Can M's Compete in 2009?

First off, welcome everyone to Wetland Sports!!

After the M's looked quite impressive in their opener yesterday behind a lights out performance from the King, I began to wonder what it would take for the M's to realistically have a chance in 2009.

Granted, everyone thinks we will finish in last place and, quite frankly, so do I. As long as we have 3rd and 4th starters by the names of Silva and Washedupburn, we cannot be competitive against the Angels/A's and the depth they possess.

I am also extremely scared about what our bullpen will do in a tight game. Who do we throw out there before Morrow in the 9th? Corcoran? Aardsma? Yikes!! I'm not even confident in Morrow right now until he has a few more innings under his belt this season and builds his velocity from (91-93) back up to (97-99).

I believe the M's are a much improved team this season but still cannot compete unless the following five things happen:

1. Felix wins 20 games
2. Bedard wins 17 games
3. Griffey/Beltre hit at least 30 HR's
4. Morrow has 45 saves
5. Betancourt hits .300 with 20 HR's

I love the leadership Griffey has shown thus far as well. Having him in the lineup everday and in the locker room will be a huge plus for us all year. It's true his range is non-existent in the outfield and he appears heavier than ever before, but he will do all the "little things" to help us change things around.

Did anyone see his first AB against Minnesota? After Beltre led off with a double, Griffey hit a ground ball to 2nd, enabling Beltre to move to third with one out. Lopez then hits a sac fly and the M's stake the King to an early 1-0 lead. A little play in baseball, but noteworthy.

An early lead gives Felix confidence throughout the rest of the game. With a run on the board, he knows his offense will have his back. Griffey's unselfishness is something this team lacked last year. Many players in the same spot would not have been willing to give up an AB in fear of lowering their average.