Power Rankings: May 2, 2009

No. 1 Red Sox: The rejuvenated Boston lineup has shown signs of its 2007 strength in the efforts of Mike Lowell and Jason Varitek. Jason Bay has been outstanding and it’s only a matter of time before Lars Anderson gets the call to shuffle some of Big Papi’s at bats and to give a rest to the battered Kevin Youkilis and the ancient Lowell.

2. Dodgers: This lineup looks like the class of the National League. Clayton Kershaw pitched well yesterday and the team is able to win close games. It could be a classic pennant race with the way that San Francisco has been playing.

3. Cardinals: The Pujols-Ludwick tandem is among the best in baseball. Albert is healthy and better than ever. Ryan Franklin appears to have what it takes to be a shutdown closer, he has yet to allow a run.

4. Rays: This team was looking dead until pummeling the Red Sox in back-to-back games. Evan Longoria and Matt Garza are heating up—watch out for this team if they can get their hands on some reliable relief corps.

5. Twins: They haven’t played well, but Joe Mauer is back and the pitching staff, always their strength, will definitely benefit. Jason Kubel has been a producer and this team is trending up.