MLB Power Rankings: Dodgers, Astros lead; Cubs, Orioles on the rise
Baltimore Orioles 53-55
Last week: 5-2
Last rank: 16th
The Orioles were one of the most perplexing teams at the trade deadline. Rumored to make closer Zach Britton and fellow relievers Brad Brach and Darren O’Day available in the closing days of the month, Baltimore instead added starter Jeremy Hellickson from Philadelphia and infielder Tim Beckham from Tampa Bay.
The moves have paid early dividends. Hellickson was brilliant in his first start with the club, tossing seven scoreless innings Wednesday in a win over the Royals. The right-hander allowed just five hits, one walk and one hit batsman while striking out three.
Beckham hit .583/.583/1.250 in his first three games with his new club, including three doubles, a triple and a home run. Caleb Joseph and Jonathan Schoop each homered twice during the week, with Schoop leading the club with seven RBI.
Seattle Mariners 55-55
Last week: 4-3
Last rank: 13th
The Mariners have made incremental progress in the AL Wild Card race over the past few weeks, and enter the weekend 55-55, just 2.5 games behind the Royals for the second Wild Card spot.
James Paxton was named AL Pitcher of the Month in July after posting a perfect 6-0 record in six starts, with a 1.37 ERA and 46 strikeouts in 39.1 innings. Paxton allowed just six runs on 25 hits and six walks during the month and tossed six scoreless innings July 30 against the Mets to cap the month.
Edwin Diaz picked up eight saves in nine attempts in July, posting a 1.98 ERA with 21 strikeouts in 13.2 innings to earn AL Reliever of the Month honors. He pitched a perfect ninth inning Tuesday against the Rangers for save No. 21 this season.