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MLB: Updated 2017 Playoff Predictions

By Jason Reed

Oct 6, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view of Wrigley Field prior to workouts the day before game one of the NLDS between the Chicago Cubs and the San Francisco Giants. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 6, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view of Wrigley Field prior to workouts the day before game one of the NLDS between the Chicago Cubs and the San Francisco Giants. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 6, 2016; National Harbor, MD, USA; Boston Red Sox manager
Dec 6, 2016; National Harbor, MD, USA; Boston Red Sox manager /

AL East:

  1. Boston Red Sox
  2. Toronto Blue Jays (WC #2)
  3. Baltimore Orioles (Up 1)
  4. New York Yankees (Down 1)
  5. Tampa Bay Rays

I think the AL  East will be the best division in baseball and be the most competitive. I think the difference between the fourth place Yankees and second place Blue Jays will be within 5 games, and the Rays are only a last place team in this division. The Red Sox will likely dominate the MLB, much like the Cubs did last season and that may cause the other teams records to diminish. However, these teams will still be some of the best in baseball.

The Red Sox will dominate, that is no doubt. Unless they are struck with horrible luck, it will be extremely shocking to not see the Red Sox come October. With the additions of Chris Sale, Mitch Moreland, and Andrew Benintendi the Sox are looking as good as ever. The Blue Jays took a big hit in losing Edwin Encarnacion, however somewhat filled that void with Kendrys Morales. Morales many not be up to par with Encarnacion, but he definitely is better than not having any replacement.

As for the Orioles, they managed to bring back slugger Mark Trumbo while bringing in Seth Smith. While they are a few arms short of a good rotation and bullpen, they can again rely on their power to get them through the season. The Yankees will be right behind the Orioles, as they have made some good signings (Matt Holliday) and some head scratchers (Chris Carter). They do have a young core, but they are not quite ready to break through.

The Rays have improved by signing Wilson Ramos and getting Jose De Leon. While the loss of Forsythe outdoes the gaining of De Leon, their young staff has potential. However, in this division they won’t find themselves thriving.

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