MLB Power Rankings: How long can Cardinals stay at the top?

team. 9. It’s ahrd to fault the Cubs for looking to upgrade the back-end of their bullpen by signing Rafael Soriano and being tied to Jonathan Papelbon. Hector Rondon is solid, but he’d be better slotted into a 8th inning role. However, the Cubs could still stand to improve on an inconsistent offense if they really have intentions on making the postseason. . . Previous: -2th. Chicago Cubs. 10

40. The no-hitter for Charlie Heston was a solid reminder of just how important he has become to the Giants’ rotation. His seven quality starts are second only to Madison Bumgarner on the team. as is his 8.03 K/9 ratio. He’s been a calming presence in a season where Jake Peavy and Matt Cain have been hurt, and Tim Hudson and Ryan Vogelsong have been ineffective.. . Previous: -2th. San Francisco Giants. 9. team

8. team. 4. A team wants its staff ace to be a leader and a winner, and that is what the Pirates are getting in Gerrit Cole. Now in his third year, he’s evolved into a Cy Young candidate while leading all of baseball with nine wins, a 1.73 ERA, and ranks only behind Zack Greinke with 10 quality starts.. . Previous: +3rd. Pittsburgh Pirates

43. The Yankees withstood Toronto’s win streak by railing off seven straight wins of their own. That will be put to the test as one of their bullpen dynamic duo, Andrew Miller, hit the disabled list with a forearm strain. While they still have Dellin Betances to close things out, their bullpen took a big hit with the loss of Miller.. . Previous: +6th. New York Yankees. 7. team

The Royals sent a message to the Twins by sweeping Minnesota. They can thank Salvador Perez for putting them on his back this week with the All-Star catcher rocking three jacks this week, bringing him to a solid .286/.299/.472 with nine home runs and 41 RBI. Pretty solid by back-stop measures.. . Previous: -2th. Kansas City Royals. 6. team. 7