Only four American League teams can make the postseason, but as of July 21 there are eight teams that still appear to be in the hunt for a playoff berth. Let’s take a look at the playoff contenders from each division:

East
New York Yankees (58-34): The Yankees are probably the favorite to represent the A.L. in the World Series. A recent injury to Andy Pettitte could hurt their starting rotation for the next month or so, or trigger a deadline deal for an arm, but the Yanks have enough depth and overall talent to absorb the blow. With one of the best lineups in the league and a top-tier rotation, when healthy, the Bronx Bombers should take home the A.L. East crown and home-field advantage through to the World Series.

Tampa Bay Rays (56-37): The Rays have cooled off a bit after starting the season on fire, but they’re still very much in the running for the A.L. East title and would earn the Wild Card if the season ended today. In fact, the Rays would be in first place in any other division in baseball but their own.

Boston Red Sox (53-41): The Sox have faltered a bit as of late, mostly due to a myriad of injuries. However, don’t expect them to completely go away, not with their pitching. With Jon Lester mowing down hitters and Clay Buchholz returning from the disabled list, the Sox should remain in the mix for at least the Wild Card for the Viagra Professional duration.

Central
Chicago White Sox (52-41): The White Sox might not have a plethora of big-name players that will sell loads of MLB Playoff tickets, but they’ve been one of the best teams in baseball in recent weeks. They’ve vaulted the Twins and Tigers and have a solid lead in the Central thanks to their play as of late. An effective pitching staff and a powerful lineup have helped this team get the job done.

Detroit Tigers (48-44): The Tigers have what it takes to win the division. They’ve got one of the best lineups in the American League, led by MVP candidate Miguel Cabrera, and their rotation has the talent to be very good. Justin Verlander has struggled with consistency this season, as has the rest of the staff. If the team can get youngster Rick Porcello – who was recently called back up to the big leagues – on track, it could push them over the top in the division.

Minnesota Twins (49-45): The Twins have had their ups and downs in 2010, but I think they’ve got the staying power to at least make things interesting in the Central. Joe Mauer isn’t dominating pitchers like he did last season, and Justin Morneau’s injury has hurt the lineup’s overall production. Francisco Liriano has shown flashes of dominance, though, and a big second half from him could make or break the season.

West
Texas Rangers (55-39): If the Rangers weren’t the favorites to win the West before landing Cliff Lee, they sure are now. Lee heads a rotation that has been adequate in 2010, but they don’t have to be great with this lineup behind them. Josh Hamilton is having an MVP-caliber season and Vlad Guerrero is making the Angels cringe with every swing. They could have what it takes to go to the World Series.

Los Angeles Angels (51-45): It’s hard to see them beating out Texas, but the Halos have had a way of surprising us over the past few seasons. Still, I don’t think they have the pitching depth or potent lineup to compete with the Rangers long-term.

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