{"id":878536,"date":"2026-09-03T12:28:27","date_gmt":"2026-09-03T12:28:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/878536\/"},"modified":"2026-09-03T12:28:27","modified_gmt":"2026-09-03T12:28:27","slug":"mlb-power-rankings-week-23-top-teams-in-first-september-edition","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/878536\/","title":{"rendered":"MLB Power Rankings Week 23: Top teams in first September edition"},"content":{"rendered":"<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao MvWXB TjIXL aGjvy ebVHC \"><br class=\" \"\/>Welcome to the stretch run of the 2026 MLB season! As we enter September, some of baseball&#8217;s top teams are cruising to a playoff berth, while others are making their final pushes for a chance to play in October.<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Three powerhouse National League teams are vying for not only MLB&#8217;s best record, but for the top two seeds in the NL bracket, which would secure them first-round byes. Meanwhile, in the American League, the East winner should determine the No. 1 seed, with an unlikely contender seemingly a lock for the second seed.<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Certain divisions, such as the NL West, are basically decided, and the top two wild-card teams in each league have solid leads, leaving multiple teams fighting for a chance to secure the third spot. One of those contenders in the AL was our biggest riser of the week, with the Orioles up five spots to No. 14 and just 1 games out of the final wild card.<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Our expert panel has ranked every team based on a combination of what we&#8217;ve seen so far and what we already knew going into the 162-game marathon that is a full baseball season. We also asked ESPN MLB experts Buster Olney, David Schoenfield and Jesse Rogers to weigh in with an observation for all 30 teams.<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \"><a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/story\/_\/id\/49734689\/mlb-2026-power-rankings-week-22-brewers-dodgers-cubs-braves-padres-guardians\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Week 22<\/a> | <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/story\/_\/id\/49352481\/mlb-2026-second-half-preview-rankings-projections-playoff-odds-all-30-teams\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Second-half preview<\/a> | <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/story\/_\/id\/48287373\/opening-day-2026-mlb-season-preview-rankings-every-team-playoff-odds-world-series-chances\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Preseason rankings<\/a><\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"hsDdd NDJZt sJeUN IJwXl vBqtr KrDt itslR zFTjo hakZw HlUVI \" data-testid=\"prism-image\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/mil.png&#038;h=110&#038;w=110.png\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Record:87-53<\/p>\n<p>Previous ranking:1<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \"><a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/5080761\/jacob-misiorowski\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Jacob Misiorowski<\/a> is just weeks away from wrapping up his first Cy Young award and could be the first qualified pitcher this decade to record an ERA of 1.70 or below. As is, he&#8217;s the lone pitcher in either league with an ERA under 2.00. Braves star <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/30948\/chris-sale\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Chris Sale<\/a> is about the only competition for the award, but unless Misiorowski implodes, he&#8217;s the clear cut winner. That wasn&#8217;t necessarily the case at the All-Star break, but it is now after a masterful five months. &#8212; Rogers<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"hsDdd NDJZt sJeUN IJwXl vBqtr KrDt itslR zFTjo hakZw HlUVI \" data-testid=\"prism-image\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/lad.png&#038;h=110&#038;w=110.png\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Record:82-57<\/p>\n<p>Previous ranking:2<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">The Dodgers don&#8217;t need <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/39832\/shohei-ohtani\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Shohei Ohtani<\/a> to pitch to win their third straight World Series. They employ a surplus of quality starters. But Ohtani wants to pitch, and the Dodgers are giving him the chance to return to the mound. The four-time MVP hasn&#8217;t pitched in a game since July 3 because of knee and biceps injuries. His attempt to <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/story\/_\/id\/49763527\/dodgers-ohtani-knee-mound-mound-return-uncertain\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">return for a one-inning start Sunday against the Tigers was aborted<\/a> after a shortened 20-pitch bullpen session Friday. With a little over three weeks remaining in the regular season, getting him on track to pitch in games will be difficult considering he plays every day. But the Dodgers aren&#8217;t abandoning the notion yet. They&#8217;re going to let him try. &#8212; Castillo<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"hsDdd NDJZt sJeUN IJwXl vBqtr KrDt itslR zFTjo hakZw HlUVI \" data-testid=\"prism-image\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/atl.png&#038;h=110&#038;w=110.png\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Record:83-57<\/p>\n<p>Previous ranking:4<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Holding onto first place in the NL East and earning a bye should clearly be the goals for the Braves in September. Their <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/story\/_\/id\/49796212\/mlb-2026-remaining-strength-schedule-top-playoff-contenders\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">strength of schedule<\/a> might have a say in that, though, as they have the fifth-toughest road ahead. It includes seven games against the second-place Phillies as well as a series against the playoff-bound Cubs and Rays. But it&#8217;s those showdowns with the Phillies that will be the difference-maker &#8212; and it starts with a four-game wrap-around series this weekend in Philadelphia. Atlanta has been the class of the East all year. They have one more month to prove it once-and-for all. &#8212; Rogers<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"hsDdd NDJZt sJeUN IJwXl vBqtr KrDt itslR zFTjo hakZw HlUVI \" data-testid=\"prism-image\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/tb.png&#038;h=110&#038;w=110.png\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Record:83-56<\/p>\n<p>Previous ranking:5<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">When Tampa Bay added <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/39825\/freddy-peralta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Freddy Peralta<\/a> at the trade deadline, rival executives immediately speculated that Peralta would rebound from his four rough months in New York at the outset of this season with the help of the Rays&#8217; staff &#8212; and that seems to be happening. Over his last two outings, Peralta has allowed just one run in 12 innings, while continuing to work a much greater percentage of changeups into his pitch mix. With Peralta, <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/42584\/drew-rasmussen\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Drew Rasmussen<\/a>, <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/33372\/nick-martinez\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Nick Martinez<\/a> and <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/41199\/shane-mcclanahan\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Shane McClanahan<\/a>, Tampa Bay can ably match up in a short series with any American League rival. &#8212; Olney<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"hsDdd NDJZt sJeUN IJwXl vBqtr KrDt itslR zFTjo hakZw HlUVI \" data-testid=\"prism-image\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/chc.png&#038;h=110&#038;w=110.png\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Record:78-62<\/p>\n<p>Previous ranking:3<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">It&#8217;s <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/4717833\/pete-crow-armstrong\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Pete Crow-Armstrong<\/a>&#8216;s world &#8212; we&#8217;re just living in it. A strong month of September will likely secure him his first MVP award to go along with what should be another Gold Glove honor and perhaps even the Platinum Glove. Meanwhile, he&#8217;s not far from exceeding 10.0 in fWAR right now, which means 11.0 could be in sight. It&#8217;s rarified air for what&#8217;s turning into the game&#8217;s best position player. PCA has one month left of a historic season that could also include a 40\/40 campaign. &#8212; Rogers<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"hsDdd NDJZt sJeUN IJwXl vBqtr KrDt itslR zFTjo hakZw HlUVI \" data-testid=\"prism-image\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/nyy.png&#038;h=110&#038;w=110.png\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Record:80-60<\/p>\n<p>Previous ranking:6<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">As <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/33192\/aaron-judge\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Aaron Judge<\/a> moves closer to returning to the Yankees&#8217; lineup &#8212; perhaps during the next homestand &#8212; the overriding question will be: How quickly can he return to form in the 15-to-18 games he could play before the postseason? He&#8217;ll have about 60 to 70 plate appearances in that time. At 6-foot-7, Judge has a challenge in attempting to quickly restore his swing against a generation of pitchers who will likely attack him with velocity at the top of the zone. Over time, Yankees&#8217; staffers say, Judge has learned to do more with less work, a skill that could help him in trying to catch back up. &#8212; Olney<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"hsDdd NDJZt sJeUN IJwXl vBqtr KrDt itslR zFTjo hakZw HlUVI \" data-testid=\"prism-image\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/phi.png&#038;h=110&#038;w=110.png\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Record:79-61<\/p>\n<p>Previous ranking:7<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">The Phillies were red hot in August, going an MLB best 21-7. It&#8217;s put them in a position to chase down Atlanta for the NL East title, but can they carry that play over into September? It took a lot of energy for the Phillies just to get to this place, so it wouldn&#8217;t be shocking if