The MLB postseason picture for 2024 is starting to take shape as several teams have already secured their spots in October baseball with just under two weeks left in the regular season.
Brewers and Yankees Secure Early Playoff Spots
The Milwaukee Brewers and the New York Yankees were the first teams to punch their tickets to the playoffs, doing so this past Wednesday. The Brewers clinched the NL Central title in what has been an impressive season for them, while the Yankees secured a postseason berth, ensuring their fans can look forward to another round of October excitement.
Dodgers' Postseason Streak Continues
The Los Angeles Dodgers have extended their incredible postseason streak to 12 consecutive appearances following a pivotal win over the Miami Marlins on Thursday. This victory guarantees the Dodgers at least a wild-card spot and keeps them in contention for a Wild Card Series bye. With only nine games left, they hold a four-game lead in the NL West and are currently 2.5 games ahead of the Brewers for the No. 2 seed in the National League. Not far behind, they trail the Philadelphia Phillies by just half a game for the top seed, keeping their hopes for the best playoff position alive.
Dodgers Face Pitching Challenges
However, it's not all smooth sailing for the Dodgers. Key pitchers Tyler Glasnow and Gavin Stone, who have both been workhorses this season with over 90 innings pitched each, are currently sidelined with arm troubles. On the bright side, Yoshinobu Yamamoto has made his return from a shoulder injury, and Clayton Kershaw is recovering from a toe issue. The mid-season acquisition of Michael Kopech has also played a crucial role in stabilizing the Dodgers' bullpen, providing some much-needed relief as the team heads into the critical final stretch of the season.
Shohei Ohtani Makes History
In a season full of milestones, Shohei Ohtani made history by recording the first-ever 50-50 season in MLB history. His remarkable achievements have added an extra layer of excitement to an already thrilling season of baseball.
Guardians' Dramatic Playoff Entrance
The Cleveland Guardians clinched their playoff berth in dramatic fashion with an extra-innings walk-off win over the Minnesota Twins on Thursday. This victory not only ensures the Guardians’ return to the playoffs after missing out last season but also marks their third playoff appearance in the last five seasons. This postseason run will be particularly significant as it is the first under manager Stephen Vogt’s leadership.
The Guardians are in a tight race, aiming to win the American League Central again, which would be their fifth division title in the past decade. They are also battling the Yankees for the top spot in the American League, adding to the season’s suspense.
Guardians' Roster Challenges
The Guardians have faced their own set of challenges this season, especially with their starting rotation. Tanner Bibee remains the sole pitcher from their Opening Day rotation still active in the roster. Shane Bieber required season-ending surgery after just two starts, and both Triston McKenzie and Logan Allen have struggled in the minors. Recently, Carlos Carrasco was designated for assignment, further thinning their pitching options. Despite these setbacks, key players such as José Ramírez, Emmanuel Clase, Andrés Giménez, and Steven Kwan have stepped up, solidifying the team's playoff aspirations.
As the regular season draws to a close, the competitiveness and resilience exhibited by these teams highlight the unpredictable and thrilling nature of baseball. Fans eagerly await the postseason, where anything can happen, and new heroes can emerge. The stage is set for what promises to be an electrifying stretch of October baseball.