Power Rankings ...
Because the Tigers failed in attempt No. 1 to secure the American League Central crown Thursday afternoon, the Yankees failed to make up their minds on when they want to get their first-round playoff series under way. For the justifiably confused, the choice actually is given to the American League team with the best record -- thanks to the All-Star Game victory, which, remember, was thanks to Curtis Granderson -- and the Yankees are pondering whether to start Wedndesday and get three days off (better for a top-heavy starting rotation) in the best-of-five series or kick things off Thursday and get only two days off (better for a deep starting rotation).
Their decision likely depends on whether they end up facing the Tigers or Twins in the division series.
Now, onto the abbreviated Power Rankings, where I really hope I have the eight playoff teams in the top eight.
1. Yankees (1); 2. Dodgers (2); 3. Angels (5); 4. Red Sox (3); 5. Phillies (4)
6. Rockies (7); 7. Cardinals (6); 8. Tigers (8); 9. Braves (9); 10. Giants (13)
11. Rangers (10); 12. Twins (12); 13. Marlins (11); 14. Rays (16); 15. Cubs (14)
16. Mariners (15); 17. Reds (18); 18. Brewers (17); 19. Blue Jays (24); 20. A's (19)
21. Padres (22); 22. White Sox (20); 23. Astros (21); 24. Royals (23); 25. Mets (25)
26. Diamondbacks (26); 27. Indians (27); 28. Pirates (29); Orioles (28); Nationals (30)
