By: Stephen Patterson
Since it's officially the All-Star break, I've decided to toss out some predictions for what might coming during the second half of the MLB season. This season, no team has a five game lead or higher in their division for the first time in history. While that probably means several of the divisional races will come down to the wire, I'm still going to give this a shot. The Yankees currently are the best team in the AL with a record of 56-32, but there are several other really hot teams in the American League. Some of the races will definitely be interesting in the last few weeks of the season and will be close in end. With that said, here are my divisional predictions and also my Wild Card pick for the AL:AL EAST
Current Division Leader: New York Yankees
Predicted Winner: New York Yankees
Reason: There are several reasons why I've picked the Yankees: 1) They are my team, therefore, I am biased 2.) Boston is riddled with injuries and Tampa Bay has been inconsistent 3.) They have the best record in both leagues 4.) They win the division way more often than not. With that being said, the Rays have the best chance of catching New York, but unless they can put an end to some recent struggles, I don't expect them to make a big enough run.
AL CENTRAL
Current Division Leader: Chicago White Sox
Predicted Winner: Minnesota Twins
Reason: The White Sox are just the third team in MLB history take the lead of their division for the first time all season in their final game before the break. Unless Chicago can make a deal and upgrade their roster, I don't think they can hold off the Twins and Detroit Tigers. The loss of Jake Peavy to season ending surgery will definitely catch up to this team late in the season.
AL WEST
Current Division Leader: Texas Rangers
Predicted Winner: Texas Rangers
Reason: The Rangers have on of the best line ups in MLB and with the addition of Cliff Lee, are now one of the most dangerous teams in the American League. With Josh Hamilton, Vlad Guerrero, and Michael Young all having great seasons, I expect them to pull away from the Angels in their division. Even though they were just swept by Baltimore, they still hold a 4 1/2 game lead over Los Angeles, which is the largest lead in any division.
AL WILD CARD
Predicted Winner: Tampa Bay Rays
Runner-Up: Boston Red Sox
Reason: The AL East is definitely the best division in baseball, and will likely send two teams to the postseason. If Tampa Bay can get offense together (they've been no-hit twice this season), they have the potential to make a strong second half surge and make the division interesting with New York. If Boston can ever get healthy (not seeming likely), they have a chance at the Wild Card, but I don't think they have enough in the tank to catch the Rays or Yankees.
Check back later for my NL predictions and other MLB second half predictions.
