This is part one of 30 teams in 30 days. Let's begin!The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim made a great move in the offseason, signing Torii Hunter to a five- year $90 million contract. Hunter is one of the best center fielders in the game and isn't a bad addition offensively either (.287 Avg. 28 HR 107 RBI in 2007). His amazing range will be showcased in sunny California and the fans should be excited.
Yes, the team did lose Bartolo Colon to the Red Sox, but I don't see that being a big deal. The guy has been plagued by injuries recently, especially in big games and the Angels had no problem parting ways with him. The Halos were able to acquire White Sox pitcher Jon Garland in the offseason, a move which I agree with whole-heartedly. Garland is a solid pitcher and the White Sox will miss him for sure.
It will be interesting to see how closer Francisco Rodriguez performs in the last year of his contract. He's been a great pitcher for the Angels and it would be hard for them to let him get away in 2009. But for now, he's in Los Angeles and I expect to see him have another great season this year.
The fact that the Angels have one of the best managers in baseball in Mike Scioscia is already an advantage heading into the season. Seeing the game from a former catcher's perspective is always a great characteristic for a manager and Scioscia has that after spending his playing career with the Los Angeles Dodgers. He's led the Angels to a World Series title before as well as many other playoff appearances in recent seasons.
I'm thinking this team is set to win 92-97 games this season and capture the AL West title. The Mariners will finish second after improving with the addition of Erik Bedard, the Athletics are going to have a rough season, and the Rangers are the Rangers. Enough said. Enjoy the baseball season Halo fans. It's going to be a fun one for all of you.
Shawn Marosek
