SportsGrid’s MLB Power Rankings: Braves Back at No. 1

1. Atlanta Braves

Last Week’s Ranking: 3 (+2)

Upcoming Series: 3 vs. TEX, 3 vs. MIA

It’s just absurd watching this Atlanta Braves offense these days. It’s almost like you must score six runs just to be in the ball game with them. Amidst the Dodgers’ struggles on the mound, we’ll give the nod to the Braves’ as the best team in the NL, but they better add a starting pitcher to replace Spencer Strider before they find themselves in the same boat as the Dodgers.

Pennant Odds: +220

World Series Odds: +440

9. Kansas City Royals

Last Week’s Ranking: 10 (+1)

Upcoming Series: 3 vs. BAL, 4 vs. TOR

The Kansas City Royals have been one of the AL's best teams to start the season, highlighted by an elite pitching staff. Their upcoming series against the Baltimore Orioles and Toronto Blue Jays will serve as a great litmus test for this team's legitimacy.

Pennant Odds: +3400

World Series Odds: +8500

8. Texas Rangers

Last Week’s Ranking: 5 (-3)

Upcoming Series: 3 @ ATL, 3 vs. SEA

The reigning World Series champions haven’t been dominant out of the gate, but that’s okay. We know what their bats can do on any given night and we’re just waiting for the pitching staff to regain some health. With the Houston Astros struggling mightily, the Rangers might be able to grab hold of the division before they are even at full strength.

Pennant Odds: +600

World Series Odds: +1300

7. Milwaukee Brewers

Last Week’s Ranking: 8 (+1)

Upcoming Series: 3 @ STL, 4 @ PIT

The Milwaukee Brewers lead the NL Central with an 11-6 record. Still, their upcoming series in St. Louis and Pittsburgh will give this team every chance to solidify themselves as the favorite to win the division crown. They’ve played great all-around baseball, but we’d like to see them add an impact bat to be a potential force in the NL postseason field.

Pennant Odds: +2700

World Series Odds: +4900

6. Cleveland Guardians

Last Week’s Ranking: 7 (+1)

Upcoming Series: 3 vs. OAK, 3 vs. BOS

How about the Cleveland Guardians? What a team they’ve put together this season. After being known for dominant pitching for years, the bats have indeed propelled their dominance. Their arms are performing very well, too, so it will be interesting to see if this club can keep its foot on the gas and use this great start to its advantage.

Pennant Odds: +1300

World Series Odds: +4000

5. Philadelphia Phillies

Last Week’s Ranking: 6 (+1)

Upcoming Series: 3 vs. CHW, 4 @ CIN

The Philadelphia Phillies are still waiting for their bats to wake up fully, but sitting at 11-8 within striking distance of the Atlanta Braves, there is nothing else this club can ask for. The offense will eventually come around, but luckily, their starting pitching rotation has been incredible from top to bottom. It’s going to be a good year for baseball in Philly.

Pennant Odds: +700

World Series Odds: +1200

4. Los Angeles Dodgers

Last Week’s Ranking: 1 (-3)

Upcoming Series: 3 vs. NYM, 3 @ WAS

The Los Angeles Dodgers have dropped two consecutive series, both at home, to the Washington Nationals and San Diego Padres. Even though it’s early in the season, that’s not what we want to see. We know how potent this offense is, especially with their stars atop the order, but pitching will continue to be a concern until they get healthy or add another proven arm.

Pennant Odds: +175

World Series Odds: +310

3. Baltimore Orioles

Last Week’s Ranking: 4 (+1)

Upcoming Series: 3 @ KCR, 3 @ LAA

The Baltimore Orioles are cruising right now. They're on a four-game winning streak and excel in all departments. It's been fun watching the young bats continue to mash, so we're excited to see how they fare on their upcoming road trip, which certainly won't be a walk in the park.

Pennant Odds: +600

World Series Odds: +1400

2. New York Yankees

Last Week’s Ranking: 2

Upcoming Series: 3 vs. TBR, 4 vs. OAK

The New York Yankees continue to look like the best team in the AL even though they’ve dropped three of their last four games. We know some of the names in their lineup, but the starting rotation has really fueled their success. Still, with the Orioles on their tail, they can’t afford to let any game pass by if they want to remain in control of the division.

Pennant Odds: +370

World Series Odds: +850

1. Atlanta Braves

Last Week’s Ranking: 3 (+2)

Upcoming Series: 3 vs. TEX, 3 vs. MIA

It’s just absurd watching this Atlanta Braves offense these days. It’s almost like you must score six runs just to be in the ball game with them. Amidst the Dodgers’ struggles on the mound, we’ll give the nod to the Braves’ as the best team in the NL, but they better add a starting pitcher to replace Spencer Strider before they find themselves in the same boat as the Dodgers.

Pennant Odds: +220

World Series Odds: +440