As we count down to Opening Day for the 2022 Major League Baseball season, it’s time to unveil our first MLB power rankings of the year.
Let’s take a look at where each team fits into the first MLB power rankings of 2022
30. Pittsburgh Pirates
The Pirates were one of four MLB teams to finish last season with more than 100 losses. With Bryan Reynolds highlighting the roster, Pittsburgh will be watched throughout the season for any sign they’re ready to deal the All-Star outfielder.
29. Baltimore Orioles
Baltimore was one of the most frugal teams this offseason, spending just $7.9 million. The Orioles made a run on former Texas Rangers this offseason, inking Robinson Chirinos, Jordan Lyles, and Rougned Odor. Baltimore’s biggest bit of excitement this season will likely come from the debut of top prospect Adley Rutschman. Unfortunately for the Orioles, the American League East will be stacked this season.
28. Arizona Diamondbacks
With a contract extension handed out to Ketel Marte, the Diamondbacks now have their face of the near future in place. Can a veteran rotation and closer (new addition Mark Melancon) learn some new tricks under the eye of pitching whisperer Brent Strom, who worked magic during his time in Houston before heading to Arizona this offseason?
27. Cincinnati Reds
What a brutal offseason it has been for Cincinnati fans. There is hope with Jonathan India and Joey Votto on the roster, but a team that was so close to the postseason in 2021 has been dismantled. And the Reds aren’t spending in the offseason either, with $5.5 million coming in below the Orioles and ahead of Cleveland and Oakland.
26. Oakland A’s
Oakland and Cincinnati met in the 1972 and 1990 World Series. Neither will be back in the Fall Classic this season, but the two are certainly linked as teams that traded off critical pieces of their roster as a cost-cutting measure. Not only will it be interesting to see what the A’s do on the field, but also what happens with their stadium proposal and where they will call home next season.