2015 American League Central

***The Division Preview that follows is not betting advice in any way shape or form.  Please do not bet any money based in any part on these predictions.***

Don't forget to check out the National League East, National League Central, National League West and American League East previews and check back next week for the American League West.

Detroit Tigers Logo Courtesy of Sports Logos.net

Detroit Tigers

Who's New?: 

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS
None
OUTFIELDERS
Xavier Avery, OF (Free Agent from Mariners)
Anthony Gose, OF (Trade from Blue Jays)
Yoenes Cespedes, OF (Trade from Red Sox)
STARTING PITCHERS
Alfredo Simon, SP (Trade from Reds)
Shane Greene, SP (Trade from Yankees)
RELIEF PITCHERS
Alex Wilson, RP (Trade from Red Sox)
Alberto Cabrera, RP (Free Agent from Cubs)
Tom Gorzelany, RP (Free Agent from Tigers)

Who Left?:  
CATCHER/INFIELDERS
Eugenio Suarez, SS (Trade to Reds)
Danny Worth, SS (Free Agent to Diamondbacks)
OUTFIELDERS
Torii Hunter, OF (Free Agent to Twins)
Ezequiel Carrera, OF (Free Agent to Blue Jays)
Don Kelly, OF (Free Agent to Marlins)
STARTING PITCHERS
Robbie Ray, SP (Trade to Diamondbacks)
Shane Greene, SP (Trade to Yankees)
Rick Porcello, SP (Trade to Red Sox)
Max Scherzer, SP (Free Agent to Nationals)
RELIEF PITCHERS
Jose Ortega, RP (Free Agent to Rockies)
Justin Miller, RP( Free Agent to Rockies)
Kevin Whelan, RP (Free Agent to A's)
Jim Johnson,RP (Free Agent to Braves)
Pat McCoy, RP (Waiver Claim by Orioles)
Jose Ortega, RP (Free Agent to Rockies)
Casey Crosby, RP (Free Agent to Red Sox)
Duane Below, RP (Free Agent to Mets)
Phil Coke, RP (Free Agent to Cubs)
Evan Reed, RP (Unsigned Free Agent)
Winter Headlines:
Victor Martinez gives Tigers an uncomfortable de ja vu.
Scherzer holds Detroit in limbo while the other pitchers land in other cities.
What to Expect?:
The Tigers are more vulnerable this year than they have been since 2008.  Verlander is still the ace of the staff and the identity of this team but injuries have kept him from matching his 2011 numbers.  David Price will be a nice replacement for Scherzer but not having Scherzer, Fister, Porcello or Smyley to fill in third in the rotation.  Anibal Sanchez is a strong pitcher when heathy but he missed a lot of time in 2014 to injury.  Add to that Cabrera and VMart starting the year with injuries and the division could be up for grabs.
Why Should You Root for These Guys?:
As we saw in the "Almost a Dynasty" article a few months ago, the Tigers have come close to winning it all and suffered some very painful near misses.  For players like Verlander and Cabrera it would be nice to see them hoist a trophy.
Why Might This Season Not Turn Out the Way Tigers Fans Want?:
Injuries, age and lack of depth.  Fortunately for the Tigers the division is not particularly strong so they may have another year at the top.  The bad news for the Tigers is that Chicago and Minnesota are improved and may push the Tigers.
Don't Expect Too Much From Him:
This could be most of the offense.  Cabrera and VMart are hurting.  Julio Iglesias is not an offensive threat and J.D. Martinez will suffer from not having the big bats in front of him.  The lack of offense could be the Tigers undoing.
Expect Great Things From:
My first thought when I heard that Cespedes was traded to Detroit was how sad it was that he would be hitting in such a big park.  Then I realized that he had been playing in the gigantic Coliseum in Oakland for the first few years of his career.  With the injuries to he rest of the big bats expect Cespedes to step up until they come back healthy.
Is This His Last Chance?:
Joakim Soria was at one time the closer and All Star representative for the Royals, routinely saving 30 plus games a year (twice surpassing 40).  His experience in Texas and Detroit last year was not a positive one and he is now slated for middle relief.  He needs to overtake Joe Nathan and regain his closing form or he may not get another opportunity.
Prediction: 1st in AL Central

Chicago White Sox Logo Courtesy of Sports Logos.net

Chicago White Sox

Who's New: 

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS

Juan Diaz, SS (Free Agent from Marlins)
Adam LaRoche, 1B (Free Agent from Nationals)
George Kottaras, C (Free Agent from Blue Jays)
Emilio Bonifacio, IF (Free Agent from Braves)
Geovany Soto, C (Free Agent from Athletics)
Gordon Beckham, 2B (Free Agent from Angels)
OUTFIELDERS
J.B. Schuck, OF (Waiver Claim from Indians)
Tony Campana, OF (Free Agent from Angels)
Melky Cabrera, OF (Free Agent from Blue Jays)
Engel Beltre, OF (Free Agent from Rangers)
Andy La Roche, OF (Free Agent from Blue Jays)
STARTING PITCHERS
Zach Duke, SP (Free Agent from Brewers)
Jeff Samardzjia, SP (Trade from Athletics)
Brad Penny, SP (Free Agent from Marlins)
Charlie Leesman, SP (Free Agent to Pirates)
RELIEF PITCHERS
Joe Savery, RP (Free Agent from A's)
Logan Kensing, RP (Free Agent from Mariners)
David Robertson, RP (Free Agent from White Sox)
Dan Jennings, RP (Trade from Marlins)
Jesse Crain, RP (Free Agent from Astros)
Matt Albers, RP (Free Agent from Astros)

Who Left: 

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS

Paul Konerko, 1B (Retired)
Marcus Semien, IF (Trade to Athletics)
Josh Phegley, C (Trade to Athletics)
Chris Bassitt, C (Trade to Athletics)

OUTFIELDERS

Matt Tuiasasopo, OF (Free Agent to Orioles)
Jordan Danks, OF (Free Agent to Phillies)
Dayan Viciedo, OF (Free Agent to Blue Jays)

STARTING PITCHERS

Chieng Ming Wang, SP (Free Agent to Braves)
Donnie Veal, SP (Free Agent to Braves)
Andre Rienzo, SP (Trade to Marlins)
Charlie Leesman, SP (Free Agent to Pirates)
Felipe Paulino, SP (Free Agent to Red Sox)

RELIEF PITCHERS
Scott Snodgress, RP (Free agent to Angels)
Daniel McCutcheon, RP (Free Agent to Padres)
Henry Alberto Rodriguez, RP (Free Agent from Diamondbacks)
Ronald Belisario, RP (Free Agent to Rays)
Matt Lindstrom, RP (Free Agent to Angels)

Winter Headlines:  
Big moves in the off season lead to raised expectations
What to Expect?:
The team is clearly improved and the fact that Detroit appears to have fallen back towards the pack has given many people in Chicago hopes of the post season.  In fact, at the beginning of the off season I myself had the feeling that the Sox were going to be a power to be reckoned with.  Yet after looking at their lineup from top to bottom I am not quite ready for them to overtake the top of the division just yet.
Why Should You Root for These Guys?:
This is a young (mostly) and exciting group.  If they continue to improve at the same time the cross town Cubs seem to be doing we may have a 1906 Windy City rematch in  few years.
Why Might This Season Not Turn Out the Way White Sox Fans Want?:
This team is greatly improved and is certainly looking to head in the right direction but there are still a few holes in this lineup such as Catcher, Second Base, Corner Outfielders and pitching depth.  The Sox will need some people to outperform expectations if they hope to make the post season as they are currently constructed.
Don't Expect Too Much From Him:
When the A's picked up Jeff Samardzija at the trade deadline last year some people handed them the AL title. In reality, Samardzija is a very good pitcher who is still learning but he has yet to pitch with a very strong team behind him for a full season.  In 2011 Samardzija went 8-4 for the Cubs.  Since then his season records are 9-13, 8-13 and 7-13.  It will be nice to see what he can do with a strong White Sox team behind him but don't expect a Cy Young.
Expect Great Things From:
The White Sox have a potential 1-2 punch that they hae not had since Frank Thomas and Robin Ventura came to town in the early 1990s.  Adam Eaton and Jose Abreu.  Eaton led the league with 10 triples last season and scored 76 runs.  Getting on base ahead of an improved White Sox top of the order could lead to nearly 100 runs for Eaton.  Jose Abreu had a monster year for a rookie (or for anyone) hitting .317 with 35 2B, 36 HR and 107 RBI.  Any success the Sox have will be directly tied to this pair.
Is This His Last Chance?:
In 2012 Melky Cabrera was on his way to an MVP award until he was suspended for steroids, then lied about it to his teammates, fans and the league.  He was forced into more service than expected because of Blue Jays injuries last season and had a strong year but the tainted 2012 season seems to continue following him around.  If his numbers fall off in a full season his usefulness to other clubs could be questioned.
Prediction: 2nd in AL Central

