AL CENTRAL
A look at how the American League Central is likely to play out during the 2017 MLB season. (Listed in order of predicted finish.)
1. CLEVELAND INDIANS
2016 | 94-67, 1st in Central
Last year in playoffs | 2016
There's a lot to like about the Indians, who signed slugger Edwin Encarnacion, added accomplished left-hander Boone Logan to a bullpen that will have dominant left-hander Andrew Miller for the entire season, and return starting pitchers Danny Salazar and Carlos Carrasco, who sat out most of the 2016 postseason because of injuries. Second baseman Jason Kipnis (right shoulder strain) will open the season on the disabled list, but outfielder Michael Brantley made progress this spring and could provide a huge boost if he returns from a shoulder injury.
Starting lineup
DH
Carlos Santana
2B
Jason Kipnis
SS
Francisco Lindor
1B
Edwin Encarnacion
LF
Michael Brantley
3B
Jose Ramirez
RF
Lonnie Chisenhall
C
Yan Gomes
CF
Tyler Naquin
Pitching rotation
RH
Corey Kluber
RH
Carlos Carrasco
RH
Danny Salazar
RH
Trevor Bauer
RH
Josh Tomlin
Closer
RH
Cody Allen
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2. DETROIT TIGERS
2016 | 86-75, 2nd in Central
Last year in playoffs | 2014
Two-time American League MVP Miguel Cabrera has shown no signs of slowing _ he hit .316 with 39 home runs and 108 runs batted in last season _ and he teams with Victor Martinez (.289, 27 HRs, 86 RBIs) for big middle-of-the-order punch. But will Detroit's power mask deficiencies on defense and on the basepaths? A lack of speed isn't the only problem; the Tigers must cut down on baserunning mistakes. A rotation headed by Justin Verlander, Jordan Zimmermann and Michael Fulmer should be strong. J.D. Martinez (sprained right foot) could open on the disabled list.
Starting lineup
2B
Ian Kinsler
RF
J.D. Martinez
1B
Miguel Cabrera
DH
Victor Martinez
LF
Justin Upton
3B
Nick Castellanos
CF
Tyler Collins
C
James McCann
SS
Jose Iglesias
Pitching rotation
RH
Justin Verlander
RH
Jordan Zimmermann
RH
Michael Fulmer
LH
Daniel Norris
RH
Anibal Sanchez
Closer
RH
Francisco Rodriguez