there was some regression, but then again, they understand the need for a first-round bye and beating out the Braves might just get them one. It&#8217;s pedal-to-the-metal time for Philadelphia as Bryce Harper&#8217;s quest for a championship hangs in the balance. &#8212; Rogers<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"hsDdd NDJZt sJeUN IJwXl vBqtr KrDt itslR zFTjo hakZw HlUVI \" data-testid=\"prism-image\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/bos.png&#038;h=110&#038;w=110.png\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Record:75-65<\/p>\n<p>Previous ranking:8<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \"><a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/5080767\/roman-anthony\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Roman Anthony<\/a> and <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/32150\/trevor-story\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Trevor Story<\/a> returned to the Boston lineup over the weekend in New York, and <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/4297835\/garrett-crochet\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Garrett Crochet<\/a> continues to make progress in his effort to play some kind of role for Boston in the last days of this season, as well as in the postseason. Coming back from a shoulder issue, Crochet threw off a mound last week &#8212; and presumably, if all goes well, he&#8217;ll throw to hitters sometime later this month. Remember, he was a dominant reliever for the White Sox before transitioning to a starting role. &#8212; Olney<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"hsDdd NDJZt sJeUN IJwXl vBqtr KrDt itslR zFTjo hakZw HlUVI \" data-testid=\"prism-image\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/sd.png&#038;h=110&#038;w=110.png\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Record:73-67<\/p>\n<p>Previous ranking:9<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">The Padres <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/story\/_\/id\/49797349\/padres-call-20-year-old-catching-prospect-ethan-salas\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">called up 20-year-old catcher<\/a> <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/5124004\/ethan-salas\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Ethan Salas<\/a> when rosters expanded Tuesday, giving their top prospect his first taste of the big leagues in the middle of a tight playoff race. The left-handed-hitting Salas <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/story\/_\/id\/49809672\/padres-salas-20-youngest-catch-game-ivan-rodriguez\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">made his major-league debut Wednesday<\/a>, going hitless in four at-bats against the Reds. With the appearance, he became the youngest player to catch in a big-league game since Ivan Rodr\u00edguez in 1991. One of baseball&#8217;s most hyped prospects in recent years, Salas batted .296 with 10 home runs and an .822 OPS in 96 games this season between Double-A and Triple-A. &#8212; Castillo<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"hsDdd NDJZt sJeUN IJwXl vBqtr KrDt itslR zFTjo hakZw HlUVI \" data-testid=\"prism-image\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/chw.png&#038;h=110&#038;w=110.png\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Record:73-66<\/p>\n<p>Previous ranking:11<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">With Chicago leading the AL Central, general manager Chris Getz added veteran outfielder <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/31208\/tommy-pham\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Tommy Pham<\/a> in a deal with the Phillies. Getz was trying to add more outfield depth to the organization, he explained in a text, and added that Pham could help against left-handed pitching. &#8220;And on top of it, Pham offers a veteran presence,&#8221; Getz said, &#8220;that can help limit September or postseason vibrations.&#8221; &#8212; Olney<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"hsDdd NDJZt sJeUN IJwXl vBqtr KrDt itslR zFTjo hakZw HlUVI \" data-testid=\"prism-image\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/ari.png&#038;h=110&#038;w=110.png\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Record:74-67<\/p>\n<p>Previous ranking:10<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">The Diamondbacks are in the middle of a heated race for the final NL wild-card spot, but that hasn&#8217;t garnered the spotlight in the desert. That instead has been focused on <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/32512\/ketel-marte\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Ketel Marte<\/a>, who returned to the field Monday two weeks after another unexcused absence left the club scrambling without answers. While Marte, who was activated from the injured list with mild inflammation in his left knee, said teammates welcomed him back into the clubhouse, Diamondbacks fans <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/story\/_\/id\/49787846\/ketel-marte-apologizes-torey-lovullo-address-d-backs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">greeted the three-time All-Star second baseman with loud boos<\/a> in a 2-1 loss to the Phillies. The Diamondbacks will now look to move on from the strange episode as they battled the Padres for their first postseason berth