The New York Times places Rays in bottom half of majors in latest MLB power rankings

Yes, the record is sub-par. Yes, we blew multiple games in the late innings. However, there's plenty of arguments to bump the Rays at least four or five spots up from #17 out of 30 MLB teams.

The Rays are top 5 in the majors in multiple important offensive categories

Although the record doesn't exactly match, the Rays offense has been quite impressive so far. They are currently atop the American League and third in the MLB with a .272 team batting average. Outfielders Jake Mangum and Kameron Misner, Jonathan Aranda, and Christopher Morel are leading the way as they are all hitting over .300. In fact, Aranda currently holds an insane .413/.481/1.242 slash line. His numbers have compared to those of Yankees slugger Aaron Judge, so he's clearly in good company.

Jonathan Aranda and Jake Mangum are leading the American League in an offensive category

Secondly, the Rays currently have two individual stat leaders on their club. This is a rare feat as Caballero's AL leading 44 stolen bases opened some eyes. Pro hustler Jake Mangum is leading the American League with seven stolen bases already this season. What's even more impressive is that the swift outfielder has only played in 14 games, which makes him on pace for an unreal 81 steals.

Jonathan Aranda is actually ahead of every player in the majors of one of the most recognized stats: batting average. The Mexican native is hitting an unbelievable .413 with an AL leading seven doubles. He's also leading the MLB in slugging percentage (.761) and OPS (1.242). If he keeps up this amazing performance, then he may be in line for not only an All-Star appearance, but possibly an MVP.

Starting rotation leads the MLB in strikeouts

The Rays starting rotation has been off to a fantastic start. They've limited the walks, while leading all of baseball in strikeouts with 108 as a collective group. Shane Baz is ahead of the pack for the Rays with 27 punchouts, but the rest of the staff is certainly holding their own on the mound every fifth day. Although the bullpen has struggled at times, this staff can carry a club through a grueling season.

6 of their 9 losses have been decided by 2 runs or fewer

Lastly, the Rays 8-9 record shouldn't looked down upon as much if you consider that they have been competitive nearly every single exhibition. Of the club's nine losses, six of them have been by two runs or fewer. The Rays have only been blown out once when the Angels put up 11 runs on six home runs. If you take into account the dimensions of their home field, where they've played 14 of their 17 games, you can respect the way they've competed against solid competition.