Oct 31, 20192 min read

MLB: Nationals top final power rankings

1. Washington Nationals (93-69, 12-5, +7): The Nationals finished the regular season on a hot streak and proceeded to go 12-5 in the playoffs and take down the Milwaukee Brewers, Los Angeles Dodgers, St. Louis Cardinals, and Houston Astros. By the time the season came to an end, it was clear who the best team in the league was and the Nationals are the rightful champions. If they can resign Anthony Rendon, this team could be back near the top next year.

2. Houston Astros (107-55, 10-8, -1): The Astros will be haunted by manager AJ Hinch's decision to take out starter Zack Greinke and put in Will Harris, but that's what comes with being a manager and this team will move on from it. For the time being, though, it's going to be hard to forget that choice. Houston's offense should take some blame too as they left 10 men on base. The season didn't end how Houston wanted it to but it was another good year.

3. New York Yankees (103-59, 5-4, +0): The Yankees made quick work of the Minnesota Twins in the ALDS but couldn't get past the Astros once again. Houston just seems to have New York's number in the postseason but whenever the Yankees get over that hurdle, they could become the favorites to win it all. Aaron Judge and most of the team will be back next year so look out for them to compete for 100+ wins for the third year in a row.

4. Los Angeles Dodgers (106-56, 2-3, -2): The Dodgers drop two spots because of their loss to the Nationals in the NLDS but it was still a really good year. We know Dodgers fans are starting to get tired of good seasons and not great but they will likely compete for another NL West title next year. Clayton Kershaw continues to come out short in the postseason despite his Hall of Fame talent. Los Angeles finished with the second most wins in the league.

5. St. Louis Cardinals (91-71, 3-6, +4): The Cardinals looked good in their NLDS victory over the Atlanta Braves but they completely folded in the next round and were swept by the Nationals. St. Louis had a good year, winning the NL Central, but we wouldn't be surprised if they slip a little next year. With the Milwaukee Brewers and Chicago Cubs on their heels, it might be a little tougher a year from now.

Next teams up:

6. Atlanta Braves (97-65, 2-3, -1)

7. Tampa Bay Rays (96-66, 3-3, +0)

8. Minnesota Twins (101-61, 0-3, -4)

9. Oakland Athletics (97-65, 0-1, -3)

10. Milwaukee Brewers (89-73, 0-1, +0)

MVP rankings:

1. Stephen Strasburg (5-0, 2.76 ERA)

2. Anthony Rendon (20 H, 3 HR)

3. Juan Soto (18 H, 5 HR)

4. Gerrit Cole (4-1, 2.22 ERA)

5. George Springer (15 H, 4 HR)