2015 American League West Predictions

***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,  American League East, and American League Central previews and check back next week for the Final Predictions.

Seattle Mariners Logo Courtesy of Sports Logo.net

Seattle Mariners

Who's New:

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS

Carlos Rivera, IF (Waiver Claim from Red Sox)
Rickie Weekes, 2B (Free Agent frrom Brewers)
John Baker, C (Free Agent from Cubs)

OUTFIELDERS

Nelson Cruz, OF (Free Agent from Orioles)
Justin Ruggiano, OF (Trade from Cubs)
Seth Smith, OF (Trade from Padres)
Shawn O'Malley, OF (Free Agent from Angels)
STARTING PITCHERS
J.A> Happ, SP (Trade from Blue Jays)
Joe Saunders, SP (Free Agent from Orioles)
Kevin Correia, SP (Free Agent from Dodgers)
RELIEF PITCHERS
Justin Germano, RP (Free Agent from Dodgers)
Mark Lowe, RP (Free Agent from Indians)
Rafael Perez, RP (Free Agent from Pirates)
Mike Kickham, RP (Waiver Claim from Cubs)

Who Left:  

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS

Justin Smoak, 1B (Free Agent to Blue Jays)
Kendrys Morales, 1B (Free Agent to Royals)
Humberto Quintero, C (Free Agent to Red Sox)

OUTFIELDERS
Xavier Avery, OF (Free Agent to Tigers)
Michael Saunders, OF (Trade to Blue Jays)
Cory Hart, OF/DH (Free Agent to Pirates)
Chris Denorfia, OF (Free Agent to Cubs)
Xavier Nady, OF (Released)

STARTING PITCHERS
Blake Bevan, SP (Free Agent to Diamondbacks)
Brandon Maurer, SP (Trade to Padres)
Chris Young, SP (Free Agent to Royals)

RELIEF PITCHERS

Logan Kensing, RP (Free Agent to White Sox)
Joe Beimel, RP (Free Agent to Rangers)
Winter Headlines: 
Mariners look to navigate the waves to the front of a watered down West.
What to Expect?:
With the improvements made and the money spent combined with the weakened competition Mariners fans should expect October baseball.  The top of the lineup with Austin Jackson, Kyle Seager, Robinson Cano and Nelson Cruz is definitely impressive.  The pitching staff is the key.  Felix Hernandez is still king but will the rest of the rotation hold up?  Iwakuma and Taijuan Walker had injuries last year.  Still, if they can get healthy, with the addition of J.A. Happ, this could be a very strong rotation and could push Seattle into the post season.
Why Should You Root for These Guys?:
Seattle entered the league in 1977 and have watched a parade of other teams beat them to the World Series.  Since the Mariners came into the league the Phillies, Royals, Twins, Marlins, Padres, Diamondbacks, Angels, Astros, Rockies, Rays and Rangers have either reached or won (or both) their first World Series.  The Mariners have never even reached the World Series.  In fact, the Tampa Bay Rays, who beame the pinnacle of bad play in the late 1990s-early 2000s and have only been in existence for 17 years, have already had more post season success than Seattle.  It's time for something to go right in the Pacific Northwest.
Why Might This Season Not Turn Out the Way Mariners Fans Want?:
There are questions about the health of Iwakuma and Walker and everything rests on their arms.  If the rotation breaks down this team could falter.
Don't Expect Too Much From Him:
Kyle Seager had a break out year in 2014 winning a Gold Glove, All Star appearance and consideration for the MVP.  Although his RBI were up significantly from 2013, the rest of his numbers did not have a significant jump.  He certainly benefitted from having Cano in the lineup and having Austin Jackson and Nelson Cruz in the lineup won't hurt but don't expect a drastic jump in numbers.
Expect Great Things From:
Felix Hernandez is still King Felix.  Despite having Cy Young caliber years every year, four other All Star appearances and a perfect game, 2014 may have been his best year yet.  At 15-6 and a 2.14 ERA his pitching kept Seattle in the Wild Card race and his durability was much needed in a year where the other starters suffered injuries.
Prediction:1st in AL West

Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim Logo Courtesy of Sports Logos.net

Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim:

Who's New:  

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS

Drew Butera, C (Trade from Dodgers)
Josh Rutledge, IF (Trade from Rockies)

OUTFIELDERS

Daniel Robertson, OF (Trade from Rangers)
Matt Joyce, OF (Trade from Rays)

STARTING PITCHERS

Nick Torpeano, SP (Trade from Astros)
Cesar Ramos, SP (Trade from Rays)
Andrew Haney, SP (Trade from Marlins)
Adam Wilk, SP (Free Agent from Pirates)
Zach Stewart, SP (Free Agent from Braves)

RELIEF PITCHERS

Atahualpo Severino RO (Free Agent from Braves)
Alex Sanabia, RP (Free Agent fromm Marlins)
Scott Snodgress, RP (Free Agent from White Sox)
Ryan Mattheus, RP (Free Agent from Nationals)
Matt Lindsrom, RP (Free Agent from White Sox)

Who Left:  
CATCHERS/INFIELDERS
Hank Conger, C (Trade to Astros)
John Hester, C (Free Agent to Phillies)
Howie Kendrick, 2B (Trade to Dodgers)
Gordon, Beckham, 2B (Free Agent to White Sox)
Ian Stewart, SS (Free Agent to Nationals)
John Buck, C (Free Agent to Braves)
John McDonald, IF (Retired)
OUTFIELDERS
Brennan Boesch, OF (Free agent to Reds)
Tony Campana, OF (Free Agent to White Sox)
Shawn O'Malley, OF (Free Agent to Mariners)
STARTING PITCHERS
Wade LeBlanc, SP (Free Agent to Japan)
Chris Volstad, SP (Free Agent to Pirates)
Randy Wolf, SP (Unsigned Free Agent)
RELIEF PITCHERS
Michael Kohn, (Free Agent to Braves)
Jairro, Diaz, RP (Trade to Rockies)
Kevin Jepsen, RP (Trade to Rays)
Joe Thatcher, RP (Free Agent to Astros)
Buddy Boshers, RP (Free Agent to Rockies)
Dustin Richardson, RP (Free Agent to Dodgers)
Jason Grilli, RP (Free Agent to Braves)
Michael Roth, RP (Free Agent to Indians)
David Carpenter, RP (Free Agent to Braves)
Sean Burnett , RP (Unsigned Free Agent)
Dane De La Rosa, RP (Free Agent to Orioles)
Jarrett Grube, RP (Unsigned Free Agent)
Winter Headlines: 
Players recovering from injuries leads to a million questions
What to Expect?:
The thing working in the Angels' favor is that this is now a very weak division.  While I certainly expect them to hang around the top, they may need to make some in-season moves to be able to make the playoffs and certainly if they wan to advance.
Why Should You Root for These Guys?:
The Angels are often the "forgotten" California team in the league.  The A's Giants and Dodgers have the winning histories with multiple World Series wins each and even San Diego has the baseball world buzzing with their big spending this winter.  in the west coast mix, the little town of Anaheim gets lost in the noise.
Why Might This Season Not Turn Out the Way Angels Fans Want?:
The A's have weakened themselves greatly and the Astros are probably a few years from a playoff run but the Angels are heading into the season with health questions of several key players. Josh Hamilton is coming off an injury plagued year.  Garrett Richards had a nasty knee injury and Jared Weaver (whether he admitted it or not) was not the same after leaving a start early with a back injury. Pujols has struggled with injuries since arriving in Anaheim and the lineup has lost a leader in Howie Kendrick. A healthy group could be frightful group to the AL West but injury questions are everywhere on this team.
Don't Expect Too Much From Him:
Garrett Richards seemed to have gotten everything working his way last year and would have gotten consideration by many for a Cy Young. His record was at 13-4 with a 2.61 ERA when his season ended with an injury.  He finally was able to get in some mound work on 2/26 but the team limited him to about 50 pitches.  It would be great to see him pick up where he left off but the truth is we will have to wait and see.
Expect Great Things From:
Mike Trout is probably the top player in the game.  You will get some argument for Miguel Cabrera or Andrew McCutcheon (and I could probably be persuaded to vote for McCutcheon as well) but Trout is clearly one of the top in the game.  Expect Trout to be in the MVP discussions again this year.
Is this his last Chance?
Josh Hamilton and C.J. Wilson both signed big contracts with the Angels in a year that looked like the team would walk to a division title.  Neither has performed to their expectations.  Wilson was knocked around in the ALDS last year leading Angels fans to sour even farther on him.  Hamilton has battled injuries and slumps and comes into camp with an injury plagued off season again.  The Angels want to win with these two but if the season goes sour they may be shipped somewhere else.
Prediction: 2nd in AL West

Oakland Athletics Logo Courtesy of Sports Logos.net

Oakland Athletics

Who's New?: 

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS

Billy Butler, DH (Free Agent from Royals)
Ike Davis, 1B (Trade from Pirates)
Brett Lawrie, 3B (Trade from Blue Jays)
Semien Marcus, IF (Trade from White Sox)
Josh Phegley, C (Trade from White Sox)
Chris Bassitt, C (Trade from White Sox)
Luke Montz, C/DH (Free Agent from Red Sox)
Niuman Romero, IF (Free Agent from Orioles)
Ben Zobrist, IF (Trade from Rays)
OUTFIELDERS
Andrew Brown, OF (Waiver Claim from Mets)
Jason Pridi, OF (Free Agent from Rockies)
Nick Buss, OF (Free Agent from Diamondbacks)
STARTING PITCHERS
Rudy Owens, SP (Free Agent from Astros)
Brad Mills, SP (Free Agent from Blue Jays)
Kendall Graveman, SP (Trade from Blue Jays)
Sean Nolin, SP (Trade from Blue Jays)
Jesse Hahn, SP (Trade from Padres)
RELIEF PITCHERS
Kevin Whelan, RP (Free Agent from Tigers)
Ryan Verdugo, RP (Free Agent from Red Sox)
Eury De La Rosa, RP (Trade from Diamondbacks)
Tyler Clippard, RP (Trade from Nationals)

Who Left?: 

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS

Adam Dunn, DH (Retired)
Josh Donaldson, 3B (Trade to Blue Jays)
Brandon Moss, 1B (Trade to Indians)
Alberto Callaspo, 3B (Free Agent to Braves)
Jed Lowrie, SS (Free Agent to Astros)
Kyle Blanks, 1B (Free Agent to Rangers)
Daric Barton, 1B (Free Agent to Blue Jays)
Derek Norris, C (Trade to Padres)
Luke Montz, C (Free Agent to Red Sox)
Geovanny Soto, C( Free Agent to White Sox)
Nick Punto, IF (Free Agent to Diamondbacks)
John Jaso, C (Trade to Rays)
Yunel Escobar, SS (Acquired from Rays with Ben Zobrist, Traded to Nationals for Tyler Clippard)