since their 2023 World Series run. &#8212; Castillo<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"hsDdd NDJZt sJeUN IJwXl vBqtr KrDt itslR zFTjo hakZw HlUVI \" data-testid=\"prism-image\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/cle.png&#038;h=110&#038;w=110.png\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Record:70-69<\/p>\n<p>Previous ranking:12<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">During the Terry Francona and Steven Vogt managerial years, Cleveland has historically finished strongly &#8212; only the Dodgers have a better September\/October winning percentage than Cleveland since the start of 2013 &#8212; and now the Guardians have won nine of their last 12. With the playoff push underway, <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/4619649\/chase-delauter\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Chase DeLauter<\/a> hit .363 in August while <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/41996\/steven-kwan\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Steven Kwan<\/a> hit .347, and <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/32801\/jose-ramirez\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Jose Ramirez<\/a> is seemingly hitting with more authority. &#8212; Olney<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"hsDdd NDJZt sJeUN IJwXl vBqtr KrDt itslR zFTjo hakZw HlUVI \" data-testid=\"prism-image\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/hou.png&#038;h=110&#038;w=110.png\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Record:71-69<\/p>\n<p>Previous ranking:15<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \"><a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/36018\/yordan-alvarez\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Yordan Alvarez<\/a> entered September with a legitimate chance to win the first Triple Crown since <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/5544\/miguel-cabrera\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Miguel Cabrera<\/a> in 2012. He leads the AL with a .317 batting average and 94 RBIs while tied for first in home runs with <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/4905921\/junior-caminero\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Junior Caminero<\/a> at 37. Alvarez also leads the AL in on-base percentage and slugging percentage. He&#8217;s been the best hitter in the majors this season and is the heavy favorite to win AL MVP. Alvarez would join Ohtani as the only primary designated hitters to ever win the award. Fueling the Astros to a postseason berth and becoming the second Triple Crown winner since 1967 would easily cinch the honor. &#8212; Castillo<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"hsDdd NDJZt sJeUN IJwXl vBqtr KrDt itslR zFTjo hakZw HlUVI \" data-testid=\"prism-image\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/bal.png&#038;h=110&#038;w=110.png\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Record:69-71<\/p>\n<p>Previous ranking:19<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">What a difference one game in the standings seems to make with the Baltimore front office. On Aug. 1, the Orioles were just 1 games behind in the race for the third wild card in the AL, and yet they moved <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/34923\/taylor-ward\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Taylor Ward<\/a>, <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/42178\/adley-rutschman\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Adley Rutschman<\/a> and <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/38295\/dean-kremer\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Dean Kremer<\/a> at the deadline. Then, on Aug. 31, with the O&#8217;s within a half-game of the wild card and a month to play, they decided to add, taking on the last $4 million or so of <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/39631\/luis-robert-jr\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Luis Robert Jr<\/a>.&#8217;s 2026 contract. In spite of the incongruous decisions, the players are still pushing for a playoff spot. &#8212; Olney<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"hsDdd NDJZt sJeUN IJwXl vBqtr KrDt itslR zFTjo hakZw HlUVI \" data-testid=\"prism-image\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/mia.png&#038;h=110&#038;w=110.png\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Record:71-69<\/p>\n<p>Previous ranking:13<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">It&#8217;s been over a decade since a Marlin led the league in hits &#8212; Dee Gordon was the last to accomplish that feat in 2015. <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/41917\/otto-lopez\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Otto Lopez<\/a> has a chance to do it after earning 26 hits in 27 games played during August. He has 165 hits heading into the final weeks of the season, giving him an outside chance at 200 &#8212; a rare feat in this day and age of MLB. Either way, Lopez has taken another positive step in his career. &#8212; Rogers<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"hsDdd NDJZt sJeUN IJwXl vBqtr KrDt itslR zFTjo hakZw HlUVI \" data-testid=\"prism-image\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/tex.png&#038;h=110&#038;w=110.png\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Record:69-71<\/p>\n<p>Previous