American League West – The Week That Was

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The only good thing about the Holidays being over, is that the baseball season is right around the corner. As the season approaches, it is important to keep tabs on the Angels’ compition in the American League West. Reading the four FanSided sites devoted to the other AL West teams is the best way of staying up to date on all the developments from the Halos’ competition.

Seattle Mariners – SoDo Mojo

Dustin Ackley had a monstrous second half for the M’s in 2014, but Patrick Ringelstein of SoDo Mojo expects the 26-year-old left fielder to take the next step this season. One thing is for sure, Ackley will be hard pressed to improve upon his beard. That thing is glorious.

Next: More Needed From Dustin Ackley In 2015

Jon O’Connor of SoDo Mojo broke down the Mariners roster earlier this week, and he thinks the club is on the verge of a Championship season. With the M’s emphasis on adding offense this winter, O’Connor believes that this incarnation of the Mariners will have no trouble racking up W’s in 2015.

Next: Seattle Mariners: Championship Formula

The M’s filled their need in right field this week when they traded for Seth Smith from the San Diego Padres. Charlie Spencer-Davis, co-editor of SoDo Mojo, breaks down the deal and what it will mean for the Mariners in 2015. Smith will likely platoon in right with Justin Ruggiano, and should provide solid numbers next season in the Pacific Northwest.

Next: The Mariners Trade for OF Seth Smith

Houston Astros – Climbing Tal’s Hill

The Houston Astros selected Mark Appel first overall in the 2013 draft out of Stanford University. Eric Huysman of Climbing Tal’s Hill is convinced the Angels will square off against the highly touted righty before the end of next season. Houston has the best farm system in baseball, and could pose a real threat to the Angels supremacy in a couple years.

Next: Mark Appel is Not Far Away From Joining Astros

Jason Burke, co-editor of Climbing Tal’s Hill, explores the immense potential of right fielder George Springer. The 25-year-old has an intriguing combination of power and speed. Burke believes Springer will take a massive step forward in 2015, clubbing nearly 40 dingers and driving in at least 90 runs.

Next: George Springer: What Can We Expect in a Full Season?

Texas Rangers – Nolan Writin’

Due to injuries and sub par performances, the Texas Rangers had a frustrating 2014. David Cash, co-editor of Nolan Writin’, discusses what the Rangers’ starting rotation needs to accomplish in the New Year to be successful.

Next: Texas Rangers starting rotation: 5 New Years resolutions

The Rangers have not made any significant moves this winter, and Lee Stitzel of Nolan Writin’ believes this trend will continue. The reality is that the Rangers are a very talented team when healthy, and they have few weaknesses to address this offseason. Something tells me that the Rangers may surprise a few people this season, and the Angels should not take their explosive offense lightly.

Next: Why the Texas Rangers Will Continue Their Quiet Offseason.

Oakland Athletics – Swingin’ A’s

Joseph DeClercq of Swingin’ A’s highlights three under the radar players he believes will make a big impact for Athletics in 2015. The A’s have changed the complexion of their team dramatically this offseason, but as long as Billy Beane is picking the players, the A’s will always be competitive.

Next: Three Players Who Will Impact the 2015 Oakland Athletics

Reliever R.J. Alvarez was part of the package that allowed the Halos to land Huston Street from the San Diego Padres. In December, the Padres dealt Alvarez to the A’s in exchange for catcher Derek Norris. Jason Burke, co-editor of Swingin’ A’s wonders if Alvarez will be used as the club’s set-up man in 2015.

Next: R.J. Alvarez: A's Setup Man?

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