With all the projection systems starting to spit out their numbers, the Dodgers appear to be in really good shape heading into 2020. According to New York Mets beat reporter Michael Baron, the Dodgers are currently projected to pace the rest of the National League in wins above replacement (WAR) by a wide margin. This factors in the losses of both Hyun-Jin Ryu and Rich Hill to the Toronto Blue Jays and Minnesota Twins, respectively. It also includes updated contributions of rookies.
Here are the top ten projected teams in wins above replacement for 2020. One major thing to understand is that WAR does not necessarily equate to wins. For example, just because the New York Mets are loved by the projection systems, it does not mean that they will win their division nor make the playoffs. It could happen, but it is not a for sure thing.
NL fWAR projections, 2020:
1) #Dodgers – 50
2) #Mets – 43.9
3) #Nationals – 41
4) #Braves – 40
4) #Cubs – 40
6) #Padres – 38.1
7) #Phillies – 36.1
8) #Cardinals – 35.5
9) #Brewers – 34.6
10) #DBacks – 33.4— Michael Baron (@michaelgbaron) December 31, 2019
The Dodgers figure to be led in WAR by the contributions of Cody Bellinger, Clayton Kershaw, and Walker Buehler with potential upside being delivered upon by top prospects like Gavin Lux, Dustin May, and Tony Gonsolin.
Despite their unnerving inactivity in the market this winter, the Dodgers are still in a fantastic position to win a World Series and a pennant. Their projected 6.1 WAR lead on the rest of the league could easily turn into a double-digit lead with addition of a player of the ilk of a Francisco Lindor.
Get ready for another big year for the Dodgers.
