MLB win totals: AL West over or under according to Vegas
By Travis Koch
MLB win totals: AL West over or under according to Vegas
Texas Rangers
Win Total: 78.5
Prediction: Over
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The Texas Rangers will have the momentum of a brand-new, air-conditioned ballpark, which means fans will be attending home games in droves. They’ll also be spoiled by new addition and former Cy Young winner Corey Kluber. The hope for Texas fans is Kluber, Mike Minor, and Lance Lynn will head one of the best rotations in the AL. That’s a big ask, however, it’s certainly possible given Kluber’s track record and the recent dominant campaigns from Minor and Lynn.
Texas will need to scrap together a formidable bullpen; they have enough young arms to make an impact and ensure depth. Without a doubt, they’ll need a special season from closer Jose Leclerc to make a run at the postseason.
Offensively, the Rangers need repeat years from sluggers Joey Gallo and Danny Santana, and improved years from Elvis Andrus and newcomer Todd Frazier. Hitting is definitely a question mark for this bunch, though Rangers teams traditionally pull through with the bats.
Texas didn’t go out and sign Corey Kluber so they could win fewer than 79 games in 2020. They’ll accomplish at least a .500 record.
Seattle Mariners
Win Total: 67.5
Prediction: Under
The Mariners enter 2020 with little hope. They are in the early stages of what will likely be a significant rebuild. Promising talent is present, specifically their #1 prospect Justus Sheffield and #4 prospect Kyle Lewis. Sheffield struggled throughout his first MLB tour, posting a 5.50 ERA over eight appearances. Lewis hit .268 with six home runs over 18 games as a September call-up last season.
The M’s youthful roster will struggle against the established talent of their division counterparts. As such, it’s going to be a long year for the Seattle faithful. The Mariners won 68 games in 2019, but that was aided by the mirage of a 13-2 start. That won’t happen this go around. Expect less than 68 victories.
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Stay tuned for more Caesars win total analysis. We’ll tackle the American League Central next!