2021 NLE predictions from MLB.com writers. The predictions have the same value as usual:
DiComo: 1. Braves 2. Mets 3. Nationals 4. Phillies 5. Marlins. (Sorry, PECOTA.)
Bowman: 1. Braves 2. Mets 3. Nationals 4. Phillies 5. Marlins
Zolecki: 1. Braves 2. Mets 3. Nationals 4. Phillies 5. Marlins
De Nicola: I'll be bold and go with: 1. Braves 2. Nationals 3. Mets 4. Marlins 5. Phillies
Camerato: I'll go with big seasons from Scherzer and Soto here: 1. Braves 2. Nationals 3. Mets 4. Phillies 5. Marlins
https://www.mlb.com/news/experts-make-nl-east-predictionsPredictions from last January on that website:
New York Mets: 93-69
Atlanta Braves: 90-72
Washington Nationals: 85-77
Philadelphia Phillies: 81-81
Miami Marlins: 67-95
Of course, last season* wasn't really a season, and the final standings were:
ATL
FLA
PHL
NYM
WAS
Personally, I think the Mets deep pockets will allow them to make the adjustments they need to make come the trade deadline, whenever that will truly be, so I think they have a decided edge over other teams.
Only time will tell, as we all know that injuries, weather, Covid-19, etc., will all do things to each team that no one anticipated.
Nonetheless, I am still getting that old spring feeling coming on, when hope springs eternal before reality crushes it.