2006 Predictions = AL West

The AL West is pretty much a two team race, much like it has been for the last few years. The cream normally rises to the top and the cream of the AL West is usually the A's and the Angels. This year being no exception.
1)Oakland A's: Quite arguably the league's best rotation resides in Oaktown. They're young and they're good. The only question in the staff is Loaiza. But Zito, Blanton, Harden and Haren should rack up plenty of wins to carry the load. Street will dominate for years to come. Eric Chavez will put up MVP caliber numbers and if the Big Hurt stays healthy, watch out.
2)Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim: A good team but the A's overtook them. Colon anchors a rotation that has a lot of uncertainties. Jeff Weaver was a good pick-up but I'm a Yankee fan and can't forget his season in the Bronx. K-Rod's numbers will continue to fall, but he'll still be pretty dominant. The loss of Molina will hurt the offense. GA needs to improve his OBP and I keep waiting for Dallas McPherson to become the great player he's supposed to be. Rumors are floating that he may be traded.
3)Texas Rangers: Greatly improved but still well behind in the talent department compared to Oakland and Anaheim. The offense will no doubt put up good numbers in Arlington, but the pitching staff will feel the hit of playing there as well. They'll miss Soriano's bat but certainly won't miss his defense. Teixieira will showcase his awesome power. Hopefully for Rangers fans, his performance in the WBC isn't a sign of things to come.
4)Seattle Mariners: Expect a big year from Ichiro. I think the WBC has re-energized him and his talents will be showcased this year more so than in year's past. Johjima is a welcomed addition. The bullpen remains the M's Achilles heel. Pitching wins ballgames and the Mariners don't have the staff that rivals much of the league. King Felix will shine if his arm holds up. It'll be interesting to see what effect the increase in innings pitched will have on him.
Tomorrow, the Central.....
J