Kansas City Royals logo Courtesy of Sports Logos.net

Kansas City Royals:

Who's New:  

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS

Nessy Santiago, C (Trade from Blue Jays)
Kendrys Morales, 1B (Free Agent from Mariners)
J.C.Boscan, C (Free Agent from Dodgers)
OUTFIELDERS

Ryan Roberts, OF (Free Agent from Red Sox)
Alex Rios, OF (Free Agent from Rangers)
Alex Liddi, OF (Free Agent from Dodgers)

STARTING PITCHERS

Brian Flynn, SP (Trade from Marlins)
Yohan Pino, SP (Free Agent from Twins)
Kris Medlen, SP (Free Agent from Braves)
Edinson Volquez, SP (Free Agent from Pirates)
Franklin Morales, SP(Free Agent from Rockies)
Chris Young, SP (Free Agent from Mariners)

RELIEF PITCHERS

Joe Paterson, RP (Free Agent from Diamondbacks)

Who Left:  

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS
Billy Butler, DH/1B (Free Agent to A's)
Paul Janish, IF (Free Agent to Orioles)
Brett Hayes, C (Free Agent to Indians)
Jayson Nix, IF (Free Agent to Orioles)
OUTFIELDERS
Josh Willingham, OF (Retirement)
Nori Aoki, OF (Free Agent to Giants)
Justin Maxwell, OF (Free Agent to Giants)
Raul Ibanez, OF (Unsigned Free Agent)
Carlos Peguero, OF (Unsigned Free Agent)
STARTING PITCHERS
James Shields, SP (Free Agent to Giants)
Bruce Chen, SP (Free Agent to Indians)
RELIEF PITCHER
Pedro Ciriaco, RP (Free Agent to Braves)
Blake Wood, RP (Free Agent to Pirates)
Aaron Crow, RP (Trade toMarlins)
Liam Hendricks, RP (Trade to Blue Jays)
Scott Downs, RP (Free Agent to Indians)
Francisley Bueno, RP (Free Agent to Cubs)
Winter Headlines:  
How will they follow up the 2014 success?
What to Expect?:
The Royals surprised quite a few people last year.  Although I had expected them to push Detroit for the Central Division and reach the playoffs, the World Series run was definitely a surprise.  Although their lineup is mostly the same it is not improved.  A healthy Sal Perez should be a nice boost and the confidence of winning last year can't be underestimated but a return to the series is probably a lot to ask.
Why Should You Root for These Guys?:
These guys got so close last year and entertained everyone in the post season.  It is hard to root against this group and it would be nice to see them finish what they started.
Why Might This Season Not Turn Out the Way Royals Fans Want?:
Their ace, James Shields, left and was not replaced.  The pitching staff, despite their strong performance in October, is not at the same level as the competition.  Ventura is probably a future ace but Edinson Volquez and Kris Medlen are not a replacement for Shields.
Don't Expect Too Much From Him:
Jason Vargas out pitched some greatly talented competition in the playoffs but his career numbers don't hold up to last offseason.  He is currently listed as a number two starter in the KC rotation but don't expect his regular season numbers to reflect last year's post season success.
Expect Great Things From:
The Kansas City outfield group is absolutely amazing.  Watching the playoffs last year the defense turned nearly every extra base hit into an easy out.  Expect three gold gloves in the outfield this year.
Prediction: 3rd in AL Central

Minnesota Twins Logo Courtesy of Sports Logos.net

Minnesota Twins:

Who's New:  

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS

Argenis Diaz, SS (Free Agent from Diamondbacks)

OUTFIELDERS

Torii Hunter, OF (Free Agent from Tigers)
Shane Robinson, OF (Free Agent from Cardinals)

STARTING PITCHERS

Ervin Santana, SP (Free Agent from Braves)
RELIEF PITCHERS
Tim Stauffer, RP (Free Agent from Padres)
Brayan Villareal, RP (Free Agent from Red Sox)
Blaine Boyer, RP (Free Agent from Padres)

Who Left:  

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS
Chris Colabello, 1B (Waiver Claim by Blue Jays)

OUTFIELDERS

Jason Kubel, OF (Unsigned Free Agent)
Chris Parmalee, OF (Free Agent to Orioles)

STARTING PITCHERS

Yohan Pino, SP (Free Agent to Twins)

RELIEF PITCHERS

Matt Guerier, RP (Unsigned Free Agent)
Anthony Schwarzak, RP (Free Agent to Indians)
Jared Burton, RP (Free Agent to Yankees)
Winter Headlines: 
Hunter Comes Home
What to Expect?:
The Twins are greatly improved. Adding Torii Hunter, although nearing the end of his career, immediately improves any team.  Adding Ervin Santana to the rotation is also a big help.  Twins fans should expect improvement but a playoff run is a very very long shot.
Why Should You Root for These Guys?:
Joe Mauer and Torii Hunter are two of the classiest guys in the business and neither have won a World Series.  Winning a World Series is not a realistic hope for this team but it is always nice to dream about Torii Hunter lifting the trophy.
Why Might This Season Not Turn Out the Way Twins Fans Want?:
There is some great talent on this team at a range of stages in their career.  Hunter and Mauer are long time stars.  Kurt Suzuki is an under rated talent behind the plate and Trevor Plouffe is a rising star at third.  Still, there is not enough talent and too many holes to consider this a true contending team.
Don't Expect Too Much From Him:
Ervin Santana is a good pitcher who was a bit of a disappointment in his days in Anaheim.  He showed flashes of greatness but he was never able to give the Angels the counterpart to Jared Weaver that was expected when he came up.  Santana will greatly improve the team but he is not a miracle cure.
Expect Great Things From:
My advice to fans of baseball everywhere, not just those who go to Target Field, is to enjoy watching Torii Hunter and Joe Mauer for as long as you can.  Enjoy every base hit, every smile and every magnificent play they give you
Is This His Last Chance?:
Mike Pelfrey continues to plug away in a career that has now reached nearly a decade.  At 55-70 and 4.56 his career numbers don't match what was expected of him when he arrived on the scene in 2006.  Pelfrey is listed on the Twins depth chart as the sixth starter and will need to fight to stay in the rotation.
Prediction: 4th in AL Central

Cleveland Indians logo Courtesy of Sports Logos.net

Cleveland Indians:

Who's New:  

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS
Adam Moore, C (Waiver Claim from Padres)
Brandon Moss, 1B (Trade from Athletics)
Jerry Sands, IF/DH (Free Agent from Rays)
Brett Hayes, C (Free Agent from Royals)
Michael Martinez, IF (Free Agent from Pirates)
OUTFIELDERS
None
STARTING PITCHERS
Gavin Floyd, SP (Free Agent from Braves)
Anthony Swarzak, SP (Free Agent from Twins)
Bruce Chen, SP (Free Agent from Royals)
RELIEF PITCHERS
Jeff Manship, RP (Free Agent from Philies)
Scott Downs, RP (Free Agent from Royals)
Michael Roth, RP (Free Agent from Angels)

Who Left: 

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS
Chris Gimenez, C (Free Agent to Rangers)
Bryan La Hair, IF (Free Agent to Red Sox)
Elliott Johnson, IF (Free Agent to Rangers)
Jason Giambi, IF (Unsigned Free Agent)
OUTFIELDERS
J.B. Schuck, OF (Waiver Claim by White Sox)
Matt Carson, OF (Free Agent to Dodgers)
Chris Dickerson, OF (Free Agent to Blue Jays)
Nyjer Morgan, OF (Unsigned Free Agent)
STARTING PITCHERS
Kyle Davies, SP (Free Agent to Yankees)
RELIEF PITCHERS
Scott Barnes, RP (Trade to Orioles)
Mark Lowe, RP (Free Agent to Mariners)
J.C. Ramirez, RP (Free Agent to Diamondbacks)
Matt Capps, RP (Free Agent to Braves)
Winter Headlines:  
After 2013 success Francona and crew take steps back.
What to Expect?:
With Kansas City and Detroit at the top and Minnesota and Chicago improved, Cleveland may fall o the bottom of the division.
Why Should You Root for These Guys?:
Cleveland has not won a World Series since 1948.  Since then each of their division competitors have won at least one.
Why Might This Season Not Turn Out the Way Indians Fans Want?:
The Indians have done very little to improve their fortunes while the two teams below them have worked hard this off season.  Despite some big expectations when Francona took over this season may be a big step back.
Don't Expect Too Much From Him:
Gavin Floyd has arrived in camp and has impressed the team with his progress.  With Corey Kluber having a break out year in 2014 it would be easy to predict the 1-2 punch Cleveland expected from Kluber and Masterson but realistically Floyd is probably not enough to give the Indians a boost in the standings.
Expect Great Things From:
Lonnie Chisenhall had a breakout season in 2014 with career highs in average, Home Runs, Doubles, RBI and runs.  Expect Chisenhall to continue his strong performance and possibly represent the Tribe at the All Star Game.
Prediction: 5th in AL Central

*-Please be aware that these predictions are based on the rosters as set in the middle of March.  There are still several key free agents unsigned which could alter these previews.  Also, injuries during spring training could alter my outlook.  Don't miss the A.L. East preview of last week.  Check back next week for the AL West Preview and continue following to see my final predictions at the start of the season.

