Oh boy, the 2024 MLB season is upon us, and let me tell ya, the excitement is palpable. Sure, we’ve technically seen the first pitch in two of the 2,430 games scheduled. But, come Thursday, March 28, it’s like the real deal starts. Every team’s in on the action, which, honestly, is how it should always be. Remember the days when fans had to wait because their team didn’t start on day one? Not a fan.
I’m all in for a day crammed with 15 games. It’s like baseball’s way of saying, “Welcome back, folks.” So, we’re just gonna brush past those two early games, okay? This season’s shaping up to be a rollercoaster. And oh, the talent! We’re talking waves of it. From the likes of Trout, Harper, and Machado, who are eyeing comebacks, to the young guns like Acuña Jr. and Soto who are now the big names. And let’s not forget the new kids on the block – Holliday, Langford, Carter. The majors are buzzing.
The Dodgers, despite the Ohtani interpreter scandal, are looking fierce with Ohtani, Freeman, and Betts. Then there’s last year’s Braves with their record-smashing offense, and the Rangers, fresh off their World Series win, eyeing a repeat. Could the Astros snag another title and claim dynasty status? The Orioles, Twins, and Phillies are also teams to watch. It’s all so tantalizing.
NL Central
The Pirates, believe it or not, were leading the pack last June. They’re getting Cruz back, which is huge. The Cardinals, despite last year’s performance, are looking strong, especially with their rotation. The Cubs, in my eyes, have the edge. But don’t sleep on the Reds or the Brewers. This division could be anyone’s game.
Second place in NL West (huge Wild Card implications)
The Dodgers are the favorites for the NL West, no surprises there. And the Rockies? Well, let’s just say not much is expected. But the real drama’s in the middle with the Diamondbacks, Padres, and Giants. Last year’s surprises and disappointments are this year’s “what ifs.”
The potential in these teams is a seesaw of emotions. And with the Phillies likely snagging the top NL wild-card spot, the fight for the remaining slots is gonna be fierce. The NL West and Central could very well be duking it out for those precious playoff positions.
As for team movements, spring training’s been a mixed bag. Injuries, trades, you name it. But hey, that’s baseball. And as for my rankings, well, they’re always up for debate. The Braves, Dodgers, Astros, Orioles, and Phillies are my top picks, but anything can happen. From MVP predictions to potential breakout stars, this season’s got it all.
And for the fans? It’s all about those promotional giveaways. Who doesn’t want a bobblehead or a replica ring? The anticipation’s killing me. From potential injuries to surprise performances, the 2024 MLB season is a puzzle waiting to be solved. And I’m here for it, every step of the way.
