MLB power rankings: Braves steal top spot from Dodgers with statement in LA
Braves have MLB's best record and beat Dodgers in statement Los Angeles series.
The Los Angeles Dodgers won't go wire-to-wire in the National League West - nor will they in USA TODAY Sports' power rankings. The preseason No. 1 club may very well win a third consecutive championship this autumn but for now, they've been dislodged from the top spot for the first time this season by the Atlanta Braves.
The passing of the torch came head-to-head, as Atlanta won two of three games at Dodger Stadium and improve to a major league-best 28-13. Their plus-87 run differential is also tops in the majors, and they also lead in OPS and ERA. Uh, any questions?
The Braves' newfound position will be tested immediately, as they return home for a three-game series against the No. 3 Chicago Cubs , beginning Tuesday, May 10 at Truist Field. A look at our updated rankings: 1.
Atlanta Braves (+1) Spencer Strider punches out eight Dodgers in second start of year. 2. Los Angeles Dodgers (-1) Mookie Betts is back this week, not a moment too soon for flaccid offense.