National League Central

I continue my assault of Major League Baseball this week by tearing apart the teams in the National League Central.  I think there is a myriad of teams here that are under performing, much to the dismay of the fans, but not to the fat cats stuffing their pockets in the front office.  This division is saturated in baseball lure and history, but years from now what will anybody remember anything about these teams, Albert Pujols will be the only thing worth remembering.  So here goes nothing, or shall I say a little of something...under perform and nothing shall be remembered, over perform and live on forever.

Chicago Cubs

I'm not liking what the Cubs have done so far this offseason.  Were they seriously dangling Mark Prior; were they really going to give him up for Miguel Tejada, the ole pitching for offense move that never works out?  There are questionable moves all over, especially the signing of Jaque Jones.  If this team seriously wants to rid itself of it's World Series hex, I don't think they are going to do it on the back of Jones.  As an Orioles fan I am laughing that they gave Jerry Hairston a $2.3 million deal for one year, at least they got something out of the Sammy Sosa deal though.  I like the trade for Juan Pierre to patrol centerfield.  If he can return to form, get on base and steal bases like the Hamburgler steals Big Macs…he'll help this team a lot.  I see this being another wasted season In Chi-town, well at least this part of Chi-town.  I don’t think Dusty Baker can hold on to his job much longer, and I would be surprised to see Jim Hendry heading out of town with him.  Sometimes teams become lackadaisical when they sputter year in and year out.  I say the solution is a massive shakeup.  I’d have a barnstorm fire sale of the veterans and re-energize this organization with some youth if I was in charge, but alas I’m not so things here will go unchanged.

Starting Lineup:  1B Derrek Lee 2B Todd Walker SS Ronny Cedeno 3B: Aramis Ramirez LF: Matt Murton CF: Juan Pierre RF: Jacque Jones C: Michael Barrett Util: Jerry Hairston Jr.

Starting Pitchers:  Mark Prior, Carlos Zambrano, Kerry Wood, Greg Maddux, Glendon Rusch, Jerome Williams

Bench:  1B: John Mabry 2B: Jerry Hairston Jr.  SS: Neifi Perez 3B: Neifi Perez LF: Marquis Grissom CF: Jerry Hairston Jr.  RF: John Mabry C: Henry Blanco

Bullpen:  Ryan Dempster, Bob Howry, Scott Eyre, Michael Wuertz, Scott Williamson, Todd Wellemeyer, Will Ohman

Additions: RP Scott Eyre, OF Marquis Grissom (minor league deal), RP Bob Howry, OF Jacque Jones, OF/INF John Mabry, P Wade Miller (minor league deal), INF Neifi Perez, CF Juan Pierre (traded from Marlins), SP Glendon Rusch, P Jason Simontacchi (minor league deal)

Subtractions: OF Jeromy Burnitz (Pirates; one-year contract), SS Nomar Garciaparra, OF Todd Hollandsworth (minor league deal), C Mark Johnson (Brewers; minor league deal), RP Sergio Mitre (traded to Marlins), OF Corey Patterson (traded to Orioles), RP Mike Remlinger minor league deal)

My Prediction:  3rd in the NL Central, 74-88

Rumors:  Rumors don’t matter because nothing is happening with this team this year unless a blockbuster deal goes down.

Cincinnati Reds

Talk about having no pitching, WOW!  I’m not even going to critique the pitching staff, on to the offense.  They have some good young talent, it’s just where to put it and who to ship out.  Will Griffey stand another year in Cincy?  I can see the Reds shipping out some offense for pitching…don’t they have to?  Something needs to give, and I say give up the offense and bring in the pitchers by the numbers.  Other than that I think this is a team I can save my team on and focus on another one, one that will make the playoffs.

Starting Lineup:  1B: Adam Dunn 2B: Ryan Freel SS: Felipe Lopez 3B: Edwin Encarnacion LF: Wily Mo Pena CF: Ken Griffey Jr.  RF: Austin Kearns C: Jason LaRue Util: Rich Aurilia

Starting Pitchers:  Aaron Harang, Paul Wilson, Eric Milton, Brandon Claussen, Dave Williams, Luke Hudson

Bench:  1B: Javier Valentin 2B: Tony Womack SS: Ray Olmedo 3B: Rich Aurilia LF: Adam Dunn CF: Chris Denorfia RF: Jacob Cruz C: Javier Valentin

Bullpen:  David Weathers, Ryan Wagner, Kent Mercker, Todd Coffey, Matt Belisle, Chris Hammond, Jason Standridge

Additions: INF Rich Aurilia, RP Grant Balfour, RP Chris Hammond, INF Frank Menechino (minor league deal), SP Dave Williams (traded from Pirates), INF/OF Tony Womack (traded from Yankees)

Subtractions: 1B Sean Casey (traded to Pirates), 2B D'Angelo Jimenez (Rangers; minor league deal), SP Ramon Ortiz

My Prediction:  6^th in the NL Central, 68-94

Rumors:  Trade an outfielder for some pitching.

