In MLB.com's latest power rankings, the Padres climbed two spots, from No. 9 to No. 7. It might not feel like much, but with San Diego playing great baseball over the last two weeks and closing in on the Dodgers in the NL West, the latest rankings are further confirmation that AJ Preller's trade deadline moves were the right decision.
While the price to acquire Mason Miller, J.P. Sears, Ramon Laureano, Ryan O'Hearn, Freddy Fermin and Nestor Cortes was high, the Padres' recent levels of success indicate it was worth it.
Padres' quick jump in power rankings post-trade deadline alrady proves Preller right
On July 31st, the Padres were 60-49, riding a five-game winning streak.