OUTFIELDERS

Nick Buss, OF (Free Agent to Diamondbacks
Johnny Gomes, OF (Free Agent to Braves)
STARTING PITCHERS
Josh Lindblom, SP (Waiver Claim by Pirates)
Jeff Samardzjia, SP (Trade to White Sox)
Jason Hammel, SP (Free Agent to Cubs)
John Lester, SP (Free Agent to Cubs)
RELIEF PITCHERS
Joe Savery, RP (Free Agent to White Sox)
Luke Gregerson, RP (Free Agent to Astros)
Winter Headlines:
After going all in for the 2014 pennant, A's look all out for 2015
What to Expect?:
This team has lost a lot of the heart of the playoff team that competed the last few years.  Cespedes, Donaldson, Moss and Barton are all gone.  Even the late season acquisitions that the A's fans believed would put them in the Fall Classic walked away in the offseason.  You should never count Billy Beane out, and this is a very weak division, but the A's likely do not have enough to compete.
Why Should You Root for These Guys?:
As always, this is a Cinderella team.  They don't have the budget that the Yankees, Red Sox, Tigers and Angels (or even the Mariners) have and have found ways to win the old fashioned way: smart minor league scouts and smart free agent pick ups.
Why Might This Season Not Turn Out the Way Athletics Fans Want?:
Pitching depth is a serious issue.  Past Sonny Gray the rotation looks like a mess.  Jarrod Parker is expected out until June and their number 2 starter is Scott Kazmir.  With Seattle and Houston improving the A's may find themselves near the bottom of this division.
Don't Expect Too Much From Him:
At one time Scott Kazmir had the stuff of an ace.  When he was traded to Tampa Bay as a prospect from the Mets, fan outrage played a big part in Jim Duquette getting fired.  When he was traded to the Angels in 2009 some felt the Angels punched their ticket to the Series.  His career fell apart after that and 2014 was a big step back towards reaching his potential with a 15-9 record and 3.55 ERA.  Realistically though he was too inconsistent to count on as a true #2 starter.
Expect Great Things From:
After a14-10 season Sonny Gray is now expected to be an ace for this team.  In what will be his second full year in the majors, Gray will be expected to take a major step into the leadership role and be the leader of this staff.  Expect him to be an All Star for this team.
Is This His Last Chance?:
Coco Crisp has been at the center of the A's rebirth the last few seasons.  He has suffered through some extreme pain with neck and back injuries over the last year but somehow was still able to help this team reach the post season.  Now entering his 14th Major League season, injuries may limit his production.
Prediction: 3rd in AL West.  

Texas Rangers Logo Courtesy of Sports Logo.net

Texas Rangers:

Who's New:  

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS
Chris Gimenez, 1B (Free Agent from Indians)
Kyle Blanks,1B (Free Agent from Athletics)
Thomas Field, IF (Free Agent from Pirates)
Elliot Johnson, IF (Free Agent from Indians)
Carlos Corporan, C (Trade from Astros)
OUTFIELDERS
Antoan Robinson, OF (Free Agent from Yankees)
Nate Schierholtz, OF (Free Agent from Nationals)
Carlos Peguero, OF (Free Agent from Royals)
Ryan Ludwick, OF (Free Agent from Reds)
STARTING PITCHERS
Ross Detwiler, SP (Trade from Nationals)
Yovani Gallardo, SP (Trade from Brewers)
Anthony Ranaudo, SP (Trade from Red Sox)
RELIEF PITCHERS
David Martinez, RP (Free Agent from Astros)
Anthony Bass, RP (Free Agent from Astros)
Ross Detwiler, RP (Trade from Nationals)
Kyuji Fujikawa, RP (Free Agent from Cubs)
Mitch Atkins, RP (Free Agent from Braves)
Ross Ohlendorf, RP (Free Agent from Nationals)
Joe Beimel, RP (Free Agent from Mariners)
Jamey Wright, RP (Free Agent from Indians)
Juan Carlos Oviedo, RP (Free Agent from Rays)

Who Left:  

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS

J.P. Arencibia, C (Free Agent to Orioles)
Josh Wilson, IF (Free Agent to Tigers)
Mike Carp IF/OF (Free Agent to Nationals)
Carlos Pena, 1B (Unsigned Free Agent)
Kevin Kouzmanoff, 3B (Unsigned Free Agent)
Brad Snider, 1B (Unsigned Free Agent)
Luis Sardinas, IF (Trade to Brewers)
OUTFIELDERS
Daniel Robertson, OF (Trade to Angels)
Alex Rios, OF (Free Agent to Royals)
Bryan Peterson, OF (Free Agent to Brewers)
Engel Beltre, OF (Free Agent to White Sox)
STARTING PITCHERS
Scott Baker, SP (Free Agent to Yankees)
Aaron Poreda, SP( Released)
Miles Mikolas, SP (Released)
Phil Irwin, SP (Released)
Robbie Ray, Jr, (Trade to Red Sox)
RELIEF PITCHERS
Justin Marks, RP (Free Agent to Diamondbacks)
Nate Adcock,RP (Free agent to Reds)
Scott Barnes RP (Free Agent to Blue Jays)
Wilmer Font, RP (Free Agent to Rangers)
Alexi Ogando, RP (Free Agent to Red Sox)
Neal Cotts, RP (Free Agent to Brewers)
Zack Segovia, RP (Free Agent to Padres)
Ryan Feirebrand, RP (Unsigned Free Agent)
Alfredo Figaro, RP (Unsigned Free Agent)
Pedro Figueroa, RP (Unsigned Free Agent)
Matt West, RP (Waiver Claim by Blue Jays)
Corey Knebel, RP (Trade to Brewers)
Ben Rowan, RP (Free Agent to Dodgers)
Winter Headlines:  
Nightmare season of 2014 is over but have the Rangers woken up?
What to Expect?:
Many Rangers fans had big expectations heading into last season.  Adding Fielder and Choo to the lineup were expected to keep this team in contention.  Injuries doomed all hopes from the start of spring training and only got worse as the year went on.  This team will certainly be improved from last year's injury derailed year but this is not a playoff team.
Why Should You Root for These Guys?:
Everything that could have gone wrong last year did go wrong.  Ace pitchers were out for the year.  Big free agent signings were either injured or didn't perform.  Their "can't miss" prospects missed and their manager resigned mid season.  After such a negative year it would be nice to have something positive happen in Texas.
Why Might This Season Not Turn Out the Way Rangers Fans Want?:
The glory days of Young-Kinsler-Cruz seem like a distant memory at this point, though they were only a few years ago.  There is still talent on this team but the attitude and spirit of this organization seems to be drastically different.  They will need someone to spark this team if they want to avoid the basement.
Don't Expect Too Much From Him:
Prince Fielder is a star in this league and when healthy is one of the best in the game.  Last year was  night mare for Fielder.  After having played well over 500 straight games Fielder missed most of the year.  Let's not kid ourselves.  This injury was serious.  He had serious neck and back surgery.  A neck and back that is strained with every big swing the big man takes.  Personally, I am rooting for Fielder to have a monster season because I like the guy.  The realist in me says there is a real possibility that his back and neck may not make that possible.
Expect Great Things From:
Elvis Andrus is quietly the veteran of this team and one of only a handful of players from the World Series teams remaining.  He may not get the recognition he should and he may not get an All Star appearance but anyone who enjoys watching baseball should enjoy watching Elvis.
Is This His Last Chance?:
Colby Lewis was a major part of the Rangers' World Series teams.  Although Cliff Lee and C.J. Wilson got most of the recognition, Lewis was a major part of the success.  Injuries limited his availability in 2012 and 2013 and undoubtedly played a part in the collapse of the team.  Lewis reached double digits in wins for the first time since the World Series year of 2011 but he unfortunately also lost a league high 14.  The Rangers need solid pitching to compete but it is unclear whether Lewis can provide it.
Prediction: 4th in AL West

Houston Astros Logo Courtesy of Sports Logos.net

Houston Astros

Who's New:  

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS

Hank Conger, C (Trade From Angels)
Dan Johnson, 1B (Free Agent from Blue Jays)
Jed Lowrie, SS (Free Agent from Athletics)
Evan Gattis, C (Trade from Braves)
Luis Valbuena, 3B (Trade from Cubs)

OUTFIELDERS

Colby Rasmus, OF (Free Agent from Blue Jays)

STARTING PITCHERS

Will Harris, SP (Waiver Claim from Diamondbacks)
Pat Nesheck, SP (Free Agent from Cardinals)

RELIEF PITCHERS

Luke Gregerson, RP (Free Agent from Athletics)
Roberto Hernandez, RP (Free Agent from Dodogers)
Dan straily, RP (Trade from Cubs)

Who Left:  

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS

Jesus Guzman, IF (Unsigned Free Agent)
Carlos Corporan, C (Trade to Rangers)

OUTFIELDERS

Dexter Fowler, OF (Trade to Cubs)

STARTING PITCHERS

Rudy Owens, SP (Free Agent to Athletics)
RELIEF PITCHERS
Paul Clemens, RP (Free agent to Phillies)
David Martinez, RP (Free Agent to Rangers)
Jose Cisnero, RP (Free Agent to Reds)
Nick Torpeano, RP (Trade to Angels)
Anthony Bass, RP (Free Agent to Rangers)
Jose Veras, RP (Free Agent to Braves)
Matt Albers, RP (Free Agent to White Sox)
Jesse Crain, RP (Free Agent to White Sox)
Kyle Farnsworth, RP (Unsigned Free Agent)
Mike Foltynewicz, RP (Trade to Braves)
What to Expect?:
Expect improvement.  The Astros have a strong young crop of players on their way but this is still not a playoff contender.
Why Should You Root for These Guys?:
Since the end of the Bagwell-Berkman-Biggio days, this franchise has gone through hell.  They are rebuilding from the ground up and it would be nice to see some  youthful grins in the post season,
Why Might This Season Not Turn Out the Way Astros Fans Want?:
It likely won't.  With the weak division they are currently in there is always the chance of a surprise success but they are probably a year or two away.
Don't Expect Too Much From Him:
Evan Gattis surprised a lot of people in 2013 with his success behind the plate in Atlanta.  He improved in a lot of ways in 2014.  In Houston he will be playing Left Field, not catching, and will have to adjust to the AL pitchers.  Expect him to be a solid contributor but don't expect him to lead the team to the post season.
Expect Great Things From:
Jose Altuve won a batting title last year, the first Astros player to do so.  Despite playing on some very poor Houston teams, Altuve is one of the best players in the league.  Unfortunately playing in Houston has kept him under rated in the national spotlight.
Prediction:5th place in AL West

*-Please be aware that these predictions are based on the rosters as set at the end of February.  There are still several key free agents unsigned which could alter these previews.  Also, injuries during spring training could alter my outlook.  Check back next week for the NL East Preview and continue following to see my final predictions at the start of the season.  

