The first (and maybe only) power ranking for the AL. This initial ranking is based solely on ratings, while future rankings will have a more subjective feel to them. So let's get right down to it.
#1 - Durham Bulls -- A lot of guys who were rookies last season are now "seasoned veterans" this season. Nixon, Randolph, Martin, Sparks, Cook, and Villano, their hitters could be the best in the entire ML. With power, speed, and a top-notch defense, they are also extraordinarily healthy, which is good in a 162 game season. Their rotation will be what makes or breaks them. No big transactions during the offseason, the only real change to the rotation was the promotion of the franchise's first 1st round draft pick to the ML squad. The hitters might set some league records this season, but the pitchers will really need to step up if the team is going to live up to its hype.
#2 - Scranton Miners -- The Miners aren't screwing around this year. After winning 100 games last season before getting knocked out of the ALCS, Scranton brought back all of their highly-touted pitchers, giving them the best staff in the AL. Seriously, these guys are good. Of the 7 players on their ML who are making more than $1M this season, only 1 plays in the field. Wilkins, Graham, and Campbell are a three-headed monster that nobody wants to face in a series. The big question mark? Their hitting. A few guys can hit consistently, but there are holes, and there are problems on defense and with their health. Can the pitching carry them all the way through?
#3 - Philadelphia Starz -- No all-stars here, but sooooo much consistency from top to bottom. A solid rotation, a solid group of hitters, a solid bullpen, a good defense behind the pitchers.....do these guys do anything wrong? I guess their health is a little suspect. And their push/pull rating stinks. So there, you guys aren't perfect.
#4 - St. Louis Archies -- Another well-rounded team, the Archies have hitting and pitching to spare. Floyd, Polanko, and Wilkerson lead the way, and they have a solid group of guys behind them. The bullpen leaves a little to be desired, but when you have starting pitching like the Archies do, who needs a bullpen? They have a bunch of solid gloves on defense, some of which are still improving and will only get better. Their health is right around mid-pack, so they have as good a chance as anyone to stay healthy the whole way through.
#5 - Pittsburgh Steelheads -- Did you know that Pittsburgh averaged 85 wins in its first three seasons? Me neither. Did you know they have over 15 guys with an overall ranking of 70 or more? Me neither. They have hitting, starting pitching, and one of the best bullpens in the league. The defense is average, and the health is poor, but will that slow them down? I think they'll get by.
#6 - Tucson
#7 - Atlanta
#8 - Chicago
#9 - Cincinnati
#10 - Cheyenne
#11 - Tampa Bay
#12 - San Francisco
#13 - Texas
#14 - San Antonio
#15 - Colorado
#16 - Pawtucket (huh? These guys have won 90+ games each season. Let's see how long this ranking lasts.)
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