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By: Marvin Azrak
The Atlanta Braves retain their top spot despite a minor setback, losing a series to the White Sox. It’s a reminder that even the best teams face challenges, but the Braves remain the leading National League team with an impressive record of 61-31.
As we approach next month’s trade deadline, here’s the latest MLB power rankings.
- Atlanta Braves (61-31;)
The Braves showed their human side by suffering consecutive losses to the White Sox, breaking their 25-game streak without back-to-back losses at home. Nevertheless, they maintain the highest number of major wins and remain formidable.
- Baltimore Orioles (57-35; LW 3) The Orioles continue their remarkable run, starting strong after the All-Star Break by securing three consecutive victories against the Miami Marlins. Their success has been fueled by an outstanding bullpen, which has significantly improved compared to last year.
- Tampa Bay Rays (60-36; LW 2) The Rays had a shaky end to the first half of the season, but they started the second part with a series win against the Kansas City Royals. Their upcoming schedule is challenging, facing several tough opponents, especially within the highly competitive AL East.
- Texas Rangers (55-39; LW 9) The Rangers faced a rough patch before the All-Star Break but came back strong, winning all three games against the Cleveland Guardians. Their offense has been a significant factor in their success, ranking at the top in runs scored per game and games with ten or more runs.
- Los Angeles Dodgers (53-39; LW 4) The Dodgers seem to have found their rhythm, going into the All-Star Break with a four-game winning streak and continuing their momentum with a series win against the New York Mets. They face a challenging stretch of road games against American League opponents.
- Toronto Blue Jays (53-39; LW 5) The Blue Jays showcased their offensive firepower in a sweep against the Arizona Diamondbacks, but what’s more impressive is their improved pitching, contributing to their positive run differential. They have struggled, however, in games against the Boston Red Sox.
- Houston Astros (51-42; LW 8) The defending champions have remained competitive, primarily thanks to their strong pitching staff. Their offensive output in terms of home runs is lower than in previous seasons, but they have the potential to be serious World Series contenders.
- Milwaukee Brewers (52-42; LW unranked) July has seen them reclaim their winning ways, adapting their gameplay to secure victories through dominant offensive performances and solid pitching. Despite not leading in either runs scored or allowed, they sit atop the NL Central.
- Miami Marlins (53-42; LW 6) July has been challenging for the Marlins, with some struggles on the road. However, their impressive performance in June has given them a good position in the hunt for a wild-card berth, and their remarkable record in one-run games has been a key factor.
- San Francisco Giants
Throughout this season, the Giants have maintained their remarkable ability to win on the road. After the All-Star Break, San Francisco started with an impressive three-game sweep of the Pittsburgh Pirates, clearly asserting their dominance by outscoring them 17-9 in the series. The team’s proficiency in away games is unsurprising, as they have consistently excelled. Starting from a six-game road trip on May 22nd, the Giants boast the second-best record on the road in the entire league, with an outstanding 19-6 performance when facing their opponents in their home ballparks.
The Giants’ advantageous position is further highlighted by the fact that they have played the third-fewest road games among all Major League teams. It places them in a favorable situation, where they can capitalize on their remaining road games to secure a playoff berth for this season.
Their road success must continue for San Francisco to solidify their spot in the playoffs. As they progress through the rest of the season, maintaining their winning streak away from home will undoubtedly be a critical factor in their overall success.
- Cincinnati Reds (Record: 50-44)
The Reds have seen a significant improvement since the debut of De La Cruz in early June. With a youthful lineup and a catalyst like De La Cruz, they have the potential to make a strong push toward a playoff spot.
- New York Yankees (Record: N/A)
The Yankees are facing questions about Judge’s toe injury and their approach to the trade deadline. GM Brian Cashman’s decisions in the coming weeks may shape their future as they aim to remain competitive.
- Philadelphia Phillies (Record: 51-42)
Bryce Harper’s return after Tommy John surgery has been impressive, but his power has yet to be there. The Phillies’ lineup relies on Harper to perform at his best for them to reach their full potential.
- Milwaukee Brewers (Record: 52-42)
The Brewers need to reinforce their lineup before the trade deadline. While Willy Adames has shown power, his overall performance needs improvement, and the team hopes for a breakout.
- Boston Red Sox (Record: 50-44)
The Red Sox face challenges with three starters on the injured list. Their success may depend on how well they handle the situation and the performance of key players.
- Minnesota Twins (Record: 48-46)
The Twins will look to Carlos Correa to perform consistently in the second half to boost their offense, which is crucial for their chances in a competitive AL Central.
- Seattle Mariners (Record: 46-46)
Jerry Dipoto, the Mariners’ president of baseball operations, has been actively working on trades to improve the team’s roster. His moves leading up to the trade deadline could be a significant factor in their success.
- Cleveland Guardians (Record: 45-48)
AaronCivale’s strong performance after returning from an injury will be vital for the Guardians’ chances of contending for the AL Central title.
- Los Angeles Angels (Record: 46-48)
The Angels have experienced a slump, and their success may depend on the performance of the entire roster, as well as the recovery of Mike Trout from his injury.
- Chicago Cubs (Record: 43-49)
The Cubs face a decision regarding ace Marcus Stroman, and how they handle him before the trade deadline will signal their direction for the rest of the season.
- San Diego Padres (Record: 44-50)
A competent and dominant Yu Darvish could significantly impact the Padres’ performance in the second half, helping them live up to their potential as a top-tier team.
- Pittsburgh Pirates (Record: 41-52)
The Pirates’ front office has made decisions that don’t align with traditional deadline moves, which could affect their approach to trades and roster changes.
- New York Mets (Record: 43-50)
As the Mets face challenges and potential trades, the decisions made by owner Steve Cohen may significantly impact their future.
- Chicago White Sox (Record: 40-55)
Lucas Giolito’s potential trade is a significant factor for the White Sox as they evaluate their chances for contention in the second half.
- Detroit Tigers (Record: 41-51)
The development of rookie Spencer Torkelson is essential for the Tigers as they look to build for the future.
- St. Louis Cardinals (Record: 40-53)
Mozeliak’s belief in the team’s potential and approach to the trade deadline will determine the Cardinals’ direction for the rest of the season.
- Washington Nationals (Record: 37-56)
The Nationals face trade decisions, and players like Jose Candelario and Lane Thomas could be important trade assets.
- Colorado Rockies (Record: 36-58)
The Rockies’ front office may impact trade decisions, potentially holding onto players like Bard despite their performance.
- Kansas City Royals (Record: 27-67)
Garcia’s development and potential to add power to his game could be crucial for the Royals’ future in the infield.
- Oakland Athletics (Record: 25-70)
The Athletics are facing significant challenges, and their success may depend on how they handle their roster and make strategic decisions.