TRIVIA QUESTION:

Mike Trout won the 2014 MVP. Since 1969 when the league moved to the division format, how many times has the American League MVP come from the American League West ?

Answer to Last Week's Question:

The Tigers first won the AL East title in 1973, although they lost to the A's in the ALCS.  They would not win again until 1984 when they would beat the Royals in the ALCS and the Padres in the World Series.  

Their third division title came in 1987 when they won the division in dramatic fashion on the last weekend of the season.  They then lost to the Twins in the ALCS.

Following 1987 the Tigers fortunes took a bad turn and they fell to the bottom of the league.  They would not win another division title until 2011.  They have won every year since.  The four straight division titles gives them 7 division titles overall.

2014 American League West 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.***

Don't forget to check out the American League East and American League Central Previews and check back next week for the National League East Preview. 

Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim Logo Courtesy of Sports Logos.net

Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim:

Who's New:  

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS

David Freese (3B) trade from Cardinals,
John McDonald (IF) free agent from Red Sox
Yorvit Torrealba (C) free agent from Rockies

OUTFIELDERS

Raul Ibanez (OF) free agent from Mariners,
Brennan Bosch (OF) free agent from Yankees
Chad Tracy (OF) free agent from Nationals

STARTING PITCHERS

Tyler Skaags (SP) trade from Diamondbacks, 

RELIEF PITCHERS

Wade LeBlanc (RP) from Houston,
Chris Volstad (RP) from Rockies,
Joe Smith (RP) free agent from Indians,
Frenando Salas (RP) trade from Cardinals,
Hector Santiago (RP) trade from White Sox,
Clay Repada (RP) free agent from Indians
Brandon Lyon (RP) free agent from Red Sox

Who Left:  
CATCHERS/INFIELDERS
Chris Nelson (3B) free agent to Reds
OUTFIELDERS
Peter Bourjos (CF)  trade to Cardinals,
Mark Trumbo (DH/OF) trade to the Diamondbacks,
Brad Hawpe (OF) released
STARTING PITCHERS
Jason Vargas (SP) free agent to Royals,
Jerome Williams (SP) free agent to Astros
Barry Enright (SP) free agent to Phillies
Tommy Hanson (SP) free agent to Rangers
RELIEF PITCHERS
Daniel Stange (RP) free agent to Nationals
Robert Coello (RP) free agent to Yankees
Juan Gutierrez (RP) free agent to Giants
Tommy Hanson (RP) released
Ryan Madson (RP) unsigned free agent
Scott Cousins (RP) free agent to Red Sox
Winter Headlines: 
New coaching staff: Don Baylor, Gary DiSarcina.
Pujols says ankle is 99.9 percent healthy.
Trout best player in the league?
Rebuilt bull pen.
Mark Mulder looks good in comeback attempt until injury ends experiment.
What to Expect?:
People in southern California are frustrated.  The Angels paid big money for C.J. Wilson and Pujols in 2012 and for Hamilton in 2013.  Add to that the spectacular additions of young talent Peter Bourjos, Mark Trumbo and Mike Trout and theoretically this should be a World Series contender every year.  Instead, Trumbo and Bourjos are gone and the Angels are on the verge of losing their manager and General Manager.  The addition of Angels legends Don Baylor and Gary DiSarcina to the coaching staff may help take some pressure off of Scioscia and a healthy Pujols and Weaver should play a big part as well.  If the revamped bullpen can support closer Ernesto Frieri this team may reach their potential.  Although the top three teams in this division are very close all three have pitching issues and the Angels seem to have the offense that will get them past the pitching issues.
Why Should You Root for These Guys?:
The perception is that this is an underachieving, over paid group of guys.  Realistically, the payroll is high but these are professional guys who have suffered through difficult injuries and have fought hard to come up just short several years in a row.  Each year they seem to get off to a slow start and have bullpen troubles that put them far enough behind that they can't catch up.
Why Might This Season Not Turn Out the Way Angels Fans Want?:
The Angels have added Raul Ibanez to the outfield for some insurance.  Alberto Callaspo had been a solid third baseman for several years in Anaheim but they have upgraded with David Freese. The problem, as it has been the last three years, is the bullpen.  The pitching staff has been the big reason for the struggles in the big A and although it has been greatly revamped for the upcoming season there are still major questions.
Don't Expect Too Much From Him:
Josh Hamilton's numbers were down greatly from his days in Texas.  If we're being honest the season was a bit of a disaster for him.  The more he struggled the harder he seemed to work and the worse the season got.  The stories this winter are that Hamilton is working hard and has refocused on training and is ready for a big season, though he is already injured this spring and may miss up to two weeks.  That being said, don't expect 40 Home Runs and 120 RBI's but 20-25 Home Runs and 90-100 RBI is a reasonable expectation.
Expect Great Things From:
Albert Pujols, according to most people, has been a disappointment for the first two years of his big contract.  In reality it is a false perception. True, his first month of 2012 was a slow month but Pujols greatly improved over the rest of the season.  Although the team did not reach the playoffs it was largely due to the bullpen and not Pujols.  Albert's numbers were down greatly last year but Pujols was trying to play through a major foot injury that was clearly effecting him.  At times it appeared to be painful for Pujols to even jog from the dug out to first base.  After a surgery to repair the foot and an off season program expect Pujols to come back strong.
Prediction:1st in AL West

Oakland Athletics Logo Courtesy of Sports Logos.net

Oakland Athletics

Who's New?: 

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS

Nick Punto (IF) from Dodgers,
Fernando Abad (IF) free agent from Nationals,
OUTFIELDERS
Craig Gentry (OF) trade from Rangers,
Sam Fuld (OF) free agent from Rays
STARTING PITCHERS
Philip Humber (SP) free agent from Astros,
Scott Kazmir (SP) free agent from Indians,
Josh Lindblom (SP) trade from Rangers,
Drew Pomeranz (SP) trade from Rockies
RELIEF PITCHERS
Luke Gregerson (RP) trade from Padres,
Jim Johnson (RP) trade from Orioles,
Eric O'Flaherty (RP) free agent from Braves

Who Left?: 

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS

Jemile Weeks (2B) trade to Orioles, 

Kurt Suzuki (C) free agent to Twins

Scott Sizemore (2B) free agent to Yankees

OUTFIELDERS

Chris Young (OF) free agent to Mets,
Michael Choice (OF) trade from Rangers,
STARTING PITCHERS
Bartolo Colon (P) free agent to Mets,
Brett Anderson (SP) trade to Rockies,
RELIEF PITCHERS
Seth Smith (RP) trade to Padres,
Jerry Blevins (RP) trade to Nationals,
Hideki Okajima (RP) free agent to Japan,
Grant Balfour (RP) free agent to Rays
Pedro Figueroa (RP) released
Chris Resop (RP) free agent to Royals
Pat Neshek (RP) free agent to Cardinals
Winter Headlines:
Retooled Pitching Staff.
What to Expect?:
The A's and Billy Beane have surprised people two years in a row.  In 2012 they shocked the Rangers by winning the division on the last day with a budget team.  They retooled the team for 2013 and surprised everyone again.  For 2014 they have again revamped the team.  Expectations should be tempered as some of the new acquisitions, like Scott Kazmir, Jim Johnson and Craig Gentry have had major ups and downs in their career.
Why Should You Root for These Guys?:
Billy Beane always seems to find a way to win on a small budget.  Anyone who roots for a team that is not in a major market should be rooting for this group.  While the Rangers and Angels (and in some cases even the Mariners) seem to be spending at will, the A's are winning the old fashioned way.
Why Might This Season Not Turn Out the Way Athletics Fans Want?:
As good as the team has been the last few years, they have not exactly dominated the west.  The Angels truly should have won this division the last three years and the A's allowed the Rangers to hang around late in the season both seasons before winning the division late.  With a retooled pitching staff there are still major questions.
Don't Expect Too Much From Him:
Jim Johnson was a big acquisition from the Orioles.  Johnson was an All Star and nearly perfect when the Orioles made the playoffs in 2012 but struggled at times in 2013.  He will be replacing Grant Balfour, who played a major part in Oakland's success the last few years.  Don't expect Johnson to dominate the way Balfour did.
Expect Great Things From:
There was a perception last year that Yoenis Cespedes had a big fall off when his average dropped from .290 to .240.  True, the average was a big drop due mostly to injuries, but despite the low average, Cespedes managed to improve in Home Runs and Runs Scored and was only 2 RBI behind his rookie pace.  A healthy Cespedes could compete for an MVP.
Is This His Last Chance?:
Scott Kazmir has had an interesting career.  He was involved in a trade from the Mets to the Rays that basically got Jim Duquette fired as GM in New York. The pressure on Kazmir to become the ace of the Rays staff were tremendous and as the Rays went from joke to contender, Kazmir played a big part.  When he was traded to the Angels, it was expected that he would be the final piece for an Angels dynasty.  That quickly turned into a 9-15 season followed by stints in the minors and a year in Colorado.  Last year Kazmir went 10-9 for an Indian playoff team but it was hardly what was expected of Kazmir when he entered the league.  With big playoff hopes in Oakland this year Kazmir will need to prove he can fulfill the potential that was once seen in him.
Prediction: 2nd in AL West.  American League Wild Card

Texas Rangers Logo Courtesy of Sports Logo.net

Texas Rangers:

Who's New:  

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS
Prince Fielder (1b) trade from Tigers,
J. P. Arincebia (C) free agent from Blue Jays,
Brent Lillibridge (3B) free agent from Yankees,
Josh Wilson (SS) free agent from Diamondbacks,
OUTFIELDERS
Michael Choice (OF) trade from Athletics,
Kensuke Tanaka (OF) free agent from Giants,
Shin Soo Choo (OF) free agent from Reds,
STARTING PITCHERS
Tommy Hanson (SP) free agent from Angels
RELIEF PITCHERS
Jose Contreras (P) free agent from Red Sox,
Justin Germano (RP) free agent from Blue Jays,
Mike Mikolas (RP) trade from Pirates
Pedro Figueroa (RP) waiver claim from Athletics
Daniel Bard (RP) free agent from Cubs

Who Left:  

