MLB

Updated 2015 AL East Prediction, December 14 Edition

Updated 2015 AL East Prediction, December 14 Edition

Toronto Blue Jays v Pittsburgh Pirates
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The AL East was a very interesting division last season as teams flip-flopped for most of the season until the Orioles took control late. 2015 should be just as interesting as most teams have undergone serious changes this offseason. Based on those changes, here's how the divisional standings could shape up.

5. Tampa Bay Rays

Toronto Blue Jays v Tampa Bay Rays
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5. Tampa Bay Rays

Toronto Blue Jays v Tampa Bay Rays
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Projected record: 69-93

After a period of sustained success, the Rays appear headed back toward the basement of the AL East. They lost their ace, manager and GM all in the last several months. That adds up to a lengthy rebuilding project in Tampa Bay.

4. New York Yankees

New York Yankees v Baltimore Orioles
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4. New York Yankees

New York Yankees v Baltimore Orioles
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Projected record: 78-84

Based on their current roster, there's just no way to anticipate the Yankees finishing above fourth place in 2015. Masahiro Tanaka's health is a question mark and the A-Rod saga could be a distraction. That all adds up to a very average season in the Bronx.

3. Baltimore Orioles

New York Yankees v Baltimore Orioles
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3. Baltimore Orioles

New York Yankees v Baltimore Orioles
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Projected record: 87-75

After losing Nelson Cruz and Nick Markakis (as well as likely losing Delmon Young), the Orioles are set to take a big step back in 2015. Unless they add some pitching and an outfielder before the season starts, this Baltimore team is on the outside of the playoff picture looking in.

2. Toronto Blue Jays

Toronto Blue Jays v Tampa Bay Rays
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2. Toronto Blue Jays

Toronto Blue Jays v Tampa Bay Rays
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Projected record: 90-72

After adding Russell Martin and Josh Donaldson, the Blue Jays are primed for a run at the playoffs in 2015. Their rotation is also blossoming at exactly the right time as Marcus Stroman will be able to get a full season under his belt in the upcoming season. That means they're going to challenge for the division title.

1. Boston Red Sox

Boston Red Sox v Houston Astros
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1. Boston Red Sox

Boston Red Sox v Houston Astros
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Projected record: 92-70

After finishing in last place in the AL East last season, the Red Sox have done enough to get back atop the standings. They added sluggers Pablo Sandoval and Hanley Ramirez to the lineup as well as Wade Miley, Rick Porcello and Justin Masterson to the rotation. If they can add one more arm (like Cole Hamels), they're easily the favorites in the division.

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