TRIVIA QUESTION:

The Orioles won the American League East in 2012 for the first time since 1997.  The Orioles actually won five of the first six AL East titles (1969, 1970, 1971, 1973 and 1974) only being knocked off by the Tigers in 1972.

They won the AL East two more times (1979 and 1983) before winning again in 1997 and 2014.

This brings the team's totals to 9.

Answer to Last Week's Trivia Question:

The Tigers have won four consecutive Division Titles in the Central.  Since the league went to a divisional format in 1969, how many division titles (AL East and AL Central combined) have the Tigers won?

Players I Love More Than I Should: Outfield: Frank Robinson

If you are just joining the blog don't miss the other players in the Players I Love More Than I Should series: Yogi Berra, Hank Greenberg, Joe Morgan, Cal Ripken and Frank "Home Run" Baker

More than 18,000 players have appeared in Major League Baseball games since the start of the league.  Some players have short careers that last one at bat or one appearance in the field.  Others have 20+ year careers.  As I read more and more about baseball history there are certain players I find myself enjoying reading about more than others.  It is obviously illogical since many of them retired, or in some cases passed away, long before I was even born.  I have no first hand experience in watching some of them play but for whatever reason their personalities and perseverance strikes me above and beyond the other players I read about.  Over the next few weeks I will be giving you short biographical histories*of some of these players.  Some of them will be Hall of Fame players.  Some of them will be players only casual fans may know.  Regardless, I chose one player from each position for this series to explore.  This week we will explore one of the outfielders I chose for the series: Frank Robinson.

Of the more than 18,000 people to play Major League Baseball there are probably ten to fifteen players who could legitimately be considered for the title of "the greatest player ever".  Of course the names of Ruth, Willie Mays, Barry Bonds, Ken Griffey, Jr, Ty Cobb, Lou Gehrig, Ted Williams and Joe DiMaggio come to mind immediately.  Jackie Robinson, Rickey Henderson, Cal Ripken, Sandy Koufax, Rogers Hornsby, Stan Musial and Hank Aaron would probably get quite a few votes. Contemporaries like Jeter and Pujols may get some mention.

The question becomes what makes a great player?  Is it pure individual numbers?  Is it the number of rings you win?  Is it your ability to lead your team quietly behind the scenes when people don't necessarily see it?  Is it your ability to raise the level of accomplishments of the players around you?  Is it your ability to do things no one else has done before?

There is one player who did everything you would want from the greatest player of all time and yet is far too often overlooked in consideration as the greatest player of all time.

-----------------------------------------

"It went all the way out."  Boog Powell told Robby as he settled back on the bench.  "Yeah, right." was the unbelieving response.

540 feet.  180 yards.  Nearly two full football fields. 

Luis Tiant had started his wind up.  It was his normal twisting, turning, bending, contortionist wind up. The arms swung once, twice. The hands came together, the arms went up, the front leg lifted and straightened.  The back leg and the hips twisted towards center as the throwing hand fell by his back hip.  Every motion was disjointed until the whole body flew forward towards the hitter.  Few people could figure it out but Robby swung at the first pitch and it was crushed.  It flew.  Farther.   Faster.   Quicker than anyone in Baltimore had ever seen a ball fly before.  On Sunday, May 7, 1966 Frank Robinson launched the ball that would forever be marked for Orioles fans to remember.  The ball literally left Memorial Stadium, landing in the parking lot 540 feet away.

I can personally remember going to the stadium, sitting in the stands and looking out to the parking lot and seeing that black and orange flag hanging in the stadium parking lot.  It said one word.  "Here".   I can remember watching the thing flapping in the breeze and thinking "does that actually just say 'here'.  What does that mean?"  Then I asked my dad.  "What is that flag out there?"  That was when my dad explained about the day that Frank Robinson hit the ball "HERE" and officially left his mark in Baltimore.  Although it was one of the longest visible marks he left there, it was one of just a million that he left in Baltimore and many other cities throughout baseball history.

Early Success
A few weeks ago we reviewed the career of Joe Morgan, the great Reds second baseman.  Joe was born in Texas but very early in his life moved to the Oakland Bay area.  Frank Robinson had a very similar start in life, although Frank was a bit older than Joe.  Frank was born in Beaumont, TX in 1935.  When his parents divorced his mother moved the children to the bay area.  One can only imagine the discrimination, prejudice and torture the family endured.

Frank was too young to remember the time in Texas and he has said that during his time in the bay area he was unaware of prejudice or bigotry.  It was a tough area to be sure.  Frank told stories of having to fight his way to school and back.  Not far away, just a few years older than Frank, a young Billy Martin was growing up in Berkeley, CA, fighting in street gangs in a very racially charged community.  When Frank was 11 years old Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier and Frank's response at first was "so what?".  Frank loved the game of baseball, dreamed of being a pro player but it had never occurred to him that the game was segregated.  He soon learned the importance of Jackie Robinson. 

He was clearly better than most players in his age group, though he humbly wondered why players he played with never became better players. His father had once told his brothers that Frank would never be good enough to make a big league player.  It drove Frank, as doubts about him would always do, and he used it as motivation to prove his father wrong.  Frank signed with the Reds organization at the age of 17 and was sent to the Ogden, UT team in the Pioneer League and he quickly learned what racism was.  He was one of two non-white players on the team and while all other players had private homes, Frank and Chico Terry were forced to share a tiny hotel room.  As non-white they were not allowed to eat in the local restaurant, go to movies or do any number of things the white players could do.  He couldn't even talk to his roommate who Frank said knew only the word "coffee".

Photo of Frank Robinson courtesy o Sports Illustrated

Frank loved nothing more than to play ball but hearing fans yell disgusting, unspeakable, unrepeatable things at a teenage kid for doing nothing more than trying to hit a ball made him question his place. The loneliness was nearly unbearable.  He had nothing to do but work on his game and think about baseball.  In the 1953 Pioneer League season Frank played in 72 games, hit .348 with 20 doubles, 6 triples and 17 Home Runs.  Not bad for a 17 year old kid far from home and facing the hate filled rages of hicks for the first time.

He moved on to Columbia of the South Atlantic League for next year and if he thought he faced racism in Ogden, it was just an appetizer for the main course of hatred he faced in the 1950's south.  Robby continued to improve his game but as would always be the case, the magnitude of his greatness was never really realized.  Frank would hit .336 with 32 doubles, 9 triples and an amazing 25 Home Runs.  In an era when Home Runs were not yet king, it was nearly unheard of for an 18 year old to hit with so much power.  He played 80 games for Columbia in 1955 and his numbers were not great but there was a reason.  There was a shoulder problem that plagued him.  He was forced to play first base for the first time in his life because, as Frank said, "I couldn't throw the ball ten feet".  Being an African American player in the south was bad enough.  Being an African American player who was performing far below the numbers that were expected was unforgivable.  The abuse he faced was severe and he nearly gave up.  Call it the intervention of the baseball gods.  Call it the determination that only the greatest of the great have.  Call it whatever you want,  Frank did not give up.  He pushed on and "in the last six weeks of the season I hit .390 and hit ten home runs...most important, after all I'd been through, I knew I could play this game, knew I'd never be tempted to quit again."

Ohio is a northern state but it is just across the river from Kentucky, a border state in the Civil War.  Don't forget it was in Cincinnati that Pee Wee Reese put his arm around Jackie Robinson in a silent gesture of support against vicious taunts. It was this city that Frank Robinson started his career and it was a start that few could ever equal.  On a team with Ted Kluszewski, Wally Post, Gus Bell and Ed Bailey, Frank Robinson led the team in almost everything.  He hit more home runs (38) than "Big Klu".  He drove in as many runs (83) as Wally Post.  He scored more runs than anyone else in the league and the Reds finished third in a very close National League race.  Frank Robinson was the youngest All Star player that year and finished in the top ten voting (7th) in the MVP award.  He also won the Rookie of the Year Award.  Who finished second?  No one.  There was no second choice.  A total of 23 votes were cast for the top rookie.  Each and every one was for Frank Robinson. 

