Spring Training Fever: Bold MLB Predictions, AL West Style

As Pitchers and Catchers reported today, I could not help being overjoyed by the butterflies in my stomach, signifying that major league baseball was once again upon us.  What better way to kick off Spring Training than a few predictions for the American League West.

Every other day, I will post something that I think will happen for each team in each division of baseball.  Check back on Wednesday for my predictions for the NL West.

Los Angeles Angels of Anehiem

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ANAHEIM, CA - MAY 29: Kendry Morales #8 of the Los Angeles Angels reacts to his injury on his way to home plate after his grand slam homerun to win the game 5-1 over the Seattle Mariners during the bottom of the ninth inning at Angel Stadium on May 29, 2

Kendry Morales and Jered Weaver Will Help the Halos Contend for the AL West Title

Every Angels' fan remembers this as one of the defining moments of the 2010 season.  A walk off home-run, which led to the team losing arguably their best player and a real leader in the clubhouse for the rest of the season.

So what does the 2011 season have in store?  I see a complete turnaround from the disappointment Los Angeles saw a year ago, and I see the Angels winning the division.  They have a proven No. 1 starter in Jared Weaver, and he will help to anchor the staff.  He has the ability to take over a game and strike out 10+ batters on any given night.  Add that to the fact that Kendry Morales can put up Mark Teixeira (Pre 2010) numbers and this team has the chance to win the division once again.  The perfect storm is brewing with the Athletics, Mariners, and Rangers all having sub-par teams, so lets see if the Angels can take advantage. 

Oakland Athletics

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OAKLAND, CA - JUNE 23: Daric Barton #10 of the Oakland Athletics leaps for a overthrown ball as Jay Bruce #32 of of the Cincinnati Reds looks on during an MLB game at the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum on June 23, 2010 in Oakland, California. (Photo by

The Young Pitching Core will be Outshined by Another Youngster: Daric Barton

Don't get me wrong, I think that the Braden, Anderson, Gonzalez, and Cahill will be the cornerstone of this Athletics franchise for years to come (Anyone else reminded of the years with Hudson, Zito, and Mulder?)  Having said this, I also think Daric Barton will take this year and turn into one of the top 1st baseman in the American League.

He may never be Albert Pujols or Prince Fielder, but Barton has the chance to become a longtime contributor to the Athletics organization.  He is a stud on the defensive side of the ball, which will keep him on the field even though he is a young player.  He has the capability to hit anywhere from 15-20 home runs, knock in 70-80 batters, and score 80-90 runs.  He is not a speedster, but what first baseman is?  Keep an eye on this guy as he takes the year to cement his place among his Oakland teammates. 

Seattle Mariners

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PEORIA, AZ - MARCH 06: Dustin Ackley #75 of the Seattle Mariners bats against the San Diego Padres during the MLB spring training game at Peoria Stadium on March 6, 2010 in Peoria, Arizona. The Mariners defeated the Padres 7-4. (Photo by Christian Peter

Dustin Ackley and Michael Pineda Will Finish One-Two in the AL Rookie of the Year Race

Both of these kids can flat out play ball, and both of them will make a serious impact on an up-and-coming Mariners squad.  They will both be asked, most likely from day one, to carry the team at second base and anchoring the back end of the starting rotation respectively.

Ackley has both speed and power, and can be a force either in the middle of the Seattle lineup or as the No. 9 hitter to provide a spark, which would allow him to score a ton of runs.  Pineda will most likely be the No. 5 starter, but it is pretty common knowledge that he is a future ace and probably the second best pitcher on the staff.  Look for 8-10 wins and a low ERA and WHIP.  As for the rookie of the year trophy, at this point I give it to Ackley, but we will see what happens during the season.

Texas Rangers

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ARLINGTON, TX - NOVEMBER 01: Starting pitcher Cliff Lee #33 of the Texas Rangers pitches against the San Francisco Giants in Game Five of the 2010 MLB World Series at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington on November 1, 2010 in Arlington, Texas. The Giants won 3

They Will Miss Vlad Guerrero More Than Cliff Lee

Call me crazy, but I think the loss of Vlad impacts the Rangers more than losing Cliff Lee.  Now how can this be?  Its quite simple actually.  Losing Vlad has stirred the pot, causing trouble with Michael Young, the biggest mainstay and team player in Arlington.  They thought that getting rid of Guerrero would allow Young to slip into the DH role, but he still wants to play the field and is now demanding a trade.  This is not something that bodes well for the Rangers, considering it is only day 1 of spring training.

In regards to Cliff Lee, C.J. Wilson is ready to step up and be a No. 1 starter.  Also, one of the least talked about moves of the offseason landed Brandon Webb in Texas.  IF, and this is a big if, Brandon Webb can be anything close to what he was before his injury, the Rangers have struck gold and will use him and his sinker as long as it will take them.

The AL West has been taken care of.  Any disagreements or agreements feel free to comment, and check out the predictions for the NL West this Wednesday