With six weeks to go until the MLB postseason begins, the races couldn’t be more exciting. This week’s MLB review takes a look at the contenders in each division as well as the wild card leaders and ranks each team’s chances of winning the World Series based on personal odds. Frankly, this is what I’ve enjoyed most about baseball up until the end of the season.
That mainly has to do with parity this year. Personally, I can’t stand seeing the same teams in the playoffs every year. I despise New York Yankees fans who think their team is a godsend to baseball. The same goes for Red Sox fans. I’m glad they gave Boston a title. However, since then, the so-called ‘Red Sox Nation’ has been overhyped. I can understand the group of fans across the country who jumped on the tail of this team, but in all seriousness, not many west of the Mississippi River care about this team.
Not many see the Cincinnati Reds making noise in the playoffs, but how can you not enjoy the success of this team without a roster and great players? The Tigers steamrolled critics all year and have yet to show any signs of slowing down, despite a current short losing streak. The Twins have been terrific, as they overcame a rocky start to get into the heart of the AL wild-card race. And as far as the Mets go, it’s understandable not to give the National League credit for their overall weakness, but the ‘Amazins are arguably one of the favorites to win the World Series.
Oh, and save yourself all the Albert Pujols and David Wright MVP hype. José Reyes is the clear winner at this point. Coming into Sunday Reyes is second in the majors in runs with 95, has 11 home runs and 55 RBIs since the top spot, and is first in the majors with 15 triples and 49 stolen bases and is the catalyst with 140 hits. on top of one of the best offenses in baseball.
At least
New York Yankees: 5/1
The Bombers have flourished since his trade to acquire Abreu and Lidle. However, the Yanks need more quality starts beyond Mussina and Wang.
Boston Red Sox: 8/1
As good as David Ortiz and Manny Ramirez looked last month, the starting rotation has been inconsistent and closer Papelbon has shown he’s truly human.
AL center
Detroit Tigers: 4/1
The bottom line is that Detroit has been the better team all year. They should be the favorites in the American League until they retire. Last year’s version of the untested White Sox.
Chicago White Sox: 6/1
It bounced back nicely after falling 10 1/2 games behind Detroit. They now sit just 5 ½ back after sweeping them this weekend. Back-to-back is a great possibility.
Minnesota Twins: 1/18
Any chance of Minnesota making the playoffs was out the door. Liriano went on the disabled list.
AL West
Oakland Athletics: 1/10
My personal selection from spring training to reach the World Series. It’s not likely to get there, but they are peaking in the right month.
Los Angeles Angels: 1/15
Bad news when Columbus fell for the year. Insufficient offensive to boost a team that failed to sign Alfonso Soriano.
National League East
New York Mets: 3/1
With Pedro and Glavine they have a solid 1-2 punch. Reyes, Wright, Beltrán and Delgado lead a lethal offense ready to take them to the Fall Classic.
downtown NL
St. Louis Cardinals: 1/10
It is not the team from a couple of years ago. Pujols always seems to be on point, however the rest of the team lacks the requisite swagger.
Cincinnati Reds: 1/20
They have the offense to win a playoff series. However, Aaron Harang doesn’t have the prowess of a postseason ace.
NL West
Los Angeles Dodgers: 1/12
The front office made big additions with Maddux, Lugo and Betemit. With enough hitting, the pitch will be the issue. Is there enough behind Cy Young contestant Brad Penny?
Arizona Diamondbacks: 1/25
A great chance to find a way to the top spot of the wild card. However, a date with the Mets would make them pack up.
San Diego Padres: 1/25
He could win the division or the wild card or miss both. With ace Jake Peavy below .500 and not at the top of his game, San Diego will be stuck at home after September.