Mack's A.L. Central Preview
By Mack R.
White Sox
The World Series champions have made some changes. Getting rid of star center fielder Aaron Rowand and obtaining Jim Thome, the injury prone first baseman, in return. I think that Thome can be a good asset but will have to try hard to avoid injury and put up the monster numbers. Paul Konerko was re-signed, a good move as I expect a bigger and better 2006 season. Another guy that I really like is third baseman Joe Crede. He is much underrated, a fine prize for any team at this day and age. Look for good stuff from him in '06. The pitching staff should remain the same. Mark Buehrle has shown his talent, but I don't think he will have the numbers like last year. I really do have faith in Jose Contreras, I think that last year was the starting point for something great to come in the future.
Indians
I think that Cleveland definitely deserved a playoff berth last season for that A.L. Wildcard.
Underrated names like Cliff Lee and C.C. Sabathia have vastly improved the pitching staff over the last couple of years. I also like Jake Westbrook's horizon in the big leagues, and I think he's in for a solid 2006. Paul Byrd, a journeyman who can bring a lot to the table, was brought in this off season as well. I love Bob Wickman, I know he won't disappoint this year. On the hitting front, Johnny Peralta is the stud to be de-studded. With 24 home runs last year, I see nothing but great things for this youngster in 2006. The thing that I really did admire about these guys last year is that they were young and they still almost made the playoffs. This year, being a little bit older and more used to things, they should be even better. With guys like Travis Hafner, Victor Martinez, and Ben Broussard, this club can win a world series.
Tigers
Detroit can have a winning team this year. Their pitching staff needs to straighten up a little bit. With the addition of Kenny Rogers, this club is much stronger. I also love Jeremy Bonderman. Only 14 wins last year and 13 losses, I think his numbers will definitely improve this year. Newbie Justin Verlander is being spotted as a possible rookie of the year candidate. Don't expect great things from guys like Mike Maroth and Nate Robertson. Combining for 21 wins and 26 losses last year, they won't improve to a great extent. The hitting will get this club the wins. The addition of Placido Palanco last year should have done more then it did. Look for that to happen this year. Magglio Ordonez will be much healthier this year and I like his possibilities for a 20-10 season this year. I really like Chris Shelton. He has a lot of upside, and I see 25 homers this season.
Twins
Minnesota has a lot of holes to fill. After last season's 83-79 record, I think the Twins have a chance in 2006. Torii Hunter is coming off of that broken ankle last season, and I think he will have a better year this year, but don't expect a huge year as he is aging. I like the acquisition of Luis Castillo at second base especially since they've had trouble at second base for quite a few years. Joe Mauer is going to have a stellar season this year and I have a lot of faith in him even though he is not a power hitter. All he needs to do is stay healthy. As for the pitching, Johan Santana is still the man, going 16-7 last year. I'm tired of Brad Radke coming in every year and just not putting up those numbers like he used to. I think he should retire. I like Carlos Silva, I think he can be a great relief option. Joe Nathan is always great so expect nothing but the same this year.
Royals
with Kansas City, they did some major upgrading this season. They picked up Mark Grudzielanek, Doug Mientkiewicz, Joe Mays, Reggie Sanders and Mike Redman. These guys will boost the club; I think they need a year to get used to each other so expect a transition 2006 season for the Royals.
-- And my predictions :
1. Indians
2. White Sox
3. Tigers
4. Royals
5. Twins
