NL West preview

1. Los Angeles DodgersThe high-priced Dodgers will go largely unchallenged through the season in the West. They're too talented not to run away with this division. Whether it's ERA kingpin Clayton Kershaw, the exciting Yasiel Puig or any number of well-paid stars, the Dodgers can win in so many ways. If they're not dominant this year, manager Don Mattingly will return to the hot seat, regardless of whether he deserves it.

2. San Francisco GiantsThey'll return to respectability this year after 76 wins in 2013, and Pablo Sandoval will have much to do with it. He's shed some weight and will return to All-Star production. Buster Posey be terrific again, and the pitching staff should recover from its 2013 struggles, especially Matt Cain. Adding Tim Hudson to the back of the rotation will help, too.

3. Colorado RockiesThe heart of the lineup -- Carlos Gonzalez, Troy Tulowitzki and Michael Cuddyer -- is as potent as any in baseball. Signing Justin Morneau should make up for Todd Helton's retirement, and a healthy Brett Anderson gives this club a legitimate front-end starter. Really, this team could turn some heads if it catches a few breaks along the way.

4. Arizona DiamondbacksPaul Goldschmidt and Mark Trumbo will bash plenty of homers in the dry Phoenix air. That much is for sure. But this team will struggle on the mound. Losing projected ace Patrick Corbin for the year was a big blow and will make it tough to repeat the 81 wins it earned a year ago.

5. San Diego PadresNot much to like here. Someone -- whether it's third baseman Chase Headley or pitcher Ian Kennedy -- must return to 2012 form and forget 2013 ever happened. Yonder Alonso living up to the expectations that came with him when he was acquired for Mat Latos two years ago would be a boon, too. Their destined to pull up the rear.