ranking:14<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \"><a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/31174\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Nathan Eovaldi<\/a> threw Tuesday for the first time since going on the IL on Aug. 10 with elbow inflammation. He told reporters he expects to pitch again this season after throwing 50 pitches on flat ground. Getting him built up to a starter&#8217;s workload, however, will be a challenge at this point in the calendar. Whether it&#8217;s in the rotation or the bullpen, the Rangers could use the 36-year-old right-hander for their playoff push. &#8212; Castillo<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"hsDdd NDJZt sJeUN IJwXl vBqtr KrDt itslR zFTjo hakZw HlUVI \" data-testid=\"prism-image\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/tor.png&#038;h=110&#038;w=110.png\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Record:69-71<\/p>\n<p>Previous ranking:18<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Despite a shocking regression in the production of <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/35002\/vladimir-guerrero-jr\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Vladimir Guerrero Jr<\/a>., a crushing early-season injury to <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/42081\/alejandro-kirk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Alejandro Kirk<\/a> and a measured teardown by the Jays&#8217; front office at the trade deadline, Toronto is somehow still alive and relevant in the race for the third wild-card spot in the AL. With strong August performances from <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/32078\/george-springer\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">George Springer<\/a>, <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/5134494\/brett-bateman\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Brett Bateman<\/a>, <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/34943\/dylan-cease\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Dylan Cease<\/a>, Shane Bieber and <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/28976\/max-scherzer\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Max Scherzer<\/a>, the Jays are making one last drive for a playoff spot that would be almost as stunning as Toronto&#8217;s advancement to Game 7 of the World Series last fall. &#8212; Olney<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"hsDdd NDJZt sJeUN IJwXl vBqtr KrDt itslR zFTjo hakZw HlUVI \" data-testid=\"prism-image\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/pit.png&#038;h=110&#038;w=110.png\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Record:68-72<\/p>\n<p>Previous ranking:21<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Since making the postseason is out of the question once again for the Pirates, they should concentrate on finishing at least .500 for the first time in a full year since 2018. That&#8217;s a lot of futility through an ongoing &#8212; some might even say everlasting &#8212; rebuild. This is easily their best team this decade, but despite a positive run differential, the Pirates are still languishing under break-even. Their offense &#8212; a question mark coming in &#8212; has been good. It&#8217;s their pitching staff, including <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/4719507\/paul-skenes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Paul Skenes<\/a>, that has underachieved. A big month by either might just get them to that .500 mark. It&#8217;s something. &#8212; Rogers<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"hsDdd NDJZt sJeUN IJwXl vBqtr KrDt itslR zFTjo hakZw HlUVI \" data-testid=\"prism-image\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/stl.png&#038;h=110&#038;w=110.png\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Record:70-70<\/p>\n<p>Previous ranking:16<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Continued development on the mound should be the Cardinals&#8217; goal during the final month. They&#8217;ve gotten answers from around the diamond as <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/4345070\/alec-burleson\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Alec Burleson<\/a> and <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/4684778\/jordan-walker\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Jordan Walker<\/a> had career years while <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/4941056\/jj-wetherholt\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">JJ Wetherholt<\/a> might have taken home Rookie of the Year honors if not for a hand injury slowing him down. But St. Louis needs to figure out its rotation for next season, as there have been mixed results in a group that includes <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/4424141\/michael-mcgreevy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Michael McGreevy<\/a>, <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/4109034\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Andre Pallante<\/a>, <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/41173\/matthew-liberatore\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Matthew Liberatore<\/a> and <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/5006093\/kyle-leahy\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Kyle