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Ranking MLB’s toughest divisions heading into 2017

MLB toughest divisions

2. National League West

When it comes to the National League West, the Dodgers, Rockies, and Giants are at the top, and by a lot.

Tony La Russa recently mentioned the Diamondbacks have a lot less pressure on them this season with the competition in the division being as strong as it is. And strong could be an understatement.

The Dodgers brought back Justin Turner, who dropped his walk rate while simultaneously raising his strikeout rate. He finished the 2016 season strong hitting more balls in the air. That sounds silly, but his distance increased, which is probably why the Dodgers were happy to bring him back.

That Clayton Kershaw guy will once again be the number one pitcher in the league. Even if he shows signs of regression, the three-time Cy Young Award winner will once again prove he’s the best of the best.

San Francisco is always in playoff contention, and it doesn’t matter if it’s an even or odd year.

Brandon Crawford is an underappreciated shortstop who may not hit for power, but on defense, he is one of a kind. And coming off of a World Baseball Classic win, he will want to continue that confidence. Buster Posey and Madison Bumgarner will continue working well together with a hopefully healthy Matt Cain to round up the rotation. If not, Ty Blach could be the fifth starter, which wouldn’t be a bad thing. He’s a top prospect in the Giants organization and could be one of the top rookies heading into 2017.

Don’t sleep on the Rockies, either. Not only do they have Nolan Arenado and Trevor Story, who is making Troy Tulowitzki nothing but a distant memory, but I have two words for you: Coors Field. It’s the strongest ballpark for hitters in the league. But even when Arenado is on the road he was hitting .277 and hit 17 balls over the fence in 2016.

Notables: Arizona Diamondbacks, San Diego Padres

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