Take a look at the AL East. It is exactly the opposite of everyone’s predictions. Just like the good days, the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees are on top. In the NL Central, the Detroit Tigers jumped back, but are still barely behind the Kansas City Royals. The Texas Rangers are quickly making a case to take away the Red Sox’s title as best team in the AL.
- The Boston Red Sox (previously #1)
They cannot stop winning. They took the series from AL West powerhouse Oakland Athletics and easily swept the Houston Astros. John Lackey came back strong from a right bicep strain to earn his first win. He only gave up one run and struck out four in six innings. David Ortiz is giving the Red Sox even more offensive power with multiple hits and runs.
2. Texas Rangers (previously #3)
They have the opportunity this week to topple the Red Sox when they meet up in Texas. But for now they have to settle for #2. Their starters are solid with ERAs below 4.00. Actually, they lead the majors in ERA with 3.02. Only one starter has a losing record. The offense needs to pick it up just a little. They cannot keep relying on DH Lance Berkman. The offense could be the only thing that keeps them behind Boston.
3. The New York Yankees (previously #4)
The team is already plagued with injuries and they added Francisco Cervelli and Ivan Nova to the DL. Yet they still found a way to sweep the Toronto Blue Jays. It seems like nothing can take down the Yankees. When one player goes down, the team regroups and does what it takes to win. Robinson Cano is on fire and Mariano Rivera had three saves. Derek Jeter is still expected back after the All-Star break.
4. Kansas City Royals (previously #2)
They need to score more runs. They are very lucky to still be atop the AL Central. They rank 11th in the AL for runs and ninth for OPS. They are fifth in the AL for batting average, but they need to bring in the runs.
5. Detroit Tigers (previously unranked)
They swept the Atlanta Braves. They did not just beat the Braves they completely wiped them out. They outscored them 25-7. Miguel Cabrera had two hits in each of the three games and hit a three run home run on Sunday. They are barely behind the Royals, but if they keep scoring these runs they can easily takeover the AL Central.
Teams To Watch
Oakland Athletics
Baltimore Orioles
Minnesota Twins
Series To Watch
Minnesota Twins vs. Detroit Tigers
Oakland Athletics vs. New York Yankees
Boston Red Sox vs. Texas Rangers
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