The 2024 MLB season has been nothing short of dramatic, with intense competition and standout performances marking the halfway point. As we move past the All-Star break, the trade deadline looms large, with just under two weeks left for teams to make pivotal roster adjustments.
Rising Stars and Contenders
In the National League, the St. Louis Cardinals have rebounded impressively since May 11, posting a 35-22 (.614) record. Despite this surge, they remain 4.5 games behind the division-leading Milwaukee Brewers. The Brewers, with a 55-42 record, have the upper hand in their season series against the Cardinals, boasting a 6-1 lead.
Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Phillies have also been on a tear, recording a 34-22 (.607) record since May 11. The Houston Astros are not to be overlooked either, leading the charge with a 36-21 (.632) performance during the same period. The Cleveland Guardians, matching the Cardinals with a .618 winning percentage, further emphasize the competitive scramble across both leagues.
The Elly De La Cruz Phenomenon
All eyes are on Elly De La Cruz, who leads MLB with 46 stolen bases entering the All-Star break. With the Reds having played 97 games, De La Cruz is on pace to steal 78 bases by season’s end, a feat not accomplished since José Reyes in 2007. Comparatively, Ronald Acuña Jr. stole 73 bases last year, while Rickey Henderson and Vince Coleman reached 93 and 109 stolen bases in 1988 and 1987, respectively.
The Dodgers' Pitching Dilemmas
The Los Angeles Dodgers have faced significant challenges this season, notably with injuries to key starters like Walker Buehler, Tyler Glasnow, Tony Gonsolin, and Clayton Kershaw. Despite these setbacks, the Dodgers have managed to utilize a staggering 31 pitchers this season. Recently, they claimed Brent Honeywell off waivers from the Pirates, a move that aims to bolster their beleaguered pitching staff.
Inning Eaters and Durable Aces
Durability on the mound has been a rare commodity, highlighted by only five pitchers reaching 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 with 127 innings, and Logan Webb with 124 1/3 innings. Their consistency on the mound underscores the importance of reliable starting pitching in the modern game.
Rookie Sensations and Anticipated Debuts
The season has also seen some notable rookie performances. Nolan Schanuel made his MLB debut the same year he was drafted, a rare achievement last accomplished by Garrett Crochet in 2020. Eyes are also on Chris Cortez, who is anticipated to break into the major leagues this year. Cortez posted an impressive 2.78 ERA and 107 strikeouts in 64 2/3 innings at Texas A&M.
Toronto's Long Shot
On the other side of the spectrum, the Toronto Blue Jays find themselves in a precarious position. Standing at 44-52, they are 9.5 games out of a wild-card spot. According to FanGraphs, their postseason odds are a slim 1.8%, leaving the team with a monumental task ahead if they hope to make a playoff push.
As teams prepare to finalize their rosters before the trade deadline, the coming weeks promise to be a hybrid of strategic gambles and hopeful turnarounds. Whether it's the Cardinals continuing their upward trajectory, the Brewers maintaining their lead, or the Dodgers navigating through their pitching woes, the 2024 MLB season is shaping up to be one for the history books.