View From the Center: N.L. East Breakdown
Welcome to "View From the Center," where our resident pseudo-expert slash Cincinnati Reds fan Jeff Gentil takes a regular rundown of the topics of interest within baseball's divisional landscape. Last week, awards. This week, we break down the division races.
Atlanta Braves: The magical mystery tour continues for Bobby Cox and the Braves. Not only do they continue to lead the East, but they're putting more and more distance between themselves and the Mets and Phillies, who may be getting desperate. If this continues throughout the remainder of the season, how can Bobby Cox walk away from this up-and-coming team?
Florida Marlins: Though not publicly stating it, the Marlins are, and should be, in fire sale mode yet again. Names like Cody Ross, Ricky Nolasco, Dan Uggla, and Nate Robinson have and should continue to be mentioned in trade rumors not only to shed payroll but re-stock the Marlins' farm system. With the team three games under .500 and already under an interim manager, what's the point in keeping players who aren't going to be re-signed in the off-season?
New York Mets: While there is still plenty of time to get back into the race, the Mets are going to have to make a move or two and soon or be left in the dust. Just a few short weeks ago, the Mets were right in the thick of things in the East and have hit a big road block. For a team with some big names in its lineup, the Mets don't hit much and their pitching can only take them so far.
Philadelphia Phillies: Much like the Mets, if the Phillies don't do something to snap out of their funk, they'll be left for dead as well. Apparently Ruben Amaro Jr. is pulling out all stops to get a big time pitcher (Oswalt?) in Philly to help the cause and give the team the boost they need. It may cost them Jayson Werth though and that would no doubt hurt their offense. But, when you play in Citizen's Bank Park anyone is a homerun hitter so perhaps losing Werth won't hurt as much.
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