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MLB Power Rankings: New York Yankees Keep Pace In Playoff Race

By Kenneth Teape

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Jul 7, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; St. Louis Cardinals right fielder

Jason Heyward

(22) celebrates after scoring during the sixth inning in game two of a baseball doubleheader against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Caylor Arnold-USA TODAY Sports

3. Chicago Cubs (87-62) The fastest way to climb up the standings is to beat the teams ahead of you, and that is exactly what the Cubs have been doing recently. They had a huge week with seven games against the Pirates and Cardinals this past week, and went an impressive 5-2. They have cut their deficit in the NL Wild Card to two games for home field, and trail the Cardinals by six in the NL Central. Everything is clicking for them; Javier Baez has looked good since his promotion, Starlin Castro has taken well to his reduced playing time, and Anthony Rizzo continues to look like a contender for the MVP award.

2. Pittsburgh Pirates (89-60) The Pirates hit a skid at a bad time earlier this week, going on a four-game losing streak against the Cubs and Dodgers. But, they bounced back defeating Clayton Kershaw then winning the rubber game against the Dodgers on Sunday to win the series. It was a big victory for the Pirates, who saw their hold on home field in the wild card game loosening as the Cubs are heating up. They now hold a two game lead over the Cubs, and their magic number is three to clinch a playoff spot.

1. St. Louis Cardinals (93-56) The Cardinals had a four-game winning streak this week, but have shown chinks in their armor in recent series. They still hold a comfortable four game lead over the Pirates and six over the Cubs in the NL Central, but have lost their last three series to those teams. They were the first team to clinch a playoff spot this season though, as they have the most wins in the majors. They have to get people healthy and ready for the playoffs though if they are to carry that success over to the postseason, as guys like Matt Holliday and Randal Grichuk work their way back into the lineup and to better health.

Next: Has C.C. Sabathia Regained His Old Form?

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