To say baseball's landscape has shifted this offseason is an understatement. There was an exodus of talent to the American League, and teams like the Los Angeles Angels, Detroit Tigers, Texas Rangers, Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees find themselves amid baseball's power elite. There's a chasm between the top and the bottom of the American League, and much of that canyon was dug this offseason. Here's how each team did during the winter. (For a look at my NL grade, click here.)
Los Angeles Angels - Grade: A
Key Transactions: Acquired C Chris Iannetta from Colorado for RHP Tyler Chatwood; signed 1B Albert Pujols, 10 years, $240 million; signed LHP C.J. Wilson, five years, $77.5 million; signed RHP LaTroy Hawkins, one year, $3 million.
Bowden's Take
The Angels signed the best position player and starting pitcher available on the free-agent market in Pujols and Wilson, respectively, which placed them among a group of six elite AL teams. The signings have bolstered the offense. The Angels also own arguably the best four-man rotation in baseball. Hawkins adds depth and leadership to the bullpen. The Angels won the offseason and put themselves in the position of being World Series contenders.