Every Rookie of the year hears the same refrain:  watch out for the sophomore slump.  Frank had none of that.  His power numbers dropped (home runs went from 38 to 29) but his average raised from .290 to .322. He made the All Star team again and again finished in the top 10 in MVP voting.  The NL Champion Dodgers fell off dramatically in 1957 but the Reds couldn't seem to take advantage.  The Braves and Cardinals moved up and the Reds finished 4th.

Over the next few years the pattern seemed to be the same.  The Reds showed great talent, led by Robby, Big Klu and Vada Pinson.  They just could not compete with the top of the league as the Braves, Dodgers, Cardinals, Giants and even the Pirates finished ahead of the Reds.  Through these years Frank was still one of the top players in the league.  Considered the second generation of African American players following Jackie Robinson, Larry Doby, Roy Campanella, Don Newcombe, Willie Mays and Joe Black, Frank Robinson dominated the league with the likes of Hank Aaron, Ernie Banks, Willie McCovey and Monte Irvin.  Frank usually hit well above 30 Home Runs, drove in about 80-85 runs (he drove in 120 in 1959) and his average would fluctuate near .300, usually above that mark.

Photo of Frank Robinson Courtesy of Cincinnati.com

Robby and Dumb Wit
Robinson was a clear star in the league as 1960 turned to 1961.Any success the Reds could hope for would have to include Frank.  There was no question.  Robby was a star and a leader in the club house.  However, as a young man in a turbulent time he also had a bit of a temper.  Not one to look for a fight he would certainly protect himself when he was threatened.  Unfortunately, in the craziness of the time, if an African American protected themselves they somehow were in the wrong.  In February 1961 Frank and some friends went out for a night on the town and ended up in a diner late at night.  An altercation led to a friend being arrested and as Frank and another friend returned to retrieve their food the cook made a slashing motion with a butcher knife.  When the cook displayed his weapon of choice, Robby simply showed the cook that he was protected and flashed his pistol.  The cops were called and Frank was arrested.  Humiliated, angry that he did not receive any assistance from the team and left in a cell to think, Frank decided it was time to make some changes in his life.  It was time to grow up and focus all of his energy on fighting the other team.  It was the best news that the Reds could have gotten.  It was the worst news the opposition could have gotten.  Frank Robinson, already dangerous, was now more focused and more determined than ever.  The behind the scenes story of the arrest would lead to a lingering effect however.  When Bill DeWitt, the Reds General Manager,was notified that Robinson was in jail he decided to leave him there for the night.  Frank took great offense, feeling that had it been Kluszewski or another Reds star, DeWitt would have come to bail him out.  A rift was formed that led to Frank forever calling the GM DumbWitt.

The new focus led Frank to dominate even more as he led the Reds to their first World Series since 1940.  Frank hit 37 Home Runs, had a .323 average, drove in 124, scored 117 and even stole 22 bases.  It was a dominant performance and the former Rookie of the Year added a National League Championship and an MVP award to his already illustrious career.  In the World Series of 1961 Frank had a tough time of it.  He hit only .200 as the Yankees pitchers avoided giving him anything good to hit.  In the fifth and final game Frank drove a ball out of the park but the Reds lost 13-5.  It was a disappointing season for a man (and a team) that had their sights set on the ultimate goal.

Over the next three years the Reds would not have as much success.  Frank never dropped from his high standards.  He continued to improve and although the Reds failed to make the post season (they came very close in 1964 as the Phillies collapsed) Frank would continuously be an All Star and MVP candidate.  1965 was the turning point for the Reds, for Frank and for an unsuspecting American League.  His average dropped below .300 (he hit .296), he drove in "only" 113 runs and scored "only" 109. He finished 18th in the MVP voting. The rift between Robinson and Reds Management had only grown wider over the years as disputes over injuries and salary became more and more common.  On December 9, 1965 Bill DeWitt made a decision.  He would end the Frank Robinson era in Cincinnati.  DeWitt cited a youth movement as the key reason for the trade.  When it was pointed out that Frank was only thirty DeWitt responded that yes he was only 30 but it was "an old 30". These words would haunt DeWitt for the rest of his career.  On December 9, 1965 Frank Robinson was traded to the Baltimore Orioles for Jack Baldschun, Milt Pappas and Dick Simpson.  Like his father's statement that Frank would never make a major league player, DeWitt's words provided fuel for Frank's already burning desire to be the best.

The Lord of Baltimore
The Orioles were not known as winners.  They were the old Browns of St.Louis and they had rarely competed since they moved to Baltimore.  They did have a nice little team they were building with Brooks Robinson and Boog Powell and a good young pitching staff, but realistically there was still Mantle and Maris in New York,  Kaline and Cash in Detroit and Olivo, Kaat and Carew in Minnesota.  The Orioles seemed to be way behind the league. Even the Red Sox were starting to build a strong team with an Italian kid named Conigliaro, another named Petrocelli and a Polish kid  with an almost unpronounceable name of Yastrzemski.

When Frank arrived at spring training the Orioles resident star Brooks Robinson could have been a prima dona and staked his claim to the status he had already established.  Instead he walked up to Frank Robinson, stuck out his hand and said "You're just what we needed."  On the first pitch he saw in his first batting practice in Baltimore's spring camp Frank crushed a Home Run and a young Jim Palmer blurted out "I think we just won the pennant."  Frank was driven.  It was a great team.  A team that loved playing together.  They were jokers.  A fun group.  Having a white Southerner named Robinson star next to an African American Robinson lent itself to quite a bit of confusion.  When one reporter confused the two Frank said "can't you tell us apart?  We wear different numbers."  There were some not so funny confused moments.  When Frank moved to town, his wife tried to rent a house.  She called to set up an appointment to view the house and introduced herself as Mrs. Robinson, wife of one of the Orioles.  She was welcomed with open arms until it was realized it was Frank Robinson and not Brooks Robinson.  Due to the racial laws at the time Frank and his wife were rented a far inferior dwelling in "the black section" of Baltimore.  The previous tenants had left holes in the wall and dog shit on the floor.  They had no choice.  It was all they could get.

Photo of Frank Robinson Courtesy of Orioles Nation

Almost immediately the Orioles took flight and shocked the American League.  Several Orioles said they were inspired by Frank's determination.  Several said they never saw a man work so hard.  Others said Frank's Home Run, the one forever marked 'HERE' was the turning point.  Regardless, that was just one of the great moments of Frank Robinson's great season.  On a team with Powell, Brooks Robinson, Paul Blair and Davey Johnson, Frank Robinson led the way and led the league in almost everything possible. He was first in Slugging Percentage, On Base Percentage, Runs Scored, Total Bases, Extra Base Hits, Times on Base.  That list also included batting average, Home Runs and RBI, the three categories of the Triple Crown.  Frank Robinson became the first player to win the Most Valuable Player award in both leagues.

The Orioles won their first AL pennant but the baby birds were a large underdog against Koufax, Drysdale and Maury Wills of the Dodgers.  The first post season game in the Orioles history started in Los Angeles.  Don Drysdale got Luis Aparicio to fly out to right then walked Russ Snyder.  Robby stepped in.  It was a bright LA fall afternoon.  He stood toward the back of the batters box.  Rested the bat on his hip, bent and rubbed some dirt on his hands.  He watched ball 1 come in high.  He had faced Drysdale what seemed like a million times.  Both were strong competitors.  Both were intense, fierce.  Both believed the plate belonged to them.  The second pitch came in and Frank turned on it.  He lifted the ball to left field.  Tommy Davis tracked it to the fence but it was five rows deep.  In classic Ruth-Gehrig fashion, Brooks Robinson followed Frank's blast with a solo of his own.  The O's led 3-0 and would win 5-2.  Game 2 had the Orioles facing Sandy Koufax.  The living legend.  It would be his final appearance in the Major Leagues but he was still Koufax.  Due to one of the most unfortunate innings ever in baseball history (poor Willie Davis) the Orioles took a 3-0 lead.  In the top of the 6th Frank led off with a triple and scored on Boog Powell's single as the O's won the game 6-0.  The Orioles won Game 3 1-0 on a Paul Blair Home Run.  Game 4 saw Don Drysdale take a second crack at the O's.  Robby got a second shot at Big D.  In the 4th with the game tied 0-0 Robby duplicated his Game 1 success with a solo homer to left.  The Orioles won their first World Series and Frank Robinson won the World Series MVP.

