MLB: Statistically speaking, 12 teams could be champs

By Steve Herl | May 1, 2017

Apr 30, 2017; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Nationals third baseman Anthony Rendon (6) celebrates with Nationals second baseman Daniel Murphy (20) and Nationals right fielder Bryce Harper (34) after hitting a three-run home run against the New York Mets in the fourth inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /

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Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports /

Top Four in Three Categories

Los Angeles Angels (14-13)

The Angels are ranked in the top four in the American League in hits, saves and strikeouts. Led by Mike Trout (.365 BA, 7 HR, .436 OBP) and Albert Pujols (22 RBI) offensively, and pitchers Tyler Skaggs (1-1, 3.99 ERA, 29 K), Jesse Chavez (2-4, 4.50 ERA, 26 K) and Bud Norris (2.84 ERA, 4 SV), Los Angeles had a winning record through 27 games. Everyone in the AL West is chasing the Houston Astros but the Angels are hanging in the picture. With Mike Trout in the lineup, they are always dangerous.

Cleveland Indians (14-10)

The Indians rank in the top four in the American League in on-base percentage, walks and strikeouts by pitchers. Led by Jose Ramirez (.333 BA, 6 HR, 21 RBI), Francisco Lindor (.303 BA, 6 HR, 14 RBI) and Michael Brantley (.297 BA, 4 HR, 15 RBI) offensively, and Carlos Carrasco (2-2, 2.04 ERA, 34 K), Corey Kluber (3-1, 4.19 ERA, 37 K) and Danny Salazar (2-2, 4.34 ERA, 42 K) in pitching, Cleveland is just ahead of the surprising Chicago White Sox in the American League Central.

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