Batting Order: LA features a solid batting order, but they'll depend on big-time production out of their star studded outfield. Matt Kemp and Shawn Green are a fantastic 3-4 punch, with #5 hitter providing additional power and (a projected) high OBP. Top two hitters Grudzielanek and Ellis should get on-base for those three to power in. The bottom is stocked with more power, especially Eric Karros in the 7 spot. Second basemen Carrol may be there for his glove, but his high OB and decent speed should allow him to score a lot from the 9 position. They'll also work feverishly to work in SS/3B Hanley Ramirez, who has power and speed, against lower control pitching.
Rotation: The Dodgers top two are nearly as good as it gets, as both Brown and Kershaw expect to be in the Cy Young hunt all season. Those two aces are supported by the solid Chan Ho Park and pricey free agent pick-up Shawn Marcum. Marcum is the sign that the Dodgers are going for broke this year, as his salary will cause significant penalties to their cap space next season. However, for 2014 anyway, the Dodgers are putting out a truly potent pitching staff.
Bullpen: Very good considering that their tier 3s average 170 pts a player. With four different control values, rarely allowing doubles, and high K rates, the Dodgers figure on having a good bullpen.
Overall: The lone team to blow past the salary cap, LA is all in on this season. However, they still look like they'll have to battle to win their division and they lack a third ace like Arizona, Milwaukee, Philadelphia, Atlanta, and San Francisco all have. Don't be surprised if they make a major trade or sign a big-time free agent bat (like 510pt, former DBack 1B Erubiel Durazo) to try to push themselves to the front of the NL pack.
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