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Top 10 MLB sleeper teams for 2017

By Joshua Sadlock

Sep 19, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Colorado Rockies third baseman Nolan Arenado (28) fields the ball in the sixth inning against the St. Louis Cardinals at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 19, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Colorado Rockies third baseman Nolan Arenado (28) fields the ball in the sixth inning against the St. Louis Cardinals at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 9, 2017; Scottsdale, AZ, USA; Colorado Rockies pitcher Jon Gray against Puerto Rico during a 2017 World Baseball Classic exhibition game at Salt River Fields. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 9, 2017; Scottsdale, AZ, USA; Colorado Rockies pitcher Jon Gray against Puerto Rico during a 2017 World Baseball Classic exhibition game at Salt River Fields. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Colorado Rockies

The Rockies are the hottest sleeper pick for 2017, and for good reason. The starting pitching is finally showing signs of being able to handle the rigors of pitching at altitude in Coors Field. On a park-adjusted basis, the Rockies were exactly league-average as a staff last year. That’s big for a team that has never quite been able to develop the right type of arms for their unique situation.

Jon Gray is the one to watch in a young rotation. He went 10-10 last year, and struck out 9.9 per nine. Gray has outstanding stuff, and looks like a budding ace. Tyler Chatwood and Tyler Anderson both managed ERAs below 4.00 last year, which is astounding. The bullpen also got an exciting addition with former All-Star closer Greg Holland getting into the mix. He is coming off Tommy John, but has the type of strikeout stuff that plays well in a place like Coors.

Obviously, the Rockies will put up runs in bunches. Losing Ian Desmond to a broken hand will hurt some, but he should be back by May at the latest. From there, take your pick of Colorado hitters who can single-handedly change a game — Nolan Arenado, Carlos Gonzalez, Trevor Story, DJ LeMahieu.

Next: Top 10 MLB breakout candidates for 2017

The Rockies have a devastating lineup that can hit at home or on the road. If the pitching can take the next step, the Rockies will have their first playoff berth since 2009. Building a team that can win in Coors and on the road is one of the more unique challenges in sports, but the Rockies appear to be headed in the right direction.

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