By Mirek Zastavnyi
At last, playoff baseball is upon us! After a long 341 days since the last MLB postseason game, the anticipation is palpable. In just a month, we’ll crown the 2024 World Series champion, but before that, we have a full slate of games to enjoy. Throughout this postseason, we’ll be breaking down the upcoming games day by day, highlighting the major storylines that could define the action. Let’s dive into the first round of the Wild Card Series and explore the top matchups.
Tigers at Astros
The Detroit Tigers have been riding a wave of momentum since their spectacular September run, making the playoffs for the first time since 2014. They’ve lined up their ace, Tarik Skubal, who has been nothing short of dominant, boasting a 1.52 ERA in four starts last month. The key question is whether he can maintain this elite performance against the formidable Houston Astros.
Skubal faces a daunting challenge in Framber Valdez, who is also in peak form, having secured a 2.19 ERA over his last 16 starts. This matchup promises to be a thrilling showdown of left-handed power, and the Tigers will need to capitalize on their underdog status if they hope to advance.
Royals at Orioles
The Baltimore Orioles are looking to break a nearly decade-long postseason drought, last winning a playoff game on October 5, 2014. With Corbin Burnes on the mound, they have a solid chance to do just that. Burnes has been a consistent force, and the Royals are struggling to generate offense, scoring only 74 runs in September.
Bobby Witt Jr. has emerged as the Royals’ star, but he’ll need support from his teammates, especially after the loss of Vinnie Pasquantino to injury. This game will be a litmus test for both teams, with the Orioles eager to return to postseason glory.
Mets at Brewers
The New York Mets had a tumultuous 2023 season, but they bounced back with a remarkable playoff push, showcasing star players like Francisco Lindor. Meanwhile, the Milwaukee Brewers are overcoming significant losses, including their longtime manager Craig Counsell.
This matchup raises an interesting question: which team has better vibes heading into the postseason? Both teams are riding high on momentum, and the winner could emerge with a newfound confidence that propels them further in the playoffs.
Braves at Padres
The Atlanta Braves face a challenging situation with their pitching staff stretched thin after a doubleheader against the Mets. They will need to get creative with their starters, as traditional options are limited. This makes their upcoming game against the San Diego Padres particularly intriguing, especially with the potential for a surprise pitcher to step up.
In a postseason filled with uncertainty, this matchup could hinge on which team can adapt to the pressures of playoff baseball.
Conclusion
With so many compelling storylines and high-stakes matchups, the 2024 MLB Wild Card Series promises to deliver thrilling baseball action. Whether it’s the resurgent Tigers, the hungry Orioles, the determined Mets, or the resilient Braves, each team brings its own narrative to the postseason stage. Buckle up for what’s sure to be an unforgettable October filled with drama, excitement, and the promise of crowning a new champion.
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