AL West Preview

The smallest division in baseball is often one of the most competitive, but in recent years it has been the Angels' division. However, it is always a hot debate as to who will come up on top in the West every season. I am a believer that things will change this year in the division.


4.) Oakland Athletics
Sorry A's fans, but I cant see a scenario where this Oakland team can come up with a division win. However, GM Billy Beane is never one to doubt, as he always seems to create a team with virtually no funds. When you are banking on Ben Sheets, who hasn't pitched in over a year to be the ace of your staff, problems are ahead. It'll be fun to see if Sheets can return to All Star form, and the reigning Rookie of the Year, Andrew Bailey is set to be the closer. Still with old stiffs like Kurt Suzuki, Mark Ellis, and Eric Chavez (how long has he been on this team?) in the lineup, this team is going to struggle to compete.

3.) Anaheim Angels
Yes, I did it. I picked against Mike Scioscia and the Angels. I don't care how good of a manager Scioscia is, the team is just not good enough. The reign is over for the Angels. K-Rod is two years removed, Garrett Anderson is gone, and they start their first season in a long time without Vlad Guerrero, John Lackey, and Chone Figgins. Look for Kendry Morales to either prove he is an All Star and fade fast. Regardless, this is finally not the Angels year.

2.) Texas Rangers
The Rangers have a lethal lineup, featuring Michael Young, Josh Hamilton, and Ian Kinsler. Throw in new addition Vlad Guerrero and the rising star shortstop Elvis Andrus and this team will score tons of runs. The success of the season will depend on their starting rotation. Will Rich Harden get back to his old form and can CJ Wilson successfully convert to a starter? With a fire-throwing bullpen featuring Frank Francisco and Neftali Feliz, this team will be in the race all season.

1.) Seattle Mariners

The Mariners showed that they want to win it with their very active offseason. Signing both Milton Bradley and Chone Figgins adds to the lineup featuring Jose Lopez, Franklin Guitierrez, and All Star Ichiro Suzuki. However, the most notable move was the trade for former Cy Young winner, Cliff Lee. Lee, acquired from the Phillies gives the Mariners a tremendous 1-2 punch featuring Felix Hernandez along with Lee. These offseason moves give the team the edge in the division this season.