MLB Power Rankings: Week 14

1. Red Sox (54-34): The Red Sox sit three games ahead of the Yankees for first in the competitive AL East. They look to be the most balanced team in the MLB and are easily are favorite for the AL in the World Series. Last week: 2

2. Dodgers (56-33): The Dodgers suffered a loss for their first game after the All-Star break. Not to mention Manny went hitless in his return to Dodger Stadium. With this team's strong hitting lineup, they're still a solid pick for the NL champion. Last week: 1

3. Yankees (51-37): The Yankees start of the the 2nd half of the season at home against the Tigers. They need to have a solid start to the 2nd half to keep this themselves from tailspinning like they already have numerous times this season. Last week: 3

4. Giants (49-39): Another solid week for the Giants, thanks mainly to their pitching staff which almost threw two no-hitters last week. Jonathan Sanchez ended up getting the no-no and earned himself possibly a second change at having a spot in this lights-out rotation. Last week: 4

5. Angels (50-37): The Angels have snagged a spot in the Top 5 and more importantly lead the AL West. The only team they have to really worry about in the 2nd half of the season is the Rangers. Last week: NR



Almost In

Rangers (48-39): Don't lose hope on the Rangers. They're still a great hitting team and just need a little more consistency from their pitching staff as a whole. Despite trailing the Angels in the division right now, they've still won seven of nine this season against the Angels.

Cardinals (49-42): Without Albert Pujols, who knows where this team would be. Fortunately, they do have Pujols and they have a two game lead in the very cramped NL Central. Five teams are within 5.5 games of each other.

Dropped from the rankings: Rangers (48-39)