The 2010 baseball season starts on Sunday April 4
Below is a preview of the National League with each team's current World Series odds at Betfair
Philadelphia Phillies (8.0)
This team is bidding to make the World Series for the third straight year after coming up short against the Yankees in six games in 2009. The Phillies are one of the elite teams in baseball and have an abundance of talent. They added pitcher Roy Halladay to the rotation this winter but traded Cliff Lee to Seattle. There is no doubt in my mind that they will be in contention once again this year. They are well worth an investment at this price.
St Louis Cardinals (13.5)
The great Albert Pujols will be a huge contributor once again for the Cardinals. His batting average last season was .327 with 47 home runs thrown in for good measure. This is a very solid ball club and I think they have a good chance of making the playoffs. The price on offer is fair.
Los Angeles Dodgers (18.5)
Manny Ramirez and company are in position for another crack at making the post season. This is a team that can score plenty of runs and has quality pitching. Manager Joe Torre has done a wonderful job with this team and another good season is on the cards. They could be the value bet at these odds.
Atlanta Braves (25.0)
This will be manager Bobby Cox's last season in charge of the Braves. The 68 year old Cox would love to end his career with a World Series but I think it is a tall order. Veteran hitter Chipper Jones has seen his average drop over the last year which is a huge concern. I think this team will struggle.
Chicago Cubs (29.0)
The Cubs had a poor season last year mainly due to a mountain of injuries. If they can remain healthy I think they have a legitimate chance of making the playoffs. The last time the Cubs won the World Series was in 1908.This could be their year.
Colorado Rockies (23.0)
This high scoring team is always fun to watch. Carlos Gonzales and Todd Helton are huge power hitters and are set for a good year. I think this club is a little weak in the pitching department which is a concern. The price is about right.
San Francisco Giants (32.0)
Pablo Sandoval had a huge year last season averaging .330 and 25 home runs. Apart from Sandoval the rest of the team came up short They will have a tough time this year.
Florida Marlins (40.0)
The Marlins showed the rest of the league they can win with a small payroll. Last year they finished the season with 87 wins. There are few stars on this cash strapped team but they play with a lot of heart. Shortstop Hanley Ramirez will try to lead them in to the playoffs.
New York Mets (40.0)
The Mets are sick and tired of playing second fiddle to the Yankees but I am afraid I do not see things changing anytime soon. They will have another disappointing year.
Arizona Diamondbacks (55.0)
Star pitcher Brandon Webb only made one start in 2009 due to a shoulder injury. This is a young team with plenty of talent. I think they could surprise a few people this year.
Cincinnati Reds (70.0)
This historic team is set for another poor season. Over the last 10 years they've been in steady decline. A winning record is the best they can hope for.
Milwaukee Brewers (65.0)
This is a young team with plenty of power in the lineup. Prince Fielder and Ryan Braun are two explosive hitters The Brewers could make some noise this year.
Washington (160.0), Houston (160.0), Baltimore (170.0),Pittsburgh (220.0) - These four teams will struggle to be competitive.
