MLB Power Rankings: New York Mets Have Tough Weekend
Aug 10, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago White Sox starting pitcher Chris Sale (49) delivers a pitch against the Los Angeles Angels during the eight inning at U.S Cellular Field. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports
21. Cleveland Indians (54-62) The Indians had a strong start to the week, taking two of three from the Yankees. But, their road trip didn’t get off to that hot of a start, as they lost two of three to the Twins. They will now have to visit the Red Sox and Yankees with a makeup game against the Cubs finishing the trip. Six games isn’t an insurmountable amount of games to make up, but the Indians have eight teams to jump. Corey Kluber continuing to pitch as he did this week will help, as he pitched consecutive complete games, surrendering a run in each. It was the first time he won consecutive decisions since the last week of May.
20. San Diego Padres (56-62) It was a good week for the Padres, who went 4-2 against the Reds and Rockies, winning both series. But, getting shutout in Coors Field is an accomplishment you do not want to have under your belt. Bud Norris has looked good in relief thus far for the Padres, not allowing a run in any appearances yet. With the playoffs a long shot, the attention on the Padres for the next couple of weeks will be on if they can move any of the players they decided against trading at the deadline on July 31st; we’re looking at you James Shields.
19. Chicago White Sox (55-60) Only 4.5 games out of the Wild Card race, the White Sox still have an outside chance of sneaking in. Getting performances like the ones Chris Sale delivered this week will help, as the ace threw 14 ⅓ innings, allowing only two runs with 22 strikeouts. They will embark on an important road trip this week, as they can gain more ground in the Wild Card race facing off with the Angels, one of the teams above them in the standings. They can also put the Mariners out of their misery, as they end the road trip in Seattle.
Next: Big week coming for the Rays