2009 Baseball Power Rankings – Best Teams

1. New York Yankees
Heading into the offseason, the New York Yankees had a lot of question marks. But after their signing spree, the Yankees have addressed virtually all of their weaknesses. Signing Mark Teixeira, CC Sabathia and AJ Burnett would help any team become the odds on favorite.

2. Philadelphia Phillies
The defending World Series champions should be very good once again in 2009. They are bringing back largely the same team that was able to get the job done in 2008. With added confidence and experience, the Phillies are the team to beat in the National League.

3. Tampa Bay Rays
The Rays, like the Phillies, should see a jump in their confidence and experience. On top of that, the Rays have a ton of young players who are getting better and better. Although the Yankees will be tough to beat, the Rays might have the best chance of doing just that.

4. New York Mets
The biggest weakness for the Mets down the stretch last year was their pitiful bullpen. But after signing Francisco Rodriguez and trading for JJ Putz, the Mets suddenly have arguably the best bullpen in all of baseball. They’ll be tough to beat in 2009 — especially in games they get up early.

5. Boston Red Sox
With all the signing flurries, the Red Sox have been forgotten a little bit. But truth be told, they still have an extremely talented roster. As long as David Ortiz can have another fine season, there’s no reason why the Red Sox can’t compete once again.