Injury Updates Impacting Playoff Contenders
The past week in Major League Baseball has seen several significant injury updates that could impact the postseason. Anthony Rizzo of the New York Yankees suffered fractures to his fourth and fifth fingers on his right hand after being hit by a pitch. This injury makes his participation in the American League Division Series (ALDS) unlikely. Meanwhile, DJ LeMahieu, also of the Yankees, is dealing with a right hip impingement but hopes to resume baseball activities soon to be available for the ALDS starting October 5.
The Yankees are also monitoring Jake Cousins, who has a right pectoral strain. Cousins played catch for the first time since being placed on the injured list, but his return timeline remains uncertain. Over in Houston, Yordan Alvarez of the Astros has resumed baseball activities after suffering a sprained right knee. He could be an option for the American League Wild Card Series roster. Similarly, Chas McCormick of the Astros, who has a right hand fracture, is scheduled for live batting practice and could also be an option for the Wild Card Series.
Postseason Hopes and Player Recoveries
The Philadelphia Phillies are keeping a close eye on Spencer Turnbull, who has a right lat strain. Turnbull threw a live batting practice session, and a possible return during the postseason has not been ruled out. The Cleveland Guardians are dealing with Alex Cobb‘s right hand blister. Cobb will throw a simulated game, and a decision on his readiness for the ALDS roster is pending.
In Los Angeles, the Dodgers are facing challenges with Freddie Freeman and Miguel Rojas. Freeman, who was seen in a walking boot and using crutches after exiting a game, had negative X-rays and remains optimistic about his readiness for the National League Division Series next Saturday. Rojas, on the other hand, aggravated a lingering groin injury and is sidelined for at least a couple of games.
Key Series to Watch in the Final Week
As the 2024 regular season comes to a close, several critical series are underway, with significant playoff implications. The New York Mets are defending their position against the Atlanta Braves in a crucial three-game series at Truist Park. The Mets’ rotation includes Luis Severino, David Peterson, and Sean Manaea, while the Braves counter with Spencer Schwellenbach, Chris Sale, and Max Fried.
Another pivotal series is between the San Diego Padres and the Los Angeles Dodgers. This series could determine the NL West champion. The Padres have a strong pitching lineup with Michael King, Dylan Cease, and Joe Musgrove. The Dodgers need to avoid being swept to maintain their first-place standing; otherwise, they risk becoming a Wild Card team.
Teams on the Brink of Playoff Spots
The Detroit Tigers have surged into playoff contention after being ten games out on August 4th. They are tied with the Kansas City Royals and hold a one-game lead over the Minnesota Twins for the final Wild Card spot. Winning their series against the Tampa Bay Rays would be crucial before facing the struggling Chicago White Sox over the weekend.
The Royals, despite a seven-game losing streak, remain in Wild Card contention. They face pressure from other AL Central teams like Detroit and Minnesota. The Royals will rely on All-Star lefty Cole Ragans and Michael Wacha to stabilize their position. Meanwhile, the Miami Marlins and the Twins are also vying for AL Wild Card spots. The Twins need wins against the Marlins while monitoring results from other contenders like Kansas City and the Seattle Mariners.
Managerial Changes and Team Developments
The past week also saw significant managerial changes. The San Francisco Giants dismissed Farhan Zaidi from his role as president of baseball operations after six seasons. Giants legend and part-owner Buster Posey has been named the new president of baseball operations. The Miami Marlins will not have Skip Schumaker return as their manager in 2025. Schumaker informed players of his decision before Friday’s game against the Toronto Blue Jays and left to be with his family following his grandmother’s passing.
The Chicago White Sox are considering Grady Sizemore for their managerial position. White Sox general manager Chris Getz confirmed that Sizemore is a candidate but emphasized the need for a thorough selection process. The St. Louis Cardinals announced that John Mozeliak will remain as president of baseball operations for the final year of his contract, though many duties will be shifted elsewhere in 2025. Manager Oliver Marmol will also return in 2025.
Exciting Times for Baseball Fans
The final week of the 2024 regular season is filled with drama and excitement. With more than half of the 12 playoff spots still up for grabs, teams are competing fiercely for first-round byes, home-field advantage, and pitching staff configurations. Fans can look forward to thrilling matchups and critical games that will determine the postseason landscape.
In addition to the on-field action, the Oakland Athletics are playing their final series at the Coliseum against the Texas Rangers. Former Athletics star Marcus Semien will be present with the Rangers to mark the end of 57 years of Oakland A’s baseball. Fans hope that the team performs well this week as they finish their season at the Coliseum and then in Seattle.
As the postseason approaches, baseball fans have much to look forward to. From injury recoveries to critical series and managerial changes, the past week has been eventful and sets the stage for an exciting conclusion to the 2024 MLB season.
