We know computers hate the Orioles, and national broadcasters hate the Orioles, but do the folks who make power polls/rankings hate the Orioles? This week, the O’s are getting some begrudging respect.
SI.com: The 30 (8th; Last Week: 9th)
Jonah Keri lifts the Orioles one slot from last week.
The Nation’s Newspaper also lifts the O’s, except in this case it’s two slots. “Will happily bid Big Papi farewell: He has 52 homers, .897 OPS against them.”
Slideshow Central goes one further, and elevates the O’s three slots.
MLB.com uses analysts for 75% of their polls’ composition, and fan votes for the other 25%.