MLB Preview 2012: Predicting the American League West Divsion

I must confess, I am a hypocrite by selecting the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim first. When Albert Pujols and C.J. Wilson signed their contracts, I rolled my eyes and said that the additions wouldn't work like the Angels wanted them too.

Then I started thinking about it. I looked at the Rangers' potential injury issues along with the hangover that could result in a slump to either start the season or linger throughout the year.

While that alone could open the door for the Angels, it's clear they have the talent to do it themselves.

It's been debated whether Pujols was suitable for a 10-year contract with the Angels as he's headed toward the twilight of his career. Well, the twilight is still light years away and at the very least, Pujols will give the Angels a benefit in 2012.

They'll also get a boost from C.J. Wilson. Wilson may relate to Carl Pavano stat wise, but he makes the Angels rotation deeper as they already get solid contributions from Jared Weaver and Ervin Santana.

The back of the bullpen might be a question with Jordan Walden getting his first opportunity to close games, but if the rotation can hold up their end of the bargain, they'll be in the mix to unseat the Rangers.

The contracts the Angels doled out last winter may haunt them down the road, but they have an opportunity in 2012 to get something out of it right now. We'll see if they can capitalize.

Read the original here:
MLB Preview 2012: Predicting the American League West Divsion