N.L. East Notes

Two years ago, the Washington Nationals were perceived as the best team in baseball, no less the NL East.

However, they did not even qualify for the playoffs, the NL East crown going to the New York Mets.

Last season, the Nationals and Mets were considered virtually even before the season.

The Nationals under Dusty Baker won the division while the Mets were a home wild card team.

Neither team won in its round.

This season Washington is a slight to moderate favorite to win the division with the Mets easily the second choice.