Chicago White Sox

While SS Tim Beckham was tabbed for greatness the second Tampa Bay announced that they would go with him at No. 1, the White Sox were sitting on their haunches, ready to strike. With the eighth pick in the 2008 MLB Amateur Draft, the ChiSox went with Gordon Beckham. Gordon shares a surname and position with Tim Beckham—but not much else.

The White Sox will bounce back and make a run at the AL Central this year after a 89-74 record. The Whtie Sox will finish second to the Minnesota Twins and I really don't think they will win the wild card.

Keep and Eye on: Alexei Ramirez, 2B/SS
Ramirez's rookie season made showed that there is a new name in town when it comes to infielders. Ramirez batted .290 while hitting 21 homers and 77 RBI. He stole 13 bases last year too.

Projected Lineup
1. Jerry Owens, CF
2. Alexei Ramirez, SS
3. Carlos Quentin, LF
4. Jim Thome, DH

As I tend to do, I've saved the favorite for last. In the American League Central, that has to be the Chicago White Sox because they are the defending champions of the division. This is certainly the most wide open set of five in Major League Baseball.  Depending on who's talking, every team has a true shot to take the flag.

You cannot say that about any other division in baseball—thanks to the San Diego Padres and the AL West (only has four teams).

Note: Originally posted by Tommy Barbee on BaseballDigest.com (March 6, 2009)

Although there are plenty of questions this season, there’s a palpable feeling of optimism about the young players the White Sox brass has proudly assembled.

That said, there are plenty of position battles that need to be addressed, and with that in mind, here are five things to keep an eye on as Spring Training progresses:

1. Who’s going to lead? (aka the battles at CF and 2B)