As the second half of the baseball season begins, the pieces are slowly falling in place for most teams that had been predicted to be contenders. Others teams are tumbling down the standings. Here are the first power rankings for the second half of the season.
1. Boston Red Sox
They entered the All-Star break with the best record in the AL and are showing signs of maintaining that record. They acquired Matt Thornton, which will strengthen their bullpen. David Ortiz set the record for most hits by a DH. The Tampa Bay Rays are slowly catching up. But, for now, the Red Sox are on top.
2. Tampa Bay Rays
It is hard to believe they were at the bottom of the AL East just a month ago. Now they are now .586 and one game behind the Red Sox. They are 9-1 in their last ten games and have won five in a row. It is a shame more people do not show up to their games.
3. Oakland A’s
One name: Yoenis Cespedes
4. Detroit Tigers
They still need help in the bullpen, but that is easy to brush aside because of Miguel Cabrera and Prince Fielder. The team leads the majors in hits, batting average, and strikeouts. But those pesky Cleveland Indians are right behind, and Detroit may need a solid and reliable closer to help them maintain first place.
5. Baltimore Orioles
They have the power to keep winning. Chris Davis has an opportunity to hit more than 60 home runs and he has plenty of help from Adam Jones and Manny Machado. They need a top pitcher to alleviate some pressure from the offense.
Teams To Watch:
Cleveland Indians
Texas Rangers
Series To Watch:
Tampa Bay Rays vs. Boston Red Sox
Baltimore Orioles vs. Kansas City Royals
Boston Red Sox vs. Baltimore Orioles
Texas Rangers vs. Cleveland Indians
Philadelphia Phillies vs. Detroit Tigers
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