Padres Somehow Climb in Latest MLB Power Rankings
The Padres have not had the best season, but all hope is not lost as the Friars are still able to reach the Postseason and play some October baseball.
While the 56-62 record currently has them at 5.5 games back from the last Wild Card spot and a poor 3-7 record in their last 10 games does not help their chances, the team has still climbed in this week's MLB.com power rankings.
Why is this?
The move from 21st to 18th is not the biggest jump, but other teams around their ranking have gotten worse.
The Arizona Diamondbacks after leading the National League West division earlier this year are now a poor 12.5 games back from the division title. This abysmal recent performance has caused them to drop from 14th to 19th in the rankings.
Similarly, the Angels have been terrible since the start of August and have dropped eight spots from 12th to 20th. Trade deadline additions not panning out and poor pitching combine for the rapid decline.
Can the Friars still make the Wild Card?
Thanks to an optimal schedule for the Friars a Wild Card spot is not out of the realm of possibility. With more series scheduled to face the Diamondbacks, Giants, Marlins, and Phillies this San Diego team will be fighting for the Wild Card spot in these games.
This advantageous schedule alongside a team that is getting healthier in pitching can contribute and aid the Padres to finish 2023 strong and play some October baseball.
A strong couple of weeks and wins against Wild Card teams can skyrocket the Padres into the playoffs.
