American League West – The Week That Was

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Typically, mid January is the most depressing time of year for baseball fans. There are usually no big moves made and few rumors to report. However, the teams around the American League West treated fans to a number of surprising moves this week. The talented writers here at FanSided were there every step of the way bringing fans the best coverage of their favorite team. It is time to once again take a trip around the FanSided sites devoted to the Angels competition in the AL West to find out what the enemy was up to this week.

Oakland Athletics – Swingin A’s

Sean Doolittle was one of the best 9th inning men in all of baseball this past season, but it was announced earlier this week that the bearded southpaw has been bitten by the injury bug. Reports are that it was discovered Doolittle has a “slight tear” of his rotator cuff. Nick Avila of Swingin’ A’s does not believe Doolittle’s injury will adversely affect the Athletics in 2015.

Next: A's Bullpen In Good Shape Even With Doolittle Injury

The Athletics have made the postseason in each of the past three seasons, but because many of the moves made by Billy Beane this offseason have been poorly received, many pundits believe the A’s are not likely to make it four straight trips to the playoffs. Ryan Heuer of Swingin’ A’s writes that contrary to the media’s consensus, the A’s are set to take another run at the World Series in 2015. Beane has shown an ability to craft successful teams throughout his tenure, and as long as he is the A’s architect, I would not count them out just yet.

Next: Oakland Athletics All-In Again in 2015

Houston Astros – Climbing Tal’s Hill

The Houston Astros appeared on the verge of a number of big moves this week, only to have their hopes dashed at the last second. However, they did manage to sign veteran center fielder Colby Rasmus earlier this week. Jason Burke, editor of CTH, breaks down the Rasmus signing and discusses the impact he could make on the squad this season. Colby is the older brother of Angels’ hurler Cory Rasmus, so it will make for some intriguing matchups between the siblings in 2015.

Next: Has the Addition of Colby Rasmus Made the Astros Better?

The Astros are well known throughout baseball circles for having the best farm system in baseball, chalk full of promising prospects who are nearly ready to contribute in Houston. But after the string of recent acquisitions by the Astros, Brinn Williford of CTH wonders if new players are potentially blocking their young talent. One thing is for sure, the Astros will not be a punch line in opponents clubhouses in 2015.

Next: Do the Astros Have Too Many Good Players?

Seattle Mariners – SoDo Mojo

Dan Hughes, co-editor of SoDo Mojo, wrote a fascsinating article about returning to the concept of four-man starting rotations. Hughes gives readers an in-depth analysis of the positives and negatives for a club adopting the idea. It is certainly an intriguing idea, but it is critical to have the right personnel for this theory to work.

Next: Are Major League Teams Heading Back To A Four-Man Pitching Rotation?

Shawn O’Malley spent 11 games in an Angels’ uniform in 2014. This week the Richland, WA product signed a minor league contract with an invite to spring training with his hometown Mariners. Dan Hughes introduces M’s fans to the 27-year-old utility man.

Next: Mariners Sign Shawn O'Malley To Minor Deal With Spring Invite

Mike Zunino proved himself to be one of the best young backstops in baseball last season, excelling at the plate and crouching behind it. However, he did have some struggles with consistency offensively down the stretch for Seattle. Patrick Ringelstein of SoDo Mojo thinks that the 23-year-old’s power is his defining trait, and will be at the heart of his game again in 2015.

Next: Mike Zunino's Power Saves His Offense

Texas Rangers – Nolan Writin’

The Texas Rangers made waves earlier this week when they dealt for all-star pitcher Yovani Gallardo from the Milwaukee Brewers. Gallardo will be a steadying force in the Rangers rotation in 2015. However, Lee Stitzel of Nolan Writin’ wonders if the price was too high for the 28-year-old righty.

Next: Texas Rangers Pay High But Fair Price for Yovani Gallardo

The Rangers weren’t finished there, as they acquired catcher Carlos Corporan from the Houston Astros as well this week. Lisa Weatherall, co-editor of Nolan Writin’, breaks down the Rangers new backstop, and discusses his potential role in 2015.

Next: Texas Rangers Trade for Carlos Corporan