On Tuesday, Baseball Prospectus released its PECOTA projections for the 2016 MLB standings. The Oakland A's clock in at 75-87, which is tied for last place with the Angels. Or, tied for fourth place, if you prefer your glass half full. Here are the projections for the AL West:
1. Astros | 88-74
2. Mariners | 84-78
3. Rangers | 80-82
4. Angels | 75-87
5. A's | 75-87
Note that the A's are projected to score 669 runs (last year: 694) and allow 724 runs (last year: 729). Yep, their differential is expected to be worse, and yet they're still adding seven wins.