1. Minnesota Twins- Sure Joe Nathan’s injury hurts. What team would it not hurt? However, the Twins definitely have the depth in the pen to ease the burden. They were a good team last year and with the continued development of some of their hitters they put themselves among the elite. You wouldn’t think that Mauer could get any better but he is just entering his prime and the power the scouts always raved about came out last year. They will need another monster year from him but he hasn’t had a down year yet so why would we think any differently?
2. Chicago White Sox- The White Sox are going largely unnoticed. And they will probably go unnoticed when the acquire Adrian Gonzalez at the deadline. Kenny Williams has shown that he is willing to sacrifice the future for the present and he will be willing to pay Hoyer’s price. There rotation is pretty solid with a Buehrle, Danks, and Floyd at the top. The biggest question this team will have is at the back end of the bullpen where Jenks has looked
3. Detroit Tigers-For a monster payroll this team is a major disappointment. The success will hinge on Jeremy Bonderman and Dontrelle Willis resembling anything close to their previous form. I would not be shocked to see them sink to fourth especcialy if Johnny Damon and Austin Jackson do not pan out as they need them too.
4. Cleveland Indians-The Indians are certainly a team to watch. General Manager has stockpiled the farm by making several shrewd decisions the past could years. If Fausto Carmona can rediscover any semblance of his 2007 form this team could be very dangerous. Essentially it will come down to if the team can stay healthy and players such as Sizemore, Hafner, and Westbrook can comeback the Indians may provide a shocker and win the division or at least stay in contention till August. I can assure Cleveland fans will take that with their dim outlook.
5. Kansas City Royals- Zach Greinke is certainly a bright spot for them. But when you as dominating a season as he had last year and only won 16 games it is kind of scary. Billy Butler will have another outstanding year an continue his development. The one thing this team will need is the long awaited development of Alex Gordon and Luke Hochevar. If that can happen by the time Eric Hosmer arrives they could contend.
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