As Opening Day 2025 approaches, CBS Sports has been examining each Major League Baseball division. Today, we focus on the American League West.
For much of the last ten years, the Houston Astros have led the West, but changes are on the horizon. The Astros appear more vulnerable than usual due to aging players and offseason departures. Meanwhile, the Seattle Mariners are seen as strong contenders with one of the league’s best young rosters, and the Texas Rangers, fresh off a World Series win, have their ace returning to full strength. Don’t overlook the Los Angeles Angels and the Athletics, both offering intriguing narratives.
Seattle Mariners
Projected starting lineup
- RF Victor Robles
- CF Julio Rodríguez
- C Cal Raleigh
- LF Randy Arozarena
- 1B Luke Raley
- DH Mitch Haniger
- SS J.P. Crawford
- 3B Jorge Polanco
- 2B Dylan Moore
Projected rotation
- RHP Logan Gilbert
- RHP Luis Castillo
- RHP George Kirby
- RHP Bryce Miller
- RHP Bryan Woo
Biggest concern: Can the offense improve?
Last season, the Mariners struggled with an offense that ranked 21st in runs scored. Instead of reshuffling the roster, Seattle has retained 11 of its 14 most-used hitters from 2024, only adding veteran infielder Donovan Solano. This approach suggests they believe in performance rebound from key players like Julio Rodríguez. If he and others can rebound, they have a promising crop of young hitting talent to support them.
Houston Astros
Projected starting lineup
- LF Jose Altuve
- 3B Isaac Paredes
- DH Yordan Alvarez
- 1B Christian Walker
- C Yainer Diaz
- SS Jeremy Peña
- RF Chas McCormick
- 2B Brendan Rodgers
- CF Jake Meyers
Projected rotation
- LHP Framber Valdez
- RHP Hunter Brown
- RHP Ronel Blanco
- RHP Spencer Arrighetti
- RHP Hayden Wesneski
Biggest issue: Can they fend off decline?
The Astros have ruled the AL West for much of the past decade, but after losing key players like Alex Bregman and Justin Verlander, it’s uncertain if they can maintain their dominance. While they’ve brought in new talents to replace losses, many carry high risk. Expectations are still high, but the team’s road to another division title appears tougher this year.