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS

Brendan Harris (IF) free agent to Dodgers,
Lance Berkman (DH/1B) retired
Jeff Baker (IF) free agent to Marlins
Ian Kinsler (2B) trade to Tigers,
A.J. Pierzynski (C) free agent to Red Sox,
Chris McGuinness (IF) trade to Pirates
OUTFIELDERS
David Murphy (OF) free agent to Indians,
Craig Gentry (OF) trade to A's,
Nelson Cruz (OF) free agent to Orioles
STARTING PITCHERS
Josh Lindblom (SP) trade to A's,
Matt Garza (SP) free agent to Brewers
RELIEF PITCHERS
Joe Nathan (RP) free agent to Tigers,
Travis Blackley (RP) unsigned free agent.
Winter Headlines:  
Profar or Andrus?  Answered by trade of Kinsler
Fielder impact over Kinsler tenure.
Rangers show lack of loyalty again.
Choo chooses Rangers
What to Expect?:
What to expect is a great question.  The Rangers seem to surprise people one minute and disappoint people the next.  Texas lost several key players this year again (Pierzynski, Murphy, Gentry, Nathan, Cruz and Kinsler) but they made some major moves as well (Choo and Fielder).  Last year when Hamilton and Young were allowed to leave Michael Young complained that the Rangers ownership had a lack of loyalty to their players. When Kinsler was traded it appeared that Young's charges could be applied again.  Ron Washington has done a great job as manager but at what point does the ownership allow too many of their long time veteran leaders to get away?  In addition to the loss of leaders through trades and free agency there is the pitching issues.  Derek Holland, looked on as the number two starter (and was looked at as the key to the rotation) will be out until near the all star break making a questionable rotation even more of a liability.
Why Should You Root for These Guys?:
Ron Washington is one of the best managers in the game and he constantly has this team in contention. Like Joe Maddon in Tampa, Washington is often able to do more with less.  After surprising everyone with a 2010 World Series appearance and coming within inches of winning it all in 2011 the Rangers had a disappointing end to 2012 and 2013.  For the few who remain from those teams it would be nice to see them win.
Why Might This Season Not Turn Out the Way Rangers Fans Want?:
Despite adding Fielder and Choo the Rangers may have lost too much.  It is not just the number of players that have left since the World Series appearances it is more a matter of the heart and soul that has left.  The World Series teams were led by Hamilton, Kinsler, Young, C.J. Wilson, Colby Lewis, Elvis Andrus, Nelson Cruz, Adrian Beltre and Cliff Lee.  Only Andrus and Beltre remain from that group.  It is true that Fielder and Choo will be strong additions but neither seems to have the leadership quality of the men who have left.  The pitching staff, past Yu Darvish, is a mess.  The team was relying heavily on  Derek Holland (who was only 10-9 in 2013) who will now be out until the All Star Break after having leg surgery and the bullpen appears to be a jigsaw puzzle with no real closer.  They will try using Neftali Feliz as closer again but the results have been hit or miss each time he tries to fill that position.  Although this is a strong team the pitching is the main reason I am picking them third.
Don't Expect Too Much From Him:
Jurickson Profar has been pretty much anointed as the next great middle infielder.  The team even decided to move one of the faces of the franchise to allow him to play full time.  Granted it was a small sample size in 2013 but he only hit .234.  Profar will likely be much better than that small sample size (and his defense should get him consideration for a Gold Glove) but don't expect him to replace Kinsler's numbers.
Expect Great Things From:
Prince Fielder may not be the leader that Kinsler and Young were but his numbers may skyrocket in Texas.  The balls in Texas seem to fly farther faster during the summer months than in most parks and with Fielder's power you can expect his Home Run and RBI totals to soar.
Is This His Last Chance?:
Neftali Feliz has been the off and on closer for the last few years.  He was expected to contribute greatly to the Rangers last season but injuries sidelined him  for the better part of the year.  Feliz will have little time to ease back into the position as Joe Nathan has left for Detroit.  Feliz will need to be near perfect for the Rangers to compete.
Prediction: 3rd in AL West

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Seattle Mariners

Who's New:

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS

Robinson Cano (2B) free agent from Yankees, 

Logan Morrison (1B) trade from Marlins,

John Buck (C) free agent from Pirates

OUTFIELDERS

Wilie Bloomquist (OF) free agent from Diamondbacks,
Corey Hart (OF) free agent from Brewers,
Cole Gillespie (OF) free agent from Cubs,
STARTING PITCHERS
Scott Baker (SP) free agent from Cubs
Zach Miner (SP) free agent from Phillies
RELIEF PITCHERS
Ramon Ramirez (RP) free agent from Rays
Logan Kensing (RP) free agent from Rockies

Who Left:  

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS

Henry Blanco (C) free agent to Diamondbacks,
Kendrys Morales (1B/DH)  unsigned free agent

OUTFIELDERS

Raul Ibanez (OF) free agent to Angels
Jason Bay (OF) released
Carlos Peguero (OF) trade to Royals

STARTING PITCHERS
Oliver Perez (SP) unsigned free agent
Joe Saunders (SP) unsigned free agent

RELIEF PITCHERS

Carter Capps (RP) trade to Marlins,
Winter Headlines: 
Poor Lloyd McClendon.
Cano asks for respect.  Gets money instead.
Can the top three starters lead to a surprise Mariners success.
What to Expect?:
Why do bad teams happen to good people?  Lloyd McClendon may be a good manager but it will be hard to tell.  McClendon is getting his second chance at managing and for the second time he will be taking over a team that has little chance to win.  The Mariners potentially have a great top of their rotation with Hernandez, Iwakuma and a young Taijuan Walker.  Although Iwakuma and Walker are already injured in spring training and will be out for an unknown amount of time.  These three (when healthy) should keep the Mariners in many games but the bullpen and offense may not be strong enough to win all of the games started by these three.  The Mariners spent a lot of money to get Cano from the Yankees but there is little hope that his numbers will be good enough to help this team compete with the rest of the division.
Why Should You Root for These Guys?:
There are some likable players on this team, like Felix Hernandez, who have been with this team for a long time and have seen some truly low times.  The Mariners often make a loud off season noise but it rarely works out for them.  The Mariners have been around since 1977 and have had very few moments to celebrate.
Why Might This Season Not Turn Out the Way Mariners Fans Want?:
Although the Mariners made a big splash with Cano and some smaller ripples with signings like Corey Hart, and Logan Morrison, there is still not enough talent here to compete with the top three in this division. The strength of the team was intended to be the starting pitching with Hernandez, Iwakuma and Walker.  With Walker and Iwakuma already suffering injuries this season could  dissolve before it even starts.
Don't Expect Too Much From Him:
Robinson Cano is a great player but there is very little support in Seattle.  With fewer big bats in the lineup it would be odd to expect the opposition to pitch to him in dangerous situations. Expect Cano to hit 20-25 Home Runs but don't expect him to raise a world series trophy in Seattle.
Expect Great Things From:
Felix Hernandez is one of the top pitchers in the league and regardless of how bad the team behind him is King Felix will always shine.  Hernandez's numbers will be great but don't expect those numbers to automatically translate into wins.
Is This His Last Chance?:
Lloyd McClendon is getting his second chance to manage but unfortunately he is getting a well below average team.  McClendon is a good manager but often managers who lead bad teams don't get many chances to prove they can manage.
Prediction:4th in AL West

Houston Astros Logo Courtesy of Sports Logos.net

Houston Astros

Who's New:  

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS

Jesus Guzman (1B) trade from Padres, 

Cesar Izturis (SS) free agent from Reds

OUTFIELDERS

Dexter Fowler (OF) trade from Rockies,

Adron Chambers (OF) free agent from Cardinals

STARTING PITCHERS

Scott Feldman (SP) free agent from Orioles,
Jerome Williams (SP) free agent from Angels

RELIEF PITCHERS

Anthony Bass (RP) trade from Padres,
Pete Moylan (RP) free agent from Dodgers,
Chad Qualls (RP) free agent from Marlins,
Matt Albers (RP) free agent from Indians,
Jesse Crain (RP) free agent from Rays

Who Left:  

CATCHERS/INFIELDERS

Brandon Laird (IF) free agent to Royals,

Matt Pagnozzi (C) free agent to Brewers, 

Ryan Jackson (IF) trade to Padres,

OUTFIELDERS

Brandon Barnes (OF) trade to Rockies

Trevor Crowe (OF) free agent to Tigers

STARTING PITCHERS

Philip Humber (SP) to Athletics,
Jordan Lyles (SP) trade to Rockies,
Eric Bedard (SP)free agent to Rays
RELIEF PITCHERS
Wade LeBlanc (RP) to Angels,
Edgar Gonzalez (RP) free agent to Reds
What to Expect?:
The Astros are making efforts to improve. They have upgraded their bullpen with Pete Moylan, Chad Qualls and Matt Albers.  They have improved their offense and defense with Dexter Fowler and they are working hard to improve the team.  Listening to their first spring training game the other night, the Astros announcers talked about the improved attitude this year.  There is much more optimism and a feeling of a light at the end of the tunnel.  The realistic truth is they are probably a few years away from competing for a division or wild card spot but their improvement makes this division the toughest in the AL.
Why Should You Root for These Guys?:
The Astros organization has come close to winning it all several times but they have rarely, in their brief history, been this far from competition.  It would be nice to see them surprise some people for the benefit of some players who are under rated stars.
Why Might This Season Not Turn Out the Way Astros Fans Want?:
The team has improved from two years ago to last year and the improvement should continue this year but truth be told it is not enough at this point to compete.  The offense and bullpen have been improved but the starting pitching is still atrocious.  The Astros are working on a five year plan and this year may be the tipping point to either confirm they are moving in the right direction or to tell them to scrap it all and start over.
Don't Expect Too Much From Him:
Dexter Fowler is easily the biggest addition the Astros have made but there is not enough in the lineup or rotation to expect Fowler to make a drastic impact.  Fowler will definitely improve the team and will likely benefit Jose Altuve in the lineup but Fowler will not lead this team to the playoffs.  At least not this year.
Expect Great Things From:
Jose Altuve is probably the most under rated second baseman in the league.  He may not have huge power numbers (he has only 14 Home Runs in three years) and his strike outs are a bit higher than you would normally like for a top of the lineup guy but Altuve is on the verge of becoming a great player.  Expect Altuve to hit near .300, steal 30 bases and hit about 25-30 doubles.  With some extra help in the lineup from Fowler, Altuve could take the next step in becoming a star in the league.
Prediction:5th place in AL West

*-Please be aware that these predictions are based on the rosters as set at the end of February.  There are still several key free agents unsigned which could alter these previews.  Also, injuries during spring training could alter my outlook.  Check back next week for the NL East Preview and continue following to see my final predictions at the start of the season.  

TRIVIA QUESTION:

The Angels, Athletics and Rangers have great offenses but their pitching staffs leave a lot to be desired.  Seattle has a great top of their rotation but little offensive support.  Pitching clearly is the key in this division.  How many American League West pitchers have won the Cy Young Award?

