AL Central
Hey again listener land! As promised, the AL Central.
This is probably the simplest division to write about… It’s the Tigers, and everybody else.
Let’s start with them Tigers. Has there been a better pick up in Free Agency then Prince Fielder? (Sorry Angels’ Fans… Pujols is not the best) With the loss of Victor Martinez, the pick up of a high-caliber bat like Fielder is essential to keep from losing anything. Prince and Miguel Cabrera on the hot corners may not be the best for a defense, but when you have a pitching staff like Verlander & Co. you only need 3 runs at most on a good day. My pick to represent the AL in the World Series and first to 100. 101-61.
Minnesota Twins: Can Justin Morneau stay healthy? Can Mauer have a comeback season? Yes to both gives them a great season. No to either gives you a marginal at best season. Carl Pavano and Liriano are simply not enough to keep them afloat and with a mediocre bullpen. Twins fans should be missing Puckett right now. 80-82
Kansas City Royals: Good news? Eric Hosmer may be the best person that nobody knows about. Bad News, No Soria, No rotation, no bullpen, no chance. Eric Hosmer and Alex Gordon are great fantasy pick up. But there’s nothing else to this team. 50-112
Chicago White Sox: ALEXEI! Had to do it… favorite call for a former Sox. There is no middle ground for this team. You are either 5 years past retiring (Dunn & Konerko) or 5 years past puberty (Morel, Beckham, Viciedo & De Aza.) I don’t know if the bottom of the rotation (Who is Chris Sale and Philip Humber?) and a shaky bullpen can keep this team in the hunt. Race for 2nd with the Indians, and I give the Sox the slight edge. 87-75
Cleveland Indians: I thought Hafner retired… isn’t he like 50 (No offense Moyer!) In all seriousness, I think this team is one component short of challenging for the division. They need a long ball threat. Look at all the teams that go to the playoffs, Prince in Detroit, Konerko & Dunn in Chicago, Pujols, Josh Hamilton… get the point? Ubaldo Jimenez should have a much better season with a full season in the AL. Look out in the future, just not this year. 85-77.
Like my choices? Tell me about it! Hate my choices! Tell me about it! I would love nothing more than to debate why you think the Tigers will flop and someone else will come out.
Until next time! Tomorrow brings the NL Central… I think you’ll be surprised by my picks.
