As you look at the A.L. West standing in the second week of June, you find that the A’s are back into contention–6 games behind Seattle.

What a difference a year makes! At this point last year, the A’s were 18 games out of the blazing Mariners and trying to detrmine whether they will be sellers or buyers down the stretch run.

But, here’s my intrigue; With all of the predictions regarding the A’s before the year began and now you look at the individual stats and circumstances involving each A’s player, how can this team still be in contention?

Here’s what I think.

1) With all the hype and dependence the A’s had on their starters leaving spring training, they have a combined record of 18-23 as of June 10th.

2) Relievers Jeff Tam and Mike Magnante, whom we’re so dependable last year, haven’t showed up this year.. Has anyone seen them?

3) David Justice who was supposed to contribute somewhat in replacing some offense due to the departure of Giambi, has been on the D.L. 70% of the season.

4.) Jermaine Dye is batting .230 and has yet to get hot.

5) Terrence long is batting .229 and is having problems in centerfield.

6) The super rookie Carlos Pena was sent down one month into the season.

7) The Catcher that wore out winter league pitching in Velenzuela is batting .210 and yet to throw at runners at the consistency of last year.

8.) Left Fielder Jeremy Giambi, the lead off hitter was traded to Philadelphi in Late may.

9.) The 2nd base position has brought no offense to the line up, while the one that started on opening day was sent down in May.

10) The A’s have a first baseman that has never played the position before this year-Scott Hatterburg

Yet, on June 10th the A’s are only 6 games out of first place.

Either they will play like they should play based on all the wrongs that have occurred this year, or this team will do scary things when they really get hot.

Time will tell.