Houston Astros

There is some nice young talent on this team.  Willy Taveras is a very impressive centerfielder going into his sophomore season; he has a great combination of speed along with a knack of getting on base.  I think third baseman Morgan Ensberg is one of the better players on this team.  He combines a great glove with a bat that when hot is one of the better in the league at producing runs.  The top of the rotation is strong, especially if the Astros can lure back future Hall of Famer Roger Clemens back in May.  I think it’s going to take a trade during spring training or a huge pick up before the trade deadline to help this team to make it deep into the playoffs this year.  If the Jeff Bagwell insurance claim goes through it will open up a Pandora’s box of sorts and give this organization a lot of leeway.  However it’s too late this offseason to put money like that to use, unless it’s for Roger Clemens.

Starting Lineup:  1B: Lance Berkman 2B: Craig Biggio SS: Adam Everett 3B: Morgan Ensberg LF: Preston Wilson CF: Willy Taveras RF: Jason Lane C: Brad Ausmus Util/Retirement: Jeff Bagwell

Starting Pitchers:  Roy Oswalt, Andy Pettitte, Brandon Backe, Wandy Rodriguez, Ezequiel Astacio

Bench:  1B: Jeff Bagwell 2B: Chris Burke SS: Eric Bruntlett 3B: Mike Lamb LF: Lance Berkman CF: Orlando Palmeiro RF: Chris Burke C: Raul Chavez

Bullpen:  Brad Lidge, Dan Wheeler, Russ Springer, Mike Gallo, Chad Qualls, Trever Miller

Additions: C Brad Ausmus, 1B/3B Mike Lamb, OF Orlando Palmeiro, RP Russ Springer, OF Preston Wilson (one-year deal)

Subtractions: RP Scott Strickland, INF Jose Vizcaino

My Prediction:  2^nd in the NL Central, 87-75

Rumors:  Get some help for the offense.

Milwaukee Brewers

I like the youth movement on offense for the Brewers.  I’m excited to see how hyped prospects Prince Fielder and Rickie Weeks pan out.  I’m a fan of pitcher Ben Sheets, but it looks to me like he is the only starter on the whole staff.  Until this team can get some pitching help I don’t think they’ll have a chance.  The Brewers are building a nice foundation; hopefully they can keep the team together once it is built though.  Besides the prospects and Ben Sheets I think Billy the Brewer is going to be the most entertaining thing to watch this summer in Milwaukee.

Starting Lineup:  1B: Prince Fielder 2B: Rickie Weeks SS: J.J. Hardy 3B: Corey Koskie LF: Carlos Lee CF: Brady Clark RF: Geoff Jenkins C: Damian Miller Util: Jeff Cirillo

Starting Pitchers:  Ben Sheets, Doug Davis, Tomo Ohka, Chris Capuano, Rick Helling

Bench:  1B: Jeff Cirillo 2B: Bill Hall SS: Bill Hall 3B: Jeff Cirillo LF: Geoff Jenkins CF: Corey Hart RF: Gabe Gross C: Chad Moeller

Bullpen:  Derrick Turnbow, Dan Kolb, Matt Wise, Jorge de la Rosa, Jose Capellan, Dana Eveland, Justin Lehr

Additions: 2B Brent Abernathy (minor league deal), SP David Bush (traded from Blue Jays), 3B Jeff Cirillo, 2B Brian Dallimore (minor league deal), RP Jared Fernandez (minor league deal), SP Rick Helling, C Mark Johnson (minor league deal), 3B Corey Koskie (traded from Blue Jays), C Chad Moeller

Subtractions: 1B/3B Wes Helms, 1B Lyle Overbay (traded to Blue Jays), RP Julio Santana

My Prediction:  5^th in the NL Central, 70-92

Rumors:  Get this team some pitching.

Pittsburgh Pirates

I really hope the front office in Pittsburgh keeps this young rotation together.  Zach Duke barring injury is going to be one of the best pitchers of his time I feel.  I just hope the Pirates can give him the run support he will need to be ultra successful.  The pick-ups of Sean Casey, Joe Randa, and Jeromy Burnitz will give this team a nice veteran presence but they won’t help in the long run.   Just think, if the Pirates had kept their homegrown talent in place this team would be pretty well off.  A few names one can throw out there are Aramis Ramirez and Brian Giles.  Combine them with Jason Bay, Zach Duke, and Oliver Perez and this would have been a nice small market franchise.  I look for the Pirates to continue to improve this season, but once again miss the playoffs. 

