2016 MLB Season: AL Central Preview

Nov 1, 2015; New York City, NY, USA; Kansas City Royals first baseman Eric Hosmer (35) celebrates with teammates after scoring a run against the New York Mets in the 9th inning in game five of the World Series at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports /

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2. Detroit Tigers

For the past five years, a great pick for the AL Central champion has always been the Detroit Tigers. It seems this year some are shying away from picking them, but I still believe the nice balance between offense and defense will make them a serious threat to the World Series defending champs.

Projected Lineup

1. Ian Kinsler, 2B
2. Justin Upton, LF
3. Miguel Cabrera, 1B
4. Victor Martinez, DH
5. JD Martinez, RF
6. Nick Castellanos, 3B
7. James McCann, C
8. Jose Iglesias, SS
9. Anthony Gose, CF

The first five spots in the Tigers lineup can be as good as any. Their big free agent acquisition, Justin Upton, should excel hitting in front of Miguel Cabrera. If J.D. Martinez can stay healthy, I believe he’ll have a nice season as no one studies film more diligently than the former catcher. In the prime of his career, Martinez might just be the best power hitter on the team. I wouldn’t be surprised at all if he came close to 40 homers. Behind the plate, James McCann looks to be one of the more underrated backstops in the league. He’s solid on both ends and should provide the Tigers with an everyday guy at catcher. The key cog may be Castellanos, who has shown flashes of the talent that could make him one of the best third baseman in the AL.

Projected Rotation

1. Jordan Zimmerman
2. Justin Verlander
3. Anibal Sanchez
4. Mike Pelfrey
5. Daniel Norris

The success of the rotation will likely hinge on Justin Verlander and Anibal Sanchez. Adding Jordan Zimmerman (pictured) gave them a sure-fire top of the rotation arm, but can Verlander complement him at the top? I think he’ll do fine, though I can’t say the same about Sanchez. If Sanchez were to fill that #3 spot, it’d be great for them, but injury concerns continue to be a major issue. The wildcard will likely be the young lefty Daniel Norris. As a side note, GM Al Avila will be hoping he’s shored up the bullpen questions with the addition of Francisco Rodriguez.

Projected Lineup: 86-76

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