Mid-season Review: AL East
This has been one of the best divisions in baseball. All teams are close to .500 or better. Of course, no one believed Tampa had the power to make a run, but they have been one of the best stories this season.
Baltimore Orioles
Record: 45-48
Pythagorean Record: 45-45
Farm System: 8th
What Went Right?
Well, they are middle of the pack in runs scored (13th in MLB).
What Went Wrong?
The Pitching, which was to be expected. They given up the 9th most runs in the league. They also should have had Brian Roberts traded by now. They aren’t going to win this year; they probably aren’t going to win next year either so they may as well trade the guys with a little value.
What Needs To Be Done?
They need to start the selling. Ramon Hernandez, Roberts, Huff, etc. could all help net a prospect or 2. This will also clear spots for some of their players that are close to taking everyday roles.
Grade: C-
Boston Red Sox
Record: 57-40
Pythagorean Record: 59-38
Farm System: 3rd
What Went Right?
As to be expected, just about everything has gone right. They’ve got a surplus of pitching and the hitting is doing what is expected.
What Went Wrong?
Julio Lugo – what happened to the guys that played for the Rays a few years ago. Hideki Okajima has also struggles in his second MLB season.
What Needs To Be Done?
Adding a lefty reliever is the main objective – Brian Fuentes has been linked to the team. They are also looking for some hitters, probably to come off the bench. They also have Coco Crisp, who had been part of plenty of rumors until recently.
Grade: A
New York Yankees
Record: 50-45
Pythagorean Record: 50-45
Farm System: 16th
What Went Right?
As of late, the team has been pretty good. Mike Mussina looks like he’s found the foutain of youth. The problem was…
What Went Wrong?
They got off to a horrible start, which could kill post-season chances. The young players they were counting on, namely Phil Hughes and Ian Kennedy, have been ineffective and hurt.
What Needs To Be Done?
They definitely needs some help, but I’m not ruling them out. Richie Sexson could be brought in to face lefties; he’s killed them this year while the Yankees haven’t been able to. They could also use a starter and a reliever.
Grade: C+
Tampa Bay Rays
Record: 55-39
Pythagorean Record: 52-42
Farm System: 4th
What Went Right?
Everything. The Rays have surprised everyone this year with solid all around play. They gotten contributions from everyone.
What Went Wrong?
The bullpen has blown a few games. Other than that, they should have nothing to complain about.
What Needs To Be Done?
They really need to over-haul the ‘pen. Brian Fuentes is their main goal. They also could use an additional bench player or 2.
Grade: A
Toronto Blue Jays
Record: 47-48
Pythagorean Record: 50-45
Farm System: 24th
What Went Right?
They have a solid run differential and have been really unlucky. They’ve gotten some surprises from young players.
What Went Wrong?
Like I mentioned, they’ve been unlucky. Injuries have also had a small effect on the team. Add in Frank Thomas and his bad start and the JP/Adam Dunn circus, there have been too many distractions.
What Needs To Be Done?
They need to plan for next year. This division is too strong and they can’t make up the difference. Trading AJ Burnett could add a key player or 2 for next year.
Grade: D