Starting Lineup:  1B: Sean Casey 2B: Jose Castillo SS: Jack Wilson 3B: Joe Randa LF: Jason Bay CF: Chris Duffy RF: Jeromy Burnitz C: Humberto Cota Util: Craig Wilson

Starting Pitchers:  Oliver Perez, Zach Duke, Kip Wells, Ian Snell, Paul Maholm

Bench:  1B: Brad Eldred 2B: Freddy Sanchez SS: Freddy Sanchez 3B: Mike Edwards LF: Jody Gerut CF: Nate McLouth RF: Craig Wilson C: Ryan Doumit

Bullpen:  Mike Gonzalez, Roberto Hernandez, Damaso Marte, Salomon Torres, John Grabow, Ryan Vogelsong, Mike Johnston

Additions: RP Terry Adams (minor league deal), OF Jeromy Burnitz, 1B Sean Casey (traded from Reds), RP Roberto Hernandez, RP Damaso Marte (traded from White Sox), 3B Joe Randa, RP Scott Strickland (minor league deal).

Subtractions: SS Alfredo Amezaga, INF Rob Mackowiak (traded to White Sox), RP Jose Mesa, 3B Ty Wigginton, SP Dave Williams (traded to Reds)

My Prediction:  4^th in the NL Central, 72-90

Rumors:  Get this team some offense, the pitching staff is young and promising.

St. Louis Cardinals

The Cardinals are getting old and their window is starting to close.  They always seem to have one of the nicer pitching staffs in the National League, but I’m not as impressed this year.  The loss of Matt Morris and the addition of Sir Sidney Ponson are going to hurt this team.  Keep a close eye on how Scott Rolen looks this year after returning from an injury plagued ’05 campaign.  David Eckstein should continue to help set the table for the offense this year, and most people overlook his defense, don’t be one of them.  Besides Edmonds I am not a fan of their outfield.  They will have to hit the market before the trade deadline and add a corner outfielder to help them out.  I’d like to see Griffey end up in St. Louis and play outfield next to fellow highlight reel Edmonds.  Oh yeah, Albert Pujols is the man...

Starting Lineup:  1B: Albert Pujols 2B: Aaron Miles SS: David Eckstein 3B: Scott Rolen LF: Larry Bigbie CF: Jim Edmonds RF: Juan Encarnacion C: Yadier Molina Util: Junior Spivey

Starting Pitchers:  Chris Carpenter, Mark Mulder, Jason Marquis, Jeff Suppan, Sidney Ponson

Bench:  1B: Chris Duncan 2B: Junior Spivey SS: Deivi Cruz 3B: Hector Luna LF: John Rodriguez CF: So Taguchi RF: John Rodriguez C: Gary Bennett

Bullpen:  Jason Isringhausen, Braden Looper, Ricardo Rincon, Tyler Johnson, Brad Thompson, Randy Flores, Carmen Cali

Additions: C Gary Bennett, OF Larry Bigbie, INF Deivi Cruz, OF Juan Encarnacion, RP Braden Looper, 2B Aaron Miles (traded from Rockies), RP Jeff Nelson (minor league deal), SP Sidney Ponson, RP Ricardo Rincon, 2B Junior Spivey

Subtractions: C Einar Diaz, 2B Mark Grudzielanek, RP Ray King (traded to Rockies), OF/INF John Mabry, SP Matt Morris, OF/INF Abraham Nunez, OF Reggie Sanders, RP Julian Tavarez, OF Larry Walker

My Prediction:  1^st in the NL Central, 95-67

Rumors:  Trade for an outfielder.

Cleveland Indians

It has been a pretty busy off-season for the Indians.  I’m a big fan of teams that build around youth brought through their own farm system, and the Indians roster is full of homegrown talent.  In ’05 they were able to stay competitive during their all out commitment to the youth movement.  They were almost able to catch the Chicago White Sox during their late season dive, finishing 93-69 (six back).  I think ’06 looks to be a very promising year for this club because they have kept most of their young nucleus together.  I think some of the subtractions they made this off-season will make them better in the long run (Kevin Millwood).  Here’s a look at the current state of the Indians lineup. 

C  Victor Martinez  1B  Travis Hafner  2B  Ron Belliard  SS  Johnny Peralta  3B  Aaron Boone  (Andy Marte from Boston via Crisp deal)  LF  Grady Sizemore  CF  Jason Michaels  RF  Todd Hollandsworth  (minor league deal)  DH  Ben Broussard  SP  Cliff Lee  SP  Paul Byrd  SP  Jason Johnson  SP C.C. Sabathia  SP  Jake Westbrook  RP  Steve Karsay  (minor league deal)  RP  Arthur Rhodes  (trade in the works to go to Philly in return for CF Jason Michaels)  RP  David Riske  (may be part of the trade to Boston)  RP  Danny Graves  (minor league deal)  RP  Rafael Betancourt  RP  Scott Sauerbeck  RP  Fernando Cabrera  RP Bob Wickman  (closer)

Subtractions:  Bob Howry, Scott Elarton, Kevin Millwood, Brian Talent, Coco Crisp, Arthur Rhodes

Additions:   Bubbie Buzachero, Paul Byrd, Einar Diaz, Danny Graves, Todd Hollandsworth, Jason Johnson, Steve Karsay, Lou Merloni, Eduardo Perez, Jason Michaels, Andy Marte

