The 2024 MLB postseason picture is taking shape with just under two weeks to go in the regular season. Amid the excitement, several teams have already secured their spots for October baseball, promising an exhilarating playoff season ahead.
Milwaukee Brewers and New York Yankees Punch Their Tickets
On Wednesday, the Milwaukee Brewers and New York Yankees were the first teams to seal their postseason berths. The Brewers claimed the NL Central title, ensuring their place in the playoffs, while the Yankees clinched a wildcard spot, adding to their rich postseason history.
Dodgers Maintain Postseason Streak
The Los Angeles Dodgers continued their remarkable run by securing their 12th consecutive postseason appearance with a decisive win over the Miami Marlins on Thursday. The victory guarantees at least a wild-card spot for the Dodgers and keeps them in contention for a potential Wild Card Series bye.
Currently holding a four-game lead in the NL West with nine games remaining, the Dodgers are also 2.5 games ahead of the Brewers for the No. 2 seed in the National League. They trail the Philadelphia Phillies by a slim half-game margin for the top seed.
However, the Dodgers' pitching staff has been hit with significant injuries. Key pitchers Tyler Glasnow and Gavin Stone, both of whom have thrown over 90 innings this season, are sidelined with arm troubles. While Yoshinobu Yamamoto has returned from a shoulder injury, ace Clayton Kershaw is recovering from a toe issue. Despite these challenges, the mid-season acquisition of Michael Kopech has been instrumental in stabilizing the Dodgers' bullpen.
Guardians' Dramatic Walk-Off Secures Playoff Spot
The Cleveland Guardians clinched their playoff spot with an intense extra-innings walk-off win over the Minnesota Twins on Thursday. This victory marks their return to the playoffs after missing out last season and their third playoff appearance in the last five years. Rookie manager Stephen Vogt will be experiencing his first postseason at the helm, aiming to lead the Guardians to their fifth American League Central title in the past decade.
Despite a string of setbacks with their rotation, including Shane Bieber's season-ending surgery after just two starts and struggles in the minors for Triston McKenzie and Logan Allen, the Guardians have persevered. Tanner Bibee remains the lone member of the Opening Day starting rotation. Key contributors like José Ramírez, Emmanuel Clase, Andrés Giménez, and Steven Kwan have been pivotal in keeping Cleveland's playoff hopes alive.
Shohei Ohtani's Historic Season
Though not directly impacting the postseason race mentioned here, Shohei Ohtani continues to make headlines with his historic accomplishments. Ohtani became the first player in MLB history to achieve a 50-50 season, underscoring his unique talent and significant impact on the game.
As the regular season winds down, anticipation builds for an exciting October. With more teams possibly joining the playoff fray, the stage is set for another thrilling chapter in Major League Baseball's storied postseason tradition.