The 2024 Major League Baseball (MLB) season is drawing to a dramatic close, with just seven days left before the postseason begins. For some teams, it has been a tumultuous ride marked by unexpected twists and turns, both positive and negative.
Milwaukee Brewers: A Rollercoaster Season
The Milwaukee Brewers have faced a series of daunting challenges throughout this season. Injuries to key players like Brandon Woodruff and Devin Williams tested the team’s resilience. Furthermore, the Brewers made significant roster changes, trading their ace Corbin Burnes to the Baltimore Orioles. Adding to their woes, the Brewers also lost their manager to the Cubs.
Despite these setbacks, there were shining moments for Milwaukee. Christian Yelich’s early-season performance was nothing short of spectacular until he suffered a post-All-Star break injury. The unavoidable hiatus of a star player often leaves a team scrambling, but for the Brewers, it presented an opportunity for rookie sensation Jackson Chourio to step into the limelight. Chourio emerged as a key player, filling the gap left by Yelich admirably.
Other notable contributors included William Contreras, Brice Turang, Willy Adames, and Joey Ortiz. Their combined efforts have kept the Brewers in contention, defying early-season expectations. Reflecting on his own predictions, the author admitted, "I picked the Brewers to finish last in the NL Central," before humorously summarizing, "Impeccable work, Brewers. Atrocious work, Matt."
Cleveland Guardians: Bullpen Dominance
The Cleveland Guardians have also had their share of ups and downs this season. Initially predicted to finish fourth in the AL Central and placed 24th in the pre-spring power rankings, their journey has been a compelling story of defying the odds. A major highlight has been the exceptional performance of the bullpen, touted as the best in baseball. The author conceded, "The Guardians' bullpen has been the best in baseball by a mile all season."
The appointment of Stephen Vogt as the new manager, following Terry Francona's departure, marked a new era for the team. Despite setbacks like the loss of ace Shane Bieber and underwhelming performances from Triston McKenzie and Logan Allen, the Guardians have found a way to stay competitive. The bullpen, led by Cy Young candidate Emmanuel Clase, has been instrumental in maintaining their stronghold.
Offensively, José Ramírez has been a consistent threat, while Josh Naylor has provided the much-needed power-hitting prowess. Steven Kwan, serving as one of the league’s best table-setters, and David Fry, emerging as a key contributor, have also played crucial roles. Reflecting on his initial predictions for the Guardians, the author wittily remarked, "The Guardians rule, Matt drools."
World Series Prediction
As the regular season nears its conclusion, fans and analysts alike are keenly awaiting the commencement of the postseason. The author, sticking to his preseason prediction, foresees the Phillies overcoming the Orioles in the World Series. Whether or not this prediction holds true, the dynamic and unpredictable nature of the 2024 MLB season has undoubtedly kept everyone on the edge of their seats.
With both the Milwaukee Brewers and the Cleveland Guardians showcasing remarkable tenacity and skill, the upcoming postseason promises to be an exhilarating chapter in the annals of baseball history. The final week of regular-season play will be crucial for setting the stage, but as the saying goes, in baseball, anything can happen.
So as we brace ourselves for the thrilling action ahead, one thing remains clear: the 2024 MLB season has been nothing short of extraordinary. As the author aptly put it, "Bring it on."