1966 World Series Program Courtesy of Baseball Almanac

Injuries limited Frank over the next few years.  It was the knees, concussions, you name it.  It was the hazard of playing full throttle all the time.  The concussion came from a hard slide into second where his head was hit by the knee of the second baseman.  He still had solid numbers and he still was one of the best in the game.  He continued to make his impact on the team in the clubhouse.  He led the kangaroo court and became known as the judge.  He levied fines to players who made mental errors and no one was immune, not even Earl Weaver.  Famously Robinson said in kangaroo court. "Stand up when you address the judge Earl.  Oh, you are standing up."  Robby loved his time in Baltimore with the O's.

He loved playing for Earl Weaver.  The group of Orioles was an intense group, focused.  They would play hard on the field but they would have fun off it too.  In 1969 they finally returned to the top AL perch.  They won over 100 games, swept the first ALCS in history and went into the World Series facing the New York Mets.  Who could believe the Mets could beat the birds?  The Mets could.  The Orioles cruised through the first game and looked to keep going.  Then the miracle happened.  The Mets took games 2, 3 and 4 to take a 3-1 lead in the series. Earl Weaver got so frustrated that he even got kicked out of Game 4.  He almost got kicked out of Game 5 as well.  When Frank got hit on the belt buckle and headed toward first the umpire called him back to the plate and told him it was just a foul ball.  Frank was outraged.  He argued and even walked to the dugout in protest.  He delayed the game for several minutes.  When he went back to the plate he eventually struck out and the Orioles fell to the Mets.

1970 was the redemption season.  The Orioles were again top in the AL, beating the Twins in the ALCS again, and Frank again made the All Star Team and finished in the top 10 in MVP voting.  His numbers were down again as injuries continued to take their toll.  Yet, in the World Series Frank's bat again led the way.  He pounded Reds pitching getting revenge on the organization that discarded him.  Robby hit two home runs, drove in 4 and scored 5 times.  The real star as the O's reclaimed the World Series title was Brooks Robinson's glove.

The golden years of Orioles baseball ended the following year as the golden age of Oakland A's baseball began to dawn.  Frank battled injuries again as the Orioles again won the AL East.  They swept the ALCS, this time against the A's and faced the Pittsburgh Pirates led by Bob Robertson and Roberto Clemente.  Although Frank, fighting, limping and straining, scored a game winning run in the bottom of the 10th of Game 6, The Orioles lost to the Pirates, led by Clemente, in a deciding Game 7.  The golden age of Orioles baseball was over.

Southern California
If Bill DeWitt thought the Orioles were getting an "old 30" when he sent them Frank in 1966, The Orioles found Frank to be an older 35 after the 1971 World Series.  With a young Don Baylor set to spread his wings in Baltimore, the Orioles had to make room in the outfield.  On December 2, 1971 Frank Robinson was traded with Marv Reichert to the Los Angeles Dodgers for Doyle Alexander Bob O'Brien, Sergio Robles and Royle Stillman.  The team that Frank joined was similar to the Orioles team he had joined in 1966.  They were building a strong young team with players like Davey Lopes, Steve Garvey, Ron Cey, Bill Russell and Joe Ferguson.  Drysdale and Koufax were gone replaced by Tommy John and Don Sutton.  Frank poured every ounce of his body into that 1972 season but the Dodgers fell behind the Reds and finished 10.5 games back in second place.  The Dodgers had a strong core and Frank Robinson did not fit in to their future plans.

Still known as a clubhouse leader and still known as a drawing card, the California Angels felt they were getting close to something good in Anaheim.  They sent Ken McMullen and Andy Messersmith to the Dodgers and in return received Frank, Billy Grabarkewitz, Bill Singer, Mike Strahler and Bobby Valentine.  Fortunately for Frank an old friend, former Orioles GM Harry Dalton was now GM in Anaheim and Frank felt he could contribute at the big A.  Another old friend, Vada Pinson, was playing for the Angels as well.  Nolan Ryan won 21 games, Frank was reborn as a DH and finished 15th in MVP voting.  The Angels, however, did not finish so well.  Entering 1974 with the youth of the Angels it was hoped that Frank's intensity would translate into a winning team.

What happened instead was a disaster.  Manager Bobby Winkles was apparently convinced that Harry Dalton had brought Frank in with the idea of making him the manager.  Although Winkles and Frank had some troubles in the first year, Winkles told Dalton in the winter that he had to trade Robinson.  Dalton refused and the environment of the clubhouse was tense and uncomfortable.  The Angels struggled and when Winkles finally called a team meeting he called out Frank specifically and told the entire team that he had demanded that Frank be traded a few months prior.  "I didn't like it at all.  To me, what Winkles was saying was that he couldn't manage with me on the team.  He didn't want me here.  But I haven't asked to be traded, and I wouldn't like for him to be fired."  Winkles was fired and Dick Williams was hired. This relationship started off nicely with Williams naming him  captain but Williams's style of managing and Frank's view on how to run a team clashed.    He didn't have to worry about it long.  In mid September, with the Angels clearly out of the pennant race, Robinson was traded to Cleveland.

Leading the Tribe
He finished 1974 as an Indian with an assurance from the front office that he would receive a contract for the next year.  The contract he received was not what he expected.  It was not just a contract as a player but as a manager as well.  Frank rejected it at first.  Not because he didn't want to manage but because he was being paid the same amount to manage and play as he had received the year before just to play.  He finally worked out an acceptable amount and Frank Robinson, already the first man to win an MVP in both leagues, became the first African American manager.

Photo of Frank Robinson Courtesy of Cleveland Indians.com

Those who read the blog often will remember my earlier question about Lloyd McClendon.  Why do bad teams happen to good people?  The 1975 Indians certainly fit that mold.  They picked up Boog Powell from the Orioles and they had a great pitcher in Gaylord Perry but they had some serious problems.  Frank had seen the problems at the end of the 1974 team when he saw that the African American players and coaches stayed away from the white players and vice versa.  Frank did what he could to change this culture but his journal from this season shows some serious divide on the team.  From the day Frank joined the team in 1974 Gaylord Perry seemed to show resentment at being paid less than Frank.  The resentment increased when Frank became Perry's boss.  Perry refused to do the running required in spring training.  He spoke about his manager and teammates in the press and demanded a trade.  Finally, on June 13, after demanding a trade again, Perry was traded.  It was too late, the Red Sox, Orioles and Yankees were too far ahead.  The Indians were in last place, eight games out of first.  They would finish fourth that year and the following year.  Frank was acknowledged as a great manager but the talent on the team was terrible.  Midway through the 1977 season the Indians made a decision to fire Frank Robinson.

He was a coach for Earl Weaver in Baltimore for several years before his next opportunity came along.  It was in San Francisco, not far from  where he grew up across the bay in Oakland.  He worked hard and expected the same from his players.  He had trouble with some of the players but the bigger problem was something all managers were dealing with at the time.  He was hired by the Giants for the 1981 season and the Giants had rising stars like Jack Clark and Darrell Evans and established stars like Vida Blue.  Frank had to deal with players earning more than he could have imagined as a super star and producing well below the expectations.  Evans and Clark were very unhappy.  Often Frank would call them into his office, talk to them one on one to make sure they were on the same page and get confirmation that the issues were resolved.  He woke up the next morning and saw new quotes from the players blasting the team.  The other problem at the time was drugs.  Frank talked often in his auto biography "Extra Innings" of the moodiness of several players, Vida Blue among them, and the frustration of knowing how good some of these players were not knowing what was stopping them  from reaching their potential.  He later found out that cocaine, amphetamines and steroids were running rampant in the game.

He had great players on the team like Joe Morgan and Reggie Smith, who he knew were the types of players needed to win.  Jack Clark may put up great numbers but Joe Morgan played the game the way you needed if you want to win.  Darrell Evans may hit long Home Runs but so did Reggie Smith and Smith helped the younger players along.  Unfortunately, the management and Frank were not on the same page so Smith moved on to Japan, Morgan moved on to help the 1983 Phillies  win a pennant and Frank was given a poor team.  By the time 1984 ended Darrell Evans was a World Champion with the Tigers, Jack Clark would move on to St. Louis and Frank Robinson was unemployed.

