The 2024 MLB season has been nothing short of exhilarating, and with the All-Star Game and draft now in the rearview mirror, attention shifts to the impending trade deadline, set to arrive in less than two weeks. Teams across the league are gearing up for the final stretch, and the evolving landscape of the standings keeps fans and analysts alike on their toes.
Cardinals: A Tale of Comebacks and Challenges
Since May 11, the St. Louis Cardinals have been a force in the National League, boasting an impressive 35-22 (.614) record. Despite this surge, they trail the Milwaukee Brewers by 4.5 games, currently holding a 50-46 record to the Brewers' 55-42. The Brewers' dominance over the Cardinals is evident, leading the season series 6-1. However, St. Louis's determination is palpable as they aim to close the gap in the coming weeks.
Other teams like the Philadelphia Phillies, Houston Astros, and Cleveland Guardians have also been on fire since May 11. The Phillies sport a 34-22 (.607) record, while the Astros have achieved a 36-21 (.632) mark. Matching the Cardinals’ .618 winning percentage, the Guardians hold a commendable 34-21 record over the same period.
Toronto’s Uphill Battle
The Toronto Blue Jays' season has been a rollercoaster, currently sitting at 44-52 and 9.5 games out of a wild-card spot. FanGraphs posits their postseason odds at a mere 1.8%, illustrating the steep climb the Blue Jays face as they endeavor to make a push for the playoffs.
Stealing the Show
On the individual front, Elly De La Cruz of the Cincinnati Reds has been a standout, leading the MLB with 46 stolen bases as of the All-Star break. With the Reds having played 97 games, De La Cruz is on pace to steal 78 bases, a feat reminiscent of José Reyes’ 78 stolen bases in 2007 and Ronald Acuña Jr.’s 73 bases stolen last year. While not quite reaching the legendary heights of Rickey Henderson’s 93 stolen bases in 1988 or Vince Coleman’s 109 in 1987, De La Cruz’s performance is undeniably remarkable.
Dodgers’ Pitching Puzzles
The Los Angeles Dodgers have experienced their share of tribulations this season, using 31 pitchers so far. Key injuries to starters like Walker Buehler, Tyler Glasnow, Tony Gonsolin, and Clayton Kershaw have tested the depth of their rotation. In light of these challenges, the Dodgers claimed Brent Honeywell off waivers from the Pittsburgh Pirates, seeking to bolster their pitching staff as they navigate through these adversities.
Despite the league's pitching landscape becoming increasingly demanding, only five pitchers reached the 200-inning mark last season, including Logan Webb, Zac Gallen, and Gerrit Cole. This year, Logan Gilbert leads the league with 132 1/3 innings pitched, followed closely by Seth Lugo at 127 innings and Logan Webb at 124 1/3 innings.
New Talent on the Horizon
As the season progresses, the excitement of fresh talent breaking into the majors adds another layer of intrigue. Nolan Schanuel made a historic debut, becoming the first player to make his MLB debut the same year he was drafted since Garrett Crochet in 2020. Looking ahead, Chris Cortez is another name to watch. Cortez, known for his solid performance at Texas A&M with a 2.78 ERA and 107 strikeouts in 64 2/3 innings, is anticipated to break into the major leagues this year.
As teams prepare and strategize for the trade deadline, the remaining weeks of the season promise to be filled with intense competition and unexpected twists. The tight races and individual performances will undoubtedly keep baseball enthusiasts engaged until the playoff picture becomes clearer.