MLB Power Rankings: New York Mets Continue To Climb

Aug 23, 2015; Detroit, MI, USA; Texas Rangers shortstop

(1) and center fielder

(7) celebrate after the game against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park. Texas won 4-2. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

12. San Francisco Giants (66-58) The Giants had a rough road trip through the NL Central, as they lost series to both the Cardinals and Pirates. The only wins came off a surprsingly strong start by Ryan Vogelsong away from home against the Cardinals, and then Madison Bumgarner once again haunting the Pirates  over the weekend. Bumgarner not only picked up the win, but launched his fifth home run of the season. His power stroke has prompted manager Bruce Bochy to use him as pinch hitter this past week, raising many questions around the baseball world about if that is a smart move or not. But, the Giants do not have much in the way of offensive punch, so they will take it from wherever they can get it from. Getting Marlon Byrd from the Reds should help out, but losing Hunter Pence again hurts.

11. Minnesota Twins (63-61) It was a Jekyll and Hyde week for the Twins. It couldn’t have started much worse by getting swept by the Yankees, but they recovered to return the favor and sweep the Orioles in a four-game series over the weekend to stay in the AL Wild Card race. They will look to continue their AL East road trip with a visit to Tampa Bay and the Rays before hosting the Astros. Both series are extremely important for playoff positioning and the Twins are hoping the results are as positive as the ones against the Orioles. If Byron Buxton can figure things out offensively like Miguel Sano has, the Twins have a great shot at sticking around in the race.

10. Texas Rangers (64-59) Anyone who thought the Rangers had their eyes on next season after acquiring Cole Hamels at the trade deadline was sorely mistaken. As we currently stand, the Rangers sit in the second Wild Card spot in the AL, 1.5 games ahead of the Angels and Twins. They have won nine of their last 11 games and are rolling after taking the last three from the Tigers over the weekend. Their rotation received a huge boost with Derek Holland returning this week as well, as they look well positioned to sneak into the postseason. This week will be a good measuring stick, as they will take on the Blue Jays and Orioles, two teams also in the AL playoff picture.

Next: Mets enjoy the Rockies