Leahy<\/a>. Most of the ups and downs of the season were good experience. A strong finish could set the Cardinals up for a resurgent season in 2027. &#8212; Rogers<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"hsDdd NDJZt sJeUN IJwXl vBqtr KrDt itslR zFTjo hakZw HlUVI \" data-testid=\"prism-image\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/min.png&#038;h=110&#038;w=110.png\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Record:67-73<\/p>\n<p>Previous ranking:20<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Minnesota has faded in its effort to win a wild-card berth in the AL, and it still has series ahead against the White Sox, Yankees and Rangers, among others. The Twins made as big of a value bet as possible to get into the postseason, opting to keep pending free agent <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/41587\/ryan-jeffers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Ryan Jeffers<\/a> and ace <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/42450\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Joe Ryan<\/a> at the trade deadline. They also never seriously explored the trade return of <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/32655\/byron-buxton\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Byron Buxton<\/a>, who has a no-trade clause and would&#8217;ve had to approve any deal. Minnesota&#8217;s effort to reach the postseason may well turn out to be very costly. &#8212; Olney<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"hsDdd NDJZt sJeUN IJwXl vBqtr KrDt itslR zFTjo hakZw HlUVI \" data-testid=\"prism-image\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/wsh.png&#038;h=110&#038;w=110.png\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Record:67-75<\/p>\n<p>Previous ranking:23<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \"><a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/42402\/cj-abrams\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">CJ Abrams<\/a> is poised to join the 30\/100 club this month, the first such season of his career. It should help him pass 5.0 fWAR for the first time as well. Any concerns that he&#8217;s not a big-time player were eliminated this year as he and James Woods combined to make a lethal duo in Washington. A career high in home runs and RBIs to go along with 30-plus steals would cement Abrams as one of the better players in the league and someone to build around. Even in today&#8217;s game, you don&#8217;t see those numbers from many shortstops. &#8212; Rogers<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"hsDdd NDJZt sJeUN IJwXl vBqtr KrDt itslR zFTjo hakZw HlUVI \" data-testid=\"prism-image\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/sea.png&#038;h=110&#038;w=110.png\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Record:66-74<\/p>\n<p>Previous ranking:17<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \"><a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/41292\/cal-raleigh\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Cal Raleigh<\/a>&#8216;s historic dropoff has rightfully garnered the headlines, but he isn&#8217;t the only star underachieving in Seattle this season. <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/41044\/julio-rodriguez\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Julio Rodriguez<\/a>, another franchise pillar, is batting .245 with a 104 wRC+ while his defense has taken a massive step back. His blunder on a line drive off Roman Anthony&#8217;s bat Monday night set the stage for a backbreaking walk-off loss. In addition to J-Rod, <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/35066\/josh-naylor\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Josh Naylor<\/a> has a .692 OPS in his first year of a five-year, $92.5 million contract, <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/4629089\/bryan-woo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Bryan Woo<\/a> has a 4.36 ERA, <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/42406\/george-kirby\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">George Kirby<\/a> has a 4.19 ERA and closer <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/40939\/andres-munoz\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Andres Munoz<\/a> has a 4.35 ERA. Concocting the most disappointing season in franchise history has been a group effort. &#8212; Castillo<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"hsDdd NDJZt sJeUN IJwXl vBqtr KrDt itslR zFTjo hakZw HlUVI \" data-testid=\"prism-image\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/det.png&#038;h=110&#038;w=110.png\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Record:64-75<\/p>\n<p>Previous ranking:22<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">After the <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/42409\/tarik-skubal\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Tarik Skubal<\/a> trade, the Tigers&#8217; brass talked about still trying to compete for a playoff spot. Instead, Detroit will go into its last month trying to stay out of last place in the AL Central. A rival evaluator noted that Skubal seemed to be the Tigers&#8217; superpower, capable of beating any team in any situation on any day &#8212; and without Skubal, Detroit has looked like a completely different team. In games Skubal was on the team&#8217;s active roster this