Ed note: I'd like to welcome back Kevin Lindstrom to 3rd Degree. Kevin was with us from the early days and his Power Rankings were the first ever Power Rankings in MLS history. It's a privilege to have him return and I hope you enjoy his work. - Buzz Carrick
Started in 1996, these are the original MLS Power Rankings, and they return to 3rd Degree where they belong for the 2018 season.
And my oh my how things have changed since that Inaugural Season. Twenty-three teams, the vast majority of them playing in front of full houses - very expensive houses at that.