2010 MLB Preview - National League East

One can't-miss contender followed by a semi-competitive rival, a dark horse, and two complete jokes. The NL East is basically a VH1 dating show.

1. Philadelphia Phillies

I love me some Roy Halladay, but this year's biggest trade is going to kill the Phillies down the road. Their extension of Joe Blanton's contract leads me to believe they probably could've gotten a deal done with Cliff Lee. Still, they're the team to beat in the Senior Circuit. Nigh untouchable.

Hollywood Starlet Equivalent: Keira Knightley. The best.

2. Atlanta Braves

Should be a big season for star prospects Hansen, Medlen, and Heyward. They've positioned themselves well to take the division back from Philly in a year or two. For now, just not enough offense.

Hollywood Starlet Equivalent: Lindsay Lohan. Fell apart temporarily, but poised for a comeback.

3. Florida Marlins

Just spunky enough to be intriguing. Just young enough that it won't happen for a year or two yet.

Hollywood Starlet Equivalent: Miley Cyrus. Jailbait.

4. Washington Nationals

Another team on its way up, but only because there wasn't much farther to fall. Beyond Zimmerman, Strasburg, Dunn, and the Racing Presidents, everyone on the roster seems more like a nice complementary player than a franchise building block. Sad that they can't fill that gorgeous stadium.

Hollywood Starlet Equivalent: A Kardashian. No one cares, but the house is nice.

5. New York Mets

Wow.

Hollywood Starlet Equivalent: Deputy Trudy Weigel, Reno Sheriff's Department. General Manager Omar Minaya is going to be talking to his cats and making conjugal visits to serial killers by the time he's done here.