Answer to Last Week's Question:
Congratulations to TJD for last week's trivia question.

The American League Central division was founded in 1994 and contained the White Sox, Twins, Royals, Indians and Brewers.  When the league expanded to add the Diamondbacks and Devil Rays in 1998 there was a need to move one American League team to the National League to avoid having uneven numbers in each league.  The Brewers were moved to the National League Central.  The Tigers moved from the American League East to the American League Central.  The division has remained in that format since then.

The Home Stretch 2013: American League

With just under two months left in the season we can clearly separate teams that are legitimate contenders from the teams that are playing out the string. We can also start to see that some players we expected to be difference makers are having an average, below average or just horrible season. Here is a review of where we stand so far this year in the National League as well as a mid season report card on how my original predictions have helped prepare you for the season and how I have led you astray:

American League East:
Heading into this season it appeared that any team had a chance to win this division and that this was the closest division in baseball.  My final predictions from top to bottom were Blue Jays, Rays, Yankees, Red Sox, Orioles.  Here is where my predictions stand:

Blue Jays: 
When we reviewed Toronto, I told Blue Jays fans to expect the best, especially from Jose Reyes.    Unfortunately, Jose Reyes has been hurt for the greater part of the season and did not return until late June.  Without Reyes and with a somewhat surprisingly shaky pitching staff, the Jays have languished in last place.  The Jays were able to win 11 straight in mid June and climb back to within 6 games of first but a poor series in Boston to end the month hurt them in the standings.  The Jays are long out of the race and will need to look to next year.  In the annual preview you may recall that I mentioned it may be the last chance for Rickey Romero.  Unfortunately Romero has pitched in only two games, both starts, and lasted a combined 4 1/3,  He allowed six runs in the four innings and was charged with a loss in both.  Romero is currently in the minors trying to find the formula that made him a top prospect in the majors.  Fortunately for the Jays fans the ownership seems to believe in sticking it out with this group.  After a year of playing together next year could be a drastic improvement.
First Half Grade: D- (this is not at all what they had planned)

Rays: 
My original preview had the Rays third behind New York and Toronto but after severe injuries to the Yankees, the final prediction was the Rays in second behind Toronto.  The Rays hovered in the middle of the division for most of the season but are still within striking distance, even having spent some time in first place.  Joe Maddon has again found ways to win despite losing major pieces of the team in the off season.  Even with David Price suffering through injuries, Fernando Rodney no where near as effective as last year and Evan Longoria hurting his leg in late June, the Rays have stayed near the division lead.  In the yearly preview I mentioned that it was time for James Loney to step up and he has.  As of the end of June, Loney had a .309 average, 9 HR and 39 RBI.  That has since gone up to .314 with 10 HR and 55 RBI.
First Half Grade: B (about as expected but overcoming the injuries to Longoria and Price makes me believe Maddon will never run out of magic tricks.)

Yankees: 
This has been a tough year for the Yankees.  People were not exactly ecstatic when the Yankees picked up Travis Hafner, Vernon Wells and Lyle Overbay. The three less than appreciated players did a lot to keep the Yankees in the pennant race, although they slowed down after mid June.  For the most part the players you expect to be great (Sabathia, Cano, Rivera) are great but Pettite, Phil Hughes and Ichiro are well below what the Yankees need.  Although Brett Gardner has not done great things as I had predicted, he is having a solid season hitting above .280 at the end of June (although that has now dropped to .270).  The big issue for the Yankees all year has been injuries.  Jeter, Texeiria, Granderson, ARod and Youkilis have all missed the majority of the season.  Given the A-Rod distraction and the patchwork lineup, what this season has shown more than anything, is the talent of manager Joe Girardi.  Even with all this, they are still not out of the playoff race yet.  They are a long shot to make it but there is always that Yankees mystique.
First Half Grade: B+ (although the numbers don't reflect it this team has achieved better than could be expected with the number of players missing time.  It is not a playoff team but they should be proud of what they have accomplished with so little consistency).

Red Sox: 
I told you at the beginning of the year that any team could win this division but Boston was probably the least likely of all.  I told you that this was a rebuilding year but so far I have been completely wrong.  The Red Sox have led the division most of the season and have had somewhat surprising success.  Their offense is being led by Pedroia and Ortiz.  I had told you in the season preview that it was time for Jon Lester and Clay Bucholz to step up.  Fortunately for the Red Sox, both of them have.  There are two issues looming over the Red Sox: injuries and closer.  The team has seen Lackey, Lester and Bucholz struggle with injuries which could mean struggles in the late parts of the long season.  Their big pickup at the trade deadline was Jake Peavey who is amazing when healthy but rarely healthy.  The closer position is currently up in the air.  With Joel Hanrahan out Andrew Bailey was asked to fill the role but it did not work out.  Koji Uehara is currently the closer but how he will handle the rest of the year could define how this season ends for the Sox.
First Half Grade: A (Well above expectations but injuries could prove costly in the long season)

Orioles: 
Last season the Orioles some how found a way to win.  Close games, extra innings, dramatic wins.  They did it all with a rotation that was never truly set.  I told you in the preview that this was not a formula that can work again and that the instability of the rotation was a reason the Orioles were unlikely to compete for the top spot again this year.  The Orioles have already used 14 starting pitchers, their closer is 3-7 and has not had the same success as last year, and Matt Wieters is struggling at the plate.  So they're in last place right?  Actually, thanks to Chris Davis, Adam Jones and Manny Machado the Orioles are only 2.5 behind the Wild Card and with the Red Sox injuries the Orioles are poised to make a charge.  I had told you not to expect too much from Manny Machado but I could not have possibly been more wrong.  Machado can seemingly do everything.  The absolute star of the season to this point is Chris Davis he leads the league in Home Runs and is already past the 100 RBI mark.  The lesson you should take away from all this:  Never question Buck Showalter EVER!
First Half Grade:  A (They are fighting for a Wild Card spot and if Wieters can find his swing this team is dangerous)

American League Central
In the preseason preview I told you that the division would look this way at the end of the season:  Tigers, Royals, Indians, White Sox, Twins.  The Tigers looked like they would run away with the division.  There are both surprises and disappointments in this division. Here is where my predictions stand:

Tigers: 
The Tigers are now starting to break away from the rest of the division but the Indians hung around much longer than expected.  Detroit's offense is about where we thought it would be.  Although Prince Fielder is not on pace to be the MVP as I predicted, his numbers are strong.  On pace for the MVP award, however, is Miguel Cabrera.  Although he has fallen slightly behind Chris Davis in Home Runs, he is still in the running for a second straight Triple Crown and could be a serious threat to Hack Wilson's 190 RBI (or Hank Greenberg's 183 AL Record.  That's right.  I found another way to get Hank Greenberg into an article.)  Austin Jackson struggled through some injuries early but the combination of Jackson and Hunter at the top of the lineup has been a big part of the Tigers success.  Torii Hunter, although not putting up Cabrera type numbers, continues to be a positive influence on the team and should receive a few votes as MVP for his leadership.  The biggest pleasant surprise for the Tigers in Max Scherzer.  At 17-1 it would be hard to find a pitcher who deserves a vote ahead of Scherzer for the Cy Young at this point.  The big issue for the Tigers is closer.  They have already gone through several, including another attempt to get Jose Valverde back on track, but have yet to find an answer.  The results of their decision on who will close will decide their fate in history.
First Half  Grade:  B+ (the closer situation is the only thing keeping this team from being complete)

Royals: 
This had been a huge disappointment of a season until the All Star Break.  They certainly are not out of the playoff race and they have started to turn things around, but this team was in danger of falling by the wayside.  The Royals sent their top prospect, Wil Meyers, to Tampa Bay in exchange for Wade Davis and James Shields.  The Royals made an organizational decision that they were close to the playoffs and the pitching would put them over the top.  Although Shields and Davis have pitched relatively well the offense has not supported them, leading to average numbers.  Ervin Santana has pitched well but has not been enough to lead the Royals to the top of the division.  For the division preview I told you that the Royals success was dependent on their young players meeting their potential together.  The start of the season did not have anywhere near the results they expected leading to the firing of the Hitting Coach and replacing him with Royals legend George Brett.  Winning 16 of 18 has put them right back in the race for a Wild Card spot and possibly even the divison.  The Royals are still within striking distance but the bats will need to stay hot if they are going to make the playoffs.
First Half Grade: C (With the exception of the last month the Royals' offense has been very disappointing)

Indians:  Cleveland is a very interesting team.  Justin Masterson at 13-8 is the best pitcher on the team.  No other pitcher has more than 8 wins.  Ubaldo Jimenez has an ERA over 4.00 but has a winning record.  Mark Reynolds is tied for the team lead in Home Runs but is hitting .215, passed the 100 strikeout mark by the All Star Break and was just released.  The closer position has been in flux but Chris Perez has 17 saves.  Michael Bourn, Jason Kipnis and Drew Stubbs have been running all over the base paths but the team Home Run numbers are not particularly impressive.  What the Indians are doing is what good winning teams do.  They find ways to win without relying on the Home Run.  There is an old cliche that says "speed never slumps" and the way the Indians are playing they are using it to their advantage.  The Indians are definitely for real.  A four game sweep by the Tigers hurt but if they can get consistent pitching from Jimenez and the closer position the Tigers may have a season long competition.
First Half Grade: B+ (Terry Francona has this team playing well and believing they can win)

White Sox: My season preview told you that the White Sox might want to start looking at rebuilding.  I told you it would be tough for Tyler Flowers to fill the shoes of Pierzynski, that Dunn's numbers would come down, that Chris Sale would not have the same success as last year, that Jake Peavey needed to stay healthy and that Paul Konerko would be his normal spectacular self.  As of the end of June I can see that I was right on nearly all of these.  At the beginning of August, Dunn has  good power numbers but is hovering around .200 and over 100 strikeouts.  Chris Sale is only 7-11 but his ERA is good and his strikeout numbers are high.  Tyler Flowers is hitting near .200, has allowed 7 Passed Balls and has seen the White Sox pitchers make 23 Wild Pitches.  Finally, Konerko has been good for a normal human but below his normal superman numbers.  White Sox GM Ken Williams, who never admits defeat, has just about thrown in the towel and may be looking to start rebuilding by selling off some pieces.  This team sent Jake Peavey and Alex Rios away in trades making it clear that they are in the early stages of rebuilding.
First Half Grade: F (the White Sox are struggling badly and dealing with injuries in the pitching staff.  This team may look completely different by next season.)

