MLB Midseason Predictions

Well it’s the midway point of the season and there have been a lot of surprises, but I expect a few more down the stretch.  So here are my predictions for the division winners, playoffs and awards.

American League

East: Red Sox

For most of the season the Red Sox have been in a dead heat with the Rays, but I still think the Yankees are still the real threat to de-throne the Red Sox.  The deciding factor for me is the Red Sox offense, because Youkilis, Pedroia, and Ramirez are having monster seasons.

Central: Tigers

This might be a homer pick by me, but they have been playing great baseball as of late.  Their starting pitching has been on a tear, including ace Justin Verlander. 

July will be a pivotal month for the Tigers with key series against division rivals Twins and White Sox.  The Tigers won’t be able to win the central in July, but they can lose it.

West: Angels

It seems like every year now the Angels are in cruise control in the AL West when July rolls around.  The A’s are only a few games behind right now, but I don’t see them catching the Angels.

Wild Card: Yankees

Nothing has really been impressive about the Yankees so far this season, but somehow they are only five games back in the wild card and the East.  They seem primed for their second half run for the playoffs, once they get healthy they will start rolling.

Cy Young: Cliff Lee

Despite the Indian’s poor season, Cliff Lee has been the exact opposite.  He currently leads the AL in wins (11) and ERA (2.34).  With the possible departure of C.C. Sabathia at the trade deadline, he will become the new ace of Cleveland’s staff.

MVP: Josh Hamilton

After blowing a lot of rails, he’s now on the fast track to the Triple Crown and MVP.  All kidding aside, this is a great story and he may hit the DL because he’s carrying my fantasy team on his back.

National League

East: Phillies

The Phillies won’t need a late season rally or a Mets collapse to make the postseason this year.  Chase Utley is having an MVP caliber season and could be the third straight Philly to win the award.

Central: Cardinals

The question in the Central is when are the Cubs going to choke.  With their injuries, I think it will be now rather than October.  The Cardinals also have had their fair share of injuries, but I think Albert Pujols will stay healthy and lead them to the division championship.

West: Diamondbacks

Brandon Webb has cooled down after a hot start, but he still has 12 wins.  The Diamondbacks are the only team in their division above .500 and should coast to the postseason.

Wild Card: Cubs

The Cubs injuries will finally catch up to them, but they are still going to be in the playoffs.  Their success will hinge upon Zambrano and Lee, maybe the Billy Goat too.

Cy Young: Brandon Webb

Although he has declined lately, he is still a virtual lock for 20 wins.  Webb’s season will be defined by what he does in the postseason.

MVP: Chipper Jones

Hooters waitress’ beware, Chipper has been having a career year.  He can finally put behind his thoughts of hitting .400 behind him and focus on his team making the playoffs.  Bottom line is that Chipper is having a career year at the age of 36.