I really haven't noticed anyone saying that they'd hover around .500. Even A700 believes this team should be in the upper 80's. Now, they COULD hover around .500 as they have done so more often than not in the previous 4 years, but I think most of us believe this team will be better this year. I honestly think a lot of the quibbling has been between the difference of a WS contender and a team fighting for the playoffs.
This team should be good, but would have a much better chance if they had found that second starting pitcher.
Kimmi, you should create a poll and see where people project the team to wind up in the win column. I think we have done those in the past.