With the 2024 MLB postseason rapidly approaching, several teams have already secured their spots in this year's playoffs, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting October. As the regular season winds down, the Milwaukee Brewers, New York Yankees, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Cleveland Guardians have emerged as the early contenders to watch.
Brewers and Yankees Punch Tickets
On Wednesday, the Milwaukee Brewers and New York Yankees became the first two teams to ensure their places in the postseason. The Brewers clinched the National League Central title, showcasing their consistent performance throughout the season. Meanwhile, the Yankees secured a postseason berth, adding another chapter to their storied playoff history.
Dodgers Extend Playoff Streak
The Los Angeles Dodgers solidified their status as a postseason mainstay by ensuring their 12th consecutive playoff appearance with a victory over the Miami Marlins on Thursday. The Dodgers secured at least a wild-card spot while maintaining their position to potentially earn a Wild Card Series bye. They hold a four-game lead in the NL West with nine games remaining and are 2.5 games ahead of the Brewers for the No. 2 seed in the National League. Additionally, they trail the Philadelphia Phillies by just half a game for the top seed in the National League.
However, Los Angeles faces some challenges as they head into the playoffs. Key pitchers Tyler Glasnow and Gavin Stone, who have both thrown more than 90 innings this season, are sidelined with arm troubles. Yoshinobu Yamamoto has recently returned from a shoulder injury, and veteran star Clayton Kershaw is recovering from a toe issue. The mid-season acquisition of Michael Kopech has been crucial in stabilizing the Dodgers' bullpen, providing much-needed depth and reliability.
Shohei Ohtani's Historic Achievement
Among all the standout performances this season, Shohei Ohtani made history by recording the first 50-50 season in MLB history, further cementing his status as one of the game's most extraordinary dual threats.
Guardians Clinch Playoff Berth
The Cleveland Guardians also clinched their playoff berth with a dramatic 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 and marks their third playoff appearance in the last five attempts. Notably, this is Stephen Vogt's first postseason as a manager.
The Guardians are eyeing another American League Central title, which would be their fifth in the past decade. They are contending with the Yankees for the top spot in the American League. The team has faced its share of adversity this season, with Tanner Bibee remaining the lone member of their Opening Day starting rotation. Shane Bieber required season-ending surgery after just two starts, while Triston McKenzie and Logan Allen have struggled in the minors. Carlos Carrasco was recently designated for assignment, further complicating their pitching situation.
Despite these hurdles, key contributors like José Ramírez, Emmanuel Clase, Andrés Giménez, and Steven Kwan have stepped up to keep the Guardians competitive. Their combined efforts have kept Cleveland in contention and poised for a strong postseason run.
As the regular season draws to a close, the landscape of the 2024 MLB postseason is taking shape with some familiar faces and emerging talents. The Brewers, Yankees, Dodgers, and Guardians have all demonstrated the resilience and skill needed to compete in the high-stakes environment of October baseball. Fans can expect a thrilling conclusion to the season, filled with memorable moments and standout performances from baseball's best.