As we move past Memorial Day, it’s time to turn our attention to the thrilling playoff race in Major League Baseball. What makes this year particularly intriguing is the possibility of witnessing something unprecedented – a playoff team with a losing record.
In the rich history of baseball, the worst record for a full season to make the postseason is 82-80. The Padres achieved this in 2005 as NL West champs, while the 1973 Mets also made the playoffs with an 82-79 record. With the expanded playoffs today, featuring three division winners and three wild cards in each league, it seems almost inevitable that we’ll eventually see a sub-.500 team make the playoffs.
The American League’s AL West division currently boasts three teams that are barely above .500 – the Astros, Rangers, and Mariners. Despite their struggles, these teams have enough talent to potentially compete for the division title, but it will likely be a tough road for any of them to reach the mid-80s in wins.
In the AL Wild Card race, the Twins currently hold the third spot, but they are teetering just above .500. Behind them are the Red Sox, Rays, and Tigers, none of which have been consistent enough to guarantee a winning record. This uncertain situation leaves the opportunity for one of these teams to fall below the 82-win threshold.
Moving over to the National League, the Phillies, Dodgers, Braves, and Brewers seem like locks to end the season with over 90 wins. But beyond these teams, the rest of the playoff picture is wide open. The Cubs, Padres, Giants, Cardinals, and Reds have all had their ups and downs, making it difficult to predict which teams will ultimately emerge as contenders.
As we embark on the remainder of the season, there are only eight teams that feel like safe bets to be playoff contenders. In order to fill the necessary 12 spots for the playoffs, we might just witness history with a losing team entering the postseason.
The current power rankings in the MLB reflect the wild and unpredictable nature of this season, with surprise runs from teams like the Guardians and unexpected challenges for perennial powerhouses like the Yankees. The Orioles are exceeding expectations with their resilience, while the Dodgers and Royals continue to showcase their strengths. Meanwhile, the Braves grapple with unfortunate injuries to key players.
As we eagerly anticipate the rest of the season, the stage is set for a captivating playoff race in which anything can happen. Will we witness a team with a losing record making it to the postseason? Only time will tell as the thrilling drama of baseball unfolds before our eyes.
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