Buyers and Sellers: AL West

I was looking forward to this division, since it requires one less team to consider. Granted, those last teams each post normally aren't particularly relevant, but its nice to buckle down and focus on fewer teams. The West isn't going to make this easy though, since its one big question mark.

Oakland (22-14): The thing with Oakland is that, while no one expected them to be good, their performance hasn't been totally out of line with their talent. The pitching has been solid, and I await Gio Gonzalez's callup. However, the Angels are still the class of this division and the wild card will not come from the West in the AL. Huston Street, Rich Harden, and Mark Ellis are likely trade candidates, but if they are competitive this might be a moot point. I can't see any of their value increasing substantially, unless Ellis ends up on, say, the White Sox, where he should see a spike in HRs.

Los Angeles (22-14): Despite injuries in their infield, the Angels have played themselves into a tie in the West. Saunders impressive start but recent return to earth was predictable, but Santana is the real deal and the Angels might be set if Lackey and Escobar return successfully. The main question mark is middle relief, and I expect the logjam in outfield to be dealt to address the issue. Juan Rivera and/or Reggie Willits could be on their way out, and both offer value given regular playing time in a hitter-friendly park or division.

Texas (16-20): Texas has a decent offense, but the pitching is simply bad. They don't seem inclined to rebuild, but I think this is the year they move Padilla plus a slur of outfielders (Milton Bradley, Marlon Byrd) for pitching prospects--they probably learned their lesson after watching Volquez's success. The simple fact of the matter is free agents won't come to Arlington, and young hurlers are their best bet for success. Padilla might be decent in pitcher-friendly confines, since his post-All Star numbers are a good deal better than his pre-All star mediocrity (its worth noting that Millwood is a usable pitcher after the break). Even so, I can't imagine him as much more than a spot starter.

Seattle (14-22): I think Seattle has to come around. The offense looks solid on paper and a mid-season surge could bring them back into contention. The investment in Bedard will inspire a win-now attitude even if the wins aren't there. Pitching depth is needed, as well as middle relief although the pieces of a bullpen are there, just not fitting right. If Sexson doesn't appeal his suspension and they find out Clement can play first, a DH spot would be open for... Barry Bonds. But other than that, I have no idea what the Mariners will do in their identity crisis.