2017 American League West Preview: A Three Team Race

Sep 30, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners second baseman Robinson Cano (22) runs the bases after hitting a two-run homer against the Oakland Athletics during the first inning at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 30, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Mariners second baseman Robinson Cano (22) runs the bases after hitting a two-run homer against the Oakland Athletics during the first inning at Safeco Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
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Sep 30, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Texas Rangers third baseman Adrian Beltre (29) and shortstop Elvis Andrus (1) smile while warming up before the sixth inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Globe Life Park in Arlington. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 30, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Texas Rangers third baseman Adrian Beltre (29) and shortstop Elvis Andrus (1) smile while warming up before the sixth inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at Globe Life Park in Arlington. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

Southside Showdown previews each division in the American League. Next up, the AL West. Which team will win the West in 2017?

The 2016 American League West champion Texas Rangers will have a hard time repeating in 2017. While the Oakland Athletics and the Anaheim Angels (spoiler alert) will fight for a fourth place spot in the division, the Houston Astros and Seattle Mariners will be breathing down the Rangers next all season long. Does Texas have what it takes to win back-to-back division titles for the first time since the 2010-2011 season?

While the Rangers are looking to repeat as American League West division champions, which team will give Texas a hard time in 2017? Can the Astros break through and win the AL West? Will the Mariners finally be able to break its long playoff drought? Which team will finish in last place, the Athletics or Angels?

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