MLB Power Rankings: Does anyone deserve baseball's No. 1 spot with top teams all scuffling?

The Yankees, Phillies, Dodgers, Orioles and Guardians have all struggled at times in recent weeks

By Matt Snyder Aug 12, 2024 at 8:45 am ET• 2 min read

Picking a No. 1 team in baseball is a bit tough right now, no? I reluctantly threw the Guardians at the top last week and they proceeded to reward me with a seven-game losing streak. OK, guys, message received. It wasn't necessary to go that nuts in convincing me you didn't belong there, but I understand that sometimes serious measures need to be taken. 

The other teams that merit inclusion in a discussion for the best team in baseball haven't exactly been making strong cases, either. 

Phillies - They just went through a horrible stretch where they lost 12 of 15. They won four of five and looked like they had their mojo back -- notably in The Kyle Schwarber Game in Dodger Stadium -- but then lost three to the D-backs. We can't be ready to fully trust them again just yet. 

Orioles- They went through a stretch in July where they lost 10 of 15. They have looked a little better in August, but haven't exactly been inspiring. The Grayson Rodriguez injury is concerning, especially since the trade deadline acquisitions in the rotation were middling. 

Yankees - The Yankees have a losing record since the beginning of July. In fact, they have one of baseball's worst records since June 14. Only the White Sox, Marlins and Rockies have been worse. Losing a home series to the Trout-less Angels? Get outta here, man.