year, the Tigers were 40-33. Without him, they are 24-42, including getting thumped 15-2 on Tuesday. &#8212; Olney<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"hsDdd NDJZt sJeUN IJwXl vBqtr KrDt itslR zFTjo hakZw HlUVI \" data-testid=\"prism-image\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/cin.png&#038;h=110&#038;w=110.png\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Record:67-73<\/p>\n<p>Previous ranking:24<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">He leads the league in games played and in RBIs &#8212; and he&#8217;s just a rookie. <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/5080771\/sal-stewart\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Sal Stewart<\/a> lived up to the hype this year and looks to be the next great Reds hitter. A 40-homer, 120-RBI season is not out of the question. Only three rookies have ever hit 40 or more home runs, and even if Stewart falls short, he&#8217;s a lock to win the Rookie Of the Year award. If the Reds can surround him with some protection in the lineup moving forward, those numbers might be just the beginning of a great career in the Queen City. &#8212; Rogers<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"hsDdd NDJZt sJeUN IJwXl vBqtr KrDt itslR zFTjo hakZw HlUVI \" data-testid=\"prism-image\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/nym.png&#038;h=110&#038;w=110.png\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Record:63-77<\/p>\n<p>Previous ranking:25<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">The Mets need a productive month from <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/41034\/mark-vientos\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Mark Vientos<\/a> simply to feel like his career can get back on track. They&#8217;ve said positive things about him, but now he needs to back that up after missing almost two months with a fractured hand. Vientos has been on a steady decline since helping the Mets to the NLCS in 2024, dropping from a career-high 27 home runs that season to just 12 this year. Missing time obviously hurt him, but his miniscule batting average (.214) and on-base percentage (.258) tell the story of his season. &#8212; Rogers<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"hsDdd NDJZt sJeUN IJwXl vBqtr KrDt itslR zFTjo hakZw HlUVI \" data-testid=\"prism-image\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/kc.png&#038;h=110&#038;w=110.png\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Record:62-78<\/p>\n<p>Previous ranking:26<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Kansas City has a legitimate shot at surpassing Detroit &#8212; and perhaps even Minnesota &#8212; before the end of the regular season, as the Royals&#8217; 2027 team continues to take shape in a strong finish at the end of the &#8217;26 season. <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/4926296\/jac-caglianone\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Jac Caglianone<\/a> and <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/4417208\/noah-cameron\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Noah Cameron<\/a> have played great since the All-Star break, and amid the rubble of this season, the front office can continue to project a lineup and rotation for next year. Since Aug. 16, the Royals rank tied for fourth among all teams in runs scored. &#8212; Olney<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"hsDdd NDJZt sJeUN IJwXl vBqtr KrDt itslR zFTjo hakZw HlUVI \" data-testid=\"prism-image\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/sf.png&#038;h=110&#038;w=110.png\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Record:58-82<\/p>\n<p>Previous ranking:27<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Not much has gone right for the Giants in 2026, but they&#8217;ll go into 2027 with two dangerous left-handed sluggers in the middle of their lineup. There&#8217;s the veteran <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/33859\/rafael-devers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Rafael Devers<\/a>, the former Red Sox malcontent who leads the club with 32 home runs, 83 RBIs and an .837 OPS. Then there&#8217;s the rookie <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/5149064\/bryce-eldridge\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Bryce Eldridge<\/a>, a towering slugger who has found his stroke in his first extended stint in the majors. Just 21 years old, he has 15 home runs and an .806 OPS in 94 games. The Giants have a long list of deficiencies. Left-handed pop isn&#8217;t one of them. &#8212; Castillo<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"hsDdd NDJZt sJeUN IJwXl vBqtr KrDt itslR zFTjo hakZw HlUVI \" data-testid=\"prism-image\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/laa.png&#038;h=110&#038;w=110.png\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Record:53-87<\/p>\n<p>Previous ranking:28<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Two months after firing general manager Perry Minasian, owner Arte Moreno <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/story\/_\/id\/49795578\/kroenke-buy-controlling-interest-angels-moreno\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">agreed to sell the Angels to Stan Kroenke<\/a> for a record valuation of $4 billion Tuesday in a deal that will be completed in early 2027. Moreno bought the franchise