I’d think so. Preferable here at least.Marginal wins to edge out the division and avoid the WC must have some significant value
OTOH, winning the division also likely lines us up with the Astros again, because the Indians will beat up on the three teams in the Central playing .400 ball. And we have Sale.
Obviously there will be surprises, but when was the last time there was this much disparity in the American League?
Playoff-bound: NYY, CLE, HOU, BOS, LAA
.500-ish: TOR, TEX, MIN, SEA
Rebuilding: TB, BAL, KC, CWS, DET, OAK
The only team in that middle bracket to finish above .500 in ‘17 was the Twins, and they have a rotation of Ervin Santana and a box of rubber bands. Right or wrong, DD’s projections probably see us with a seven-game margin of error of not making the playoffs, and can afford to sit tight.
Why he’s not shelling out money for a playoff bullpen right now is a different question.
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