Rumors:  None

I think the Indians should be able to hang with the Chicago White Sox this year.  If the Sox have some key injuries during the upcoming season, I can easily see the Indians taking the division (Thome).  Manager Eric Wedge is doing a nice job with this young club.  I enjoy his laid back style of managing.  I think if a manager is too overbearing to his players it often times leads to a disgruntled clubhouse, perfect example Larry Bowa while he was in Philly.  I’m not too big on the rumored Coco Crisp deal to Boston, however if Andy Marte is the player they get in return pans out, in the long run it could make Indians GM Mark Shapiro look brilliant.  Plug Marte in at third for Aaron Boone and the Indians will have a young, talented, and loaded lineup for many years to come.  Travis Hafner will have a huge season if he can get hitting in the head last year out of his mind while he is in the box.  Victor Martinez will continue his rise to the top as one of the best catchers in baseball.  With the additions of Paul Byrd, aka a carbon copy of Millwood’s style of pitching, and Jason Johnson, the Indians will have a decent pitching staff.  I’ve always been a fan of C.C. Sabathia and I look for him to have a better year in ’06 if he gets more run support.  If the Arthur Rhodes for Jason Michaels trade goes through I think the Indians will get the better end of the deal.  Michaels is much younger and in my opinion when you make a deal and can get younger, well that’s always a plus.  In most situations I’d frown on trading pitching for offense, but in this case it’s the right deal for the Indians.  In no means am I saying Crisp can be replaced by Michaels, but he’ll be able to hold his own until the Indians find a long-term fix to be their centerfielder.  All in all I can’t wait to watch the Indians develop into one of the best teams in the American League this year.

Prediction:  2^nd Place in the AL Central (barring injury) 

                   AL Wild Card, 97-65

Chicago White Sox

What an off-season for the reigning World Series champions.  GM Ken Williams has been a busy man so far, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s not done dealing yet.  I like the additions of Jim Thome and Javier Vazquez.  When healthy Thome is one of the most enjoyable power hitters to watch bat.  Vazquez was a strikeout machine while he was with the now defunct Expos.  I think that he can return to that form, especially with the offense he now has behind him.  I am going to be paying a lot of attention to this division this year.  I think it’s going to be one of the closest and most enjoyable races to watch, between the White Sox, Indians, and Twins.  Here is a look at the current roster for the White Sox.

C   A.J. Pierzynski  1B  Paul Konerko  2B Tadahito Iguchi/Rob Mackowiak  SS  Juan Uribe  3B  Joe Crede  LF  Scott Podsednik  CF  Brian Anderson  RF  Jermaine Dye  DH  Jim Thome  SP  Javier Vazquez  SP  Jon Garland  SP  Mark Buerhle  SP  Freddy Garcia  SP  Jose Contreras  SP  Brandon McCarthy  RP  Cliff Politte  RP  Dustin Hermanson  RP  Neil Cotts  RP  Bobby Jenks 

Subtractions:  Geoff Blum, Jamie Burke, Raul Casanova, Dan Haigwood, Carl Everett, Orlando Hernandez, Damaso Marte, Aaron Rowand, Frank Thomas 

Additions:  Jim Thome, Javier Vazquez, Rob Mackowiak

Rumors:  Jose Contreras to Philadelphia for Bobby Abreu;

                Trade away a SP to get Brandon McCarthy into the rotation

I see the White Sox having a cake walk back to the playoffs with the solid pitching staff they have assembled, especially with the addition of Vazquez.  I think the only thing that can bring this team down is the injury bug.  The addition of Mackowiak coming of the bench will be a key addition to this team.  I absolutely love the way that Scott Podsednik changes the game for them.  He disrupts every pitcher when he gets on base, reminds me of when I was a kid watching Ricky Henderson drive pitchers nuts.  By no means am I calling Podsednik Henderson, but they both possess the ability to change games all by themselves.  I love the power in the middle of this lineup with Konerko/Thome/Dye.  I think it would have been nice to see Frank Thomas mixed in here too, but not now.  I think Williams should address the situation he has at shortstop, I see that as being one of their few weaknesses.  It will be a dogfight with the Indians in ’06, as for now my money is on the Sox in this division.

Prediction:  1^st Place AL Central, 100-62

Detroit Tigers

The Baltimore Orioles of the American League Central.  I feel for the fans of the Tigers, at least last season was better than the 100-loss year preceding it.  I am glad to see the return of Jim Leyland, I just wish it had been in Pittsburgh and not Detroit.  I think he will have a positive influence on this team, but even Superman couldn’t take this team to the playoffs in ’06, no way no how in this division.  I think they should stick the course with bringing up their young talent, and the addition of Placido Polanco last year was a good move for them.  Here is a look at their lineup.

