MLB: Ranking the Top 10 Teams Right Now

5) Texas Rangers

Aug 18, 2013; Arlington, TX, USA; Texas Rangers shortstop Jurickson Profar (13), third baseman Adrian Beltre (29), second baseman Ian Kinsler (5) and first baseman Mitch Moreland (18) on the field during a pitching change in the eighth inning of the game against the Seattle Mariners at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington. Seattle won 4-3. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

Texas struggled after the All-Star Break. There was a time when Oakland had a five game lead in its division. The Rangers, however, have come back and taken the lead. The teams ranked lower on this list had eight good pitching or good hitting but not both. Texas has decent hitting and pitching, though their pitching may be better than what the statistics say. The Rangers’ bullpen includes Darvish and Garza, and a winning record appears to be the norm among starting pitchers.

I wrote about how I disagreed with the Rangers not trading for an outfielder like Alex Rios before the deadline. Such a move would provide some security in light of Nelson Cruz’s suspension for his involvement with Biogenesis. A little over a week ago, Texas righted its wrong, as it claimed Alex Rios off of waivers. The Rangers are looking good in the AL East, but they are only half a game ahead of Oakland.