MLB Power Rankings: Reality check for the Braves, White Sox digging their graves
By Tim Boyle
10) MLB Power Rankings: Chicago Cubs
Chicago Cubs pitcher Drew Smyly was a tackle by his own catcher away from throwing a perfect game last Friday. The Cubs are more than this one game. They’ve been really good this year. It’s impossible to ignore their success even if it does seem a bit false when comparing them to some other clubs in the National League. Cheering for the Cubs is always a ride. This year is no exception.
9) MLB Power Rankings: New York Yankees
The New York Yankees are falling in the MLB Power Rankings mostly because we have some ridiculously good ball clubs playing much better. The 13-9 record is acceptable at this stage. It might not be what some fans want to see, especially when they are only tied for third place in the division. The race in April isn’t what the Yankees hope to win. The marathon through October is the goal. They may be knocked down a little bit right now. They’ll get up again.
8) MLB Power Rankings: Toronto Blue Jays
Winning their series against the New York Yankees this weekend is the tie-breaker for the Toronto Blue Jays to move ahead in the MLB Power Rankings. Each club owns an identical 13-9 record. It wouldn’t be a surprise if they ended the season sharing the same total of wins either. Don’t pop the champagne just yet, though. The American League East is a beast. Two more teams in their own division are ahead of the Blue Jays. One good weekend versus the Yankees isn’t enough to get lazy.
7) MLB Power Rankings: Atlanta Braves
The Atlanta Braves are still near the top of the MLB Power Rankings but they did get a reality check this weekend. Up against the Houston Astros, the Braves finally faced a team with some moxie and lost every game they played. While they did handle their business against the San Diego Padres earlier in the week and are now 10-2 on the road, the Braves need to prove themselves against good teams. Those winning ball clubs will show up on the schedule soon enough. We’ll know whether or not the Braves were early bullies against weaker clubs or a serious title contender.
6) MLB Power Rankings: New York Mets
People love to mock the New York Mets. The redheaded stepchild of the Big Apple, they’re playing incredibly well and coming off of a strong West Coast road trip. All of this is being done as they dive deep into their starting pitching depth. Pete Alonso is carrying the offense and looking to win another home run crown. The Mets aren’t living up to their payroll, but they don’t have to. They just need to survive through the end of October. Coming out on top with all of this adversity is a good sign.