Fansided

MLB Power Rankings: Astros launch to top spot

By Joshua Sadlock

Apr 20, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve (left) and shortstop Carlos Correa against the Los Angeles Angels at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 20, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve (left) and shortstop Carlos Correa against the Los Angeles Angels at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
2 of 15
Next
May 5, 2017; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies third baseman Maikel Franco (7) during batting practice before action against the Washington Nationals at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
May 5, 2017; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Phillies third baseman Maikel Franco (7) during batting practice before action against the Washington Nationals at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /
28

Philadelphia Phillies 14-23

Last week: 1-4
Last rank: 26

The Phillies may eventually be forced to admit they rushed Maikel Franco to the big leagues unnecessarily. Franco is now batting a modest .212 on the year with an OPS of .647. This should have been the year he took the next step toward harnessing all of his raw power. Instead, he is going in the wrong direction.

Odubel Herrera has also taken a step back this season. Hitting in a lineup with next to no protection is not easy for youngsters, but the Phillies have to try and make the most of it.

27

Pittsburgh Pirates 17-23

Last week: 3-3
Last rank: 24

Things are going to have to get worse before they get better for the Pirates, who have lost seven of nine entering Wednesday night’s action. This would have been their last real chance to contend before losing control of their current roster. Now, the front office’s attention will have to turn their focus to rebuilding.

Young first baseman Josh Bell has showed a solid approach at the plate, and has an .812 OPS. Harder contact will come more frequently for him as he gets more experience at the MLB level. He is a piece that the Pirates can count on for their future.

Home/MLB