4. Rockies
-Season story lines: After the Rockies finished 15 games under .500, outfielder Michael Cuddyer, catcher Ramon Hernandez and second baseman Marco Scutaro were brought in not only for their production but also their leadership. Righthander Jeremy Guthrie was acquired to become the anchor of a starting rotation that posted a collective 4.73 ERA. Of Colorado’s four pitchers who made the most starts in 2011, only Jhoulys Chacin is back. The success of this year’s squad will rest on improved chemistry and improved performances from young pitchers such as Chacin, Juan Nicasio, Drew Pomeranz and reliever Rex Brothers.
-Season stat: .222. The combined batting average of the nine players who saw time at third base last season. The offseason signing of since-released Casey Blake didn’t solve the problem, so an inexperienced duo of Chris Nelson and Jordan Pacheco will man the spot to start the year. On the horizon, though, is 20-year-old Nolan Arenado, who hit .298 with 22 homers and 122 RBI at high-a Modesto.
-Sco-ts’ take: They have some nice young arms, but they’re counting on them a lot with Juan Nicasio and Drew Pomeranz. The trouble is they don’t have a true No. 1 or No. 2 starter. At best, you have Jeremy Guthrie, who is a No. 2 or No. 3 starter. They don’t have a true closer, either. They’re going with Rafael Betancourt, but he’s really a setup man. They’re going to have to get some production out of third baseman Chris Nelson, too. He has a decent glove and range and will make the routine play.