American League Central Future Odds Preview

The American League Central has been predominately run by the Chicago White Sox and Cleveland Guardians for many years now with a little sprinkle of Twins and Royals around 2013-16. 

The Division has not been short talent-wise with heavy-hitters like Jose Abreu and Nelson Cruz, who moved on to Tampa Bay and Jose Ramirez. With the 2022 season still in flux, we will look at where odds projectors have each team falling in pre-season predictions. 

Chicago White Sox (-213)

The White Sox are the reigning champs of this Division after going 93-69 last season and seem to only be getting better. Their bullpen is set up nicely after acquiring Liam Hendriks last off-season and getting Craig Kimbrel at the trade deadline. 

They haven't lost any major players. Leury Garcia was resigned before the lockout. Tim Anderson is still playing shortstop and becoming one of the best players in the league, likewise for Jose Abreu. There is no reason to believe this team can't repeat as champions. 

Detroit Tigers (+550)

The Tigers are a good young squad, and it will be interesting to see how they mesh this season. They probably are not ready to make a run at this division just yet but could be a serious player in a few years.

However, look for the versatile Akil Baddoo to have a breakout year and keep him on your radar. 

Kansas City Royals (+900)

The most intriguing piece to this roster is Adalberto Mondesi. Sometimes he looks like Babe Ruth, and sometimes, he looks like Kevin Keirmaier at the dish. Staying on the field has been a major problem too, but if healthy, look for him to make a difference. 

It is probably best to take some caution with this squad. They do, however, have two players in the pipeline, Nick Pratto, and MJ Melendez. If they are called up mid-season, this team could turn some heads.

Minnesota Twins (+900)

With a 73-89 record, the Twins finished last in this division and were also sellers at the trade deadline. Obviously, they are looking towards the future, so it is probably best to stay away from this team for now. However, they did acquire Austin Martin at the trade deadline, who will be a stud eventually. 

Cleveland Guardians (+1100)

With a sub .500 record last season at 80-82, this team still has a lot to work on if they want to dethrone the White Sox. This was the storied franchises first losing season since 2012, so it isn't exactly the time to panic just yet. 

The Guardians should do their best to acquire a power hitter in this season's draft, especially with their surplus at pitcher. Shane Bieber, Aaron Civale and Zach Plesac will anchor down that rotation, but maybe trading one could be in the cards? 

Jose Ramirez is one of the better players in baseball, so getting him some lineup coverage would bode well for this team. Currently, their next best bat is Myles Straw, who had a great second half to his season after being acquired from Houston. 

All in all, this team has some adjustments to be made, but the foundation is there. With an elite pitching staff, the Guardians are worth a look.

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