This is the big-money division. Two clubs run huge payrolls, one could but doesn't, and two will never be able to keep up with the others financially -- making those last two farm systems the most important.
The Yankees have the cash and the No. 2 system in the game, the Red Sox have cash and still have a productive pipeline (but one depleted by trades), yet the Jays and Orioles lag well behind if we look at the future talent in their systems, which bodes poorly for them for the next three to five years. The Rays are in somewhat better shape, but given their payroll situation and moribund stadium, they need more young talent than they have now.
Here are the top prospects in the AL East:
Baltimore Orioles: Top prospects report
With Chance Sisco almost ready to take over the catching duties and a strong 2016 draft, the Orioles see glimmers of hope for the future.
Boston Red Sox: Top prospects report
Boston's bid for AL East dominance gets an immediate assist from Andrew Benintendi and from a deep system stocked by strong drafts.
New York Yankees: Top prospects report
Thanks to deadline deals that brought them shortstop Gleyber Torres and other top prospects, the Yankees are on the fast track for rebuilding.
Tampa Bay Rays: Top prospects report
Canny trades have made up for weaker drafts, but with prospects like Willy Adames on the way, the Rays have help worth getting excited about.
Toronto Blue Jays: Top prospects report
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. provides plenty of promise for Canada's MLB team, but he's one of the gems in a Blue Jays system lacking much MLB-ready talent.
Law's 2017 Prospect Ranks
Farm System Rankings:
• Nos. 30-21
• Nos. 20-11
• Nos. 10-1
Prospects:
• Nos. 100-81
• Nos. 80-61
• Nos. 60-41
• Nos. 40-21
• Nos. 20-1
• Prospects who missed
• Top 100 table
Prospects by team:
AL East
• Orioles | Red Sox | Yankees | Rays | Blue Jays
NL East
• Braves | Marlins | Mets | Phillies | Nationals
AL Central
• White Sox | Indians | Tigers | Royals | Twins
NL Central
• Cubs | Reds | Brewers | Pirates | Cardinals
AL West
• A's | Angels | Astros | Mariners | Rangers
NL West
• Diamondbacks | Rockies | Dodgers | Padres | Giants
Feb. 2: Top prospects by position
Feb. 3: Sleepers