MLB Opening Day is almost here, and teams across the league have had plenty of time to figure out who they want to be this year.
As they all get ready for the start of a new season, the MLB Power Rankings are helping paint a picture of what baseball fans and bettors can expect as the initial MLB standings are revealed.
Houston Astros Take The Top
The Houston Astros clinched their second World Series in a span of five years as the 2021-22 season culminated. Despite trading Justin Verlander away to the New York Mets, they remain well-equipped and are upping their offensive game by recruiting previous MVP Jose Abreu to play first base.
The Astros are currently unrivaled in their league and in MLB news today, although their division is slightly more competitive than last year. Their upcoming attempt to win the World Series and repeat as champions will make history if successful, as it’s been over two decades since a team has achieved this feat.
Atlanta Braves Right Behind
The potential for a flawless year by Ronald Acuña Jr. is just one reason to anticipate the Braves’ advancements this season. At the young age of 25, he could very well be the most talented player the team has ever seen, according to the MLB player stats, putting Atlanta second in the MLB Power Rankings.
Moreover, if the Braves secure the NL East championship this season, it will be their sixth consecutive division win following their victory in the World Series of 2021. They’re looking for a repeat of their consecutive streak of 11 victories, achieved between 1995 and 2005.
A Different Ballgame For The Padres
Last year, the San Diego Padres suffered a major defeat at the hands of the Philadelphia Phillies in the NLCS. Despite this setback, they have emerged victorious during Spring Training by becoming one of the top MLB teams.
Furthermore, they secured Xander Bogaerts, an exceptional free agent, and extended Manny Machado’s contract for 11 years. In a mere two weeks since the start of the season, the San Diego Padres will welcome back Fernando Tatis Jr., previously hailed as the future of baseball just a mere year ago.
The Padres have consistently surprised the world of baseball with their bold tactics in recent years, and their perseverance is expected to pay dividends in the upcoming season. After their impressive performance included a win over the Dodgers in the NLDS to then face the Phillies, the Padres are ready for more.
Watch Out For The Dodgers
The LA Dodgers emerged victorious in 111 MLB games last season and secured nine out of the last ten NL West titles, along with clinching one of the last three World Series.
Although they bid farewell to a few players for the upcoming season, their roster still boasts All-Star caliber talent. Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman make for promising contenders for the MVP title, and their depth is an asset that any team would covet.
The one ongoing concern is with pitcher Gavin Lux and his ACL injury, according to the MLB injury report, but the Dodgers never show fear in the face of danger. They have a plan and a lot of talent and will do great things this season.
Mets Round Out Top Five
The Mets were already a top contender in the MLB picks and reinforced their position with the arrival of Verlander. He will make up any ground that the loss of Edwin Díaz would have meant to the team. Through Verlander, Brandon Nimmo and company, the Mets have earned a spot in the MLB Power Rankings.
The Mets boast 101 wins from last season, and with a new ownership group getting settled in, they’re ready to get the most out of their investment. Although they still need a little help, baseball fans can expect great things from the Mets once the MLB schedule gets underway.
Final thoughts on the MLB Power Rankings and the upcoming season
The MLB Power Rankings offer an exciting glimpse into what fans and bettors can expect from the upcoming season.
The Houston Astros, who won their second World Series in five years, currently lead the rankings, closely followed by the Atlanta Braves, San Diego Padres, LA Dodgers, and New York Mets. With talented players and bold tactics, each team brings their own unique strengths and potential to make history this season.
As Opening Day approaches, it will be interesting to see how the teams perform and whether they can live up to the high expectations set for them.
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