in 2003. His 24th and final season as owner will end like the previous 11: With the Angels failing to reach the playoffs. It&#8217;s the longest postseason drought in the majors. Kroenke will <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/story\/_\/id\/49795749\/mlb-2026-los-angeles-angels-sale-arte-moreno-stan-kroenke-kse-future-faq\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">attempt to steer the organization back to October<\/a>. &#8212; Castillo<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"hsDdd NDJZt sJeUN IJwXl vBqtr KrDt itslR zFTjo hakZw HlUVI \" data-testid=\"prism-image\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/oak.png&#038;h=110&#038;w=110.png\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Record:54-86<\/p>\n<p>Previous ranking:30<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">With so many regulars on the IL for the remainder of the season, the final month represents an opportunity for players to make a case for a spot on the 2027 team. <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/42598\/shea-langeliers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Shea Langeliers<\/a> (knee), <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/4966637\/nick-kurtz\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Nick Kurtz<\/a> (thumb), <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/4719300\/jacob-wilson\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Jacob Wilson<\/a> (shoulder), Brent Rooker (knee) and <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/4686066\/tyler-soderstrom\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Tyler Soderstrom<\/a> (hip) are all out. It&#8217;s been that kind of year for the A&#8217;s. The silver lining would be finding a few pieces to help the team in their final season in West Sacramento before making the move to Las Vegas in 2028. &#8212; Castillo<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"hsDdd NDJZt sJeUN IJwXl vBqtr KrDt itslR zFTjo hakZw HlUVI \" data-testid=\"prism-image\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/col.png&#038;h=110&#038;w=110.png\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \">Record:54-86<\/p>\n<p>Previous ranking:29<\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC TjIXL aGjvy \"><a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/5014349\/tj-rumfield\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">TJ Rumfield<\/a> was stuck in Triple-A when the Yankees traded him to Colorado for reliever Angel Chicilli in January. The low-profile move has paid big dividends for the Rockies. Alongside All-Star catcher <a class=\"zZygg UbGlr iFzkS qdXbA WCDhQ DbOXS tqUtK GpWVU iJYzE \" data-testid=\"prism-linkbase\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/mlb\/player\/_\/id\/4416591\/hunter-goodman\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Hunter Goodman<\/a>, Rumfield has been one of the team&#8217;s two best hitters this season. The 26-year-old first baseman is batting .291 with 14 home runs and an .826 OPS in 136 games this season, while his 3.3 bWAR leads the club.The Rockies are building their foundation for their next contention window, and it figures to include Rumfield. &#8212; Castillo<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"hsDdd NDJZt sJeUN IJwXl vBqtr KrDt itslR zFTjo hakZw HlUVI \" data-testid=\"prism-image\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/col.png&#038;h=110&#038;w=110.png\"\/><\/p>\n<p class=\"EkqkG IGXmU nlgHS yuUao lqtkC eTIW sUzSN \">]<\/p>\n<p>Copyright \u00a9 2026 ESPN Internet Ventures. All rights reserved.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Welcome to the stretch run of the 2026 MLB season! As we enter September, some of baseball&#8217;s top&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":878537,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[558],"tags":[447920,592,85164,4996,64,63,1186,5156,5158,5256,5257,5258,5259,5260,794,5163,5261,5262,1187,1188,5159,2364,591,1830,2704,2365,5160,1189,5157,5162,85,2366,1190,2367,5161,5264],"class_list":["post-878536","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-mlb","tag-447920","tag-arizona-diamondbacks","tag-athletics-athletics","tag-atlanta-braves","tag-au","tag-australia","tag-baltimore-orioles","tag-boston-red-sox","tag-chicago-cubs","tag-chicago-white-sox","tag-cincinnati-reds","tag-cleveland-guardians","tag-colorado-rockies","tag-detroit-tigers","tag-espn","tag-houston-astros","tag-kansas-city-royals","tag-los-angeles-angels","tag-los-angeles-dodgers","tag-miami-marlins","tag-milwaukee-brewers","tag-minnesota-twins","tag-mlb","tag-new-york-mets","tag-new-york-yankees","tag-philadelphia-phillies","tag-pittsburgh-pirates","tag-san-diego-padres","tag-san-francisco-giants","tag-seattle-mariners","tag-sports","tag-st-louis-cardinals","tag-tampa-bay-rays","tag-texas-rangers","tag-toronto-blue-jays","tag-washington-nationals"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/878536","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=878536"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/878536\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/878537"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=878536"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=878536"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=878536"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}