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

team. 90. It may be too soon to say it, but the return of Anthony Rendon will be huge for a Nationals offense. Of course, that may impact Danny Espinosa, who has been surprisingly efficient this year, hitting .263 with eight home runs and 18 RBI. Still, an upgrade is an upgrade and Rendon will be a significant upgrade.. . Previous: +1st. Washington Nationals. 5

2. The Twins have made the most of their schedule, but now they are heading into a true test, with games against the Rangers, Cardinals, and Cubs over their next nine games. This will be the time to determine if the club has staying power or it was just a flash in the pan.. . Previous: -1th. Minnesota Twins. 4. team

team. 71. The return of Yasiel Puig creates some difficult line-up decisions for the Dodgers, and that may limit playing time for Andre Ethier and Alex Guerrero, both of whom have acquitted themselves nicely in 2015. Of course, the Dodgers could spin one of them off to address their huge hole in the pitching staff, but prospects will more likely be used to solve that need.. . Previous: -1th. Los Angeles Dodgers. 3

2. team. 135. How do you improve a team on the rise? You call up the best prospect in the game and have him fit into the line-up flawlessly. That’s exactly what Astros have done with Carlos Correa and he’s proved them right during his initial taste of the game’s top level. Of course, Houston has also added to that by promoting Vincent Velasquez as well and there is still more in the coffers if needed.. . Previous: +3rd. Houston Astros

33. St. Louis continues to play the best baseball in the league, but they’ll be tested with the loss of Matt Holliday for two week. They are also waiting with bated breath on starter Lance Lynn’s health. The right-hander is dealing with tightness in his forearm and the team took it seriously enough to have him go in for an MRI. Forearm tightness could be a precursor to Tommy John surgery, and the loss of Lynn could really hurt the Cardinals.. . Previous: . St. Louis Cardinals. 1. team