Manager of the Year
"The great irony in all this is that I'm a much better manager than I ever was before and I'm out of a job".  It was true and the statement spoke volumes about Frank.  He knew the game. He had played it better than nearly anyone ever had in the history of the game and yet he still had learned more since he retired as a player.  While Frank was learning to manage the Orioles were learning what life was like A.W. (After Weaver).  Earl Weaver had retired after the 1982 season.  The Orioles immediately hired Joe Altobelli and won the World Series. A year and a half later, half way through 1985, Earl Weaver was back to pick up the pieces but the pieces didn't quite fit the puzzle.  In 1987 Cal Ripken, Sr took over a bad team as manager and the ownership knew it was not a good team.  The team was flat out terrible except for Cal Jr and Eddie Murray.  John Shelby had potential but he was gone by next year and Fred Lynn was well beyond his prime.  So Ripken, Sr. started the 1988 season as skipper of a sinking ship.   The O's lost two straight to the Brewers then were swept in four straight against the Indians.  Although the Orioles had promised Senior a fair chance to manage, he was fired after the sixth game.  He was replaced with Frank.  It was a terrible start to the season.  After 21 games the O's had not won a game.  Not even the 1962 Mets were that bad.  Starting with a 21 game deficit was obviously not a good way to go but there were bright spots by the end of the season.  Mike Boddicker was traded to the eventual AL East champion Red Sox.  In return they got a young lead off hitter named Brady Anderson.  They had a nice young center fielder waiting to be brought up from the minors named Mike Devereaux.  They had a young starting pitching staff with Jeff Ballard, Pete Harnisch, Curt Schilling, Jamie Moyer and a minor leaguer named Mike Mussina.  In the draft they got a good arm in Ben McDonald.  The future was bright.

Photo of Frank Robinson Courtesy of totalprosports.com

The 1989 season was the exact opposite of the 1988 season.  Eddie Murray was gone, replaced by an under rated young first baseman named Randy Milligan who had a career year. Third base, a problem since Brooks Robinson retired, was held down by a rookie sensation Craig Worthington.  Behind the plate Mickey Tettleton, known as the Froot Loop kid for his love of the cereal, teamed with Milligan, DH Sam Horn and Cal Ripken Jr to form a solid middle lineup and Joe Orsulak was a defensive expert in right field.  Add to that a young relief ace named Greg Olson, nicknamed Wild Thing and the team was in first for most of the year.  The magic lasted almost all year but on the final weekend of the season the O's broke a wing and fell to the Blue Jays to finish second in the AL east.  Despite a second place finish the turn around won Frank Manager of the year.  Frank would manage two more years and the expectations were high but the results were disappointing.

He did, however, become an executive in the Orioles organization.  While there he made one of the worst trades in history.  He sent Curt Schilling, Pete Harnisch and Steve Finley to the Houston Astros for first baseman Glenn Davis.  Davis immediately injured his back and played few games while Finley, Harnisch and Schilling went on to tremendous careers.

Frank would get a final chance to manage with a dying organization when MLB took over the Expos organization in 2002.  With little talent and less money he led the Expos to second and fourth place finishes keeping them in the race long past the expectations of the experts and receiving serious consideration as manager of the year.  When the Expos moved to Washington for 2005 Frank became the first manager of the new franchise.  They finished 81-81 but last in the AL East.  The second year in Washington was a 71-91 finish and Robinson was replaced at the end of the year by Manny Acta.

Photo of Frank Robinson as Expos Manager Courtesy of ESPN

Legacy
Frank Robinson retired as a player in 1976.  When all was said and done he had 2943 hits, 586 Home Runs, 1829 runs, 1812 RBI, and a .294 average.  In 1982 Frank Robinson became eligible for the Hall of Fame for the first time, the same year that Hank Aaron became eligible for the Hall of Fame.  Aaron appeared on 97.8 % of the ballots (who the hell were the ones who didn't vote for Hank Aaron as a Hall of Fame player?).  Receiving 89.2% of the votes and being elected on his first ballot was Frank Robinson.  Robby was a leader who elevated the play of those around him and a pioneer who won a triple crown, two MVP's, two World Series rings and became the first African American Manager.  Best of all Frank Robinson is the forgotten man in the conversation for greatest player of all time.

*This is not intended as a full biography and due to space I have done my best to summarize the life of the players in this series.  For further information on Frank Robinson please check out
Videos:
Ken Burns Baseball


Websites:
http://www.baseball-reference.com/
http://www.baseball-almanac.com/
http://sabr.org/

Books:
Extra Innings by Frank Robinson
Pitching, Defense and Three Run Homers:  the 1970 Baltimore Orioles by Society for Advancementof Baseball Research, Mark Armour and Malcolm Allen
The Baltimore Orioles: Four Decades of Magic from 33rd Street to Camden Yards by Ted Patterson
Black and Blue: Sandy Koufax, the Robinson Boys and the World Series that Stunned America by Tom Adelman
Before the Machine:  The Story of the 1961 Pennant Winning Reds by Mark J. Schmetzer
Pennant Race by Jim Brosnan
Anaheim Angels: A Complete History by Ross Newhan
The National Baseball Hall of Fame Almanac (2013 Edition) by Baseball America

TRIVIA QUESTION:

Frank Robinson managed four teams (Indians, Giants, Orioles and Expos/Nationals) for 16 years as a Major League Manager.  He did not make the playoffs as a manager.  How many regular season games did Frank win as a manager?

Answer to Last Week's Trivia Question:

Harry Davis, the original First Baseman of the $100,000 infield began his career in 1895. He was a big part of the 1905 and 1910 Athletics AL Championship teams. By the time the 1911 season rolled around his playing days were mostly over and following the 1914 season he hung around for a few years but played a total of seven games for the Athletics, retiring after the 1917 season.

Last week's article showed us that Baker moved on to the Yankees and played on their first two World Series teams, although he retired before they won their first one in 1923.

Stuffy McInnis stayed with the Athletics until 1917.  He moved onto the Red Sox in 1918 where he was a member of the World Champion Sox team.  He also moved on to Cleveland (1922) and the Boston Braves (1923-1924)  In 1925 he moved on to the Pirates and made strong contributions to the team that beat Walter Johnson, Goose Goslin, Sam Rice and the Senators giving him 2 World Series titles.  He finished with the Phillies in 1927.

Eddie Collins, considered by many as the greatest second baseman of all time, was sent to the White Sox immediately after the 1914 loss.  The White Sox won the 1917 World Series then lost (threw) the 1919 World Series to the Reds.  Collins was not one of the Black Sox and remained the key player on the White Sox until 1926.  He returned to play a few games for Connie Mack again in 1927 and retired in 1930.

Jack Barry, known as Black Jack, was moved to the Red Sox part way through the 1915 season.  He played on the Boston teams that beat the Phillies (1915) and Robins (1916) in the World Series.  Although he was on the 1918 roster he was not active as he was serving in World War I.  

So the final totals: Davis 0, Baker 0, McInnis 2, Collins 1 and Barry 2.  Total: 5

2014 American League Central Preview

***The Division Preview that follows is not betting advice in any way shape or form.  Please do not bet any money based in any part on these predictions.***

Detroit Tigers Logo Courtesy of Sports Logos.net

Detroit Tigers

Who's New?: 

