MLB Preseason Power Rankings: Top 5 Projected Teams to Look Out for in the 2024 Season

 The 2024 MLB season is quickly approaching and it's about that time that fans should start knowing what to expect from their teams. At the time of writing this there are still many key free agents available, however with that in mind let's jump into this year's top teams. 

5. Philadelphia Phillies

The Phillies did not have the most exciting offseason by any means, but the team stayed relatively the same after resigning Aaron Nola. Last season they finished tied with the 6th best overall record but reached the NLCS for the second consecutive year before losing to the Diamondbacks. They have a veteran squad and are undoubtedly feeling close to getting that World Series win. With so many free agents still available the team feels as if they are a piece away from being a serious contender. 

4. Texas Rangers

Some might think that putting the reigning champions down at 4 is a little harsh, and that's probably true, but there are just too many questions regarding their pitching staff. Last year Jordan Montgomery proved himself to be a key part reason why the team finished above all others, but as of now, there is no news of him returning to Texas. The team still has 2 great pitchers in Max Scherzer and Jacob DeGrom, but each sustained a major injury last season it is only natural for there to be concern. As for the offensive side, there is nothing to be worried about. Corey Seager looks primed to be an early AL MVP candidate and players like Marcus Semien, Adolis Garcia, and Jonah Heim will be ready to recreate last year's magic.

3. Baltimore Orioles

Everyone knew that the Orioles would be a force to be reckoned with for years to come, however, it was a shock to many to see it come so soon. Last year the team overperformed everyones expectations winning over 100 games and coming on top of the always competitive AL East. With such a young squad that has shown what they can be, the sky is the limit for the team who got to taste the playoff atmosphere last season. Not to mention they have only made themselves better after trading for all-star starting pitcher Corbin Burnes. Adding Burnes to this team only adds to the ceiling of what this team might be.

2. Atlanta Braves

It feels like every year the Braves find themselves in around the top three teams in baseball, and this year is absolutely no exception. With a lineup that includes all-world players like Ronald Acuna Jr., Matt Olsen, Austin Riley, and Ozzie Albies anyone would be a fool to not put the Braves amongst the two best teams in baseball. Not to mention their already stacked pitching staff that includes Max Fried, Spencer Strider, and new addition Chris Sale. After a disappointing end to their 104-win season, the 2021 champions look to finish amongst the best in October. 

1. Los Angeles Dodgers

Last season was thought to be a rebuild-type season, however, the Dodgers did what they seemingly always do and finished the season atop of the NL West with 100 wins. Staying along the theme of the Dodgers repeating themselves, once again they saw themselves crashing out of the playoffs. However, this season they have strengthened unlike any team in the MLB, and frankly, you'd have to be living under a rock if you were not aware of their additions. After spending over 1 billion dollars on the best player in baseball and the hottest pitcher on the market, along with trading for Tyler Glasnow their rotation problems seem like a thought in the past. Only time will tell how they perform come the postseason, but it seems almost evident that the 2020 champs will finish with the best record in the league come season's end.