The 2024 MLB All-Star Game and draft have come and gone, setting the stage for an eagerly anticipated trade deadline just two weeks away. With teams and players making headlines, the dynamics of the National League and beyond are more intriguing than ever.
Cardinals Surging but Chasing Brewers
Since May 11, the Cardinals have been the standout team in the National League, boasting a 35-22 (.614) record. Despite this impressive performance, the Cardinals find themselves trailing the Brewers by 4.5 games, with a current season record sitting at 50-46. The Brewers, meanwhile, lead the division with a 55-42 record. Notably, the Brewers have dominated the season series against the Cardinals, leading 6-1. This suggests that while the Cardinals have been effective overall, they have struggled against their primary division rivals.
Competitive National League
The Phillies, mirroring the Cardinals’ surge, have also posted a strong 34-22 (.607) record since May 11. Over in the American League, the Astros have put on an even more dominant display with a 36-21 (.632) record in the same period. Adding to the competitive landscape, the Guardians matched the Cardinals' winning percentage with a 34-21 record since May 11. These statistics highlight the heightened level of competition across both leagues, signaling exciting playoff battles ahead.
Blue Jays' Slim Postseason Odds
Over in Toronto, the Blue Jays have struggled this season, standing at 44-52 and sitting 9.5 games out of a wild-card spot. According to FanGraphs, the odds of the Blue Jays making the postseason are a mere 1.8%, a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of baseball.
Elly De La Cruz and the Stolen Base Chase
Elly De La Cruz has captured attention across the MLB with his extraordinary base-stealing prowess. Entering the All-Star break, De La Cruz leads the league with 46 stolen bases. With the Reds having played 97 games, De La Cruz is on pace to steal 78 bases by season’s end. This feat would place him on par with José Reyes who stole 78 bases in 2007. The record books remind us that Ronald Acuña Jr. stole 73 bases last year, while Rickey Henderson swiped 93 bases in 1988, and Vince Coleman recorded 109 in 1987. The young Reds star’s potential to join such a storied list adds an exciting subplot to the season.
Dodgers' Pitching Woes and Resilience
The Dodgers have faced significant challenges this season, using an unprecedented 31 pitchers due to injuries to key starters like Walker Buehler, Tyler Glasnow, Tony Gonsolin, and Clayton Kershaw. To mitigate these losses, the team claimed Brent Honeywell off waivers from the Pirates. The constant shuffling of the roster underscores the volatility and unpredictability inherent in a demanding 162-game season.
Iron Men of the Mound
In an era where innings-eaters are becoming an anomaly, only five pitchers reached the 200-inning mark last season, a group that included Logan Webb, Zac Gallen, and Gerrit Cole. This year, Logan Gilbert leads the league with 132 1/3 innings, followed by Seth Lugo with 127 innings, and Logan Webb with 124 1/3 innings. Their endurance and consistency are becoming more treasured in the modern game.
Fresh Faces Ready to Shine
Amid these seasoned veterans, exciting fresh talent is making its way into the majors. Nolan Schanuel became the first player to make his MLB debut in the same year he was drafted since Garrett Crochet in 2020. Chris Cortez is also anticipated to make waves in the major leagues this year, having posted a remarkable 2.78 ERA and 107 strikeouts in 64 2/3 innings at Texas A&M. The arrival of such promising players brings new excitement and potential to the ongoing narrative of the 2024 season.
The convergence of seasoned stars, emerging talents, and the approaching trade deadline promises a thrilling continuation to the MLB season. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as teams strategize and players push the limits of their capabilities.