9/17 MLB Power Rankings: Atlanta Braves in top 3?
By James Kunkle
20. San Diego Padres
The Padres are currently on a 5 game losing streak, and with 82 losses already on the board, they will once again have a losing record for the season.
19. San Francisco Giants
Even though we all know its already going to happen, the Giants can put the final nail in the coffin on Boston’s playoff chances this week as they begin a series with them on Tuesday evening.
18. Cincinnati Reds
Hoping for the best for Josh Vanmeter who had to abruptly leave the game Monday evening to what is being called a “Family Medical Emergency”
17. Texas Rangers
The Rangers are in the midst of the toughest 17 game end to a schedule in a while. They played the Rays, followed by the A’s. They now play the Astros, A’s again, Red Sox, and end with the Yankees.
16. Arizona Diamondbacks
The Diamondbacks made a good little late run at it, but it looks as if things are going to come up short for them. However, the positive is they seem to be ahead of where they should be as a team.
15. Philadelphia Phillies
There’s still a heartbeat, it may be faint, but it’s still there. However, hopefully the Atlanta Braves can clinch the East this week and basically end the Phillies playoff chances at the same time.
14. Boston Red Sox
The pitching was the weak spot no doubt this year, but the emergence of Rafael Devers as one of the better players in the game will certainly be one thing to be happy about for the 2019 season.
13. New York Mets
Much of what we said about the Phillies rings true also about the New York Mets. I myself, am wondering if the new front office will allow Mickey Callaway to return to the dugout next season or not.
12. Chicago Cubs
The Cubs have won 5 in a row and are still right on the heels of the Cardinals. The bad news is the Brewers are just as hot and are only 1 game behind the Cubs and could potentially still knock them completely out. One has to wonder if Anthony Rizzo’s injury could linger into the potential playoffs.
11. Washington Nationals
Their dream of winning the East is gone, and for as good as they played for June through August, they are still barely in position to make the Wild Card game. Being honest, I hope two Central teams get ahead of the Nationals.