Despite being home to the World Series runner-up Texas Rangers, the AL West was one of the worst divisions in baseball in 2010 featuring only one team with a better than .500 record.
The Rangers have upgraded their already stellar offense—a noteworthy attempt to reduce the impact of having lost starting pitcher Cliff Lee to the Philadelphia Phillies.
Meanwhile, the Oakland A’s have also upgraded their offense and added depth to their roster: in particular, their bullpen.
The Los Angeles Angels hope their trade for Vernon Wells will improve their offense—and last year’s mid-season trade for ace Dan Haren has strengthened their pitching rotation. The return of a healthy Kendry Morales will also help the Angels’ chances of competing in 2011.
And then there’s the Mariners…
Well, while they will likely improve on their 61-win last season, it won’t be enough. As the saying goes, there is always next year…