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MLB 2017: American League East Rankings

By Jason Evans

Sep 11, 2016; Bronx, NY, USA; A general view during the national anthem prior to the game between the New York Yankees and the Tampa Bay Rays at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andy Marlin-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 11, 2016; Bronx, NY, USA; A general view during the national anthem prior to the game between the New York Yankees and the Tampa Bay Rays at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andy Marlin-USA TODAY Sports /
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Bullpen

5. Tampa Bay Rays- Alex Colome had a great year in his first year as closer. The problem is getting to him. Brad Boxberger struggled after missing time due to injury. Erasmo Ramirez is a solid swingman. Xavier Cedeno had a better year than some of the basic stats indicated. The group as a whole need to be better if the team is going to be competitive.

4. Toronto Blue Jays- Roberto Osuna is excellent. Jason Grilli can still get it done. Joe Biagini was an excellent find the rule V draft. Aaron Tepera and Danny Barnes could emerge in the middle. They have to figure out about the left side. Aaron Loup right now is the only option after losing Brett Cecil in free agency.

3. Boston Red Sox- Craig Kimbrel is one of the top closers in the game. Tyler Thornberg was a sneaky good pickup in a trade with the Brewers. Joe Kelly may have found his niche as a power reliever.  Matt Barnes has a power arm and improved in 2016. From the left side, Fernando Abad struggled after coming to Boston. Drew Pomeranz or Eduardo Rodriguez may become an option from the left side as well.

2. New York Yankees- Aroldis Chapman is back after being traded during last season. Dellin Betances remains one of the game’s best setup men, however he seemed to wear down toward the end. Adam Warren and Tyler Clippard lengthen the bullpen. The Yankees have a ton of young arms like Ben Heller and Jonathan Holder who could become options.

1. Baltimore Orioles- Zach Britton, Mychal Givens and Darren O’day are among the top late game combos in the game. Brad Brach is another solid piece. Donnie Hart is another piece to watch after coming up last season. This bullpen will be called on a lot and they have the ability to deliver.

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