The “Key” Player for Each American League Central Team

The American League Central should be an interesting division in 2010. You could make the argument that three teams could win the division, but none of them would be considered great teams.

Let’s take a look at the “key” player for each team in this division and the player who could perhaps propel that team into October baseball.

Minnesota Twins —Francisco Liriano

Doesn’t it seem like Liriano is the key for the Twins every year?

Liriano could be what the Twins need— an ace. The Twins have four No. 2 and No. 3 type starters, and could really use a dominant No. 1 pitcher.

I predicted Liriano would win AL Comeback Player of the Year, so I believe his time is now.

Chicago White Sox —Jake Peavy

The White Sox gave up a lot for Peavy last year in hopes that he will be their ace for the future. While Peavy did go 3-0 with a 1.35 ERA in three starts, he did suffer through an injury plagued 2009 season.

Peavy only made 16 starts last year and the White Sox need a healthy Peavy in order to challenge the Twins for AL Central supremacy.

Detroit Tigers —Austin Jackson

The Tigers are asking a lot of their new 23-year-old rookie. He will be asked to replace the ever popular Curtis Granderson and be the catalyst at the top of their lineup.

Can Jackson deliver?

The Tigers did well with developing another rookie last year in Rick Porcello, so the odds are in Jackson’s favor. However, if he falters, the Tigers will have a HUGE hole to fill in centerfield.

Cleveland Indians —Jake Westbrook

Westbrook hasn’t thrown a pitch since May of 2008 and now he is finally healthy. I have Westbrook as the “key” for the Indians for two reasons:

1. If Westbrook can make a successful comeback and pitch like he did in 2006, then the Indians will be much more competitive in 2010. The Indians really don’t have an ace going into the season, so it’s possible Westbrook can emerge as that guy.

2. Westbrook is a free agent at the end of the year, thus making him a trade candidate in July. If Westbrook pitches well for the Tribe, then the Indians might actually get something for him.

Kansas City Royals —Alex Gordon

If you need to know why I believe Gordon is the “key” to the Royals season, all you need to do is read my “2010 is a big year for Alex Gordon” post. That will tell you all you need to know.

Tomorrow, I will have the last installment of this series and look at the “key” player for each American League West team.

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