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5. San Diego Padres: 24-46 (18.5GB)
The Padres have struggled tremendously this season with one of the worst records in baseball. This is largely due to their lack of offensive production, as Chase Headley leads all batting categories for them and is hitting a dismal .267 with 7 home runs. Hopefully, the Padres can bounce back after the All-Star break or they could start flirting with a 100-loss season.
4. Colorado Rockies: 25-42 (16GB)
The Rockies are seriously underperforming this 2012 MLB season. It’s pretty puzzling how they drop into the top ten in MLB in every major hitting category, including 3rd place in both runs scored and slugging percentage; however, they are 17 games under 500. Losing star shortstop Troy Tulowitzki hasn’t helped their cause, as he is Colorado’s infield anchor. With outstanding play from the division-leading Dodgers and second-place Giants, it will be an uphill battle for the Rockies for the duration of this season.
3. Arizona Diamonds: 34-35 (8GB)
The Diamondbacks are a team that is still very much alive in the race for the NL West, trailing only the Giants by 3.5 games. His mediocre record is due in large part to the absence of shortstop Stephen Drew, who should soon be activated from the disabled list. One bright spot has been the play of pitcher Wade Miley, who currently posts a phenomenal 2.30 ERA. Also, second baseman Aaron Hill is off to a great start, hitting .291 and leading the team with 10 home runs and an .868 OPS. If the Giants or Dodgers start dropping games, look to Arizona to capitalize and make a run at a playoff appearance.
2. San Francisco Giants: 38-32 (4.5GB)
Just a season away from being World Series champions, the Giants have been doing better of late, cutting their deficit in the NL West to 4.5 games. The Giant’s success is a product of the great play of catcher Buster Posey who leads the team in home runs (8) and RBIs (36) as well as left fielder Melky Cabrera who is currently batting .363. Cabrera has one of the highest batting averages in the NL, and if he can keep up this play, he could even contend for NL MVP. However, Matt Kemp will have something to say about it.
1. Los Angeles Dodgers: 42-27
Surprisingly much of the baseball world this season, the Dodgers currently have the best record in MLB. In their first year under new ownership, the Dodgers have played outstanding defense and have allowed just 243 runs thus far. 2011 NL MVP runner-up Matt Kemp played outstandingly this season and, despite missing significant time due to injury, continues to lead the team with 12 home runs. Defending NL Cy Young winner Clayton Kershaw is following up his award-winning season with a 2.75 ERA and 95 strikeouts. If his game continues, the Dodgers should make a deep run through October.