Kansas City Royals Still the Class of the AL Central

5. Detroit Tigers

Over the past few years, the Tigers had been walking a tightrope, relying upon aging veterans and having a bullpen that could be considered mediocre at best. Even though those bullpen issues would rear their head in the postseason, the Tigers still managed to have excellent regular season performances. At least, until last year, when the bottom fell out.

With those issues in mind, the Tigers focused on getting younger, more athletic and rebuilding a bullpen that could best be referred to as a dumpster fire. David Price, who was sent to Toronto at the trade deadline, was replaced by Jordan Zimmermann. Justin Upton was signed to solidify left. Four relievers were either signed or traded for, headlined by new closer Francisco Rodriguez. They have certainly paid attention to the failures of past seasons.

However, these additions just do not seem to be enough. The Tigers are still relying upon Miguel Cabrera, who missed 43 games last season, Victor Martinez, who missed 42 games, and Ian Kinsler, who is not exactly considered an iron horse. The rotation, behind Zimmermann, is filled with question marks. The Tigers, for all of the flashy moves they made this offseason, have the look of a team that is in the midst of a complete overhaul.

With questions about their starting pitching and health, the Detroit Tigers just do not appear to be a true threat to the Kansas City Royals this season. There is still quite a bit of work to be done here.

Next: Will they ever actually rebuild?