Brighton 2011 outlook

Brighton took over the franchise last year and endured a humiliating, yet neccessary season in order to improve. This is not your 2010 Bearcats. This team is poised to make a playoff run and hopefully make defending champs Washington at least have to try to win his games. Lets take a look at your 2011 Brighton Bearcats.

C-This position was the focal point of the off season. With Russell Martin suffering through injury, reduced production, and a drop in defense, Brighton made upgrading at catcher priority 1. Through much negotiation, the #2 pick was acquired and used for stud catching prospect Buster Posey< He provides excellent defense and a potent bat. Since he will need some days off, Francisco Cervelli was picked up to provide a competent bat on Busters days off.

1B-Despite off season distractions, MVP runner-up Miguel Cabrera returns as the focal point of the offense. He hits for power, average and gets his share of walks. His defense is now passable and Brighton will count on him for an MVP calibur season. Casey Blake will provide backup support.

2B-Ian Kinsler is an interesting player. His power and speed has dropped, but his OBP and defense has improved. He will be counted on to bring the power/speed back up to snuff. If he can avoid injury, he could return to elite status. Due to injury, Reid Brignac will take many at bats vs some righties.

SS-Stephen Drew has long been coveted by Brighton and a late season trade made it a reality. Drew responded with his best season with the glove and bat. Spelling him will be Colorado IF Jonathon Herrera who hits well from both sides of the plate while playing a solid D.

3B-This position will be a platoon. Ian Stewart will get a lions share of playing time against RH. He plays a good D and has good pop. However, his lack of production vs. lefties makes Casey Blake the short side of this platoon. Blake will play vs. lefties and occasionally spell Cabrera at 1B. He hits lefties well and is passable on defense. Herrera will also see some time at 3B.

LF-Carl Crawford. the much traveled crawford may finally get a chance to unpack his bags. Brighton has always lacked a speedy presence and Crawford will be given the green light. He isn't just a one trick pony. His defense is welcomed and he has a little pop too. Against tough lefties, Lefty masher Ryan Raburn will play some LF.

CF-Colby Rasmus. Last years top pick took a solid step forward in reaching his potential. The young lefty showed he can hit southpaws as well. His D is solid. He gets on base and has good power. When he needs a day off, speedy veteran Coco Crisp will get in the game.

RF-Shin Soo Choo. The korean import brings his solid bat, on base skills, decent speed, and cannon arm to Brighton. He can do everything well and will offer Cabrera support in the lineup. Crisp and Raburn will also see some time in RF.

SP-The rotation sees a major overhaul with only staff ace Jon Lester returning. Gone are legends Ian Snell, Mike Hampton, and Felipe Paulino. Brighton brings in workhorse Brett Myers, Cole Hamels, Fausto Carmona, and Max Scherzer in to make a solid starting 5. Crafty vet Andy Pettite will get his share of starts as well.

RP-From last years disasterous season, the biggest weakness was the pen. There is no one returning. Via numerous trades, Brightons bullpen is now one of the best. The closer role was manned by Madsen, Troncoso, Rauch, Rodney, and Guardado. Stability is in as Joakim Soria will be the man. He has shown to be an elite closer. Bridging the gap to Soria will be Benoit, Kuo, and O'Day. They sported ERA's of 1.34. 1.20, and 2.03 respectively. Eneter in journeymen Kameron Loe (2.78) and Boone Logan (2.93) and Brighton should have some security late in games. Hakanori Takahashi will play the role of spot starter, long relief, and also occasional closer.

Overall, Brighton GM Mark Moilanen is very happy with how the team has turned out. He has proven to be among the most active GM's and is not shy about making big deals. Unfortunately the biggest obstacle is being in the same division as super power Washington. While Brighton still may not be in the same catagory as Washington (who is?), Joe Potts will have a little more of a challenge when playing in his own division this year. Brighton could win 100 games and still not finish first. This does not scare Brighton. If you can make the playoffs, anything can happen in a short season.