MLB Power Rankings: Week 22 – Part 4
The Atlanta Braves are unlucky not to be on top of the National League East division more so because of the Philadelphia Phillies than their own performance, which has exceeded all expectations. Although the Braves have slipped to the fifth position in the
power rankings, their performance this season makes them an automatic choice for the postseason.
The Braves are geared up for their second-consecutive appearance in the playoffs but this time around, they will have to take the Wild Card entry because their division has been dominated by the Phillies since the onset. Their own record of 79-53 for the
season is not less than decent from any angle but a superior performance by their rivals have forced them and the first position to stay at a distance.
This Wild Card proposition might be a hindrance for the Braves in their campaign after the regular season as they would get fewer games at home, their more favoured venue. Having said this, their record on the road has been more than satisfactory and they
have substantial depth and skill in the roster to topple any opposition on any venue.
The Braves played seven back-to-back games against the San Francisco Giants and the Arizona Diamondbacks last week and came out victorious in six of them to strengthen their case for the playoffs.
The Giants and the D-backs are indulged in an intense battle for the top spot in the National League West Division and one of them would have to look for the Wild Card route. However, the Atlanta Braves have established a solid lead on top of the Wild Card
standings and thus chances are high that one of the two might have to end their campaign at the end of the regular season.
Dan Uggla has been the key batter for the Braves and will have an important role to play in the postseason too. He has 30 home-runs to his credit thus far and produced 67 RBIs to prove his usefulness in the batting line-up. Freddie Freeman and Brian McCann
will have to continue their supportive role if the Braves have to make it a step ahead this season.
The most noticeable pitcher in Atlanta’s rotation is Jair Jurrjens with 13 wins and just 5 losses to his record thus far. His earned-run average of 2.71 is among the best in the Majors and his fitness would be vital for the Braves as they progress in the
season.
The San Francisco Giants are their prime challengers for the Wild Card position in the NL and even a slight dip in form can allow the Giants to resurge in the season.
The Texas Rangers have maintained their sixth position as the Majors enter week 22 of the regular season. They are being pushed hard by the Los Angeles Angels for the AL West division top notch and subsequently a spot in the playoffs. The Rangers displayed
excellent form near the midseason summer classic but have since failed to produce a stretch of wins.
The Rangers are just two games ahead of the Angels and with a tough schedule ahead in September, maintaining the division leadership might become a tough ask. The Rangers have a good track record at home and they need to convert all home games into wins
now.
Note: Stats included are as August 25, 2011
Continued in Part 5
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