The Monks offer our predictions for the American League Central. Again, comments and feedback are welcomed!

Nick:

1. Chicago White Sox
2. Minnesota Twins
3. Detroit Tigers
4. Kansas City Royals
5. Cleveland Indians

It seems like every year it’s the Twins, White Sox and Tigers battling it out for the division crown. But I think the Adam Dunn addition will put the White Sox barely over the top this year. Detroit could be a sleeper, but their pitching needs to be more consistent and the Royals could be a force to be reckoned with in a few more years. This year Ozzie gets into the playoffs again!

Josh

1. Detroit Tigers
2. Minnesota Twins
3. Chicago White Sox
4. Kansas City Royals
5. Cleveland Indians

I can’t see this division shaking out any other way than the Tigers winning it. They have a very solid lineup and their bullpen is impressive if it can stay healthy. The starting staff is the key. Last year, #2 and #3 starters Scherzer and Porcello were inconsistent at best. I, however, see big things for these two and if I’m right, they can be dangerous. The Twins have a shot at this division, but I don’t see it in the cards. I don’t predict a whole lot from the White Sox, Royals or Indians. I’m saying all three will be below 500.

Steve

1. Minnesota Twins
2. Chicago White Sox
3. Detroit Tigers
4. Kansas City Royals
5. Cleveland Indians

The most interesting thing to me about this division is the two bottom teams. One (KC) is going in the right direction and we will be a powerhouse in this division by 2013. The other (Cleveland) seems to be going the direction of all that city’s franchises: lost in space. But this post is about 2011 so forget those guys. The Twins won last year with their opening day starter tanking (Scott Baker), their clean up hitter disappearing after half a season (Justin Morneau), and their closer being lost for the year in spring training (Joe Nathan). All of those guys should contribute a whole lot more in 2011 pushing the Twins back to the top of the division. Also, I’m a sucker for the Twins. It will be close with the White Sox, but the experience and overall talent puts the Twins over the top.

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Jon (Jon’s picks were added on 3.25.11)

1. Minnesota Twins
2. Chicago White Sox
3. Kansas City Royals
4. Chicago White Sox
5. Cleveland Indians

It’ll be a dog fight between the Twins and White Sox for the division crown. Although neither will be in Wild Card contention (the East will lock that up), both teams are solid. I pick the Twins, but the Sox will be close and have potential to turn my prediction upside-down. If some of their injury prone wildcards (i.e. Jake Peavy) return to form, they will topple the Twins.