As pitchers and catchers report to their respective Spring Training sites, optimism reigns supreme, from Florida to Arizona.
Every team believes, with just a few breaks, it can make a run at the playoffs. The harsh realities of June and July, and the dog days of August are inconsequential this time of year.
Of course, with hopeless optimism comes the inevitable whisper of doubt. Each National League organization, from the pitching rich Phillies, to the perennially hopeless Pirates, has its share of question marks.
Which teams answer these questions most effectively could be the ones playing deep into October.