As evidenced by our most recent MLB Power Rankings, there’s a lot of movement, especially in the American League. The Los Angeles Angels, boasting a commendable record of 28-16, have seen their standing shift after a turbulent stretch earlier this season. At the same time, the Boston Red Sox and Seattle Mariners are doing the same, doing their best just to stay relevant.
The Angels, who were second just a few weeks ago, have fallen into a rough patch. From April 11 to May 4th, they didn’t have a groove. During this time, the team struggled, recording a disappointing .574 OPS and a 6.08 ERA. Nevertheless, players such as Jake Meyers, Jeremy Pena, Yainer Diaz, and Isaac Paredes have picked up the slack. As such, they have secretly become the bright spots in an otherwise awful season.
Angels’ Rollercoaster Season
The Los Angeles Angels have recently rejoined the ranks of contenders with a roller coaster season. With a 28-16 record as of this writing, they had high hopes after that terrific start. Then the team hit a stretch that made even optimistic fans and analysts start to worry.
Between April 11 and May 4, the Angels played some of the worst baseball seen in years. A .574 OPS as a team would suggest it was all about batting woes, but the staff’s hideous 6.08 ERA suggests their pitchers were going through it, too. Even amidst these difficulties, some of these players have been encouraging. Jake Meyers and Jeremy Pena just starting to get going. Aside from Chourio, Yainer Diaz and Isaac Paredes are helping anchor the return to contention this season.
“I don’t make the lineup. You guys make the lineup with how you play.” – Stephen Vogt
The Angels will have to continue banking on these developing players as they seek greater overall consistency in their play going forward.
Red Sox and Mariners Seek Consistency
After a weak stretch, the Boston Red Sox are now just 22-23 and have fallen from 12th. Inconsistency and injuries have plagued the team as they look to get back on track in the league.
Just as importantly, Rafael Devers anchors the offense while providing some defensive value. He happens to be a great Red Sox designated hitter. His contributions will be important as the team continues to figure things out and face adversity this season. Now, much further down the list, we have the Seattle Mariners at 23-19. For both teams, the urgent issue is establishing some consistency in order to stay within striking distance.
Injuries have clouded the picture even more for the Mariners, who will be without rookie Bryce Miller due to inflammation in his throwing elbow. With him hitting the injured list as well, that’s serious concern for the team’s pitching depth.
Notable Performances and Emerging Stars
Despite the tumultuous times many teams around the league are having, these players have been rocking it in their own right. The Detroit Tigers have the best record in the American League, fueling their surprise overall play.
CJ Abrams has had an Under-the-Radar season for the Washington Nationals. He’s had an impressive batting average maintaining over .300. Willson Contreras is an offensive dynamo for his team, posting a robust .367 AVG. He’s knocked in ten RBIs recently, highlighting his importance in clutch situations.
Additionally, Rangers shortstop Corey Seager is currently managing a hamstring strain that may affect his availability going into next season. All of the highs and lows in-between these two teams is just a testament to the unpredictable nature of America’s pastime, baseball.
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