Twins: I will start the Twins first half recap by saying simply this:  I was wrong.  I'm sorry.  The Twins are very similar to the Indians in many ways.  Their numbers are not eye catching.  They are not a team that anyone really looks at in the playoff picture but the Twins hung in contention much longer than expected.  At the end of June they were only 5.5 out of the Wild Card and 7 games behind Detroit.  Realistically they are not going to be a playoff team but they are definitely having a good, fun season.  Joe Mauer has come back healthy and is hitting like his old self.  Also, thankfully, Justin Morneau is having a good season.  His power numbers are not quite where the Twins want them but he has been playing consistently and his average is at .265.  We can only hope that Morneau has recovered from his health issues that have slowed him in the last few years.  Honestly, baseball in Minnesota is better with Morneau in the lineup (though he may end up as a season waiver trade).
First Half Grade:  C- (Much better than expected but still not a legitimate playoff contender).

American League West:
This division is the one that looks least like what I had expected  at the start of the season.  At the beginning of the year I told you it would look like this: Angels, Athletics, Mariners, Rangers, Astros.  I also told you that there would be a major separation between the Angels and the rest of the division.  Here's how my predictions are shaping up:

Angels:  The thing that I had mentioned could be their downfall has been.  Their pitching, especially the bullpen, has faltered.  The surprising thing is the lack of run production by the offense.  Josh Hamilton has had a horrible season, although he was starting to heat up at the end of June.  Pujols was dealing with a foot injury since opening day that slowed his production and now has ended the year prematurely.  In the preseason I wondered if this was the last chance for Joe Blanton.  His 2-10 record and 5.07 haven't helped his case at all and he has lost his spot in the rotation.  He seemingly pitches very well for the first four or five innings and then hits a poor stretch that does him in and Angels fans have voiced their displeasure.  Jared Weaver's injury and C.J. Wilson's performance below his normal quality, have hurt the Angels.  Jason Vargas, picked up from Seattle for Kendrys Morales, is injured and may not be back this season while Ryan Madson, signed to be the closer, still hasn't appeared in a game. Howie Kendrick injured his knee at the end of July and landed on the DL.  With all those negatives it would be hard to expect a team to stay in contention.  The Angels have fallen 13 games behind Oakland and 12 behind the Wild Card leader.  Without Pujols or Kendrick don't expect a miracle charge from the Angels. 
First Half Grade: F (they just can't seem to avoid beating themselves)

Athletics:
I have to start off this part the same way I did with the Twins.  I apologize to all A's fans for questioning the team's chances.  In the preview article I told you that the A's had lost too many people from last season and had not replaced them with reliable players.  I was clearly wrong on this.  Coco Crisp, Bartolo Colon and Brandon Moss are having great seasons and although Cespedes and Reddick's numbers don't reflect it the same way they did last season, they are making significant contributions to something special happening in Oakland.  The A's are once again fighting for the division lead.  Injuries, especially to Crisp have led to them falling off but they are still the favorite for this division.
First Half Grade: A (just like last year they are just finding a way to win)

Rangers:
Even more so than the A's and Twins, I was way off on my season prediction with Texas.  I told you in the season preview that the Rangers had little chance to make the playoffs.  By consistently losing key players, specifically Hamilton and Michael Young, and with reported in-house fighting, the Rangers looked to be a team on the verge of implosion.  The Rangers are getting great contributions from newcomers Justin Grimm and Leonys Martin as well as getting the normal contributions from Nelson Cruz, Adrian Beltre and Ian Kinsler.  Mitch Moreland is finally having the type of season the Rangers have expected of him.  Last season the Rangers got off to the same quick start but wilted down the stretch.  Keep an eye on Yu Darvish who is off to a great start but last year faltered badly in the second half.  Also keep an eye on the the offense as Nelson Cruz was among the players suspended for the rest of the season for PED use.  The Rangers lost a big part of their offense without Cruz.  They picked up Alex Rios from the White Sox but he may not be enough to replace Cruz.
First Half Grade:  B+ (There is still a long way to go in the season but so far the Rangers have certainly surprised me).

Mariners:
The Mariners are about where everyone thought they would be.  There was a slight possibility, if Texas and Oakland faltered, that the Mariners could surprise us but it hasn't happened.  Felix Hernandez has been strong and Hisashi Iwakuma has been a big surprise.  Injuries to Mike Morse and Franklin Gutierrez and no everyday player hitting as high as .280 as of the end of June, the Mariners have fallen into their normal position at the bottom of the division.  It would take a major turn around to see the Mariners make a jump into serious contention.
First Half Grade: D (this team had a chance to surprise us but the offense in the first half was dreadful)

Astros:
Let's all be honest about this.  The Astros are a bad team right now.  The good news is they are not as bad, through the first half, as we thought they would be.  As of the end of June they were 17 games behind first place and 13 out of the Wild Card.  There are some strong performers on the team who make this a fun team to watch but there is only one truly great player on this team:  Jose Altuve.  Altuve is one of the best second basemen in the league but gets very little attention because of how bad the team is. 
First Half Grade: F (They are not as bad as we expected but they are a long way from good)
 

Updated postseason picks:
AL East:  Red Sox
AL Central: Tigers
AL West: Rangers
Wild Cards: Rays, Royals

Wild Card Round:  Royals over Rays (James Shields will beat his old team)
ALDS: Tigers over Rangers
ALDS: Red Sox over Royals
ALCS: Tigers over Red Sox

World Series: Dodgers over Tigers

Updated Awards picks:
MVP: Miguel Cabrera, Tigers
Cy Young: Max Scherzer, Tigers

ANSWER TO LAST WEEK'S QUESTION:

There were no correct answers to last week's trivia question, although TJD did get half of the answer correct. Fred Lynn of the Red Sox won the MVP and Rookie of the Year award in 1975.  It would not happen again until 2001 when Ichiro Suzuki of the Seattle Mariners won both the Rookie of the Year and MVP award.

 

NEW TRIVIA QUESTION:

Max Scherzer of the Tigers should get plenty of votes for the Cy Young Award.  How many times prior to this season has a Tigers' Pitcher won the Cy Young Award?

 



2013 American League West 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.***

Don't forget to also check out the 2013 American League East and 2013 American League Central previews.
The American League West has provided fewer World Series participants since the league went to a tree division format.  Only the Angels (2002) and Rangers (2010 and 2011) have reached the fall classic and only the Angels have won it. 

It is also one of the few divisions that has seen every team (excepting the Astros, who are new to it this year) experience a period of domination within the division.  The Mariners dominated the early period of the division winning division titles in 1995, 1999 and 2001.  Oakland won the division in 2000, 2002, 2003, and 2006.  The Angels won the division in 2004, 2005, 2007, 2008 and 2009.  The Rangers have dominated the recent history winning in  2010 and 2011.

This division has provided some of the great pennant races in history with the Mariners overtaking a faltering Angels team in 1995.  The 1998 Angels and Rangers were tie with seven games left in the season before Texas won five of their last seven games and won the division by three games.  Oakland surprised everyone by riding the arms of an ancient Tom Candiotti and three young aces (Zito, Hudson and Mulder) to chase down the favored Mariners in 2000.  The A's and Angels traded places in first place throughout the 2004 season, neither able to get more than four games ahead while in the last week no one could get more than two games ahead until the Angels took a 2 game lead with 2 games left.  Just this last season, with high expectations in Anaheim and Texas, Oakland came out of nowhere with several long winning streaks and a great final three weeks while Anaheim made a late charge and finished only five games behind the division leader.

The new look West appears to be ready for the Angels to play above the clouds while the middle of the division seems to be falling apart.  The Astros, at the bottom of the division, will need a lot of boosts to launch them out of last place.  Here's how I see it playing out:

 
Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim

Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim Logo Courtesy of sportslogos.com

