One spring training prediction for every AL West team

Now that spring training has begun and games are being played, let's look at the AL West. Here is a prediction for each team in the division:

Athletics | A's lock in another piece of the core

The Athletics started locking in their core by signing slugger Brent Rooker to a five-year, $60 million extension. He may only be the beginning.

Evan Drellich of The Athletic reported that the A's are engaged in extension talks with multiple players, including outfielder Lawrence Butler. The 24-year-old had a strong showing in 2024, posting a .262/.317/.490 batting line in 451 plate appearances, hitting 22 homers while stealing 18 bases. Butler is the dynamic player the A's must build around.

Houston Astros | Zach Dezenzo, Jacob Melton earn starting jobs

The Houston Astros are a team in transition with several holes on the roster. The outfield, in particular, has to be an area of concern.

Houston's depth chart lists Mauricio Dubon, Jake Meyers and Chas McCormick as the starting outfield. None of those are enticing options. While Jose Altuve may get a chance in left, top prospects Zach Dezenzo and Jacob Melton are knocking on the door. Both players should get a long look in spring training and could seize starting roles with a strong showing.

Los Angeles Angels | Youth will be served yet again

The Angels are known for rushing their top prospects through the farm system. That has been a matter of necessity due to a lack of talent on the major league roster and their struggles to develop younger players.

Nothing is likely to change this season. Second baseman Christian Moore was the eighth overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft and would have made his major league debut last season if he was not injured. Outfielder Nelson Rada struggled as an 18-year-old in Double-A but may be the Angels' best option in center. Pitcher Caden Dana has the most talent of any option for the rotation, while fellow pitching prospect Sam Aldegheri showed promise in his first taste of the majors. All four could force their way onto the Opening Day roster.

Seattle Mariners | Cole Young is the Opening Day second baseman

The Mariners have been looking for someone to take hold of the starting job at second base. Their answer is knocking on the door.

Consensus top 100 prospect Cole Young had a strong showing at Double-A Arkansas in 2024, posting a .271/.369/.390 batting line with nine homers and 25 doubles in his 552 plate appearances while stealing 23 bases. General manager Jerry Dipoto left the door open for Young to make the Opening Day roster if he impresses during spring training. He just needs to seize the opportunity.

Texas Rangers | Jacob deGrom is healthy and dominant

Jacob deGrom has been one of the best pitchers in the game when he has been on the mound. The problem is keeping him healthy.

deGrom is reportedly healthy as spring training begins and impressed in his first bullpen session. The Rangers need deGrom to be healthy if they will contend in the AL West. He will silence any questions during Cactus League play, looking like the dominant pitcher he has been in the past.