The AL Central could be one of the most difficult to predict this season. The Tigers are the favorites, but the rest of the division is up for grabs.
1 Tigers: The Tigers added Torii Hunter to a team that already includes Miguel Cabrera (AL MVP and Triple Crown winner), Prince Fielder and Justin Verlander. They are the team to beat in the Central AL.
2 Royals – The Royals have a good young core in Billy Butler and Alex Gordon. James Shields and Wade Davis should be welcome additions to the rotation. The Royals have a chance to break through and make a serious playoff run in 2013.
3 Indians – The Indians caused a stir by signing Nick Swisher and Michael Bourn. Their offense should be above average, but their pitching staff has too many question marks. This team seems to be average this season.
4 Twins – The Twins have some potential, but like most teams, the pitching staff will be the key to how they finish. If Joe Mauer and Justin Morneau can stay healthy throughout the season, the offense will be productive. This is a team that could stand out and surprise some people; but even so, it seems that a fourth place is the best they can hope for.
5 White Sox – The White Sox pitching staff doesn’t appear to be very intimidating. There is power in the middle of the lineup but they are beginning to show signs of age. They’re going to miss AJ Pierzynski, who leaves a hole in the lineup, behind the plate and in the locker room.
Besides the Tigers, the American League Central is made up of mediocre teams. None of them are horrible, but it looks like the wild card team will come out of the East and West this season.