There is no question the AL Central is the weakest division in baseball. If you look at last
season, the only reason the Twins made the playoffs is because divisional winners are
automatic for the postseason. In fact, the Mariners actually missed the playoffs but had a better
record overall. There’s a really good chance the Twins run away with the Central after winning
by a comfortable nine games in 2023.
Minnesota Twins (-120)
The Twins are the class of this division and it's almost by default. They advanced past the Wild
Card round before eventually being eliminated by the Astros in the ALDS. Minnesota didn’t do
much to make its roster better but likely has enough talent to compete in this division. The
Twins have a deep starting rotation and the bullpen was very productive in 2023. They’re win
total for 2024 is set at 86.5 and if they reach that mark, that should be enough for back-to-back
division titles.
Detroit Tigers (+325)
The Tigers added a lot of depth during the offseason bringing in Gio Urshela, Mark Canha, and
Jack Flaherty just to name a few. The roster does boast some talent including Spencer
Torkelson and Tarik Skubal could compete for a Cy Young if he’s able to avoid injuries. Still,
bookmakers have the Tigers at 80.5 wins, so they would have to overachieve to challenge
Minnesota for that top spot.
Cleveland Guardians (+340)
The Guardians will look different this coming season after Terry Francona’s run as manager
came to an end. Could rookie manager Stephen Vogt come in and make a difference right out
of the gate? Possible. Cleveland finished third in the division last season and will look to avoid
consecutive losing seasons since 2009-2010. The Guardians are strong on the mound with
Shane Bieber, Tanner Bibee and Triston McKenzie. There should be enough to at least get to
the .500 mark, anything more than that would be gravy.
Also Eligibles: Royals (+850), White Sox (+2200)
The Kansas City Royals and Chicago White Sox should be in a battle for the bottom two spots
in the division. Kansas City did go after a couple of names, Michael Wacha and Hunter
Renfroe, but that might not be enough for them to win the division. Meanwhile, Chicago added
Erick Fedder, KBO MVP to help solidify its pitching staff but there is much work left to do on the
South Side. Except more growing pains in these cities in 2024.
Odds to Win the 2024 AL Central
Minnesota Twins -120
Detroit Tigers (+325)
Cleveland Guardians +340
Kansas City Royals +850
Chicago White Sox +2200