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS
Ian Kinsler (2B) trade from Rangers,
Steve Lombardozi (2B) trade from Nationals,
OUTFIELDERS
Rajai Davis (OF) free agent from Blue Jays,
Ezequiel Carrera (OF) free agent from Indians
Trevor Crowe (OF) free agent from Astros
STARTING PITCHERS
None
RELIEF PITCHERS
Ian Krol (RP) trade from Nationals,
Joe Nathan (RP) free agent from Rangers,
Eduardo Sanchez (RP) free agent from Cubs,
Joba Chamberlain (RP) free agent from Yankees,
Duane Below (RP) free agent from Marlins,
Who Left?:  
CATCHER/INFIELDERS
Prince Fielder (1B) trade to Rangers,
Brayan Pena (C) free agent to Reds,
Jhonny Peralta (SS) free agent to Cardinals,
Omar Infante (2B) free agent to Royals,
Ramon Santiago (IF) free agent to Reds
OUTFIELDERS
None
STARTING PITCHERS
Doug Fister (SP) trade to Nationals,
Jair Jurrjens (SP) free agent to Orioles
RELIEF PITCHERS
Jose Veras (RP) free agent to Cubs,
Joaquin Benoit (RP) free agent to Padres,
Jose Valverde (RP) free agent to Mets
Jeremy Bonderman (RP) unsigned free agent
Octavio Dotel (RP) unsigned free agent
Winter Headlines:
Brad Ausmus replaces Leyland;
Scherzer wins Cy Young becomes trade bait.
Cabrera wins second straight MVP,
Fielder unhappy, replaced by Kinsler.
What to Expect?:
The Tigers were clearly the dominant team in this division.  There has been little competition for the division lead over the last few years (although the White Sox did put up a great fight in 2012).  Yet, for some reason, they don't seem to be able to take that final step.  Last year was unfortunate.  Miguel Cabrera suffered through injuries which slowed him in the post season and Prince Fielder appeared to be pressing to create the offense that Cabrera could not create.  The result was another disappointing end to the season.  Jim Leyland is gone as are Fielder, Omar Infante and Doug Fister.  Justin Verlander injured a core muscle in offseason workouts and required surgery.  With new leadership and Joe Nathan at closer, expect the Tigers to contend yet again but there are some serious concerns with this team starting with the rotation, which has been the foundation of this current run of success.  With Fister gone and Verlander dealing with a potential health issue Scherzer has more pressure than ever to be the team ace.  Verlander is said to be ahead of schedule in recovery but he could be pushing himself to return knowing how close this team is and how important his presence is.  There is a potential that this could turn into a nagging injury.  Any further health issues in the rotation could lead this team to have some major issues.
Why Should You Root for These Guys?:
This team has been amazingly close over the last 8 years.  Some of these players, like Verlander, have been with the Tigers organization through some painful losses.  It would be nice to see this group finally get over the hump.
Why Might This Season Not Turn Out the Way Tigers Fans Want?:
The problems entering this year appear to be the same problems they had last year (and a few extra).  The bullpen is much improved but there are always questions about how long Joe Nathan can last.  Left field is still questionable with Andy Dirks and Rajai Davis.  Catcher is still a question with Alex Avila and the loss of Brayan Pena makes Avila the only option.  Verlander may not be ready for opening day after severely injuring an abdominal muscle and by trading Fister, the Tigers severely lost pitching depth.  There are questions about how Ausmus will impact the team as the new manager.  So although they are still the favorite in this division they have some serious questions and don't be shocked if Kansas City challenges them for the division lead.
Don't Expect Too Much From Him:
Joe Nathan is a very good pitcher and has been for a long time starting with the Twins, followed by  time with the Rangers.  He has had several arm surgeries and had some tough periods over the last few years.  That being said, Nathan has had more good times than bad in his career.  You can expect Nathan to improve what was the Tigers' biggest issue last year, however, don't expect him to be a miracle cure.
Expect Great Things From:
Miguel Cabrera is a special player.  Even with serious nagging injuries last season he was able to contend for the triple crown and lead the Tigers to the brink of a World Series.  Cabrera is one of those players that comes along once in a generation.  At this point in his career he is clearly the top player in the league.
Is This His Last Chance?:
Torii Hunter will turn 39 near the All Star Break.  Hunter is one of the great ambassadors of the game.  He is one of the good guys and one of the most respected players in the game.  Since 1997 Hunter has given his all in every game he has played and has impacted the community in Minnesota, Anaheim and now Detroit.  He has been one of the best players in the league and has accomplished nearly everything in his career except win a World Series.  As the Tigers continue to try to take that final step the question always remains the same: how quickly will the window close on the Tigers and can they win it before Hunter walks away?
Prediction: 1st in AL Central

Kansas City Royals logo Courtesy of Sports Logos.net

Kansas City Royals:

Who's New:  

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS

Brandon Laird (IF) free agent from Astros,

Ramon Hernandez (C) free agent from Blue Jays

Omar Infante (2B) free agent from Tigers, 

OUTFIELDERS

Norichika Aoki (OF) trade from Brewers, 

Melky Mesa (OF) free agent from Yankees,
Carlos Peguero (OF) trade from Mariners

STARTING PITCHERS

John Rauch (SP) free agent from Orioles
Jason Vargas (SP) free agent from Angels,

RELIEF PITCHERS

P.J. Walters (RP) free agent from Twins,
Chris Resop (RP) free agent from Athletics

Who Left:  

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS
George Kottaras (C) traded to Cubs,
Irving Falu (SS) free agent to Brewers,
Jamey Carroll (3B) free agent to Nationals
Chris Getz (2B) free agent to Blue Jays
Carlos Pena (1B) free agent to Angels
Miguel Tejada (SS) unsigned free agent
Emilio Bonifacio (IF) released
OUTFIELDERS
None
STARTING PITCHERS
Ervin Santana (SP) unsigned free agent
RELIEF PITCHER
Will Smith (RP) trade to Brewers,
Winter Headlines:  
Wil Meyers wins Rookie of the Year while Shields struggled.
Slow 2013 start leads to disappointment despite strong finish.
What to Expect?:
Kansas City was excited last year and if it weren't for a slow start their high hopes may have come true.  If they can get consistency from their starters and get off to a decent start the Royals may be able to finish what they started last year.  The Tigers are not the sure thing they were last year and Cleveland is not as strong pitching wise as they were last year.  Kansas City has a legitimate chance to win this division if they avoid the slow start of last year.
Why Should You Root for These Guys?:
The Royals are the opposite of the Yankees, Red Sox and Dodgers.  Kansas City has worked on building their team from the minors up.  They have home grown talent like Moustakis, Butler, Hosmer and Cain.  In an age of teams built to resemble Super Teams, it would be nice to see the teams built like the old days succeed.
Why Might This Season Not Turn Out the Way Royals Fans Want?:
As good as this team could have been last year (or the year before for that matter) they have consistently under achieved over the last few years.  They will need a full team effort to make it to the next step.
Don't Expect Too Much From Him:
Jason Vargas had a few average seasons in Seattle.  After a 14-11, 3.85 ERA 2012, Vargas got a big one year deal from Anaheim and the Angels expected the stronger offense behind him to translate into a higher win total.  It didn't.  A poor Angels team effort, a few injuries and a 9-8 record led to disappointment and Vargas's exit from town.  There will be considerably less pressure on Vargas in KC, similar to the lower expectations he experienced in Seattle, but don't expect Vargas to become an ace.
Expect Great Things From:
James Shields earned the name "Big Game James" in Tampa Bay for a reason.  He was generally acknowledged as the leader of the Rays.  He pitched well last year  and often was a hard luck loser.  His 13-9 record was deceptive as he pitched well enough to win several games he ended up losing early in the year.  If Shields is able to win the close games he lost last year, the Royals can likely punch their post season tickets.
Prediction: 2nd place in AL Central.  AL Wild Card

Cleveland Indians logo Courtesy of Sports Logos.net

Cleveland Indians:

Who's New:  

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS
David Adams (IF) free agent from Yankees,
Elliott Johnson (IF) free agent from Braves
OUTFIELDERS
David Murphy (OF) free agent from Rangers,
Jeff Francoeur (OF) free agent from Giants
STARTING PITCHERS
Shaun Marcum (SP) free agent from Mets,
Aaron Harang (SP) free agent from Mets
RELIEF PITCHERS
Colt Hynes (RP) trade from Padres,
J.C. Ramirez (RP) free agent from Phillies,
Mike Zagurski (RP) free agent from Yankees,
John Axford (RP) free agent from Cardinals,
Josh Outman (RP) trade from Rockies
David Aardsma (RP) free agent from Yankees
Scott Atchison (RP) free agent from Mets

Who Left: 

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS
Lou Marson (C) free agent to Phillies,
Omir Santos (C) free agent to Pirates
Kelly Shoppach (C) unsigned free agent
OUTFIELDERS
Drew Stubbs (OF) trade to Rockies,
Jason Kubel (OF) free agent to Twins,
Ezequiel Carrera  (OF) free agent to Tigers
STARTING PITCHERS
Scott Kazmir (SP) free agent to A's,
Ubaldo Jimenez (SP) free agent to Orioles
RELIEF PITCHERS
Joe Smith (RP) free agent to Angels,
Matt Albers (RP) free agent to Houston,
Chris Perez (RP) free agent to Dodgers,
Clay Repada (RP) free agent to Angels
Brett Myers (RP) realeased
Rich Hill (RP) free agent to Red Sox
Winter Headlines:  
Francona wins Manager of the Year over Farrell.
Carlos Santana rumored to move to third, oddly all back up catchers sign elsewhere
Masterson masterful, Jimenez and Kazmir leave the reservation
What to Expect?:
Terry Francona is clearly one of the best managers of this generation.  He took a Philadelphia Phillies team that was short on talent to the brink of a division title in 2001. He took the Red Sox from the lovable losers to the dominant team in the league. He took the Cleveland Indians from a struggling, underachieving team to a playoff berth in one year.  The Indians have lost some talent but expect Francona to have this team fighting for a playoff spot.  The problem is there may not be enough pitching here to get the success they saw last year.
Why Should You Root for These Guys?:
Over this offseason I have had the opportunity to watch some old games available on line.  Two of the games I have watched were Game 6 of the 1995 World Series and Game 7 of the 1997 World Series.  In both games, Cleveland's hopes were crushed when it appeared that they were on the brink of success.  In 2007 the Indians led the Red Sox three games to one in the ALCS when the Red Sox made a miraculous come back.  The Indians history (with the exception of 1920 and 1948) is one of near misses.  It would be nice to see the tribe come out on top after years of close calls.
Why Might This Season Not Turn Out the Way Indians Fans Want?:
The Indians were able to win despite a shaky pitching staff for most of the year.  Justin Masterson was spectacular but Jimenez was inconsistent and there was little behind them.  The Indians have lost Scott Kazmir to the A's and Jimenez to the Orioles and have no one at this point to replace them.  The starting rotation could be the achilles heel.
Don't Expect Too Much From Him:
David Murphy was a strong signing by the Indians. He is a good outfielder and should fit in nicely in their lineup.  He could be a nice complement to Michael Bourn at the top of the lineup but his power numbers are not eye popping and his average is usually in the mid .200's. Murphy is a good player but don't expect him to be the piece that puts Cleveland over the top.
Expect Great Things From:
Asdrubal Cabrerra had an off season last year but he is one of the more under rated Shortstops in the league. Cabrerra's numbers were down but he still contributed greatly to the success of the team.  Expect Cabrera to have a bounce back year and help this team stay in contention.
Is This His Last Chance?:
The Indians took a chance in signing John Axford.  Although he had a decent end to the season with the Cardinals, Axford has not been the same pitcher he was when he helped the Brewers reach the NLCS.  If he does not find a way to regain that effectiveness he may not have another chance to close.
Prediction:3rd in AL Central

