Power Rankings II

1. Simpsonville (Last Ranking: 4)

• The double spark of the return of co-owner Mike Trudeau from the backwoods of Georgia and the awakened bat of David Wright have shot this team to the top of the heap. And they still don't have Joe Mauer back.
  

2. Setauket (5)

• Torii Hunter turning it up and looking like a late-round steal. But if they're going to hold on to first place, it's going to come down to the golden arm of Brian Bruney.
  

3. Nassau (3)

• Hanging steady in the 3 spot, and with a 16.5 game lead they may just take the rest of the summer off. But remember, half the playoff stats will be cumulative, so let up at your own risk.
  

4. Westphalia (10)

• Forget the wild card, the Shepherds are stalking the Horde for the Gibson crown--which would look at home on Prince's head.
  

5. Ninth Street (1)

• Slipped 4 spots and, more importantly, 6 behind the Slayers. Giambi's verbal implosion not helping an already tense clubhouse.
  

6. Hampton Bay (2)

• After a mini-slump (and some maxi-whining), the Bambinos turn it up just in time for the Rankings. Just check out their pretty mug at the top of the League web page.
  

7. Shaolin (6)

• Although ranked 2nd in the YTD point totals, they continue to just under-perform enough. Bats starting to come alive led by Nick Swisher.
  

8. Bay Ridge (7)

• Looking like the Doby is going to go back and forth all year. Come crunch time, putting all their eggs in ARod's basket may not be the best strategy.
  

9. Mattituck (8)

• The forgotten division leader, just sort of hanging in there despite no one really stepping up as a team leader. Billy Butler was ready yet, but Manny's bat is waiting in the shadows to join Magglio.
  

10. Pequash (18)

• Number 10 with a bullet. Hot off a big win last week, they're hot on Mattituck's heels as the Paige might turn into a dogfight down the stretch.
  

11. New Libertatia (14)

• The kids are alright. The baby Swashbucklers are aiming for a seat at the adult table this fall. And keep in mind, they do have Johan Santana.
  

12. Philadelphia (9)

• A tub-thumping by the New Lib and the injury to new closer Brett Myers don't making for a festive 3-day weekend in the City of Brotherly Love. Don't be surprised if another trade is already in the works.

13. Browntown (15)

14. Riverhead (12)

• The Reds are trying, but still haven't been able to fit all their pieces together. The Thome injury hurts and the Encarnacion demotion didn't help. When will the Rocket launch?
  

15. Ridge (20)

• Fifteen may not look like much, but considering where they were last time it's time for them to pop the cork on the Cold Duck. The trade for Zito shows their still in it to win it.
  

16. Laurel (13)

• The Commish still treading water. We all know he has a nefarious plan up his sleeve, but when will he unleash it? Maybe he's waiting to grow in his villainous mustache so he can twirl it and laugh maniacally in our faces? Or not.
  

17. Kohler (11)

• Recent 10-2 loss to St. Olaf says it all. Pujols still making $19 million.
  

18. North Babylon (16)

• The future is now as top 2 prospects Lincecum and Braun up in the big leagues. Still not counting out team with Sheffield, Wells, and Ichiro in the OF.
  

19. St. Olaf (19)

• Despite numbers from Vlad, Jeter, Youkilis, Marquis, and Verlander, they're living up to their name and stinking.
  

20. Coram (17)

• They must be naughty boys because they keep getting spanked.