Last Year's Record:
89-73 (3rd place in AL West)
Who's new?*:
Joe Blanton (P) free agent from Dodgers, Ryan Brasier (P) promoted from minors, Sean Burroughs (P) free agent from Nationals, Tommy Hunter (P) trade from Braves, Ryan Madson (P) free agent from Reds, Brandon Sisk (P) trade from Royals, Jason Vargas (P) trade from Mariners, Tommy Fields (SS) waivers claim from Rockies, Luis Jimenez (OF) promoted from minors, Scott Cousins (OF) waiver claim from Mariners, Josh Hamilton (OF) free agent from Rangers, Travis Witherspoon (OF) promoted from minors.
Who left?*:
Ervin Santana (P) trade to Royals, Dan Haren (P) free agent to Nationals, Zack Greinke (P) free agent to Dodgers, Jason Isringhausen (P) unsigned free agent, Latroy Hawkins (P) free agent to Mets, Jordan Walden (P) trade to Braves, Bobby Wilson (C) free agent to Yankees, Maicer Izturis (SS/2B) free agent to Blue Jays, Ryan Langerhans (OF) free agent to Blue Jays, Torii Hunter (OF) free agent to Tigers, Kendrys Morales (DH) trade to Mariners.
What to expect: 
Similar to Tigers and Blue Jays fans, Angels fans should expect the best.  The team got off to a slow start last year as they adjusted to the major changes and Pujols adjusted to the American League.  Similar to Paul Konerko's  "off year" for the White Sox, every player in the league would sell their soul to have Pujols numbers from his "off year".  Albert Pujols continuously improved as he faced pitchers  in his second and third at bat but the perception was that Pujols had a bad year.  That perception is certainly wrong.  He just didn't have the normal superhuman season we have considered his normal.  The Angels should have one of the best all around offenses in baseball.  They are very defensively strong up the middle with Chris Ianetta (assuming he is healthy all year), Erick Aybar at second, Howie Kendrick at short and Peter Bourjos patrolling center.  They have speed on the base paths in Trout, Aybar, Bourjos and Kendrick and power in Pujols, Hamilton, Trumbo and Trout.  Seemingly they have a well balanced lineup.
Why should you root for these guys?: 
Mike Scioscia is probably the best manager in baseball right now.  He has turned the Angels into something no one ever believed they would be: a consistent contender.  Scioscia's coaching staff has also produced three strong coaches who went on to success as managers of other teams (Joe Maddon in Tampa Bay, Bud Black in San Diego and Ron Roeneckie in Milwaukee).  Scioscia has turned this into the "golden age" of Angels baseball, although only 2002 produced a World Series championship.  The Angels already have a strong lineage of players like Nolan Ryan, Brian Downing, Wally Joyner, Mike Witt and Jim Abbott but Scioscia's teams will be looked on as the greatest era in the history of Angels baseball.
Why might this season not turn out like Angels fans want?: 
At the start of spring training last season the Angels appeared to have the best rotation in baseball.  Weaver lived up to the hype but Dan Haren suffered back issues, Ervin Santana was inconsistent and C.J. Wilson suffered through health issues.  Their fifth starter position was in flux all season with Jerome Williams pitching great for the first month of the season but suffering health issues that limited his effectiveness.  Garrett Richards did a decent job until the team traded for Zack Greinke, who did a great job in the rotation.  Greinke, Haren and Santana are gone.  Weaver will be solid as always but after him there are questions. How will C.J. Wilson's arm be this year?  How will Tommy Hanson's (acquired in trade from Braves) back hold up?  Will Joe Blanton be the pitcher the Phillies relied on in their World Series year or the pitcher that got battered around in his starts in Los Angeles?  Will Garrett Richards make a permanent home in the rotation?  The bigger problem for the Halos over the last few years has been their bullpen.  Jordan Walden did not turn out to be the closer that Scioscia wanted and the team signed Ryan Madson to fill that role.  Madson is coming off arm surgery and has not pitched since 2011.  Will his arm be fully recovered after a full year off? An LA Times article this week reported that Madson is already having issues.  The Angels and Tigers may be in a race to see who can make a trade for a closer first.
Don't expect too much from him: 
Mike Trout had a rookie season that comes once in a lifetime.  In the history of baseball only Jackie Robinson in 1947 and Fred Lynn in 1975 contributed as heavily to a team as Trout did to the Angels as a rookie.  When Trout was called up at the end of April the Angels were struggling through a rough patch and were fighting their way back from a nine game deficit.  Trout made an immediate impact and jump started the Angels struggling offense.  By the end of the year he hit 30 Home Runs, stole 49 bases and hit 8 triples.  Even more than his offense Trout was seemingly always making a diving or leaping spectacular catch.  Expect Trout to be a big reason the Angels succeed but don't expect him to be superhuman again.  He shouldn't need to be superhuman with the rest of the components in place.
Expect great things from:
Josh Hamilton was booed out of Texas.  31 doubles, 43 Home Runs (including four in one game), 103 runs, 128 RBI in 2012 and the team leader in two straight World Series teams (the only times in franchise history the team has reached the World Series) and three straight playoff appearances is apparently worthy of being booed in Texas.  Hamilton will have plenty of lineup protection around him and should be able to feel comfortable hitting fourth behind Pujols.  It would also be some nice revenge for him to destroy Rangers pitching when Anaheim faces off against Texas.
Time for him to step up:
Peter Bourjos was expected to be Mike Trout before Mike Trout arrived.  He has all the tools to be the top of the lineup prototype player.  He has the ability to track down anything hit into the outfield, the arm to gun down runners and the speed to steal bases.  The problem was that he struck out 124 times at the top of the lineup in 2011.  Due to the high strikeouts, Trout's unbelievable season and Mark Trumbo's hot bat, Bourjos lost his starting position for a good part of the year.  When he did play (in 90 games in the outfield) he managed to hit only .220.  Bourjos is penciled in to play Centerfield between Hamilton and Trout.  The Angels will need him to be a second Mike Trout if they are going to win it all.
Is this his last chance?
Joe Blanton was an underrated piece of the Phillies playoff runs from 2008-2011.  He was the forgotten man in the strong rotation.  When it became clear that the Phillies were out of the playoff race (although they somehow fought their way back into it) Blanton was shipped to the Dodgers.  His 10 starts in Los Angeles were a disaster, leaving Dodgers fans to wonder why they bothered getting him.  The Blanton from those 10 starts was not the real Joe Blanton and he can still be a big contributor to an Angels playoff run but the Angels cannot afford the slow start they had last year and if Blanton does not deliver Scioscia may need to find a quick answer.
Prediction:
1st in AL West

Oakland Athletics

Oakland Athletics Elephant Logo Courtesy of sportslogos.net

Last Year's Record:
94-68 (1st place in AL West)
Lost to Tigers 3-2 in ALDS
Who's new?: Arnold Leon (P) promoted from minors, Chris Resop (P) trade from Pirates, Fernando Rodriguez (P) trade from Astros, Andrew Werner (P) trade from Padres, Michael Ynoa (P) promoted from minors, John Jaso (C) trade from Mariners, Jed Lowrie (SS) trade from Astros, Hiroyuki Nakajima (SS) free agent from Japan, Andy Parrino (2B) trade from Padres, Scott Sizemore (2B) return from injury, Grant Green (OF) promoted from minors, Shane Peterson (OF) promoted from minors, Chris Young (OF) trade from Diamondbacks.
Who left?: Brandon McCarthy (P) free agent from Diamondbacks, Tyson Ross (P) trade to Padres, Jim Miller (P) waiver claim by Yankees, Graham Godfrey (P) trade to Red Sox, Jeremy Accardo (P) free agent to Nationals, Rich Thompson (P) free agent to Blue Jays, George Kottaras (C) waiver claim by Royals, Chris Carter (1B) trade to Astros, Brandon Inge (3B) free agent to Pirates, Cliff Hicks (SS) contract sold to Mets, Cliff Pennington (SS) trade to Diamondbacks, Stephen Drew (SS) free agent to Red Sox, Collin Cowgill (OF) trade to Mets, Jonny Gomes (DH) free agent to Red Sox, Kila Ka'aihue (1B/DH) free agent to Diamondbacks.
What to expect: 
The A's were a great story last year.  They went 11-5 to end the season and shocked the Rangers by taking the division.  It was a magical season, much like Baltimore, using spare parts, role players and several players having career years.  They were expected to finish well behind Texas and Anaheim but beat both of them.  Although it was an exciting surprise to have the A's win the division, the Angels have improved enough to make it less likely that the A's will repeat.  Don't look for the A's to win the division but with the Yankees dealing with numerous questions and a seemingly endless run of bad luck and the Royals inconsistent history the A's could be right in the thick of the Wild Card race.
Why should you root for these guys?: 
The Athletics are one of the original eight American League franchises.  As the league began in 1901 the Philadelphia Athletics were the dominant team and remained so until 1914.  Connie Mack revitalized the team from 1929-1931 but had to sell off most of the big pieces during the depression.  The Athletics finally abandoned Philadelphia for a disastrous stay in Kansas City before landing in Oakland.  The bay area has seen the Athletics win four World Series but for the last five years there have been small expectations as the team has tried to find small priced talent that will provide big results.  Similar to the Twins, the Athletics define the small market team.
Why might this season not turn out like A's fans want?: 
Several key players including Brandon McCarthy, Jeremy Accardo, Cliff Pennington, Jonny Gomes and Stephen Drew left the team and were not replaced with proven players.  Bob Melvin did an outstanding job of getting the most out of his team and plugging the holes that appeared.  With the key players leaving he may not have enough material to plug the holes that are appearing before the season begins.
Don't expect too much from him: 
Yoenis Cespedes had a tremendous rookie season.  It is undeniable that the A's would not have done nearly as well without Cespedes.  He was rightly the runner up to Trout in Rookie of the Year voting and contributed more than anyone could have imagined.  The problem is not that his talent is overrated but he won't have the lineup support around him that he had last year and will likely not see the same pitches he saw last year.
Expect great things from:
Brett Anderson made only six starts in the regular season going 4-2 but they were great starts.  He threw 35 innings, gave up only one Home Run, walked only seven and struck out 25.  He may have saved his best for the Division Series.  In his only playoff start he threw six innings while allowing only two hits and striking out 6 against a strong Tigers lineup. He has already been named the opening day starter and with the loss of Brandon McCarthy he will need to prove he is the ace.
Time for him to step up:
Jemile Weeks was expected to be a star player in 2012 but his average dropped 80 percentage points, and he is listed second on the depth chart at second base and will need to have a great spring to get back into the starting lineup.  If Weeks is able to provide the same numbers he did as a rookie in 2011 the A's will have a better chance to reach a Wild Card spot.
Is this his last chance?:
Bartolo Colon was suspended for PED use the same week that Melky Cabrera was suspended.  His career was on the decline before his strong first half last year.  He is still listed as the number two starter on the A's depth chart but he will be in the same position that Cabrera finds himself.  He will need to prove he can perform without them or he may be out of the league.
Prediction: 
2nd place in AL West

Texas Rangers

Texas Rangers Logo Courtesy of sportslogos.net

Last Year's Record:
93-69 2nd in AL West (First Wild Card)
Lost Wild Card Game to Orioles
Who's new?:
Jeff Beliveau (P) claimed off waivers from Cubs, Cory Burns (P) trade from Padres, Jason Frasor (P) free agent from Blue Jays, Josh Lindblom (P) trade from Phillies, Roman Mendez (P) promoted from minors, Justin Miller (P) promoted from minors, Joe Ortiz (P) promoted from minors, Joakim Soria (P) free agent from Royals, Coty Woods (P) promoted from minors, Matt West (P) promoted from minors, A.J. Pierzynski (C) free agent from White Sox, Lance Berkman (1B) free agent from Cardinals, Leruy Garcia (SS) promoted from minors, Julio Borbon (OF) promoted from minors.
Who left?:
Scott Feldman (P) free agent to Cubs, Ryan Dempster (P) free agent to Red Sox, Mike Adams (P) free agent to Phillies, Roy Oswalt (P) unsigned free agent, Mark Lowe (P) free agent to Dodgers, Koji Uehara (P) free agent to Red Sox, Mike Napoli (1B/DH) free agent to Red Sox, Yorvit Torrealba (C)  free agent to Rockies, Luis Martinez (C) claimed on waivers by Orioles, Luis Hernandez (IF) free agent to Indians, Josh Hamilton (OF) free agent to Angels, Alberto Gonzales (OF) free agent to Cubs, Michael Young (IF/DH) trade to Phillies.
What to expect: 
The Rangers added some nice pieces in Jason Frasor, A.J. Pierzynski and Joakim Soria.  Unfortunately they lost quite a bit more in Michael Young, Josh Hamilton, Mike Napoli, Mike Adams and Koji Uehara.  The Rangers surprised everyone in 2011 and 2012 by reaching the World Series.  The team that pulled that off is slowly dissipating.  Adrian Beltre and Nelson Cruz are the two big key players remaining from those teams but Cruz was one of the names associated with the steroid clinic in Florida and it is still unclear what the ramifications of that will be.  Elvis Andrus and Ian Kinsler are strong defensively up the middle but they can't make up for the numbers lost from Hamilton and Young and some in the organization are strongly pushing to replace Andrus with the young Jurickson Profar.  Removing Andrus would take away one of the best double play combos in the league and would cause more uncertainty in an already drastically changed lineup.  Add to all this a possible power struggle in the high ranks of the front office and player dissension over their treatment by John Daniels and it could be a recipe for disaster.
Why should you root for these guys?: 
There are still quite a few players left from the 2010 and 2011 American League Championship teams.  Derek Holland, Mitch Moreland, Nelson Cruz, Adrian Beltre, Elvis Andrus and Ian Kinsler are among the stars still left.  The Rangers came within a strike of winning the World Series in 2011 and fell apart last year down the stretch.  After several heartbreaking close calls it would be nice to see the remaining pieces finally come through.
Why might this season not turn out like Rangers fans want?: 
The numbers that were lost when Hamilton and Young left the team was not the most important thing that was lost. Hamilton and Young were the Rangers heart and soul.  Michael Young was Mr. Ranger and is irreplaceable.  Hamilton was the backbone of the team.  It is not coincidental that when Hamilton slumped at the end of last year the Rangers slumped too.  Add to that the loss of two key relief pitchers in Uehara and Adams.  The Ranger fans may have a long summer wishing for the good old days of Hamilton and Young.
Don't expect too much from him: 
Yu Darvish achieved well above what was expected.  He was the clear ace of the staff in his first year and got the start in the Wild Card game, although it did not work out for him the way they had hoped.  Darvish benefited from the powerful lineup behind him.  Expect Darvish to have a strong year and remain the ace of the staff but a Cy Young Award is probably not in his immediate future.
Expect great things from:
Adrian Beltre has had a roller coaster career but has been consistently great since landing in Texas.  With Hamilton and Young gone and Cruz's status in the air due to the steroid clinic connection expect Beltre to step up and have a monster year.  It may not keep the Rangers in the playoffs but it will certainly help keep them respectable.
Time for him to step up:
Mitch Moreland has been a big piece of the success of the Rangers playoff teams over the last few years, especially in the 2010 World Series run. Moreland has been a big role player for the team but he has not been able to hit above .275 for a full season.  Moreland will need to add some much needed power to the depleted Rangers lineup.
Is this his last chance?:
Lance Berkman is in his 15th year.  He is one of the great players in the history of the Houston Astros and contributed to one of the best World Series in history when his Cardinals beat the Rangers in 2011.  Injuries limited his productivity in 2012 and he is starting 2013 dealing with more injuries.  This could be the last shot for one of the best players over the last decade and a half.
Prediction:
3rd in AL West

