TSN Canada picked their division winners, but not without making an interesting discovery: The Blue Jays did not sign a free agent a major-league deal.
Anyhow, let's start with the NL Central:
1. Cubs
They have the best pitching in the division, and Carlos Marmol should thrive as the closer.
2. Cardinals
Albert Pujols is the best hitter on the planet and Dave Duncan could very well be the best pitching coach, which always gives the Cardinals a chance.
3. Brewers
They will have a great offence, but are unproven on the mound. If that's how they spell "offense" in Canada, that's one thing. But if we're talking about crime, somebody should call somebody.
4. Astros
Their starting pitchers behind Roy Oswalt all have injury question marks. At first I scoffed, then I thought, then I wet my pants.
5. Reds
This is an experience year for the youngsters.
6. Pirates
Their pitching staff has promise, but they're still a few years away.
Let's just take a look at the other division picks from our astute neighbours (get it?) to the north.
AL East: Tampa Bay
AL Central: Minnesota
AL West: Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
Wild Card: Boston Red Sox of Boston
NL East: Philadelphia
NL West: Los Angeles Dodgers
Wild Card: New York Mets
We didn't come out here to play tiddlywinks, son.
-Hal Smith
