[Joy in Mudville]

The following is a preview of the AL West for the upcoming 1976 season:

California Angels (Marcus F.)
Despite finishing dead last in the division, the Angels may have their prayers answered. Mark "The Bird" Fidrych, California's first-round draft pick, has so impressed team officials that the quirky right-hander will be the opening day starter. Fidrych leads a revamped pitching rotation that averages just 23.5 years of age. Center fielder Mickey Rivers hopes to put his injury woes of last season behind him. Second baseman Jorge Orta also needs to get back his offensive mojo.
Chicago White Sox (Mike F.)
For the second time in its existence, Chicago collapsed during the September stretch run and was overtaken by Oakland. Thus, the White Sox are out to build a marathoner's kick. John "The Count" Montefusco has moved into No. 1 starter status. Following him are left-handers Tommy John, Jerry Reuss and Rick Waits. Rookie Jack Clark joins fellow prospect Jason Thompson in adding strength to the Chisox lineup. Third baseman Bill Melton appears to be on the downside of his career.
Kansas City Royals (Bryan S.)
The Royals have gone the way of former Cy Young Award winner Paul Splittorff. After winning the honor in 1971, Splittorff has slipped mightily and so has KC. Can he find his way and the strike zone again? Eric Rasmussen returns after a surprising 21-win season. Rick Burleson and Frank White provide a solid double play combination. However, Royals' brass is concerned with the decline of 34-year-old Dick Allen. The JIM's all-time leading home run leader has hinted at early retirement.
Minnesota Twins (Matt F.)
Right-hander Bert Blyleven has won 20 or more games for five consecutive seasons. Jim Kaat and Jim Perry have also been strong. Minnesota's success may hinge on finding a dependable No. 4 starter. Meanwhile, Rookie of the Year Lyman Bostock returns along with Rod Carew and Richie Zisk. Doug Decinces is set to take over at third.
Oakland A's (Keith J.)
A notoriously slow starting team, the A's flew by the Twins and White Sox during the final month of the season to grab their first divisional title since 1971. Left-hander Vida Blue remains Oakland's ace. Rollie Fingers has emerged as one the league's top closers. Switch-hitting rookie Rodney Scott takes over the leadoff spot. The biggest question mark in the Bay area remains Reggie Jackson's .225 average.
Texas Rangers (Dan S.)
Texas won 84 games yet wound up fifth in perhaps the JIM's toughest division. Chris Chambliss, Ben Oglivie and Graig Nettles remain at the forefront of Texas' lefty-dominated lineup. Late-season callup Chet Lemon will add a right-handed bat. However, the question remains as to whether Lemon will play third base or the outfield. Burt Hooton and Jim Palmer are the Rangers' big guns on the mound. If Texas is to return to the playoffs, right-hander Rick Reuschel must revert to top form. Reuschel was a disappointment after the Rangers dealt popular short stop Toby Harrah to Montreal for the portly pitcher.