Here’s a look at what each American League Central team needs heading into 2025.
Chicago White Sox
Can only go up from here
A big trade sending ace Garrett Crochet to the Boston Red Sox happened during the Winter Meetings, but the return brought four players — including highly regarded prospects Kyle Teel and Braden Montgomery — to a “hungry” squad.
The Chicago White Sox finished their 2024 campaign going 41-121 – the worst record in a modern MLB season. Needless to say, things can only go up from here.
Cleveland Guardians
One Cy Young Award winner isn’t enough
There is good news heading into 2025 with the return of former Cy Young Award winner Shane Bieber on a one-year deal; Bieber is recovering from Tommy John surgery and is expected to be ready by midseason. And what Stephen Vogt did in his first year as the skipper to earn AL Manager of the Year honors was impressive.
Cleveland also added intriguing right-hander Luis Ortiz — 3.32 ERA over 135 2/3 innings pitched in 2024 — to the pitching staff in a trade with the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Offensively, bringing on Carlos Santana — a former longtime Cleveland slugger — this offseason brings a boost after Josh Naylor was shipped to the Arizona Diamondbacks.
It sounds like this is another scenario of “we have pitching, but we can always benefit from more pitching.”
Detroit Tigers
Some great internal options
The Detroit Tigers enhanced their infield and offense by signing Gleyber Torres to a one-year deal, shifting Colt Keith to first base.
After the Torres move, president of baseball operations Scott Harris said he still wanted to make some moves in hopes of improving the team.
Harris did say that he wanted to start from within. That means he’ll be looking extra carefully during camp at the growth of what the organization already has.
Kansas City Royals
Gotta compete
The main objectives for the Kansas City Royals this offseason were addressed: Acquiring Jonathan India and re-signing Michael Wacha. So, check and check.
The Royals put up a strong, surprising 2024 season, finishing second in the division.
And who would have thought Seth Lugo would get his first All-Star selection and Gold Glove Award nine seasons into his MLB career?
The term general manager J.J. Picollo continued to use to define the team’s offense in 2024 was “acceptable.” So, the Royals might add a bat for more consistency to the offense.
Minnesota Twins
Nothing crazy
It doesn’t appear to be a hectic offseason for the Minnesota Twins, but the team does need some help at first base and corner outfield.
