Mid-season Review: AL Central
No one would have predicted this divison – the White Sox in first; the Indians in last. The Twins in contention without Johan Santana. Well at least the Royals are still the Royals (although not in last).
Chicago White Sox
Record: 54-40
Pythagorean Record: 56-38
Farm System: 29th
What Went Right?
I just wanted to point out that I said the White Sox would be better this year, if the pitching worked out. I received an e-mail stating I was a hack and nothing more than a second rate writer. The pitching has been good, especially the 2 question marks at the begining of the season: John Danks and Gavin Floyd. Carlos Quentin has been a monster at the plate.
What Went Wrong?
Nick Swisher was expected to do more; hopefully he rebounds in the second half. First baseman Paul Konerko is also having a down year.
What Needs To Be Done?
I don’t see them upgrading much. Maybe a bullpen arm.
Grade: B+
Cleveland Indians
Record: 41-53
Pythagorean Record: 48-46
Farm System: 18th
What Went Right?
Cliff Lee is pitching like an ace. Grady Sizemore is still putting up good numbers.
What Went Wrong?
They’ve been unlucky. Their run-differential shows they should be above .500. Travis Hafner is unofficially done. Victor Martinez is having a down year.
What Needs To Be Done?
Start over. They have some pieces that can be traded, while the bulk of their team is in place for the long haul. Paul Byrd can fetch a prospect from a contender.
Grade: D-
Detroit Tigers
Record: 47-47
Pythagorean Record: 48-46
Farm System: 27th
What Went Right?
Recently, everything has been better. They are hitting alright and the pitching is keeping them in games.
What Went Wrong?
A horrible start; there was no explanation to it. Losing Bonderman for the year was big, if he would have returned to form. Anyone else think Dontrelle Willis will be an effective major league pitcher again? Me neither.
What Needs To Be Done?
If they can string together a few more solid weeks, they’ll be in contention in the end. They need a couple of bullpen arms. If they sell, they don’t have much that would be wanted.
Grade: C-
Kansas City Royals
Record: 43-53
Pythagorean Record: 41-55
Farm System: 23rd
What Went Right?
They have stuck with some of their younger players. Luke Hochevar is their future ace, so they will let him tough it out. They also had a couple of good weeks.
What Went Wrong?
They are the Royals. Young Billy Butler struggles, so he gets sent down – a move that shouldn’t have been made since they know they won’t be in contention.
What Needs To Be Done?
They need to get the veterans out while they have value. Jose Guillen could use a move.
Grade: D
Minnesota Twins
Record: 53-42
Pythagorean Record: 49-46
Farm System: 10th
What Went Right?
The Johan Santana deal looks good. While it would have been nice to have Satana leading the rotation, Carlos Gomez has been pretty good. It also lead to the signing of Livan Hernandez, which is really helping the young staff.
What Went Wrong?
The Matt Garza deal. Gazra and Bartlett would have been nice to have right about now; especially since Delmon isn’t doing much.
What Needs To Be Done?
They need another hitter. Adrian Beltre might be a good pick up, if they actually go through with it.
Grade: B
