MLB Power Rankings: Why lackluster Centrals could produce intriguing races, plus Yankees, Dodgers slip

Back in spring training, I ranked the six divisions. After putting the AL East first (correctly), I thought the easiest thing was to put aside the two Central divisions for the last two spots. Again, correctly. It's fun when things pan out like that, huh? I'm always accountable for my bad predictions, so I'll also toot my own horn when nailing it like this.

And, boy, are the two Central divisions terrible.

Just as a quick illustration on the AL Central, the last-place Red Sox of the AL East would be in first place further west. Since they aren't anywhere near the Central, though, the Twins at 36-36 hold first by 2 1/2 games over the Guardians. The Tigers are trying to tank, but sit five games out. The White Sox are 11 games under .500 and still within striking range. Right now, this is just bad. There isn't really much way to spin it.