A.L. West Link Dump: Cruz, Donaldson, Blanks and Winter Ball
By Jason Burke
The A.L. West has had a busy week. Aside from the A’s, the Mariners have been fairly busy as well. Let’s check in with them first this week.
Ugh, the Mariners are going to be good. You may know that the M’s signed Nelson Cruz, but Dan Hughes at Sodo Mojo projects what his bat can provide in 2015.
Next: What Will Cruz Produce in Seattle?
If adding Cruz weren’t enough, apparently some are suggesting that the Mariners should go after Ryan Braun, too.
On Black Friday, Sodo Mojo had some fun and formed their own shopping list, filled with great discounts!
Next: Mariners' Black Friday Shopping List
The Astros may be looking at Kyle Blanks, who was DFA after the Josh Donaldson trade on Friday night.
Next: Could the Astros Have Landed Donaldson?
Brett Oberholtzer went 5-12 in 2014, but Baseball Prospectus ranked him as the second-best Astros pitcher in 2014, behind 12-game winner Dallas Keuchel.
Next: Is Brett Oberholtzer Undervalued?
Climbing Tal’s Hill also speculated (as did nearly every page, and fan base for that matter) if Houston could have landed Donaldson.
Next: Could the Astros Have Landed Donaldson?
You know who’s pay attention to winter ball? The folks over at Nolan Writin’. You know who has a hot bat in winter ball? Well, that’s below.
Next: Ranger's 2B Has a Hot Bat in Winter Ball
David Cash tells us who will be the Rangers closer next season.
Next: Who Will be the Rangers Closer in 2015?
Just because it’s big news, they also decided to cover Donaldson’s departure from the division. What one would think of as a celebratory article, is more of a love letter.
Next: Josh Donaldson is Out of the A.L. West
Finally, the Angels. Anaheim has been quiet thus far this offseason, so there isn’t anything flashy. Yet, these articles provide some information on what the Angels are planning.
Next: Who Will the Angels Take in the Rule 5 Draft?
Looking for relief help, Brian Helberg asks about Luke Hochevar.
Next: How Would Hochevar Fit in the Big A?
Get to know an Angel prospect. He may just torment the A.L. West for years to come.
Next: Propsect Profile: Alex Yarbrough
That’s it for this week. Next week will likely have plenty of juicy rumors with the winter meetings set to start on Sunday. If you can’t wait that long, check the sites throughout the week. They all post more than three articles, I swear.