certain "super-teams" in the past.
Atlanta Braves: 95-67 (2018: 90-72)
GiphyThe Atlanta Braves were not supposed to be here. The 2018 NL East Champions were mostly overlooked heading into the season because of the timeline of prospects coming into the Major League. The team has lost little to none of their playoff-ready roster from last season, securing productive veterans Nick Markakis and Tyler Flowers for another season. Young talent in IF Austin Riley and many minor league pitchers are now at the cusp of claiming a role in the Major League. Additionally, the Braves surrounded their young talent with experience in Josh Donaldson and Brian McCann, who look to provide relief to an already proficient starting nine. No other roster in the NL East is as exciting as the Braves. A potential full season for NL Rookie of the Year Ronald Acuña Jr., along with Freddie Freeman, Ozzie Albies, Ender Inciarte, and a young pitching corps should only rise to the top from this point on.
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