MLB: Which clubs would benefit from rumored division realignment?

AL West Contenders

The AL West blends with the NL West, which I consider the weakest division in MLB. The Dodgers are a powerhouse, but no other NL West squad strikes fear. As always, pitching keeps the Rockies from legitimacy, and the Giants have little to offer in any prominent performance category. The Padres are improving, but they still have holes to fill before their roar is heard. And the Diamondbacks are built solidly, but how many clubs do they truly out-talent?

There are strong offenses within the AL West, and I’m not sure the NL West (aside from the Dodgers) has the pitching to conquer the potential duels. Look at it this way: the AL West has four teams capable of a playoff berth, while the NL West has two, maybe three if the Padres can click.

How can the Astros, Athletics, Angels, and Rangers not see a pairing with the NL West as opportunistic?

Cubs and Reds

Similar to the NL East, the NL Central has a lot of depth. The Pirates have hit rock-bottom; however, the Cubs, Cardinals, Reds, and Brewers have their sights set on the postseason. Landing softly in a Central region which includes the lackluster Tigers and Royals should give top NL Central teams a boost.

I see the Central fuse benefiting the Cubs and Reds the most. Each club has proven pitching that could take full advantage of inferior offenses. Beyond the Minnesota Twins, there isn’t another elite, or even above-average NL Central offense. The White Sox have potential, but a handful of their bats lack experience, plus they have several new faces with untold stories.

While the 2020 playoff structure is up in the air, it’s still fair to say the Cubs’ and Reds’ postseason chances would increase with the division restructure.