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AL Central Notebook: Cabrera progressing; Hosmer calls projection 'ridiculous'

Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Every Friday, theScore's MLB editors will bring you a roundup of everything you need to know from around the division with the AL Central Notebook.

Chicago White Sox

One-two punch. Offseason acquisition Melky Cabrera is expected to hit second this season behind leadoff man Adam Eaton, and the pair are already discussing top-of-the-order strategy, writes Scott Merkin.

Mutual admiration. Just because Chris Sale and Jeff Samardzija are teammates, it doesn't mean they're not competing against one another. They sat down with CSN Chicago to explain their special relationship.

Cleveland Indians

Forget what the numbers say. Indians manager Terry Francona says - despite what defensive metrics suggest - Michael Brantley is one of the best left fielders in baseball. Brantley ranked 37th out of 59 outfielders in Defensive Runs Saved last season.

Finally catching a break. After two serious elbow injuries, Gavin Floyd says he hasn't felt this good in 10 years. He told Paul Hoyes he's never met someone who broke their elbow.

Detroit Tigers

Unfinished business. The Tigers are bringing back reliever Joba Chamberlain on a 1-year deal. Chamberlain, who reportedly spurned higher offers from other teams, said he's got unfinished business in Detroit.

Too early to tell. Miguel Cabrera says he's unsure whether he'll be ready for Opening Day as he rehabs his way back from offseason ankle surgery. The two-time MVP was cleared this week for non-impact baseball activities.

Kansas City Royals

72 wins? Count Eric Hosmer among those who think Baseball Prospectus' 72-win projection for the Royals this season is low, which he called ridiculous, writes Andy McCullough.

Infante on the mend. Royals second baseman Omar Infante was plagued by injuries in 2014, but says his troublesome shoulder and elbow are finally feeling good.

Minnesota Twins

Mauer demoted? Not so, says new manager Paul Molitor. Despite a disappointing year at the plate in 2014, Molitor anticipates batting Joe Mauer in the middle of the Twins lineup this upcoming season.

Ace of the staff. Phil Hughes will get an early chance to prove 2014 was no fluke, after Molitor admitted he's the favorite to start Opening Day at Detroit.

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