2009 National League Favorites

Written by Jack Jones

cubs Even though Spring Training is just getting under way and it’s more than a month before the first real pitch of the season is thrown, the odds makers at BetUS Sportsbook have posted their baseball lines on who is going to win the National League in 2009. Unlike the odds posted on who is going to win the American League, the NL doesn’t offer a clear cut favorite like the Yankees. Let’s take a look at a few of the teams in contention.

1. Chicago Cubs (+300)

It was the same old story last year for Cubs fans as they had a solid regular season only to be swept out of the first round of the playoffs. Even so, the Cubs should be one of the top National League teams in 2009 with a great pitching staff and a lineup full of quality hitters. Now if they can just continue to win once the playoffs arrive.

2. New York Mets (+350)

The signing up Francisco Rodriguez solidifies an already potent bullpen. This team shouldn’t lose late leads in 2009 like they did at times in 2008, plus with Johan Santana anchoring the rotation you won’t see many extended losing streaks.

3. Philadelphia Phillies (+600)

You have to throw the defending champions into the mix. This team now has the experience of going deep into the playoffs and while winning two World Series titles in a row is a tall order in today’s MLB, Philadelphia is still a top team you have to consider.

4. LA Dodgers (+850)

The resigning of Manny puts the Dodgers in front of everyone else out West, but the team needs to find a rotation in order to contend for a world title. The holes in the staff could cause problems against teams like the Cubs and the Mets in the playoffs.

Longer Shots

St. Louis Cardinals (+1200)

The Cards are coming in under the radar this year, but if Wainright stays solid and Carpenter returns to full form then this team will surprise people. Tony LaRussa has proven to get the most out of his players and this year should be no different.

Arizona Diamondbacks (+1000)

The starters are set with Brandon Webb and Dan Haren anchoring the rotation, but this team needs some offense. There aren’t a lot of guys in the lineup that strike fear into opposing hurlers, and that is what should keep them out of the playoffs.

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