MLB: Way Too Early 2017 American League Predictions
American League Central
Standings Predictions:
- Cleveland Indians
- Detroit Tigers
- Kansas City Royals
- Chicago White Sox
- Minnesota Twins
Overview:
Sorry for the repeat, but I think the 2017 standings will look identical to the 2017 standings in the AL Central. The Indians were the American League’s best team last season and blew their 3-1 lead in the World Series. Looking at their roster, they are talented all the way around. They will have close to the exact same roster they brought to the World Series, lead by Corey Kluber, Francisco Lindor and Andrew Miller. And while they haven’t added in free agency, they will have Michael Brantley, Carlos Carrasco and Danny Salazar returning to the fold. If Mike Napoli returns and chemistry stays the same, they are the team to beat.
The Tigers are in a major identity crisis. It seems like every week we hear Miguel Cabrera is available and the next week he’s no longer on the market. If the Tigers elect to keep their rotation intact, it can carry them to a second place finish. Justin Verlander almost won a Cy Young this year and Michael Fulmer is the budding ace of the future. The offense is powerful and there is plenty of speed on the base paths.
If the Royals start slow, they will be sellers in July and begin their rebuilding process. With a small budget and a roster full of contract-year players, this could be the last chance for the Royals to go for it. With the emergence of the Indians and recently-acquired talent in the division, Kansas City might want to start building now.
Meanwhile, the White Sox now have a top three farm system with Yoan Moncada and Lucas Giolito. For all we know, they could have a few more moves up their sleeves. At the bottom, the Twins are still years away from contention. They took a major step backward in 2016, they lost 103 games and were the worst team in the majors.