Minnesota Twins Logo Courtesy of Sports Logos.net

Minnesota Twins:

Who's New:  

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS

Kurt Suzuki (C) free agent from Athletics

OUTFIELDERS

Jason Kubel (OF) free agent from Indians,

STARTING PITCHERS

Rickey Nolasco (SP) free agent from Dodgers,
Phil Hughes (SP) free agent from Yankees,
Kris Johnson (SP) trade from Pirates
RELIEF PITCHERS
Matt Guerier (RP) free agent from Cubs

Who Left:  

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS

OUTFIELDERS

Clete Thomas (OF) free agent to to Phillies,

STARTING PITCHERS

Liam Hendricks (SP) waiver claim by Cubs,

RELIEF PITCHERS

Cody Eppley (RP) free agent to Pirates,
Pedro Hernandez (RP) free agent to Rockies,
P.J. Walters (RP) free agent to Royals,
Duke Welker (RP) traded to Pirates
Winter Headlines: 
Joe Mauer moves to 1B
Pitching staff completely rebuilt
What to Expect?:
Twins fans certainly should expect improvement.  For one thing the rotation is set this year, while last year it was up in the air from day one.  Improvement and a vision for the future are the keys for this Twins team. A playoff berth is probably a very long shot but a third place finish and a winning record is probably a better goal.
Why Should You Root for These Guys?:
There's an old saying that class shows.  The Twins certainly fit that saying.  This organization, dating back to their days in Washington, have always had a classy reputation.  If nothing else you can look at the key players in franchise history: Killebrew, Puckett, Viola, Kaat, Grant, Mauer and Mourneau.  Or you can look at the two men who have led this team for the last 30 years: Kelly and Gardenhire.  I am not a Twins fan but with the class that this organization always displays it is hard to root against them.
Why Might This Season Not Turn Out the Way Twins Fans Want?:
The Twins have certainly done what they can to add veteran leadership to the pitching rotation with Hughes and Nolasco to join Pelfrey.  The Twins are certainly an improved team but with Cleveland, Kansas City and Detroit in this division it would be hard to imagine the Twins finishing in a playoff spot this year.  This team has a very strong farm system with many players a few years away from contributing.  This could be a strong team in the future, but this year would be a surprise.
Don't Expect Too Much From Him:
Phil Hughes has played with some legends in New York and the expectations for Hughes when he came to the big leagues were tremendous.  He has not lived up to the expectations, likely because the expectations were unfairly high.  Hughes is a very good pitcher but he had a terrible 2013 (4-14, 5.19 ERA) and he is certainly better than that.  Expect Hughes to help improve the Twins staff but don't expect 20 wins..
Expect Great Things From:
Joe Mauer is the face of this franchise and has been for several years.  If you had to choose a Mount Rushmore of Minnesota Twins it would probably be Harmon Killebrew, Kirby Puckett, Jim Kaat and Joe Mauer.  Mauer will be moving to first base this season to avoid the daily pounding his body takes when catching.  Expect the health benefits to help translate into better offensive numbers.
Is This His Last Chance?:
Similar to Phil Hughes, Mike Pelfrey had high expectations when he joined the Mets in 2006.  The Mets were a strong playoff contender at the time and it was hoped he would develop into the new ace.  Instead he has struggled.  A big part of his struggles have to do with the poor teams he has played with but there is only so much blame you can shift for 7-13 and 5-13 seasons.  Pelfrey certainly has an opportunity to be the leader of this team but he may not have many chances left to prove he can do it.
Prediction:4th place in AL Central

Chicago White Sox Logo Courtesy of Sports Logos.net

Chicago White Sox
Free Agents:  Ramon Truncoso (RP).

Who's New: 

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS

Jose Abreu (1B) free agent,
Alex Liddi (1B) free agent from Orioles,
OUTFIELDERS
Adam Eaton (OF) trade from Diamondbacks,
Matt Davidson (OF) trade from Diamondbacks,
STARTING PITCHERS
RELIEF PITCHERS
Jairo Ascencio (RP) free agent from Orioles,
Zach Putnam (RP) free agent from Cubs,
Ronald Belisario (RP) free agent from Dodgers,
Scott Downs (RP) free agent from Braves
Mitchell Boggs (RP) free agent from Rockies

Who Left: 

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS

Travis Ishikawa (1B) free agent to Pirates,
Angel Sanchez (IF) released
Bryan Anderson (C) free agent to Reds

OUTFIELDERS

Addison Reed (OF) trade from Diamondbacks,
Dewayne Wise (OF) released

STARTING PITCHERS

Hector Santiago (SP) trade to Angels, 

Gavin Floyd (SP) free agent to Braves, 

RELIEF PITCHERS
Ramon Truoncoso (RP) unsigned free agent

Winter Headlines:  
The Big Hurt gets a big honor (Frank Thomas voted into the Hall of Fame)
What to Expect?:
It is hard to believe that this team was in first place for the greater part of the 2012 season.  Clearly the loss of Jake Peavey and A.J. Pierszynski and the under achievement of Alex Rios hurt this team last year.  They certainly are a better team by adding Adam Eaton and Jose Abreu but don't expect  this team to contend this season.
Why Should You Root for These Guys?:
Paul Konerko and Adam Dunn are veterans nearing the end of their career.  Each has made major contributions to the White Sox organization and although Konerko won a title with the 2005 White Sox, Dunn is still looking for his first ring.
Why Might This Season Not Turn Out the Way White Sox Fans Want?:
This team just doesn't have the pitching to compete in this division.  There were few improvements made to a bad team from last year while even the Twins looked to improve their staff.  This could be a very long season and may lead to a major shift in identity for the team.  This could be the last year for Dunn and Konerko.
Don't Expect Too Much From Him:
Adam Eaton came to the White Sox in a trade with the Diamondbacks.  Eaton has tremendous talent and a lot was expected from him in Arizona.  The problem is that the talent level around him in Chicago is much less than in Arizona.  He won't have the support with the White Sox that he would have enjoyed with the Diamondbacks.
Expect Great Things From:
Chris Sale is the clear ace of this team.  In fact, on most teams he would be the ace.  Although his 11-14 record was more a reflection on the team behind him, Sale had a tremendous year.  Expect Sale to continue his growth with a better season and better record.
Is This His Last Chance?:
Adam Dunn and Paul Konerko are nearing the end of their careers.  Konerko considered retirement but decided to come back for at least one more year.  At some point the Sox will need to build a new identity without Dunn and Konerko.  Sox fans should enjoy the ride while it lasts.
Prediction:5th Place in AL Central.

*-Please be aware that these predictions are based on the rosters as set in the middle of February.  There are still several key free agents unsigned which could alter these previews.  Also, injuries during spring training could alter my outlook.  Don't miss the A.L. East preview of last week.  Check back next week for the AL West Preview and continue following to see my final predictions at the start of the season.

TRIVIA QUESTION:

Major League Baseball went to the three divisional format in 1994.  Since that time the teams in the American League Central have changed slightly after expansion and realignment.  What teams have played in the American League Central?

Answer to Last Week's Trivia Question:

Major League Baseball created the American League East in 1969.  The first team from the division to win the World Series was the Orioles in 1970.  They would also win the World Series in 1983.  (That makes 2).  The Red Sox have won the World Series twice (2004 and 2007) bringing the total to 4.  The Blue Jays won back to back World Series titles in 1992 and 1993 bringing the total to 6.  The Tigers won the 1984 World Series as a member of the AL East raising the number to 7.  The Yankees have won the most World Series coming out of this division.  The pinstripes won the 1977, 1978, 1996, 1998, 1999, 2000 and 2009 World Series as a member of the division doubling the number to 14 for the total answer.