The 2024 MLB All-Star Game and draft have concluded, setting the stage for the crucial weeks ahead in Major League Baseball. With the trade deadline arriving in less than two weeks, teams are scrambling to make strategic moves that could define their seasons.
Cardinals Surging but Facing Tough Road
Among the notable teams, the St. Louis Cardinals have been on a tear since May 11, boasting the best record in the National League over this stretch with a 35-22 (.614) performance. Despite their hot streak, they find themselves trailing the Milwaukee Brewers by 4.5 games, sitting at 50-46, compared to the Brewers' 55-42 record.
The gap may seem manageable, but the Cardinals face a significant uphill battle as the Brewers lead the season series 6-1. Additionally, other teams with similar momentum since May 11, such as the Philadelphia Phillies (34-22, .607) and the Houston Astros (36-21, .632), only add to the competitive landscape.
Challenges for the Dodgers
The Los Angeles Dodgers are experiencing a season wracked by injuries, particularly among their pitching staff. Key starters like Walker Buehler, Tyler Glasnow, Tony Gonsolin, and Clayton Kershaw have all faced health issues, forcing the team to utilize a staggering 31 pitchers this season. In an attempt to bolster their roster, the Dodgers recently claimed Brent Honeywell off waivers from the Pirates.
Pitching durability remains a league-wide concern, evidenced by only five pitchers reaching the 200-inning mark last season, including standouts like Logan Webb, Zac Gallen, and Gerrit Cole. Currently, Logan Gilbert leads the league with 132 1/3 innings, followed by Seth Lugo with 127 innings and Webb with 124 1/3 innings.
New Faces and Historic Feats
The league also welcomes fresh talents and potentially historic achievements. Nolan Schanuel stands out as the first player to make his MLB debut the same year he was drafted since Garrett Crochet did so in 2020. Another prospect, Chris Cortez, is anticipated to break into the majors this year, having posted a remarkable 2.78 ERA and 107 strikeouts in 64 2/3 innings at Texas A&M.
Elly De La Cruz is on pace to steal 78 bases this season, with 46 stolen bases already to his name entering the All-Star break. This feat would place him in elite company, considering José Reyes stole 78 bases in 2007, Ronald Acuña Jr. swiped 73 bases last year, Rickey Henderson stole 93 bases in 1988, and Vince Coleman stole 109 bases in 1987.
Blue Jays in Turmoil
Meanwhile, the Toronto Blue Jays find themselves in a precarious position. With a 44-52 record, they are 9.5 games out of a wild-card spot. FanGraphs currently puts Toronto's postseason odds at a slim 1.8%, underscoring the steep climb they face to get back into contention.
As the trade deadline looms, all eyes are on the frontrunners, the underdogs, and the numerous players who could tip the balance of power. In this high-stakes environment, every game, pitch, and strategic move will be scrutinized, making the next few weeks pivotal for the 2024 MLB season.