With just six days left until league-wide Opening Day on March 27, the anticipation is building for what could be the most competitive division in the 2025 MLB season. As we wrap up our previews of all the MLB divisions, let’s take a closer look at the five teams in the American League West.
The Houston Astros are projected to finish with a record of 84-78, with a 54.0% chance of making the playoffs and a 29.6% chance of winning the division. Last season, despite a shaky start, the Astros managed to clinch the AL West title for the seventh time in eight years but were eliminated in the wild-card round by the Detroit Tigers. The team will be relying on young talent like José Altuve, Yordan Alvarez, and top prospect Cam Smith to lead them to success this season.
On the other hand, the Seattle Mariners are projected to finish with a record of 85-77, with a 57.4% chance of making the playoffs and a 33.4% chance of winning the division. Last season was a disappointment for the Mariners, as their offense struggled and they missed out on the postseason. This year, they will be looking to superstar Julio Rodriguez and power-hitters Cal Raleigh and Randy Arozarena to ignite their offense and lead them to a successful season.
Both teams have their strengths and weaknesses, but it will ultimately come down to the performances of key players like Yordan Alvarez for the Astros and Julio Rodriguez for the Mariners to determine their success in the highly competitive AL West division. If he can find his second-half form in April, it will greatly benefit the team’s chances in 2025. The Seattle Mariners have a strong pitching rotation and a consistent offense, with hopes for a bounce-back season from the hitters. The team is expected to make the wild-card race interesting this year.
The Texas Rangers are projected to have a record of 84-78 with decent odds of making the playoffs. Injuries plagued the team last season, but they are hoping to return to their World Series-winning form from 2023. The offense led by Marcus Semien and Corey Seager will be crucial, but the health of Jacob deGrom will be a make-or-break factor for the team’s success.
On the other hand, the Oakland Athletics are projected to have a record of 76-86 with lower odds of making the playoffs. The team showed promise in the second half of 2024, with key players like Brent Rooker stepping up. The A’s hope to continue their offensive success and make a push for the division title with a revamped starting rotation led by Luis Severino.
Oakland Athletics
Projected record: 80-82, 15.2% odds to make the playoffs, 5.8% odds to win the division
What happened last year? The A’s were unable to capitalize on their strong finish from the previous season, leaving doubts about their core moving forward.
Make-or-break player: Lawrence Butler. Despite some struggles last season, Butler showed his potential with a strong finish, earning a lucrative contract extension. If he can continue to perform at a high level, he could be a game-changer for the A’s for years to come.
Season prediction: The A’s appear determined to prove themselves as contenders in the AL West. With a talented roster and a skilled manager in Mark Kotsay, they could be in the mix for a wild-card spot, showcasing their ability to compete in a competitive division.
Los Angeles Angels
Projected record: 76-86, 10.6% odds to make the playoffs, 3.7% odds to win the division
What happened last year? The Angels struggled once again, with injuries to star player Mike Trout derailing their season.
Make-or-break player: Mike Trout. The Angels’ success hinges on Trout’s health and performance, as he is crucial to their lineup and overall competitiveness.
Season prediction: Despite some improvements in the offseason, the Angels may still face challenges in contending for a playoff spot. Their focus should be on keeping Trout healthy and maintaining relevance throughout the season.