MLB Week 23 Power Rankings: Stakes Rising as September Begins

As the calendar turns to September, the race to October baseball intensifies. Here's our fresh take on the Week 23 power rankings, spotlighting trends, standout teams, and what each club will need to lock up playoff positioning:

Top 10 Teams (Week 23)

1. Milwaukee Brewers

2. Detroit Tigers

3. Philadelphia Phillies

4. Toronto Blue Jays

5. Chicago Cubs

6. Los Angeles Dodgers

7. San Diego Padres

8. New York Yankees

9. Boston Red Sox

10. Houston Astros

Why These Teams Are Rising

1. Milwaukee Brewers

The Brewers boast the best record in the majors and eye a possible 100-win season, something the franchise has never achieved despite past 96-win campaigns. Finishing strong could make this one for the record books. 

2. Detroit Tigers

The electric support in Detroit has carried momentum all season. Locking up home-field advantage in the AL playoffs is now within reach with a strong September push.

3. Philadelphia Phillies

With the division nearly in hand, the focus shifts to how many long balls Kyle Schwarber can launch. He's pacing toward a franchise-best total as this stretch begins.

4. Toronto Blue Jays

For this iteration of the Blue Jays to solidify their place among the team’s great eras, capturing home-field in the postseason is key. September's schedule is their final audition.

5. Chicago Cubs

Chicago’s recent minor-league acquisition and new offensive spark gives them fresh breath in a tight wild-card race. The next few weeks will test their staying power.

6. Los Angeles Dodgers

After battling injuries in their rotation all year, the Dodgers are closer to full strength. Health down the stretch could make them the team to beat in October.

7. San Diego Padres

Periphery in many national rankings, San Diego nonetheless remains in the thick of it, especially if the Dodgers falter or if they capitalize on head-to-head games.

8. New York Yankees

Making their way back into the conversation, the Yankees have stepped up and remain in close pursuit of division and wild-card spots.

9. Boston Red Sox

Boston has shown resilience and flexibility in a tight AL East battle. With key matchups looming, they’re positioned to make a late charge.

10. Houston Astros

Though sliding slightly, the Astros remain dangerous, their experience and depth continue making them a threat in late-season matchups.

What September Holds

September will shape this season’s story. Can the Brewers close strong? Will Schwarber smash past Howard's home-run record? Can Detroit’s surge translate into playoff seeding? Toronto, Chicago, and Boston all have momentum, but face tough schedules. Meanwhile, the Dodgers' health, Yankees’ bats, and Astros’ savvy make them dark horses in this crowded field. Stay tuned on ReBet social media to see our weekly Power Rankings and hot takes.