C  Ivan Rodriguez  1B Chris Shelton/Dmitri Young  2B  Placido Polanco  SS  Carlos Guillen  3B  Brandon Inge  LF  Craig Monroe  CF  Nook Logan (my pick to start in CF)/Curtis Granderson  RF  Magglio Ordonez  DH  Dmitri Young  SP  Kenny Rogers  SP  Jeremey Bonderman  SP  Nate Robertson  SP  Mike Maroth  SP  (Settled in Spring Training)  RP  Chris Spurling  RP  Wil Ledezma  RP  Matt Mantei (minor league deal)  RP  Todd Jones  RP  Troy Percival  (hurt, future not clear at the moment)

Subtractions:  Jason Johnson, Chris Booker, Fernando Vina, Rondell White, Matt Roney, John McDonald

Additions:  Todd Jones, Matt Mantei, Kenny Rogers, Ramon Santiago, Bobby Seay

Rumors:  none

I look for them to fight the Kansas City Royals for last place all year.  This team won’t go anywhere if it stays the course like it is.  Only a few well thought out trades and signings will help this team in the next few years.  I’d start out by shipping out Ivan Rodriguez in a trade for some youth.

Prediction:   4^th Place AL Central, 75-87

Kansas City Royals                  

I must say that I’ve been impressed by the Royals this off-season.  The moves they have made won’t make them a playoff contender, but at least they aren’t packing it in and saying uncle.  I like the signing of Reggie Sanders; I hope he has a big year with the bat for them.  I just want them to be competitive enough to beat teams like the Yankees and Red Sox instead of just hading wins to them.  With Mientkiewicz they add a good fielding third baseman, who used to have a good bat when he was with the Twins, hopefully that returns this year.  Also, I like the pick up of second baseman Mark Grudzielanek.  I can’t leave out the fact that I am a big fan of Mike Sweeney.  The mixture of youth and veterans the Royals now have should be a welcome change to the minor league team that has been masquerading as them for the last ten years.  Here is a look at their lineup.

C  John Buck/Paul Bako  1B  Doug Mientkiewicz/Mike Sweeney  2B  Mark Grudzielanek  SS  Angel Berroa  3B  Mark Teahen  LF  Reggie Sanders  CF  David DeJesus  RF  Emil Brown  DH  Mike Sweeney/Matt Stairs  SP  Runelvys Hernandez  SP  Mark Redman  SP  Joe Mays  SP  Zack Greinke  SP  Scott Elarton  RP  Joel Peralta  RP  Andrew Sisco  RP  Elmer Dessens  RP  Jeremy Affeldt  RP  Mike Wood  RP  Ambiorix Burgos  RP  Mike MacDougal

Subtractions:  Brian Anderson, Johan Bayliss, D.J. Carrasco, Jaime Cerda, Seth Etherton, Nate Field, Terrance Long

Additions:  Paul Bako, Adam Bernero, Elmer Dessens, Scott Elarton, Esteban German, Mark Grudzielanek, Bobby Madritsch, Joe Mays, Doug Mankiewicz, Mark Redman, Joel Peralta, Reggie Sanders

Rumors: none

I look for the Royals to improve on their 56-106 record of last year.  I expect them to keep playing the role of basement dweller for a few more years at least.  They play in a hard division that only looks to improve over the next few years.  I just hope they can continue to nurture their young prospects and keep them under contract, instead of sending them off for other teams to benefit from.  Keep your heads up Royals fans, at least you have those lovely waterfalls out in the outfield.  Good luck Buddy Bell.

Prediction:  5^th Place, 60-102

Minnesota Twins

It looks like a promising year on paper for the Twins.  However, on paper and on the field are two different things.  In a very competitive division I think the Twins hold all the answers.  If they can remain competitive with division rival Indians and White Sox, I can see them stealing this division.  If not, I see them barely missing the playoffs behind the Indians.  They have made some nice additions this winter, especially the acquisition of Luis Castillo.  If he can get on base like the days of old, he can mean a lot of runs for this team.  I am a big fan of Joe Mauer and Justin Morneau when they are healthy.  I think Rondell White will fit in well, to me he just seems like a perfect Twin.  Here is a look at their lineup.

C  Joe Mauer  1B  Justin Morneau  2B  Luis Castillo  SS  Jason Bartlett/Juan Castro  3B  Michael Cuddyer/Tony Batista  LF  Rondell White  CF  Torii Hunter/Lew Ford  RF  Shannon Stewart/Jason Kubel  DH  Rondell White  SP  Johan Santana  SP  Brad Radke  SP  Carlos Silva  SP  Kyle Lohse  SP/RP  Darrell May (minor league deal)  RP  Gabe White (minor league deal)  RP  Dennys Reyes (minor league deal)  RP  Scott Baker  RP  Franciso Liriano  RP  Jesse Crain  RP  Juan Rincon  RP  Joe Nathan

Subtractions:  Brent Abernathy, Grant Balfour, Travis Bowyer,  Jaque Jones, Joe Mays, Terry Mulholland, J.C. Romero, Scott Tyler

Additions:  Tony Batista, Luis Castillo, Darrell May, Gabe White, Rondell White, Shawn Wooten, Ruben Sierra (minor league deal)

Ron Gardenhire looks to have a good team to head into the season with.  Other than Johan Santana and Brad Radke I’m not very impressed with the pitching staff.  I think the addition of Castillo and White will help their offense.  I can see the Twins finishing third in the central, unless like I said earlier about if they can run the division.

