There shouldn't be any shortage of stunners in the second half. Last season, the St. Louis Cardinals took the league by storm, spearheading a run to the playoffs en route to capturing a World Series title.
After analyzing the action through the first three-and-a-half months of the 2012 season, NESN.com took a look at some teams that could surge to the finish line or fall flat from now until the end of the regular season.
Teams on the Rise:
Detroit Tigers: Only 3 1/2 games behind the White Sox for the AL Central race, the Tigers have the talent to climb up the standings. With Prince Fielder and Miguel Cabrera poised for success and Justin Verlander — who was sizzling in the second half of the 2011 season — ready to return to MVP form, the odds bode well.
Boston Red Sox: It's a large deficit they have to make up, but the Red Sox are getting back Jacoby Ellsbury, Carl Crawford, Dustin Pedroia and Andrew Bailey back from the disabled list. The overflow of outfielders should free up Boston to package a trade for a starting pitcher to bolster the staff. If that's the case, watch out.
Los Angeles Dodgers: Heading into the break, the Dodgers owned a half-game lead over San Francisco. But the team has clawed its way to first place without superstar slugger Matt Kemp. If Kemp returns to form upon his return, the Dodgers could be primed to run away with the division.
Los Angeles Angels: In the first half of the season, the Angels turned heads with Mark Trumbo and Mike Trout keying the surge. Still, despite that success, don't sleep on Albert Pujols. After a slow start to the season, the Angels first baseman could atone with an explosive second half.
New York Mets: Before the break, the Braves suffered a setback when shortstop Andrelton Simmons suffered an injury. As the Nationals ponder shutting down pitcher Stephen Strasburg, the Mets could pounce on the opportunity and make a run at the NL East. It helps that R.A. Dickey has shined as one of the league's top pitchers.
Teams on the Decline:
Baltimore Orioles: The lack of starting pitching punch is finally catching up to the Orioles, who emerged as a surprise team through the first month of the season. With the Red Sox' offense reloading and the Rays getting Evan Longoria back, the challenge only gets harder for Baltimore.
Pittsburgh Pirates: By owning a one-game lead in the NL Central, the Pirates showed some life in the first half of the season. But the team's success so far has hinged on the offensive abilities of Pedro Alvarez and Andrew McCutchen, and if either slows down, it won't bode well for the Pirates.
Arizona Diamondbacks: The Diamondbacks aren't too far out of the hunt, but there's already chatter that they're prepared to trade the face of the franchise. There are many indications that Arizona could deal Justin Upton and while it could improve the club this year, there's a chance it may not. Plus, the bullpen could be worn down after a tough first half as well.
St. Louis Cardinals: This time last year, the Cardinals were on the rapid ascent. In recent weeks, the team has lost standout pitcher Chris Carpenter and reliever Kyle McClellan to season-ending injuries. After a sizzling start to the season, St. Louis has cooled off lately and the loss of Carpenter and McClellan won't help.
