Chart: Meet the AL Central

Manager: Terry Francona

Record last season: 85-77

Last postseason appearance: 2013

Key additions: OF Brandon Moss, RHP Shaun Marcum, RHP Anthony Swarzak

Key subtractions: RHP Justin Masterson, SS Asdrubal Cabrera, OF Nyjer Morgan

Why they'll contend: A talented rotation — even without the demoted Danny Salazar — and an offense that could be very good.

Why they won't: Cy Young Award winner Corey Kluber takes a step back. Everyday players Jason Kipnis, Lonnie Chisenhall and Yan Gomes don't take the next step.

Record last season: 73-89

Last postseason appearance: 2008

Key additions: RHP Jeff Samardzija, RHP David Robertson, OF Melky Cabrera, 1B-DH Adam LaRoche

Key subtractions: 1B Paul Konerko, OF Alejandro De Aza

Why they'll contend: Big-time moves boost rotation and offense

Manager: Brad Ausmus

Record last season: 90-72

Last postseason appearance: 2014

Key additions: OF Yoenis Cespedes, RHP Shane Greene, RHP Alfredo Simon

Key subtractions: RHP Max Scherzer, RHP Rick Porcello, OF Torii Hunter, LHP Phil Coke

Why they won't: They fail to absorb the losses of Scherzer and Porcello, and the bullpen woes return.

Manager: Ned Yost

Record last season: 89-73

Last postseason appearance: 2014

Key additions: RHP Edinson Volquez, DH Kendrys Morales, OF Alex Rios, RHP Kris Medlen

Why they'll contend: Pitching and defense, plus Eric Hosmer and Mike Moustakas can't produce any less than last year.

Why they won't: They won't be overlooked, and losing Shields is too big of a blow.

Manager: Paul Molitor

Record last season: 70-92

Last postseason appearance: 2010

Key subtractions: Manager Ron Gardenhire, RHP Anthony Swarzak, RHP Jared Burton.

Why they'll contend: One of the better offenses in the league, and improved starting pitching.