MLS 2010 Season Predictions & Overview

The 15th season of the MLS kicks off tonight in Seattle, WA as the Seattle Sounders host the new expansion club - the Philadelphia Union. The season begins after a very tense off-season with negotiations around the collective bargaining agreement and player transfers/injuries. Here is a quick look at some new changes for the 2010 season:

• The Philadelphia Union joins the MLS as the 16th club as a member of the Eastern Conference. 
• The New York Red Bulls will open their new 25,000 seat, soccer-specific stadium. 
• There are six new coaches: Philadelphia (Nowak), New York (Backe), Toronto (Preki), D.C. (Onalfo), Chivas (Vasquez), and Chicago (Cobos).
• Each team will play all other 15 clubs home and away during the 2010 season.
• The MLS will take a two week break starting June 10th for the 2010 World Cup.

 Here are my predicted finishes for the Eastern & Western Conferences:

East:

1. Chicago Fire*
2. Columbus Crew*
3. D.C. United*
4. New England Revolution*
5. Toronto FC
6. New York Red Bulls
7. Kansas City Wizards
8. Philadelphia Union

West:

1. Seattle Sounders*
2. Real Salt Lake*
3. LA Galaxy*
4. Colorado*
5. Chivas USA
6. Houston Dynamo
7. San Jose Earthquakes
8. Dallas FC

*Team makes playoffs.

For even more MLS 2010 kick-off news, check out Sports Illustrated's top 10 storylines to watch this season.

What are your thoughts on the regular season finishing order for 2010?