[Matt from TN]

1952 Season Preview

American League

The Athletics really walloped the AL last season on their way to their first world championship since 1906. But they have not forgotten how strongly the Tigers finished the year. However, with likely the best rotation in the league and one of the top 3 AL offenses, Philadelphia enters the season as heavy favorites to repeat. Everyone knows how tough Detroit's offense is, but some chinks were found in their armor last year and they are a little less intimidating than they were 12 months ago. The addition of Negro League pitcher Matty Jackson improves the Boston rotation, and the Sox should press hard for the pennant. The biggest surprise of the season very well could be the Indians. They are developing a young rotation that could rival the A's and a young offense to rival that of the Yankees.


1. Athletics (99-55, 1st) - Despite the 99 wins last season, some people still underestimate this team. They have an exceptional rotation, but it does have its weaknesses. POY Ellis Weeks won 21 games, but he slowed late in the season and he is not a dominant ace. Bob Stevens could be though. Their pitching has youth and a lot of depth on their side. The offense could be even stronger this year with the development of 1B Sal Poulos. They have the most speed in the AL and some great run producers behind them.

2. Tigers (90-64, 2nd) - The Tigers were very disappointed with how they started off last season, dipping below .500 and one point in the summer. Half way through August, long-time manager Arden Killbreath was let go. They pulled together and finished the season as strong (or stonger) than any team in history. Going into the season as underdogs may be enough of an emotional lift to get this team going. The inconsistencies of their rotation is their main concern.

3. Red Sox (89-65, 3rd) - This team is all about offense, but they believe they were just one good pitcher away from serious contention. Enter Matty Jackson, one of the top pitchers in the Negro Leagues last season. With him they have the best rotation they have had since winning their last pennant in 1949. But is it enough?

4. Indians (72-82, 4th) - This is a team quickly on the rise. They are still flying well below most radars, but that should change this year. Their young pitching staff is potentially dominant and their offense is solid from top to bottom.

5. Yankees (67-87, 7th) - Would the real New York Yankees please stand up? Are they the 85-win team on the rise from 1950, or the 87 loss team that crashed and burned in 1951? To their credit, they suffered numerous injuries last season. Their offense is exceptional and RF/1B Arnie Stewart looks like the next big offensive star. But they have major concerns with their pitching staff.

6. Senators (71-83, 5th) - This team was a big surprise last season when most people thought they were dead. They have a decent rotation and some big bats too. The addition of speedy centerfielder Bill Hall at the top of their lineup should be a big help.

7. White Sox (70-84, 6th) - They have a good rotation, but the offense leaves a lot to be desired. Their pennant in 1950 seems like a decade ago.

8. Browns (58-96, 8th) - As spring training neared its end, the Browns pulled off the biggest trade in two years. They shipped future Hall of Fame pitcher Cotton Simson to the NL. Rumors swirled about a potential trade since late last season, and almost all NL teams were believed to be in the hunt. When the announcement was made, most people were shocked to hear him shipped to Pittsburgh. In return, St. Louis landed two top Pirates prospects, but they also cemented their spot in 8th place this season. They will almost certainly loose more than the 96 games they lost last season.