Power Rankings

Written by: Mark Healey on 4th March 2009

Power Rankings | read this item

Normally I don’t do this before Opening Day, but I was recently asked in an interview to give my Top 10 MLB rankings. Since nary a game has been played, it’s hard to determine which teams have made the best improvements. Also, until Manny Ramirez signs, the list is at least a tad incomplete, as his bat would make a significant impact in anyone’s postseason chances. However, we’re far along to take a stab:

1.) Philadelphia Phillies : They’re the World Champions, so they’re the best. Got a problem with that?

2.) New York Yankees – I know, I know. If the Phillies are No.1 based on what they did last year, how come the Devil Rays aren’t No. 2? Because the Yankees added a Cy Young Award winner and a perennial All-Star with a Gold Glove, both under 30 years old, that’s why.

3.) Tampa Bay Rays – Might be the best team in baseball when all is said and done. Right now, they have to prove the back end of their bullpen is sound.

4.) Chicago Cubs – Very few weak spots. Plenty of pitching depth. Best pitching in the NL.

5.) Boston Red Sox – Will have to live with being the best team not to make it into the 2009 postseason.

6.) Los Angeles Angels – You might win the Al West by replacing Mark Teixeira and Francisco Rodriguez with Kendry Morales and Brian Fuentes, but win a World Series?

7.) New York Mets – The most enigmatic team in baseball. Or delusional. Bringing in a back end of the bullpen will help, as will health from their catchers and right fielder. NL Wild Card is on the horizon, but hard to pick them if a tight race develops.

8.) Los Angeles Dodgers – When they sign Manny, move them up to No.6.

9.)Cleveland Indians – Health of Travis Hafner, new closer in Kerry Wood gives the Tribe the edge this year in the AL Central.

10.) Minnesota Twins – Signing Joe Crede to play third was a great move. If he’s healthy, Twinkies will make some noise.

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