Preview of the American League Central Division

1.Cleveland Indians- Few people seem to remember how close the Cleveland Indians were to beating out the Chicago White Sox for the AL Central. The pitching problems and lack of clutch hitting down the stretch beleaguered the Tribe but an off season of remembering what could have been will help Cleveland take the division. Key to their success in 2006 will be the strength of a new starting pitching staff, how closer Bob Wickman performs as closer, and how the young hitters in this lineup will mature. The loss of Kevin Millwood and Scott Elarton leaves C.C. Sabathia and newcomer Paul Byrd to head a pitching staff that could be great, if they stay healthy. Bob Wickman is always perilously close to blowing his save opportunities but if he stays on the right side of peril, the Indians will start winning more close games. If Grady Sizemore and Travis Hafner repeat their power numbers from 2005, they will guide a strong supporting cast to the head of the division.

2. Chicago White Sox- The World Series champion White Sox reloaded in the off season with the addition of first baseman Jim Thome, pitcher Javier Vazquez, and outfielder Rob Mackowiak. While they lost a number of players in free agency, most were either on the decline (Frank Thomas), were overrated (Carl Everett, Orlando Hernandez) or were valuable trade bait (Aaron Rowand). However, the Indians’ failure down the stretch last year won’t be repeated this year and the White Sox will be relegated to the wild card spot in the American League playoffs. But Chicago will still be a favorite for the World Series and no matter where they play in the playoffs, they will put out a more talented lineup than their opponents. Their hitting is nearly flawless, with Scott Podsednik, Juan Uribe, and Jermaine Dye will set the table for Thome and Paul Konerko. The pitching rotation includes outstanding arms Mark Buehrle, Freddy Garcia, and Javier Vazquez along with an improving bullpen.