The MLB playoff picture is starting to take shape here in the middle of August, though there is always the potential for a major shakeup if one of the teams on the fringe of contention gets hot.

MLB power rankings, PSG wins another trophy, Ohtani vs. the Angels, NFL valuations, Georgia's $62 million high school stadium, and more.

For those Seattle Mariners fans who have watched their team soar closer to the American League West Division top spot, it's been a stellar time. The Mariners, behind the slugging of Cal Raleigh, have made a big move into the MLB Power Rankings.

The line between contenders and non-contenders becomes clearer after the annual trade deadline, but there are inevitably still a handful of teams that will reside on the fringe of contention heading into September.

Not bad! Unless, of course, your team is hopelessly out of contention and you harbor dreams of your team’s owner spending this coming winter. In that case, you are probably wondering about the pending class of free agents.

1. Brewers (9): In becoming the first team to 70 wins, the Brewers set a franchise record by doing it in 114 games, beating their previous mark — done only four years earlier — by two games. Milwaukee also is the best road team (34-24) in the majors.

The Inside the Lines team has been dishing out nightly home run bets all season long -- up well over 50 units on the year. For more free daily picks across all sports, visit the Inside the Lines blog.