FIRST-CHOICE STARTING 11: Matt Pickens (K), Gonzalo Segares (D), Jim Curtin (D), C.J. Brown (D), Logan Pause (M), Chris Armas (M), Diego Gutierrez (M), Thiago (M), Chris Rolfe (F), Justin Mapp (F), Chad Barrett (F)

STRENGTHS: A talented starting lineup and tremendous depth should help Chicago finish near the top of the Eastern Conference pack. Mapp is one of the up-and-coming stars of MLS, while players like Thiago and Rolfe have proven themselves to be tremendous assets when motivated. Defensively, the Fire are a veteran group and it realistically begins with Armas at holding midfield. Once July rolls around, Chicago will have Mexican icon Cuauhtemoc Blanco at its disposal. He signed a contract with the Fire on Monday, but won't be able to join the team until the Mexican club season ends.

CONCERNS: Technically, Thiago is a tremendously talented player, but he did not live up to expectations last year and some wonder if he even has a rebound year in him. Defensively, inconsistency has sometimes plagued Curtin. Will Blanco arrive in July motivated to win, or will his presence mess negatively with team chemistry?

3. New England Revolution

2006 RECORD: 12-8-12 (48 points)

CONFERENCE FINISH: Second

COACH: Steve Nicol (sixth season)

FIRST-CHOICE STARTING 11: Matt Reis (K), Jay Heaps (D), James Riley (D), Avery John (D), Shalrie Joseph (M), Jeff Larentkowicz (M), Steve Ralston (M), Andy Dorman (M), Khano Smith (M), Pat Noonan (F), Taylor Twellman (F)

STRENGTHS: Even though New England has come up short the past two MLS Cups, there's no disputing the Revs' talent and desire. If the hunger still burns after those two heartbreaking setbacks, the Revs should be in the hunt again in 2007, especially with Twellman around. One of the best finishers in league history, Twellman has the ability to win a game at any moment. He's surrounded by other outstanding players as well, particularly Joseph and Ralston.

CONCERNS: Losing Clint Dempsey to Europe is going to hurt, but just how much remains to be seen. If Dorman improves upon his breakout year in 2006, it should minimize the damage of Dempsey's departure. If he doesn't, and Noonan gets hurt again like he seemingly always does, New England will likely struggle to improve upon its 39 goals scored last year, the fourth fewest in MLS. Defensively, the Revs are good enough, however, to win a lot of 1-0 games if necessary and make another MLS Cup run.

4. New York Red Bulls