Five potential X factors in the AL West

Every year, expected players make a difference in their team's fortunes. These unheralded players can play a significant role depending on whether they struggle or exceed expectations. Let's take a look at five possible X-factors from the American League West.

Athletics: Pitcher Luis Severino

The Athletics lineup has all the makings of a top 10 unit at worst. The biggest question is whether or not the A's can find enough pitching to be able to contend. Severino, who had signed a three-year, $67 million contract, almost immediately began complaining about Sutter Health Park, leading to speculation that the A's could be willing to move on. He had a solid spring, allowing just one run on three hits and three walks over seven innings, striking out 10 batters. If Severino can adapt to the A's home park in 2026, the A's may be able to take the next step to contention.

Houston Astros: Pitcher Lance McCullers Jr.

When healthy, McCullers has been a solid part of the Astros rotation. He posted a 2.96 ERA and a 1.224 WHiP over 210 innings between 2021 and 2022, striking out 235 batters with 98 walks. However, injuries sidelined McCullers from that point as he did not pitch in 2023 or 2024 and was understandably rusty when he returned in 2025. While McCullers is unlikely to return to his 2021-22 level, he is being counted on in a rotation that has already been hammered with injuries. 

Los Angeles Angels: Outfielder Jo Adell

A former top prospect, Adell finally had a breakout season in 2025, posting a .236/.293/.485 batting line with 37 homers in 573 plate appearances. The soon-to-be 27-year-old had been white hot in spring training, hitting four homers and four doubles in his 46 plate appearances. If Adell can build on that performance, he could become another building block on an Angels team in desperate need of major league talent.

Seattle Mariners: Second baseman Cole Young

Young had come into spring training with president of baseball operations Jerry Dipoto singling him out for how much he improved his physique during the offseason. While Young garnered attention for his 478' home run on Friday, he has had an excellent spring training, producing a .302/.373/.717 batting line with six homers and four doubles in 59 plate appearances. The Mariners already dangerous lineup could be that much deeper if Young's performance carries over to the regular season.