By Tim Britton, Johnny Flores Jr. and Andy McCullough
Every week, we gather a select group of our baseball writers—both local and national—to rank the teams from first to worst. Here are the combined results.
While many spent the weekend witnessing Rory McIlroy’s grand slam at The Masters, we focused on baseball. Specifically, we tuned into April Baseball ™—a time filled with early hot takes and potential dreams dashed before they have a chance to take root.
Who could have anticipated that the previously undefeated Dodgers would endure three consecutive series losses, including their worst home shutout in franchise history? Or that the usually reliable Emmanuel Clase would have a 7.71 ERA after seven games? And yes, the Rockies facing three straight shutouts while only mustering nine hits (five by Kyle Farmer) seems somewhat predictable. The unpredictability of baseball is what keeps us engaged; it urges us to analyze what seems like chaos every week. Are good teams still good despite a rough patch? Can underperforming teams suddenly rise? The truth usually lies somewhere in the middle, and as we progress through the season, clearer trends and concerns start to emerge for each team.
Team Rankings and Concerns
Record: 12-6
Last Power Ranking: 1
Potential Issues: The Dodgers are still human, not invincible
Oddly enough, since their 8-0 start, the Dodgers have lost several games, including three series consecutively and a staggering 16-0 defeat against the Cubs. Injuries to Blake Snell and ineffective replacements have hurt the rotation, and their defense is shaky. Despite these struggles, they are still likely to lead the league in wins this season, though the pursuit of 117 seems less feasible now. — Andy McCullough
Record: 14-3
Last Power Ranking: 4
Potential Issues: Left field may need a midseason adjustment
The Padres brought in veteran Jason Heyward to replace Jurickson Profar in left field, enhancing the offense in 2024. However, Heyward’s performance has not met expectations thus far, resembling his decline in Chicago more than his resurgence with the Dodgers last year. This could open the door for General Manager A.J. Preller to target a new left-handed hitter as the trade deadline approaches. — McCullough
Record: 11-5
Last Power Ranking: T-8
Potential Issues: Can Brett Baty turn it around?
The Mets face significant gaps in their lineup, and with Jeff McNeil working his way back from a rehab assignment, concerns grow over Baty’s consistent underperformance. This is the fourth season for Baty in the majors; however, his career OPS struggling in the .500s raises the question of whether he can capitalize on this opportunity or if the Mets will need to look elsewhere. — Tim Britton
Record: 9-8
Last Power Ranking: 14
Potential Issues: The bullpen’s early struggles
Milwaukee has built its identity on strong relief pitching, making it unsettling given their current 6.28 ERA, ranking among the league’s worst. While Joel Payamps’ struggles stand out, overall, there’s a severe lack of the reliable depth the team needs to stay competitive. A revitalized Devin Williams would certainly be welcomed, but a robust bridge to him is essential, which currently is in short supply. — Flores
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