The conclusion of the 2024 MLB All-Star Game and draft has set the stage for an exciting race to the postseason. With the trade deadline less than two weeks away, teams are making their strategies clear as they aim to solidify their rosters for the playoff push.
The Cardinals Surge but Trail Brewers
Since May 11, the St. Louis Cardinals have sported the best record in the National League, boasting a 35-22 (.614) performance. Despite this impressive run, they find themselves trailing the Milwaukee Brewers by 4.5 games. The Cardinals currently hold a 50-46 record, with the Brewers leading the season series against them 6-1. The Brewers sit at 55-42, keeping a firm grip on the division lead.
The Cardinals' rivals in the National League, the Philadelphia Phillies, have also been on a tear since May 11, with a 34-22 (.607) record. Meanwhile, the Houston Astros have posted an even better 36-21 (.632) mark, showcasing an elite level of play.
Challenges and Opportunities for Other Teams
The Cleveland Guardians share similar success, registering a 34-21 record since May 11, which matches the Cardinals' .618 winning percentage. The Toronto Blue Jays, however, find themselves in a precarious position. With a record of 44-52, they stand 9.5 games out of a wild-card spot, and FanGraphs places their postseason odds at a mere 1.8%.
Elly De La Cruz and the Stolen Base Pursuit
Elly De La Cruz has electrified the league with his speed, leading MLB with 46 stolen bases entering the All-Star break. The Reds, who have played 97 games, are on pace to witness De La Cruz steal 78 bases, a figure that would put him in elite company. José Reyes stole 78 bases in 2007, Ronald Acuña Jr. stole 73 last year, and Rickey Henderson and Vince Coleman stole 93 and 109 bases in 1988 and 1987, respectively.
Dodgers' Pitching Woes and Additions
The Los Angeles Dodgers have faced significant challenges with their pitching staff this season, utilizing 31 different pitchers. Injuries to key starters such as Walker Buehler, Tyler Glasnow, Tony Gonsolin, and Clayton Kershaw have necessitated constant adjustments. In a bid to shore up their pitching, the Dodgers claimed Brent Honeywell off waivers from the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Last season, only five pitchers reached the 200-inning mark, a testament to how grueling the role of a starter can be. Among those who achieved this milestone were Logan Webb, Zac Gallen, and Gerrit Cole. Currently, Logan Gilbert leads the league with 132 1/3 innings pitched, followed by Seth Lugo with 127 innings and Logan Webb with 124 1/3 innings.
Rookies Making an Impact
In the realm of exciting debuts, Nolan Schanuel made a notable entrance into the Major Leagues the same year he was drafted, a feat last achieved by Garrett Crochet in 2020. Another rookie, Chris Cortez, is expected to break into the majors this year. Cortez displayed exceptional promise at Texas A&M, recording a 2.78 ERA and 107 strikeouts in 64 2/3 innings, making him a highly anticipated addition to the league.
As the trade deadline approaches, teams are undoubtedly assessing their needs and strategizing for the final months of the season. Whether they are bolstering their bullpens or chasing historic records, the next few weeks promise to reveal much about the ambitions and capabilities of MLB's contenders.