As the regular season draws to a close, the anticipation for the playoffs and the much-anticipated awards season is palpable. With major awards votes due before the postseason commences, baseball enthusiasts and experts alike are gearing up for what promises to be a thrilling end to a remarkable year in Major League Baseball. Here is a comprehensive look at some of the standout individual performances and team achievements this season.
Aaron Judge's Historic Season
Aaron Judge has undeniably been the standout performer this season, leading the majors across an impressive array of statistical categories. His prowess at the plate is captured by a .324 batting average, .460 on-base percentage, and a staggering .703 slugging percentage, which sums up to a formidable 224 OPS+. Judge has smashed 57 home runs, driven in 142 RBI, crossed the plate 120 times, and accumulated a WAR of 10.6—a testament to his unrivaled impact on the field.
Judge's contributions go beyond conventional metrics. He boasts a perfect record in stolen bases, successfully swiping 10 bags in 10 attempts, and his versatility has been on full display as he played out of position in center field for most of the season. Given these superb numbers and multifaceted contributions, Judge is a formidable candidate for MVP honors.
The Dual-threat Marvel: Shohei Ohtani
Another player who has rewritten the record books this year is Shohei Ohtani. Posting a .303/.386/.642 slash line (187 OPS+) along with 53 home runs, 125 RBI, and 130 runs, Ohtani has epitomized the modern-day baseball superstar. Additionally, his 56 stolen bases make him the first player to achieve the rare feat of 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a single season. With an 8.6 WAR, Ohtani's two-way brilliance keeps him firmly in the MVP conversation.
The Pitchers’ Arms Race
On the mound, several pitchers have made compelling cases for the Cy Young Award. Tarik Skubal has been a workhorse for his team, notching an 18-4 record with a 2.39 ERA, a sparkling 0.92 WHIP, and 228 strikeouts over 192 innings. Leading the league in wins, ERA, and strikeouts, Skubal has set a high bar for his peers.
Chris Sale, though not having received Cy Young consideration since 2018, has pieced together an exceptional season with an 18-3 record, a 2.38 ERA, a 1.01 WHIP, and 225 strikeouts over 177 2/3 innings. Sale's consistent excellence might finally earn him the coveted hardware after being a perennial contender in years past, finishing as high as second and never below sixth in previous Cy Young votes.
Zack Wheeler has also stood out with a 16-7 record, a 2.56 ERA, and a solid 0.96 WHIP, striking out 213 batters in 193 2/3 innings. Each of these pitchers has put forth compelling cases, making the Cy Young race one of the closest in recent memory.
Cleveland Guardians: Surpassing Expectations
Perhaps one of the most unexpected storylines of the season is the Cleveland Guardians’ remarkable campaign. Initially projected to finish around .500 and with a gambling win total set at 79, the Guardians were pegged for a third-place finish in the AL Central. Despite losing ace Shane Bieber to a season-ending injury after just two starts and underwhelming performances from Triston McKenzie and Logan Allen, the Guardians have defied the odds. They are now only half a game out of the best record in the entire American League.
Their resilience can be summarized in one quote: "And yet, the Guardians are only half a game out of the best record in the entire American League." This statement encapsulates the improbable nature of their success, which has added a fascinating subplot to the AL playoff picture.
Milwaukee Brewers: Triumph Amidst Adversity
Another team to watch is the Milwaukee Brewers, who have not trailed in the NL Central since April 29. The Brewers are on pace to finish with the largest division lead of any first-place team, a remarkable achievement considering the numerous challenges they faced this season. Key losses included manager Craig Counsell to the Chicago Cubs, Brandon Woodruff for the 2024 season, and stars Corbin Burnes to the Orioles in a spring training trade and Devin Williams and Christian Yelich to injuries.
Despite the setbacks, the team showcased remarkable tenacity under the leadership of a newly promoted manager: "Murphy was promoted from within to take over a team that had already lost Brandon Woodruff for the 2024 season." The Brewers' resilience has them firmly positioned for a deep playoff run.
Closing Thoughts
As major award ballots are being filled out and fans eagerly await the postseason, it’s essential to remember the words of one seasoned voter: "Remember, these aren't necessarily my picks. They are predictions as to who will win." This sentiment brings to light the unpredictable nature of baseball's awards season.
In an era characterized by standout individual performances and resilient team efforts, this season has been one for the ages. With the playoffs on the horizon and award announcements set to follow the World Series, the excitement in the baseball community continues to build.