Next up in the graphical division race series is the AL West:

Texas is pretty much the class of the division. They score the most runs, and it’s deserved as their batting averages are all outstanding. On top of that, despite their high runs allowed total, they pitch well. Texas records the highest strikeout rate and the lowest walk rate in the division, and their home run rate is fine for the ballpark in which they play. With their pitchers coming off the disabled list, they should be tough to beat down the stretch.

The Mariners are the only team in the division with a big difference when you compare actual and expected winning percentages. The good news for Seattle fans is Seattle underperformed expectations. The bad news is their expected winning percentage was still quite low.

Oakland is about as boring as their .500 record indicates. The offense posts very low batting, on-base, and slugging averages. The pitching owns a low K rate, a high walk rate, but does an excellent job of keeping the ball in their big ball park. The team really needs to find some offense.

The Angels are the Rangers lite. They’re numbers are good, especially in the division, but they could use a great second half from Dan Haren and Albert Pujols. Thank goodness for the injury to Vernon Wells that allowed them to call up Mike Trout.

I believe the division will pretty much finish as is. I don’t think Texas will bend to pressure from the Angels, although both teams might very well make the playoffs.