The most division likely to flip-flop, and has for the past several years. The Twins, Tigers, White Sox and Indians all have legitimate chances of winning the Central, and the Royals aren't far behind. So here goes on what can only be described as an educated wild guess.
1. Minnesota Twins- A team that always loses big names, is under the radar, and still finds a way to contend. Francisco Liriano heads a young but talented pitching rotation, and Joe Nathan is one of the best closers in baseball. the addition of Joe Crede solidifies the infield and the M&M boys (Morneau and Mauer) continue to superstardom.
2. Detroit Tigers- Was last year's debacle an aberration? With this much talent, you have to think so. The Tigers made few changes this offseason, adding 4th starter Edwin Jackson and closer Brandon Lyon. But both moves solidify weaknesses in the '08 team. The lineup and rotation are solid. Now, if they can play some defense...
3. Chicago White Sox- Many predictions will have the ChiSox winning this division. I am not convinced. Buerhle and Danks lead a good rotation, which, if Colon and Conteras are healthy, will be the best 5 in the division. That's a big if. The lineup has too many holes, and Carlos Quentin will come back to earth.
4. Kansas City Royals- KC is sooo close to being this year's DEVIL Rays, but right now they look closer to a 2010 run. So many good young players, such as Aviles, Gordon and DeJesus, with just the right amount of wily vets in Guillen, Crisp and Meche. Joakim Soria (above) is the door-closer, and he should have just a few more chances this year.
5. Cleveland Indians- Now that everyone has abandoned ship on the Tribe, they will probably put together a fantastic season. And this is a team that was one game away from the World Series just 2 years ago. But alot of those players are gone (CC, anyone?). Cliff Lee and Fausto Carmona are studs, but when Carl Pavano is penciled in as your number 3, you could be in trouble. Sizemore doesn't have alot of protection in the lineup, either. Might be a long year near the Lake...
No comments:
Post a Comment