Seattle Mariners

Seattle Mariners Logo Courtesy of sportslogos.net

Last Year's Record: 
75-87.  4th place (last) in AL West.
Who's new?:
Anthony Fernandez (P) promoted from minors, Danny Hultzen (P) promoted from minors, Bobby LaFramboise (P) promoted from minors, Brandon Maurer (P) promoted from minors, Yoervis Medina (P) promoted from minors, Chance Ruffin (P) promoted from minors, Joe Saunders (P) free agent from Orioles, Kelly Shoppach (C) free agent from Mets, Robert Andino (2B) trade from Orioles, Vinnie Catricala (3B) promoted from minors, Kendrys Morales (DH) trade from Angels, Francisco Martinez (3B) promoted from minors, Jason Bay (OF) free agent from Mets, Raul Ibanez (OF) free agent from Yankees, Michael Morse (OF) trade from Nationals, Julio Morban (OF) promoted from minors.
Who left?:
Kevin Millwood (P) retired, Jason Vargas (P) trade to Angels, Shawn Kelley (P) trade to Yankees, George Sherrill (P) free agent to Royals, Miguel Olivo (C) free agent to Reds, Munenori Kawasaki (UT) unsigned free agent, Chone Figgins (3B/OF) free agent to Marlins, John Jaso (C) trade to Athletics, Luis Jimenez (DH) free agent to Blue Jays.
What to expect: 
Expectations for Mariners fans should be kept low.  For the past ten years the Mariners have been high in talent but low in results.  The Mariners do appear to be headed in the right direction with some major pickups such as Robert Andino and Michael Morse.  There are still some major issues.  The Mariners have about seven outfielders, including Jason Bay, Eric Thames and Raul Ibanez, and all of them will expect playing time while the pitching staff past Felix Hernandez is weak. They have some strong potential in the infield but the offense is still not strong enough to make up for the weak pitching
Why should you root for these guys?: 
Baseball in Seattle is something special.  They don't always win, most of the time they don't, but since the days of Ken Griffey, Jr, the Mariners are a special part of the community.  The Mariners came into existence in 1977 and were immediately a joke in the league, even to the point of discussing a move out of Seattle. That changed when Griffey, Jay Buhner and Randy Johnson made an unbelievable playoff run in 1995.  Seattle in a playoff spot would further cement the Mariners place in the community and hopefully stop any talk of a future departure.
Why might this season not turn out like Mariners fans want?: 
Let's be honest about this: the Mariners are not a good team and are quite fortunate that Houston is in their division.  The Mariners are moving in the right direction but they are just not that good right now. The big problem is the pitching.  They have locked up Felix Hernandez for years to come (although there was a slight delay after the Mariners showed some concern over the status of his elbow) and he is clearly one of the best in the game but past him there are few strong arms.
Don't expect too much from him: 
Kendrys Morales missed almost two full seasons recovering from a broken leg.  He returned to the Angels last year but the time off clearly showed.  Some of the problem could have come from lack of consistent playing time but it was clear that he was not forcing Scioscia to play him by outhitting Trumbo and when Anaheim signed Hamilton his time was up in Southern California.  Morales is still a powerful hitter and should be a positive addition to the Seattle offense and clubhouse but don't expect an All Star performance.
Expect great things from:
Felix Hernandez is a special pitcher. He won a Cy Young in 2010, pitched a perfect game in 2012 and is clearly one of the top pitchers in the game.  He may not win 20 games every year but he certainly has shown that he is capable of giving baseball fans something special every time he toes the rubber.
Time for him to step up:
Justin Smoak was the big piece in the Cliff Lee deal of 2010.  He was the one piece that Seattle insisted on getting and the one piece that Texas questioned giving up.  Smoak has a ton of talent but has not delivered in his time in Seattle.  2012 was a disappointing year for Smoak with only a .217 average and 111 strikeouts.  Smoak could be an All Star for Seattle some day but it will take a big step up from last year to reach that point.
Is this his last chance?: 
Jason Bay was on his way to being a superstar in Pittsburgh when he was traded to Boston to replace Manny Ramirez.  That was a horrible disaster.  It was hoped when he signed with the Mets that he would return to the form that made him a big name but New York was also a disaster.  Some of it had to do with injuries, some of it had to do with the media placing unrealistic expectations on Bay and some of it had to do with Bay underachieving. Bay signed with Seattle but is currently not listed on their depth chart as a starter.  If Bay is healthy and can get a few breaks he may be able to fulfill his potential.  If not he may not have another chance as a starter.
Prediction: 
4th place in AL West.

Houston Astros

Houston Astros Logo Courtesy of sportslogos.net

Last Year's Record:
55-107. 6th (last) in NL Central.
Who's new?:
Jose Cisnero (P) promoted from minors, Paul Clemens (P) promoted from minors, Jarred Cosart (P) promoted from minors, Sam Demel (P) free agent from Diamondbacks, John Ely (P) trade from Dodgers, Josh Fields (P) promoted from minors, Philip Humber (P) waiver claim from White Sox, Chia-Jen Lo (P) promoted from minors, Brett Obeholtzer (P) promoted from minors, Rudy Owens (P) promoted from minors, Brad Peacock (P) trade from Athletics, Ross Seaton (P) promoted from minors, Jose Veras (P) free agent from Brewers, Chris Carter (1B) trade from Athletics, Jake Elmore (SS) free agent from Diamondbacks, Nate Freiman (1B) promoted from minors,Carlos Pena (DH/1B) free agent from Rays, Jonathan Villar (SS) promoted from minors, Robbie Grossman (OF) promoted from minors.
Who left?:
Fernando Rodriguez (P) trade to Athletics, Wilton Lopez (P) trade to Rockies, Fernando Abad (P) free agent to Nationals, Mickey Storey (P) waiver claim by Blue Jays, Enerio Del Rosario (P) unsigned free agent, Aneury Rodriguez (P) unsigned free agent, Brian Bogusevic (OF) free agent to Cubs, Chris Snyder (C) free agent to Nationals,  Scott Moore (IF) free agent to Athletics, Jed Lowrie (SS) trade to Athletics, Joran Schafer (OF) waiver claim by Braves, Travis Buck (OF) free agent to Padres, Brian Bixler (UT) free agent to Mets, Matt Downs (OF) free agent to Marlins.
What to expect: 
It may be a fresh start in a new league with new opponents and new rivalries being formed but this is the same Astros team that lost 100 games.  2012 was the 50th anniversary season but there were some who questioned if the big number 50 patch on the sleeve was more of a prediction of the number of wins the team would have at the end of the season.  At one point in the middle of the season the Reds had more wins in Houston than the Astros did.  This is a tough time for the Astros as they transition to new ownership. Astros fans will need to wait a few years to see what the intentions of the owners will be and what the future of the Astros will hold.
Why should you root for these guys?: 
Of all teams in the league Houston is the one team with absolutely the lowest expectations (Colorado could be a close second).  After an absolutely disastrous season they moved into a new division in a new league with new ownership.  The Astros have a long history but this is probably the lowest point they have experienced since they came into the league.  It would be one of the biggest surprises in decades if they made the playoffs.
Why might this season not turn out like Astros fans want?: 
This is not a team built to win now. This is a team in transition.  There is little room to argue that this team could make a playoff run this year except that the playoff runs by the A's and Orioles proved that nothing is impossible. 
Don't expect too much from him: 
Carlos Pena was a big piece of the Rays puzzle during the last five years.  He is a great player but he had a lot of help in Tampa.  He could very well be the Astros All Star representative but don't expect him to lead the Astros to the playoffs.
Expect great things from: 
Jose Altuve made the All Star team last year and although it kept Brandon Phillips off the team Altuve deserved to be an All Star. Altuve only hit 7 Home Runs but had 34 doubles and 33 stolen bases.  Altuve may not be with the Astros for long because he can definitely help a playoff contender looking for a stronger bat and glove at Secondbase.
Time for him to step up:
Bud Norris is now the highest paid player in an Astros uniform.  He had  a 7-13 record with a 4.65 ERA in 2012.  He does not have a strong offense behind him but if the Astros are going to start instilling a winning attitude in Houston Norris needs to take the reigns and be their ace.
Is this his last chance?:
With the exception of Carlos Pena (who will turn 35 this season) this is a very young team.  Pena is definitely not on his last chance because some playoff contender out there would love to have his bat in their lineup, either as a DH in the AL or as a pinch hitter in the NL.  Because the team is so young it would be hard to say that any of them are on their last chance.
Prediction: 
5th Place in AL West.

*-All roster changes are based on active rosters at the end of 2012 and active rosters as of the week of 2/18.  Teams may have non-roster invitees in camp who are not listed in the "Who's New?" category.