Since we last caught up with the AL West, a lot as changed, yet it’s stayed mostly the same …

Texas Rangers

Well, the Rangers seem to be chugging along, currently holding the AL’s best record.  Their offensive struggles seem to be a thing of the past as Adrian Beltre and Josh Hamilton have started to heat back up and David Murphy continues on his tear.  Despite that, starting pitching remains a question mark.  With a Yu Darvish quad injury, it looks like Roy Oswalt will be back in the line up for a bit longer.

For more on the Texas Rangers, visit Big Game Claws.

Oakland Athletics

Strong offensive performances and solid starting pitching have certainly been the story of this unexpected playoff contender.  However, the Bartolo Colon PED suspension is definitely a big blow for this wild card hopeful.  Over the past 2 weeks, the A’s have played .500 ball, but have still been able to hang in there in the Wild Card standings, currently tied with Tampa Bay, Baltimore and Detroit.  With a series coming up against the Rays this weekend, they’ll be looking to get a few games up in the WC standings.

For more on the Oakland Athletics, visit The Oaktown Breakdown. 

Los Angeles Angels

This team just can’t seem to get things together.  Despite an MVP-esque season from rookie Mike Trout, the Angels just can seem to find their stride, and a Pujols injury (who left early during Wednesday’s game) certainly won’t help things.  The Angels are currently sitting 9 games behing the Rangers and 3 games back in the wild card.  With a weekend series against the Tigers, they’ll be hoping to gain some ground in the WC.

For more on the Los Angeles Angels, visit Light Up The Halo. 

Seattle Mariners

The Mariners have definitely the story of the past week or so, topped off with Felix Hernandez’s perfect game against the Rays on Aug. 15.  Oh and over the past 2 weeks, they’ve only won 10 of 12.  They are definitely a long shot to make the post season, currently 6.5 games back in the Wild Card, but if they can keep up their winning ways, maybe they can make a run.

For more on the Seattle Mariners, visit Needle Ball.