The 2024 MLB postseason landscape is beginning to take form as several teams have successfully punched their tickets to October baseball with less than two weeks remaining in the regular season.
Brewers and Yankees Secure Positions
The Milwaukee Brewers and New York Yankees were among the first to ensure their presence in the postseason. The Brewers clinched the NL Central title, solidifying their dominance in the division. Meanwhile, the Yankees secured a postseason berth, continuing their tradition of being a constant threat in October baseball.
Dodgers' Streak Continues
On Thursday, the Los Angeles Dodgers guaranteed their 12th consecutive postseason appearance with a victory over the Miami Marlins. This win ensured at least a wild-card spot for the Dodgers and kept them in a strong position to potentially earn a Wild Card Series bye. With nine games remaining, they held a significant four-game lead in the NL West and were 2.5 games ahead of the Brewers for the No. 2 seed in the National League. They were also just half a game behind the Philadelphia Phillies for the top seed in the National League.
The Dodgers' journey has not been devoid of challenges. Key pitchers Tyler Glasnow and Gavin Stone, who have both thrown more than 90 innings this season, are currently sidelined with arm issues. However, Yoshinobu Yamamoto's return from a shoulder injury and Clayton Kershaw's recovery from a toe issue have provided some relief. Additionally, the mid-season acquisition of Michael Kopech has been instrumental in stabilizing the Dodgers' bullpen.
Historic Season for Shohei Ohtani
This season also witnessed Shohei Ohtani recording the first 50-50 season in MLB history, further cementing his status as one of the most remarkable players in modern baseball.
Guardians' Dramatic Win
The Cleveland Guardians clinched their playoff berth in a dramatic fashion with an extra-innings walk-off win over the Minnesota Twins on Thursday. This victory ensures that the Guardians will return to the playoffs after missing out last season, marking their third playoff appearance in their last five attempts. This postseason will also be the first for Stephen Vogt as a manager.
The Guardians are now aiming to continue their success by winning the American League Central again, which would be their fifth division title in the past decade. They are competing with the Yankees for the top spot in the American League.
However, the Guardians have faced their share of difficulties this season. Tanner Bibee is the lone remaining member of the Guardians' Opening Day starting rotation. Shane Bieber required season-ending surgery after just two starts, and both Triston McKenzie and Logan Allen have struggled in the minors. In a recent move, Carlos Carrasco was designated for assignment, which has further tested their pitching depth.
Despite these challenges, key contributors such as José Ramírez, Emmanuel Clase, Andrés Giménez, and Steven Kwan have kept the Guardians in contention and will be crucial for their postseason aspirations.
As the regular season draws to a close, the excitement and anticipation for October baseball continue to build. Teams like the Brewers, Yankees, Dodgers, and Guardians have secured their places, with several others still fighting for the remaining spots. The postseason promises to be a thrilling chapter in what has already been an unforgettable MLB season.