 Prediction:  3^rd Place AL Central, 87-75

Overall, I think the central is going to be a very entertaining and competitive division in ’06.  I look for it to be a knock down drag out battle all the way to October.

Next - NL CENTRAL PRIMER

It’s hard watching football this time of year and not seeing one of my hometown teams being represented.  I grew up in the Philadelphia and Baltimore region, so naturally I am an Eagles and Ravens fan.  The past few years I’ve lived in central Pennsylvania and I have yet to get that home team mentality living here.  As an ardent Ravens fan it’s impossible for me to ever root for the Steelers.  One would think this would be the year if any for me to jump bandwagons so I can ride the Steelers run all the way to the Super Bowl.  That still hasn’t helped me trade in my black and purple for the black and gold.  However, it does seem that I am pulling for the Seahawks.  I’ve been a Shaun Alexander fans since his days playing for the Alabama Crimson Tide.  I also have somewhat of a homer effect in place because there are Penn State products on the Hawks roster in Joe Jurevicious and Bobby Engram.  I’m more of a  Lofa Tatupa fan than I am a Troy PolamalWHO??? guy.  So at least I have a team to pull for on Sunday; it doesn’t hurt that Steelers fans will surround me, so hopefully I can ruffle a few feathers walking in with my Ravens jersey and my Seahawks hat on.  You might wonder why I can’t be a Steelers fan, so here is a list of why:

AL Central Primer

For the next week I’ll be writing about my views of each of the six divisions in Major League Baseball.  Here is my take on the American League Central Division.

Cleveland Indians

It has been a pretty busy off-season for the Indians.  I’m a big fan of teams that build around youth brought through their own farm system, and the Indians roster is full of homegrown talent.  In ’05 they were able to stay competitive during their all out commitment to the youth movement.  They were almost able to catch the Chicago White Sox during their late season dive, finishing 93-69 (six back).  I think ’06 looks to be a very promising year for this club because they have kept most of their young nucleus together.  I think some of the subtractions they made this off-season will make them better in the long run (Kevin Millwood).  Here’s a look at the current state of the Indians lineup. 

C  Victor Martinez  1B  Travis Hafner  2B  Ron Belliard  SS  Johnny Peralta  3B  Aaron Boone  (Andy Marte from Boston via Crisp deal)  LF  Grady Sizemore  CF  Jason Michaels  RF  Todd Hollandsworth  (minor league deal)  DH  Ben Broussard  SP  Cliff Lee  SP  Paul Byrd  SP  Jason Johnson  SP C.C. Sabathia  SP  Jake Westbrook  RP  Steve Karsay  (minor league deal)  RP  Arthur Rhodes  (trade in the works to go to Philly in return for CF Jason Michaels)  RP  David Riske  (may be part of the trade to Boston)  RP  Danny Graves  (minor league deal)  RP  Rafael Betancourt  RP  Scott Sauerbeck  RP  Fernando Cabrera  RP Bob Wickman  (closer)

Subtractions:  Bob Howry, Scott Elarton, Kevin Millwood, Brian Talent, Coco Crisp, Arthur Rhodes

Additions:   Bubbie Buzachero, Paul Byrd, Einar Diaz, Danny Graves, Todd Hollandsworth, Jason Johnson, Steve Karsay, Lou Merloni, Eduardo Perez, Jason Michaels, Andy Marte

Rumors:  None

I think the Indians should be able to hang with the Chicago White Sox this year.  If the Sox have some key injuries during the upcoming season, I can easily see the Indians taking the division (Thome).  Manager Eric Wedge is doing a nice job with this young club.  I enjoy his laid back style of managing.  I think if a manager is too overbearing to his players it often times leads to a disgruntled clubhouse, perfect example Larry Bowa while he was in Philly.  I’m not too big on the rumored Coco Crisp deal to Boston, however if Andy Marte is the player they get in return pans out, in the long run it could make Indians GM Mark Shapiro look brilliant.  Plug Marte in at third for Aaron Boone and the Indians will have a young, talented, and loaded lineup for many years to come.  Travis Hafner will have a huge season if he can get hitting in the head last year out of his mind while he is in the box.  Victor Martinez will continue his rise to the top as one of the best catchers in baseball.  With the additions of Paul Byrd, aka a carbon copy of Millwood’s style of pitching, and Jason Johnson, the Indians will have a decent pitching staff.  I’ve always been a fan of C.C. Sabathia and I look for him to have a better year in ’06 if he gets more run support.  If the Arthur Rhodes for Jason Michaels trade goes through I think the Indians will get the better end of the deal.  Michaels is much younger and in my opinion when you make a deal and can get younger, well that’s always a plus.  In most situations I’d frown on trading pitching for offense, but in this case it’s the right deal for the Indians.  In no means am I saying Crisp can be replaced by Michaels, but he’ll be able to hold his own until the Indians find a long-term fix to be their centerfielder.  All in all I can’t wait to watch the Indians develop into one of the best teams in the American League this year.

