The AL East i sundoubtedly the toughtest divison in the league.
No team in this league lives in obsequiousity, but all are superior. Last year a race between the Red Sox and the Yankees
came down the wire. In the end, the Curse of the Bambino prevailed as the Yankees took the pennant. In the offseason, the
Blue Jays and high-priced salary driven Orioles have stealhily imporved. The Devil Rays and their young guns with a few veteran
additions are aslo in the mix, for what will be a truly five-team, live-wire, high octane, down to the wire pennant race.
The Orioles are rejvunated this year. With a new payroll and manager
and the additions of Javy Lopez and Miguel Tejeda, they are sure to contend. Along with additions like Rafeal Palmeiro, this
team is balanced with tailing off veterans, with young veteran leadership as well as young, up-and coimng prospects like Jay
Gibbons and Jack Cust. Mazilli, will bring that Yankee-like arrogance to Baltimore, taking over for Mr. Hot-Seat, Mike Hargrove.
Except a 3rd or 4th place finish.
The Red Sox are going to win the division and the World Series.
Forgot the curse and all of that BS, its the year, I mean it. Yawkey pride has returned. The next Billy Beane, Theo
Epstein has put together a great team led by Nomar on a 2-Year plan. After this season, may players are on their walk years
and changes will come in BeanTown. That's why this is the year. Terry Francona, after a short rest after managing the Phillies
most likely has a better understanding of the game and can make it happen for Schilling and the Red Sox.
The Yankees have one of baseball's best offense. But, their pitching
staff is still very strong, but not up to great Yankee standard. George pulled it off getting A-Rod, but unfortunately too-many
high profile, high-voiced veterans mixing on one un-gelled team with no bench and mediocre bullpen will not work out. Boston
will come out in the end and stun Yankee fans. Maybe if the team stays entact for one more year, they can win something, but
the drive is lost for this season. Add another on the drought streak.
Lee Mazilli
Terry Francona
Joe Torre
Lou Pinella
John Gibbons
