Jul 10, 2015; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Twins third baseman Trevor Plouffe (24) dumps water on second baseman Brian Dozier (2) after Dozier hit a three run home run to win the game against the Detroit Tigers in the ninth inning at Target Field. The Twins win 8-6. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports
6. Washington Nationals (48-39)The Nationals are not leading the NL East by as much as anyone thought they would heading into the break, but they are still sitting atop the division which is a nice place to be.Max Scherzerhad a tough start against the Reds early in the week, but bounced back to dominate all the Orioles who weren’t namedAdam Jones. This is still a team with some inconsistencies though, as just looking at their schedule the last two weeks will provide all the evidence you need. Getting healthy will also help solve some of the inconsistencies asDenard Spanwill be joiningJayson Werth,Ryan ZimmermanandStephen Strasburgon the DL.
5. Minnesota Twins (49-40)It was an awesome week for the Twins, who got back on track with a 6-1 week against the Orioles and Tigers. They had clutch hitting, winning in extras against the Orioles once and then mounting a historic comeback against the Tigers, scoring seven runs in the bottom of the ninth that was punctuated by a walk-off homer byBrian Dozier.Miguel Sanohas also been on fire since being called up, showcasing his outstanding ability at the plate with a slash line of .378/.489/.649. He has brought the spark they expected fromByron Buxton, and once he returns from the DL, maybe he will begin clicking as well.
4. Los Angeles Dodgers (51-39)The Dodgers handled business this past week, going 5-2 against bottom feeders in the Phillies and Brewers. But, there are still some things to keep an eye on here, such as the rotation. Outside of Clayton Kershaw and Zack Greinke, the Dodgers aren’t imposing in the starting rotation.Mike BolsingerandBrett Andersonhave been solid, but it is hard to imagine the Dodgers being confident that they can continue their performance for the stretch run. Expect the Dodgers to be a part of plenty of rumors leading up to the trade deadline, as they have a surplus of hitters, specifically outfielders, and could look to move some for some pitching help.
Next: Pirates Gunning For Cardinals
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