Prediction:  2^nd Place in the AL Central (barring injury) 

                   AL Wild Card, 97-65

Chicago White Sox

What an off-season for the reigning World Series champions.  GM Ken Williams has been a busy man so far, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s not done dealing yet.  I like the additions of Jim Thome and Javier Vazquez.  When healthy Thome is one of the most enjoyable power hitters to watch bat.  Vazquez was a strikeout machine while he was with the now defunct Expos.  I think that he can return to that form, especially with the offense he now has behind him.  I am going to be paying a lot of attention to this division this year.  I think it’s going to be one of the closest and most enjoyable races to watch, between the White Sox, Indians, and Twins.  Here is a look at the current roster for the White Sox.

C   A.J. Pierzynski  1B  Paul Konerko  2B Tadahito Iguchi/Rob Mackowiak  SS  Juan Uribe  3B  Joe Crede  LF  Scott Podsednik  CF  Brian Anderson  RF  Jermaine Dye  DH  Jim Thome  SP  Javier Vazquez  SP  Jon Garland  SP  Mark Buerhle  SP  Freddy Garcia  SP  Jose Contreras  SP  Brandon McCarthy  RP  Cliff Politte  RP  Dustin Hermanson  RP  Neil Cotts  RP  Bobby Jenks 

Subtractions:  Geoff Blum, Jamie Burke, Raul Casanova, Dan Haigwood, Carl Everett, Orlando Hernandez, Damaso Marte, Aaron Rowand, Frank Thomas 

Additions:  Jim Thome, Javier Vazquez, Rob Mackowiak

Rumors:  Jose Contreras to Philadelphia for Bobby Abreu;

                Trade away a SP to get Brandon McCarthy into the rotation

I see the White Sox having a cake walk back to the playoffs with the solid pitching staff they have assembled, especially with the addition of Vazquez.  I think the only thing that can bring this team down is the injury bug.  The addition of Mackowiak coming of the bench will be a key addition to this team.  I absolutely love the way that Scott Podsednik changes the game for them.  He disrupts every pitcher when he gets on base, reminds me of when I was a kid watching Ricky Henderson drive pitchers nuts.  By no means am I calling Podsednik Henderson, but they both possess the ability to change games all by themselves.  I love the power in the middle of this lineup with Konerko/Thome/Dye.  I think it would have been nice to see Frank Thomas mixed in here too, but not now.  I think Williams should address the situation he has at shortstop, I see that as being one of their few weaknesses.  It will be a dogfight with the Indians in ’06, as for now my money is on the Sox in this division.

Prediction:  1^st Place AL Central, 100-62

Detroit Tigers

The Baltimore Orioles of the American League Central.  I feel for the fans of the Tigers, at least last season was better than the 100-loss year preceding it.  I am glad to see the return of Jim Leyland, I just wish it had been in Pittsburgh and not Detroit.  I think he will have a positive influence on this team, but even Superman couldn’t take this team to the playoffs in ’06, no way no how in this division.  I think they should stick the course with bringing up their young talent, and the addition of Placido Polanco last year was a good move for them.  Here is a look at their lineup.

C  Ivan Rodriguez  1B Chris Shelton/Dmitri Young  2B  Placido Polanco  SS  Carlos Guillen  3B  Brandon Inge  LF  Craig Monroe  CF  Nook Logan (my pick to start in CF)/Curtis Granderson  RF  Magglio Ordonez  DH  Dmitri Young  SP  Kenny Rogers  SP  Jeremey Bonderman  SP  Nate Robertson  SP  Mike Maroth  SP  (Settled in Spring Training)  RP  Chris Spurling  RP  Wil Ledezma  RP  Matt Mantei (minor league deal)  RP  Todd Jones  RP  Troy Percival  (hurt, future not clear at the moment)

Subtractions:  Jason Johnson, Chris Booker, Fernando Vina, Rondell White, Matt Roney, John McDonald

Additions:  Todd Jones, Matt Mantei, Kenny Rogers, Ramon Santiago, Bobby Seay

Rumors:  none

I look for them to fight the Kansas City Royals for last place all year.  This team won’t go anywhere if it stays the course like it is.  Only a few well thought out trades and signings will help this team in the next few years.  I’d start out by shipping out Ivan Rodriguez in a trade for some youth.

