The 2024 MLB All-Star Game and draft have wrapped up, setting the stage for what promises to be an intriguing second half of the season. With the trade deadline approaching in less than two weeks, teams are assessing their chances and making crucial decisions to either bolster their playoff pushes or build for the future.
Among the most fascinating storylines is the resurgence of the St. Louis Cardinals. Since May 11, the Cardinals have been on a tear, having posted an impressive 35-22 record, which translates to a .614 winning percentage. This remarkable run has been one of the best in the National League, yet the Cardinals find themselves trailing the Milwaukee Brewers by 4.5 games. St. Louis stands at 50-46, with Milwaukee leading the division at 55-42.
The Cardinals, despite their impressive performance since mid-May, have struggled against their division rivals. The Brewers have dominated the season series, leading it 6-1. This head-to-head deficit might prove pivotal as the season progresses.
Beyond the Cardinals and Brewers, the Philadelphia Phillies have also been in strong form since May 11, with a 34-22 record, a .607 winning percentage that mirrors the Cardinals' resurgence. Meanwhile, the Houston Astros have bested both with a 36-21 (.632) mark, and the Cleveland Guardians have nearly matched with a 34-21 run, resulting in a .618 winning percentage.
Struggles and Stolen Bases
The Toronto Blue Jays have not had the same fortune. The team stands at 44-52, finding themselves 9.5 games out of a wild-card spot. According to FanGraphs, the Blue Jays' postseason odds are a bleak 1.8%. This disappointing position will likely influence their strategy as the trade deadline nears.
In a season filled with compelling individual performances, Elly De La Cruz's base-stealing prowess stands out. With 46 stolen bases entering the All-Star break, De La Cruz leads all of MLB. Over 97 games played by the Reds, he is on pace to steal 78 bases, a mark that would be historic. The last player to steal as many was José Reyes in 2007. For a bit of perspective, Ronald Acuña Jr. swiped 73 bases last year, Rickey Henderson stole 93 bases in 1988, and Vince Coleman achieved a remarkable 109 stolen bases in 1987.
Pitcher Woes and Triumphs
The Los Angeles Dodgers have faced significant challenges with their pitching staff, having used 31 pitchers this season due to injuries to key starters like Walker Buehler, Tyler Glasnow, Tony Gonsolin, and Clayton Kershaw. In a bid to bolster their rotation, the Dodgers claimed Brent Honeywell off waivers from the Pirates.
Pitching durability has become a rare commodity in today's game. Last season, only five pitchers reached the 200-inning mark, including Logan Webb, Zac Gallen, and Gerrit Cole. This season, 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.
Rookies and Prospects
In an exciting development for rookie enthusiasts, Nolan Schanuel made his MLB debut this year, becoming the first player to do so in the same year he was drafted since Garrett Crochet in 2020. Moving through the pipeline, Chris Cortez is anticipated to break into the major leagues this year. His impressive performance at Texas A&M, where he posted a 2.78 ERA and 107 strikeouts in 64 2/3 innings, has set high expectations for his future.
As the trade deadline approaches, teams will continue to navigate through their options, assessing their needs and potential moves. The second half of the season promises drama and excitement as squads vie for playoff positions and individual accolades. All eyes will be on the standings, the rookies making their mark, and the veterans pushing through in their quest for glory.