Yearly, anticipated gamers make a distinction of their group’s fortunes. These unheralded gamers can play a major function relying on whether or not they battle or exceed expectations. Let’s check out 5 doable X-factors from the American League West.
Athletics: Pitcher Luis Severino
The Athletics lineup has all of the makings of a high 10 unit at worst. The most important query is whether or not or not the A’s can discover sufficient pitching to have the ability to contend. Severino, who had signed a three-year, $67 million contract, virtually instantly started complaining about Sutter Well being Park, resulting in hypothesis that the A’s may very well be keen to maneuver on. He had a strong spring, permitting only one run on three hits and three walks over seven innings, putting out 10 batters. If Severino can adapt to the A’s dwelling park in 2026, the A’s could possibly take the following step to rivalry.
Houston Astros: Pitcher Lance McCullers Jr.
When wholesome, McCullers has been a strong a part of the Astros rotation. He posted a 2.96 ERA and a 1.224 WHiP over 210 innings between 2021 and 2022, putting out 235 batters with 98 walks. Nonetheless, accidents sidelined McCullers from that time as he didn’t pitch in 2023 or 2024 and was understandably rusty when he returned in 2025. Whereas McCullers is unlikely to return to his 2021-22 degree, he’s being counted on in a rotation that has already been hammered with accidents.
A former high prospect, Adell lastly had a breakout season in 2025, posting a .236/.293/.485 batting line with 37 homers in 573 plate appearances. The soon-to-be 27-year-old had been white scorching in spring coaching, hitting 4 homers and 4 doubles in his 46 plate appearances. If Adell can construct on that efficiency, he may change into one other constructing block on an Angels group in determined want of main league expertise.
Younger had come into spring coaching with president of baseball operations Jerry Dipoto singling him out for a way a lot he improved his physique through the offseason. Whereas Younger garnered consideration for his 478′ dwelling run on Friday, he has had a wonderful spring coaching, producing a .302/.373/.717 batting line with six homers and 4 doubles in 59 plate appearances. The Mariners already harmful lineup may very well be that a lot deeper if Younger’s efficiency carries over to the common season.
