The final stretch is approaching, and more questions are raised on who are pretenders and contenders coming into this week.
30. Texas Rangers (50-79)
Last Week’s Record: 2-3
Last Week’s Rank: 30
Texas continues to be the favorite for the number one overall pick, despite the mediocre week. The Rangers are most likely more interested in losing at this point, and in all likelihood, that’s what will happen.
29. Colorado Rockies (52-77)
Last Week’s Record: 3-2
Last Week’s Rank: 29
The Rockies had a decent week this week, which doesn’t favor them in the long run. With a historically bad 18-44 road record, the Rockies must make a significant adjustment to their play outside of Denver.
28. Arizona Diamondbacks (55-76)
Last Week’s Record: 2-5
Last Week’s Rank: 27
An awful and forgettable season in the desert, the rest of the season matters very little for the D-Backs, who rank among the most disappointing teams in baseball this season.
27. Houston Astros (55-76)
Last Week’s Record: 3-3
Last Week’s Rank: 25
The Astros are taking strides for next year, but with plenty of problems relevant in all ends of their organization, it may be a while until they can find the postseason.
26. Boston Red Sox (56-74)
Last Week’s Record: 0-7
Last Week’s Rank: 23
A winless week against contenders for the Red Sox proves that this year is forgettable, but with the history of the organization, it is very conceivable that they will be back next year.
25. Minnesota Twins (58-72)
Last Week’s Record: 3-5
Last Week’s Rank: 24
The Twins scored 34 runs in two days, but still struggled heavily in the week. For a team with a great farm system, ending the season on a strong note is far more beneficial for the future.
24. Philadelphia Phillies (58-72)
Last Week’s Record: 4-2
Last Week’s Rank: 28
Decent week for the Phillies, who are in the midst of a three team tie at a .446 winning percentage. With a team trending downward, and with clubhouse drama, the season will not end well in the City of Brotherly Love.
23. Chicago White Sox (59-71)
Last Week’s Record: 0-6
Last Week’s Rank: 20
The White Sox have fallen apart, and now find themselves among the worst team in baseball, and are in the running for one of the worst teams in baseball, and are only a game ahead of the last place Twins.
22. Chicago Cubs (58-72)
Last Week’s Record: 5-2
Last Week’s Rank: 26
The Cubs made a huge statement this week, taking four of six from the Giants and Orioles, including a sweep against the Orioles. The Cubs have gotten better since the deadline, and have taken strong strides towards next season.
21. San Diego Padres (60-69)
Last Week’s Record: 2-4
Last Week’s Rank: 21
A rough week in the division after a good stretch for San Diego isn’t exactly what the doctor prescribed, but there isn’t any strong direction for the rest of the year in SoCal.