In the Flippin’ Bats 2024 American League preview, Ben Verlander and Alex Curry discuss the teams in the AL West and make their predictions for the division winner. The AL West is a highly competitive division with teams that have the potential to make a deep playoff run. The Houston Astros, Seattle Mariners, and Los Angeles Angels are all strong contenders in the division, with each team boasting talented rosters and experienced managers. The Astros, in particular, have been dominant in recent years and are expected to once again be a force to be reckoned with in the AL West.
One of the key factors that will influence the outcome of the AL West is the performance of the pitching staffs of each team. The Astros have a strong rotation led by ace Justin Verlander, while the Mariners and Angels also have talented pitchers who are capable of shutting down opposing lineups. In a division where every game matters, having a reliable pitching staff can be crucial in determining a team’s success. Additionally, injuries and player performances throughout the season will also play a significant role in shaping the AL West standings.
Offensively, the AL West teams have some of the most potent lineups in the league. The Astros, Mariners, and Angels all have hitters who can change the course of a game with one swing of the bat. Players like Mike Trout, Shohei Ohtani, and George Springer are just a few of the stars who headline the lineups in the AL West. The ability of these teams to consistently produce runs and put pressure on opposing pitchers will be key in determining which team emerges as the division champion.
Another factor that could impact the AL West race is the depth of each team’s roster. With a long and grueling 162-game season, having depth in the form of reliable bench players and bullpen arms can make a big difference in a team’s ability to stay competitive throughout the year. The Astros, Mariners, and Angels all have solid depth in their rosters, giving them the flexibility to navigate injuries and slumps that inevitably occur over the course of a season.
As the season progresses, Alex and Ben will closely follow the AL West race and provide updates on the division standings and individual player performances. The competition in the AL West is expected to be fierce, with each team vying for the coveted division crown and a spot in the postseason. Ultimately, it will come down to which team can stay healthy, get consistent production from their key players, and execute in crucial moments to emerge as the AL West champion. Stay tuned to Flippin’ Bats for all the latest news and analysis on the AL West and the rest of the American League as the race for the playoffs heats up.