Prediction:   4^th Place AL Central, 75-87

Kansas City Royals                  

I must say that I’ve been impressed by the Royals this off-season.  The moves they have made won’t make them a playoff contender, but at least they aren’t packing it in and saying uncle.  I like the signing of Reggie Sanders; I hope he has a big year with the bat for them.  I just want them to be competitive enough to beat teams like the Yankees and Red Sox instead of just hading wins to them.  With Mientkiewicz they add a good fielding third baseman, who used to have a good bat when he was with the Twins, hopefully that returns this year.  Also, I like the pick up of second baseman Mark Grudzielanek.  I can’t leave out the fact that I am a big fan of Mike Sweeney.  The mixture of youth and veterans the Royals now have should be a welcome change to the minor league team that has been masquerading as them for the last ten years.  Here is a look at their lineup.

C  John Buck/Paul Bako  1B  Doug Mientkiewicz/Mike Sweeney  2B  Mark Grudzielanek  SS  Angel Berroa  3B  Mark Teahen  LF  Reggie Sanders  CF  David DeJesus  RF  Emil Brown  DH  Mike Sweeney/Matt Stairs  SP  Runelvys Hernandez  SP  Mark Redman  SP  Joe Mays  SP  Zack Greinke  SP  Scott Elarton  RP  Joel Peralta  RP  Andrew Sisco  RP  Elmer Dessens  RP  Jeremy Affeldt  RP  Mike Wood  RP  Ambiorix Burgos  RP  Mike MacDougal

Subtractions:  Brian Anderson, Johan Bayliss, D.J. Carrasco, Jaime Cerda, Seth Etherton, Nate Field, Terrance Long

Additions:  Paul Bako, Adam Bernero, Elmer Dessens, Scott Elarton, Esteban German, Mark Grudzielanek, Bobby Madritsch, Joe Mays, Doug Mankiewicz, Mark Redman, Joel Peralta, Reggie Sanders

Rumors: none

I look for the Royals to improve on their 56-106 record of last year.  I expect them to keep playing the role of basement dweller for a few more years at least.  They play in a hard division that only looks to improve over the next few years.  I just hope they can continue to nurture their young prospects and keep them under contract, instead of sending them off for other teams to benefit from.  Keep your heads up Royals fans, at least you have those lovely waterfalls out in the outfield.  Good luck Buddy Bell.

Prediction:  5^th Place, 60-102

Minnesota Twins

It looks like a promising year on paper for the Twins.  However, on paper and on the field are two different things.  In a very competitive division I think the Twins hold all the answers.  If they can remain competitive with division rival Indians and White Sox, I can see them stealing this division.  If not, I see them barely missing the playoffs behind the Indians.  They have made some nice additions this winter, especially the acquisition of Luis Castillo.  If he can get on base like the days of old, he can mean a lot of runs for this team.  I am a big fan of Joe Mauer and Justin Morneau when they are healthy.  I think Rondell White will fit in well, to me he just seems like a perfect Twin.  Here is a look at their lineup.

C  Joe Mauer  1B  Justin Morneau  2B  Luis Castillo  SS  Jason Bartlett/Juan Castro  3B  Michael Cuddyer/Tony Batista  LF  Rondell White  CF  Torii Hunter/Lew Ford  RF  Shannon Stewart/Jason Kubel  DH  Rondell White  SP  Johan Santana  SP  Brad Radke  SP  Carlos Silva  SP  Kyle Lohse  SP/RP  Darrell May (minor league deal)  RP  Gabe White (minor league deal)  RP  Dennys Reyes (minor league deal)  RP  Scott Baker  RP  Franciso Liriano  RP  Jesse Crain  RP  Juan Rincon  RP  Joe Nathan

Subtractions:  Brent Abernathy, Grant Balfour, Travis Bowyer,  Jaque Jones, Joe Mays, Terry Mulholland, J.C. Romero, Scott Tyler

Additions:  Tony Batista, Luis Castillo, Darrell May, Gabe White, Rondell White, Shawn Wooten, Ruben Sierra (minor league deal)

Ron Gardenhire looks to have a good team to head into the season with.  Other than Johan Santana and Brad Radke I’m not very impressed with the pitching staff.  I think the addition of Castillo and White will help their offense.  I can see the Twins finishing third in the central, unless like I said earlier about if they can run the division.

 Prediction:  3^rd Place AL Central, 87-75

Overall, I think the central is going to be a very entertaining and competitive division in ’06.  I look for it to be a knock down drag out battle all the way to October.

Next - NL CENTRAL PRIMER

Starting Thursday I'll be posting a division by division primer for all of Major League Baseball.  With the NFL Playoffs taking a week off I thought I'd blog as much as possible this week to help out all the sports starved individuals out there looking for something to read.  Here's a preview of when I'll blog on each division:

Thursday:  AL Central

Tuesday:  NL Central

 To follow:  AL West  NL West NL East  AL East

I hope you all will stop by my blog and enjoy the countdown to Opening Day...remember pitchers and catchers report in 21 days!  Spring is just around the corner.