All-Star Break Recap and Preview: Key Storylines in the MLB
The 2024 MLB season has reached a pivotal moment with the All-Star Game and draft now in the rearview mirror. As the trade deadline approaches in less than two weeks, teams are strategizing meticulously, aiming to strengthen their rosters for the crucial second half of the season.
Cardinals Surge Ahead
Since May 11, the St. Louis Cardinals have demonstrated their prowess, achieving the best record in the National League at 35-22, which equates to a robust .614 winning percentage. Not far behind, the Philadelphia Phillies have been impressive as well, boasting a 34-22 record (.607) in the same period. Meanwhile, the Houston Astros have excelled with a .632 winning percentage, thanks to their 36-21 record since mid-May.
Despite their remarkable run, the Cardinals still trail the Milwaukee Brewers by 4.5 games in the standings. With a current record of 50-46, they remain within striking distance of the Brewers, who sit at 55-42. However, the Brewers hold a significant edge in their season series against the Cardinals with a commanding 6-1 lead.
Guardians Hold Their Own
The Guardians have paralleled the Cardinals' success, putting up a 34-21 record since May 11, matching the Cardinals' .618 winning percentage. As they continue to battle, their performance remains critical in their quest for postseason contention.
Blue Jays' Struggles
On the other end of the spectrum, the Toronto Blue Jays have found themselves in a precarious position. Standing at 44-52, they are 9.5 games out of a wild-card spot, with FanGraphs giving them a mere 1.8% chance of making the playoffs. This leaves the Blue Jays in a challenging situation, needing a significant turnaround to alter their trajectory.
Elly De La Cruz's Stolen Bases Mastery
Elly De La Cruz has been electrifying on the basepaths, leading MLB with 46 stolen bases as we entered the All-Star break. Considering that the Reds have played 97 games, Da La Cruz is on pace to swipe an impressive 78 bases by season's end. Looking back, José Reyes managed the same feat in 2007, while Ronald Acuña Jr. came close with 73 stolen bases last year. The historical marks set by Rickey Henderson, who stole 93 bases in 1988, and Vince Coleman's 109 in 1987, illustrate the remarkable company De La Cruz finds himself in.
Dodgers' Pitching Woes
On the mound, the Los Angeles Dodgers have faced their fair share of adversity, utilizing a staggering 31 pitchers so far this season. Key injuries to notable starters such as Walker Buehler, Tyler Glasnow, Tony Gonsolin, and Clayton Kershaw have tested their depth. In response, the Dodgers claimed Brent Honeywell off waivers from the Pittsburgh Pirates, seeking to reinforce their beleaguered rotation.
Only five pitchers eclipsed the 200-inning mark last season, including Logan Webb, Zac Gallen, and Gerrit Cole. Currently, Logan Gilbert leads the league with 132 1/3 innings pitched. Hot on his heels, Seth Lugo has logged 127 innings, while Logan Webb has accumulated 124 1/3 innings, underscoring the durability and endurance required to reach this elite club.
Prospects Making Waves
In the realm of prospects and fresh talent, Nolan Schanuel made headlines by making his MLB debut the same year he was drafted, a rarity last seen with Garrett Crochet in 2020. Another exciting name to watch is Chris Cortez, who is anticipated to break into the majors this year. Cortez's impressive stint at Texas A&M, where he posted a 2.78 ERA and racked up 107 strikeouts in 64 2/3 innings, has set the stage for his entry into the big leagues.
As teams gear up for the critical stretch run, these storylines and individual performances will shape the narrative of the 2024 MLB season. With the trade deadline looming, the moves made in the coming days could have lasting impacts on the playoff races and championship aspirations across the league.