MLB Second Half Predictions

My quick second half predictions for the 2010 MLB season.  National League

National League East - Braves
The Braves are quietly setting the pace in the always competitive East.  They will have to hold off the Mets, looking to reverse their recent history of choking down the stretch, who will turn up the heat on the Braves.  Look for Bobby Cox to get the manager of the year award.

National League Central - Reds
The battle between the Reds and Cardinals comes down to the last week, but the Reds come out on top.  Look for Edinson Volquez to help bolster the starting rotation and Jay Bruce's bat to heat up in August and September.  Joey Votto is quickly becoming one of the most dangerous hitters in the league.

National League West - Dodgers
Many people are all aboard the Rockies bandwagon, but the Dodgers' ace in the hole is Joe Torre.  His teams are always in the post season.  Torre will rally his team in the second half and hold off the dangerous Rockies.

Wild Card - Rockies
Ubaldo Jimenez seems to be cooling off a bit, but he is still the favorite for the Cy Young award.  The Rockies will come alive in the second half, in line with recent history. 

Potential Fly in the Ointment - Giants
The Giants have the pitchers to keep them alive in the second half.  They are only four games out right now.  Look for the Giants to keep pace with the Dodgers and Rockies.

National League Champion - Dodgers
The Dodgers have been close the last couple of years.  The Phillies won't be there this year to knock them out.  Joe Torre will return to the World Series.