NEW YORK — Mark Teixeira and Bobby Abreu have plenty in common. Smooth swings, sharp eyes, opposite-field power.

And something else now, too.

As the New York Yankees and Los Angeles Angels prepare to meet for the American League pennant, both sluggers can easily recall what life was like in the other dugout.

"That team over there, just like us, expects to win every game they play," said Teixeira, who left Los Angeles last offseason for a free-agent contract with the Yankees. "They're so professional. They do everything right. They're meticulous."

And better than ever, perhaps, with Abreu in the lineup.

"It's going to be something. Very interesting," said Abreu, who spent 2½ seasons in New York. "I was there, and it gives you a lot of emotions, but right now I represent the Angels."

After going coast to coast last winter, Teixeira and Abreu enjoyed similar success this season — albeit for disparate dollars.

Several teams offered big-money deals to Teixeira, who signed with New York for $180 million over eight years. Abreu, despite a durable track record of steady production with the Phillies and Yankees, had to wait and wait just to land a job.

Seeking a multiyear deal, he filed for free agency following a solid season with New York. But the economic downturn and a crowded free-agent class left the 35-year-old outfielder with few attractive suitors.

Right before spring training, Abreu joined the Angels on a $5 million, one-year contract that's turned into quite a bargain. He earned an additional $1 million in performance bonuses for reaching 650 plate appearances.

"I was shocked that Bobby Abreu was available — and I was shocked that we got him for $5 million, too," Angels teammate Torii Hunter said. "It was a blessing. I can tell you that, man. We're thankful to have him over here. I was excited in spring training because I know what he can do."