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MLB Predictions / Previews: L.A. Angels

Here’s your 2009 Los Angeles Angels predictions, few MLB odds competitors have had easier rides over the last five years than the Los Angeles Angels…

MLB Team Preview – Los Angeles Angels

Few MLB odds competitors have had easier rides over the last five years than the Los Angeles Angels. Consistently fielding strong, well-rounded teams and sharing a division with weak competition have translated into four AL West titles in the last five years. Though the Angels made a few changes in the offseason, they remain strong in virtually every area, so there’s no reason for online sports betting fans to expect anything less than continued success in 2009.

Obviously, losing Mark Teixeira to free agency would leave a gaping offensive hole for any franchise, but filling his spot in the batting order with Bobby Abreu (who should bat between second and fifth) should help, especially at the discount price of five million dollars. Abreu joins a hitting core that remains effective despite getting a bit long in the tooth; while fellow sluggers Vladimir Guerrero and Torii Hunter plus speeder Chone Figgins are nearing the end of their respective primes, each of them has enough left in the tank to keep the Angels’ offense potent for another season or two. 

If the Angels’ up-and-comers realize their potential in 2009, a trip to World Series betting could be in order. You can’t mention second baseman Howie Kendrick’s name in a sentence without saying both “batting title” and “injury.” He can’t take a walk to save his life, but he remains a phenomenal contact hitter who can bat .300 in his sleep during the rare times when he’s healthy. Catcher Mike Napoli is an intriguing prospect, having smashed 46 homers in 714 career at bats, but his bum shoulder could hinder him. What about supposed superstar-infielder-in-the-making Brandon Wood? MLB betting fans keep waiting for the breakthrough, but you have to wonder if he’s just another Dallas McPherson – a minor league superstar whose talent can’t translate to the bigs for some strange reason. 

Pitching has always been a strength for the Angels and that should be the case again in the 2009 MLB odds, but the rotation sure is banged up. Ervin Santana’s long-awaited breakout came at a price, as his overreliance on his slider last season strained his elbow. Even ace John Lackey battled injury last season and Kelvim Escobar remains on the mend. There’s no question the Angels’ starters have talent, but MLB betting fans just have to hope the arms don’t all break down simultaneously. 

Even with the departure of – dare I say it – overrated closer Francisco Rodriguez, the Angels bullpen will be dominant as always. Import Brian Fuentes is capable, if flawed, in the closer role and Jose Arredondo is licking his chops to assume the ninth-inning role if Fuentes falters. 

Even with injury concerns, no one can hold a candle to the Angles in the West. You’d be crazy to bet against them at the sportsbook to win the division title again this season. 

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Articles on CappersPicks.com are written by Q (the Head Honcho) at Cappers Picks or by our resident "in house" handicapper Razor Ray Monohan! Enjoy the free picks folks! "Pad that bankroll one day at a time!"