"Surprise! We're not terrible!"

In 2007, the Rockies rose from mediocrity to make the World Series. Then the Rays matched them last year. Are any teams poised to make the leap this year? Could be the Reds, at least until Dusty Baker decides to do something like bat Willy Taveras cleanup. The man's a managerial genius; when that toothpick's got a hunch, he's gotta play it!

The Secrets of Their Success

Every MLB team can succeed this year, but how? Here's a list detailing how it could happen. Some additional suggestions for the Royals: building a time machine that only goes to 1985, cloning a young George Brett, and convincing teams that when they traded away Carlos Beltran, Jermaine Dye, Johnny Damon and Mark Ellis they were "just kidding. We'll take them back now, thanks."

Don't ask "Where's that Bonds fella?"

Giants fans haven't had much to cheer about lately (unless they're also fans of terrible free-agent deals), but their Cactus League digs in Scottsdale are the tops. Here's a slideshow of how best to enjoy the experience.

One addendum: that guy who looks like Dave Roberts who's asking people in the parking lot for jobs? That's actually Dave Roberts. You should at least buy him some nachos.

The Frenchy Connection

The NL East is a tough division, and the Braves are going to need production from their outfield corners to contend. So, in a way, the team's fortunes are tied to Jeff Francouer's fortunes. If Atlanta's season follows Frenchy's career arc, don't be surprised if the Braves tear out of the gates, then recede as everyone realizes they can't hit and sort of stink. But hey, at least they're local boys and have strong throwing arms!

The Parker Brothers Were Never This Angry

The Cubs shelled out big bucks to get the mercurial-but-talented Milton Bradley in their outfield. For all his problems, when Bradley's healthy and happy, it's tough to beat him at the plate. So how do things look for 2009? The Cubs are in great shape if Bradley stays healthy and sane throughout the year. With a lock like that, they might as well start making those World Series rings now.

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