MLB Wild Card Series: An Exciting Unpredictable Postseason
The Athletic is offering live coverage of the MLB Wild Card Series, a postseason that promises to be as unpredictable as ever. The Texas Rangers’ unexpected World Series win last year, exemplified by their bullpen’s miraculous turnaround, stands testament to the wild magic of October baseball. However, this year’s field is uniquely even, with no clear favorite, making every team’s shot at the championship all the more thrilling.
Playoff Tiers
Below is a breakdown of the teams by tier, based on their expectations and the likely emotional impact of their postseason outcomes.
Tier 5: "Aw, Raspberries. But What a Season!"
Detroit Tigers
Despite a remarkable late-season surge to secure a playoff spot, the Tigers are not championship favorites. Featuring one of the best pitchers in baseball and a few above-average hitters, their fans cherish the 2024 season, viewing it as a stepping stone for the future.
Kansas City Royals
Following a 106-loss season, the Royals’ 2024 achievements are already a success. They stumbled into the postseason but boast dynamic young talents like Vinnie Pasquantino and Bobby Witt Jr. Their season’s success is cemented regardless of their October performance.
Tier 4: "Window is Still Open, But We’re Getting Impatient."
Baltimore Orioles
With a young, talented roster, the Orioles are positioned for long-term contention. However, baseball’s unpredictable nature means that capitalizing on their current window is crucial to avoid future disappointments, akin to the fate of the 2021 White Sox.
Tier 3: "A Pennant Would Be Pretty Cool."
Atlanta Braves
Despite a season wrecked by injuries to preseason Cy Young and MVP candidates, the Braves remain a formidable playoff contender. Surviving such adversity makes any postseason success a remarkable feat.
New York Mets
Owner Steve Cohen’s aggressive moves set championship expectations high. While a World Series would be ideal, a pennant win would still be an appreciated consolation for long-suffering Mets fans.
Tier 2: "Please. Just One. For the Love of All That is Holy. Just One."
San Diego Padres
Relentless in setting historical milestones, the Padres still chase their elusive first World Series title. This season’s playoff appearance carries immense pressure on both the team and its fanbase, who yearn for a championship.
Cleveland Guardians
Cleveland’s last World Series win predates some of the most iconic moments and figures in baseball history. This drought only fuels their fanbase’s desperation for postseason glory.
Milwaukee Brewers
Operating with limited resources, the Brewers’ narrow contention window demands a World Series win. The stakes amplify considering the franchise’s longstanding underdog status and historical drought.
Tier 1: "Don’t Bother Coming Home Without a Championship."
Philadelphia Phillies
Having reached the League Championship Series twice in recent years, the Phillies face heightened expectations. They seek to convert substantial financial investments and past playoff experiences into a World Series title.
Houston Astros
A remarkable midseason turnaround sees the Astros refusing to settle for anything less than a championship. Their consistent presence in the ALCS sets a high bar for success.
New York Yankees
Continuing their legacy of dominance requires nothing short of a World Series victory. The history of legendary Yankees casts a long shadow over the current roster, underscoring the "championship or bust" mantra.
Los Angeles Dodgers
With significant investments and a roster boasting several future Hall of Famers, the Dodgers face enormous pressure to deliver a World Series win. Their extensive preparations and elite talents leave no room for postseason failure.
