MLB Power Rankings: Blue Jays, Pirates make their moves on Cardinals

135. With the Rangers breathing down their necks, the hamstring injury to Jose Altuve couldn’t come at a worse time. That said, George Springer has looked pretty good in the lead-off role and it may make him a better hitter when he slides back down in the order after Altuve returns.. . Previous: -3th. Houston Astros. 5. team

4. The Pirates are an amazing 20-5 since May 22nd and now trail St. Louis by five games in the Central. During that run, they held opponents to three or fewer runs 18 times, including six shut-outs. The trio of Cole, Liriano, and Burnett could make a formidable opponent in the postseason.. . Previous: +5th. Pittsburgh Pirates. 4. team

71. The Dodgers have a unique problem on their hands, with Alex Guerrero sitting out more often than not because of position saturation. His early season production and one of baseball’s best farm systems may be enough to help the Dodgers get the pitching help they badly need to stave off the Giants in the N.L. West.. . Previous: . Los Angeles Dodgers. 3. team

Kansas City Royals. 2. team. 7. The Royals are getting dogged in the media about the All-Star ballot, especially when it comes to Omar Infante. Funny thing is that Infante could find his way out of a job soon if he doesn’t start hitting, as the Royals absolutely need better production that their current .227/.247/.307 mark from the team’s second base tandem.. . Previous: +4th

The Cardinals have received some good news on the health of Lance Lynn, but perhaps the most important thing they’ve seen lately is the work being done by Jaime Garcia. After making just 16 starts over the last two years, Garcia has been outstanding his first five starts of 2015. He’s turned in a quality start in each, posting a 2.06 ERA, a 2.90 FIP, a 4.80 K/BB ratio. No rust there.. . Previous: . St. Louis Cardinals. 1. team. 33