Here are our 2009 MLB power rankings as of June 1st:

1. Los Angeles Dodgers
Even without the suspended Manny Ramirez, the Los Angeles Dodgers are the best team in baseball. They aren’t quite as good without Ramirez but they have a good shot to hold onto their National League leading record.

2. Texas Rangers
Are the Rangers for real? It’s difficult to tell for sure. The fact that their bats are hot isn’t the story. The real story is that their pitching finally appears to be decent, which is bad news for the rest of baseball.

3. New York Yankees
All the millions the Yankees handed out this summer appear to be paying off. Mark Teixeira is hitting well and C.C. Sabathia has become the ace. Once Alex Rodriguez really heats up, the Yankees will be tough to beat.

C.C. Sabathia seems to be worth the money (Image: Newscom)

4. Philadelphia Phillies
The Phillies aren’t getting any help from their starting pitchers and their bullpen has been shaky (especially closer Brad Lidge), they have only lost four times in their last 16 games. Once their pitching becomes decent, watch out!

5. Boston Red Sox
Like the Phillies, the Red Sox are winning despite their starting pitching. However, with John Smoltz getting closer and closer to returning and a strong bullpen, Boston appears to be in good shape to make the playoffs.

Post from: EveryJoe

2009 MLB Power Rankings – June Edition