1. Chicago White Sox - It has been reported that the Sox are looking for a speed upgrade. Willy Tavares and Randy Winn are the most likely options in my eyes, maybe Juan Pierre as well. It would be interesting to see Chicago trade off a big bat like Paul Konerko, Jermaine Dye, or Nick Swisher for some prospects or pitching and then sign Bobby Abreu who could add some speed and a great OBP. Also, Bobby Jenks would create some demand in the market as Brian Fuentes and K-Rod are the only closers getting attention. Perhaps they could trade him and maximize their return for this year's group.
 
2. Minnesota Twins - A great year from the Minnesota Twins in 2008. Hopefully, this team can be just as, if not more exciting in '09. The line-up is pretty solid with Mauer, Morneau and Cuddyer anchoring it. The leadoff spot is up for grabs with Denard Span and Carlos Gomez playing at the end of the season. Personally, I could see the Twins getting a veteran pitcher to anchor their starting rotation and create competition between Glen Perkins, Kevin Slowey and Nick Blackburn. Although, I like the staff exactly the way it is. A little bit of a power upgrade could be used for the Twins and shortstop is also a position need. One report had Minnesota going after Orlando Cabrera, which would be an interesting sign. I think thirdbase could be upgraded especially in this year's market. Melvin Mora would be a good veteran presence, Adrian Beltre fits Minnesota's method of playing especially defensively, and former Indian Casey Blake has experience in the division.
 
3. Detroit Tigers - Word out of Detroit is a drastic payroll cut in 2009, that means they will have to get rid of some people. Unfortunately, nobody wants Gary Sheffield or Dontrelle Willis, who are owed upwards to $25MM. Their best bargaining chip would probably be Jeremy Bonderman and Magglio Ordonez. They could also dangle Brandon Inge in the market and he might have some value being a third baseman and potential catcher for another team. With the '08 issues in the bullpen and starting pitching, I'm sure they wish to get a trade to work in their favor for that department. A lot of teams would be out for Ordonez, his contract is another three years for managable cost. Justin Verlander would also be an interesting trade bait option, but I don't see them giving him up. Although, expect their top prospect, Rick Porcello, to be up in the majors sometime around mid-season next year. He is a must-see guy!
 
4. Cleveland Indians - The Indians are another team with some catcher work to do, they could sell high on Shoppach as he had a breakthrough season. They should keep him and let Victor Martinez play more first base and designated hitter, especially if Travis Hafner does not return to a fearsome hitter. The Indians had one of the best offenses in the second half and if they can keep that going into next season, they could return to '07 form. Second base is a big target in the offseason and the team continually tries to talk for Brian Roberts. Other candidates might be Orlando Hudson and Freddy Sanchez. I don't see the Indians trading for any players unless their willing to part with David Dellucci or prospects. If they do not think they can sign a new infielder, they will surely keep Jamey Carroll as he was productive at times. The rotation is shaky after Cliff Lee, but I can see it coming together for Cleveland. Matt LaPorta should be up around mid-season sometime, it will be interesting to see him progress.
 
5. Kansas City Royals - The Royals want to contend and they want to contend now. Although, there is a lot of trade talk going around Kansas City, mostly for Zack Greinke. They have already made the first offseason splash in trading for Mike Jacobs from Florida. A report earlier said it would take a Johan Santana-type deal to pry Greinke away from the Royals, so considering that, I think he stays. The only realistic suitor I see biting on Zack Greinke might be the Texas Rangers with their catcher surplus. The Royals will stage a pretty solid line-up in '09, the question marks are beyond Gil Meche and Zack Greinke in the rotation. With some breakout seasons and some pitching breakthroughs for Luke Hochevar or Kyle Davies, this team could possibly (I use it very loosely) contend in '09.