The 2024 MLB playoffs have narrowed down to just four teams. The New York Mets advanced by eliminating the Philadelphia Phillies, while the Los Angeles Dodgers secured their place by defeating the San Diego Padres in an exhilarating Game 5 that demanded a win-or-go-home performance.
With the matchups established as Mets-Dodgers and Cleveland Guardians-New York Yankees, it’s time for us to make (more) predictions! We consulted our MLB experts for insights on which teams will reach the World Series, which players are likely to claim MVP honors in the league championship series, and the key narratives we’ll all be discussing in the coming week. Our experts will also clarify why their original Fall Classic predictions are still viable—or where they might have gone awry.
LCS previews: Mets-Dodgers | Guardians-Yankees | Bracket
Jump to: NLCS | ALCS | Predictions we got right | … and wrong |
National League Championship Series
Los Angeles Dodgers (7 votes)
In how many games: Seven games (2 votes), six games (3 votes), five games (2 votes)
MVP if Dodgers win: Shohei Ohtani (5 votes), Mookie Betts (1 vote), Teoscar Hernandez (1 vote)
Analysts backing the Dodgers: Tristan Cockcroft, Bradford Doolittle, Alden Gonzalez, Eric Karabell, Tim Kurkjian, Buster Olney, David Schoenfield
New York Mets (6 votes)
In how many games: Seven games (4 votes), six games (2 votes)
MVP if Mets win: Francisco Lindor (2 votes), Sean Manaea (1 vote), Starling Marte (1 vote), Brandon Nimmo (1 vote), Mark Vientos (1 vote)
Analysts backing the Mets: Jorge Castillo, Paul Hembekides, Tim Keown, Kiley McDaniel, Jesse Rogers, Jeff Passan
Key discussion point:
The Mets’ remarkable journey to the World Series has involved defeating a division rival (Braves) to secure their playoff position, taking out David Stearns’ previous team (Brewers) in the NL Wild Card Series, and eliminating another division rival and NL pennant favorite (Phillies) in the NLDS. Victorious over the organization Steve Cohen has expressed a desire to emulate since acquiring the Mets, they now aim to challenge their New York counterparts in the Bronx. — Castillo
While early attention will focus on the Ohtani vs. Lindor matchup, the spotlight will ultimately shift to Dodgers manager Dave Roberts. Whether he makes sound decisions may prove negligible. The Dodgers either face another shortcoming or they succeed. This reality, while unfair, persists; beating the Padres was a boost, yet Roberts’ challenges are far from over. — Doolittle
Editor’s Picks
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Walker Buehler has returned. Although his comeback from a second Tommy John surgery has been challenging, Buehler displayed promise in Game 3 of the NLDS. Despite a disastrous second inning where he allowed six runs, primarily due to defensive errors, he managed to complete five innings, thereby allowing for a bullpen game the next night. Buehler thrives in high-stakes moments and is scheduled to pitch in Games 2 and 6 at Dodger Stadium. Expect a solid performance from him. — Gonzalez
With the benefit of 20/20 hindsight,
After hearing the postgame interviews from the Dodgers, it’s hard to believe anyone ever doubted their potential to win. The determined and respectful Dodgers surmount every challenge in their path, emerging victorious in five games. — Olney
With Freddie Freeman injured—likely for the remainder of the postseason—the pressure mounts on Ohtani to deliver at the top of the Dodgers’ lineup. Following a strong performance in Game 1 of the division series, Ohtani had a difficult game afterward. He will be at the center of discussions surrounding the Dodgers, with the key question being: Can Ohtani lead the Dodgers to a World Series title in his first year with the team? — Passan
The remarkable pitching of Manaea, Luis Severino, and Jose Quintana continues to impress. They will pose challenges for the Dodgers, and we may find it hard to grasp how they’re achieving such success. — Rogers
Ohtani is bound to be a talking point, particularly regarding the five home runs he hits in the series, including the decisive hit in Game 7. — Schoenfield
American League Championship Series
New York Yankees (11 votes)
In how many games: Seven games (4 votes), six games (6), five games (1)
MVP if Yankees win: Aaron Judge (7), Juan Soto (3), Gerrit Cole (1)
Who picked the Yankees: Jorge Castillo, Tristan Cockcroft, Bradford Doolittle, Alden Gonzalez, Paul Hembekides, Eric Karabell, Tim Keown, Tim Kurkjian, Kiley McDaniel, Jeff Passan, Jesse Rogers
Cleveland Guardians (1 vote)
In how many games: Seven games (1)
MVP if Guardians win: Jose Ramirez
Who picked the Guardians: David Schoenfield
The one thing we’ll all be discussing:
The upcoming Subway Series marks its return after nearly twenty-five years and comes with an enticing subplot: ALCS MVP Juan Soto facing off against the team widely regarded as the Yankees’ primary competition for his services this offseason. — Castillo
Regardless of the outcome, the attention remains on Aaron Judge. If he excels, the narrative will shift to how he overcame his postseason struggles. Conversely, if he falters, the conversation will revolve around the persistence of those struggles. It’s unfortunate that his performance is under constant scrutiny every time the camera catches him during the game, but ultimately, only he can change that. — Doolittle
2024 MLB playoffs
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One topic we won’t be discussing is Aaron Judge’s slump. Just as he overcame a rough start in April to achieve an MVP regular season, Judge will rebound from a sluggish ALDS—where he batted 2-for-13 with just one extra-base hit—to propel the Yankees into the World Series. — Gonzalez
How effectively can Stephen Vogt utilize his bullpen? This season, the Guardians’ greatest asset has been their formidable relief pitchers, particularly during late-inning situations, and Vogt has relied on them significantly. Cade Smith finished fifth in the AL for innings pitched among relievers, followed closely by Hunter Gaddis in sixth and Emmanuel.
Clase eighth: The performance of Vogt with his relief pitchers remains a point of interest for the Guardians until the conclusion of their season. – Passan
Regarding Juan Soto’s earnings: He will be essential against the Guardians’ right-handed pitchers in what is shaping up to be his best playoff series so far. He may walk often, but getting on base is still getting on base. — Rogers
On the notable Cleveland bullpen: They successfully contained Aaron Judge and Juan Soto, leading the Guardians to the World Series. — Schoenfield
World Series Predictions We’ve Gotten Right — So Far
David Schoenfield: I had predicted a Dodgers-Guardians matchup at the beginning of the playoffs, even when others opted for the Padres. With the Dodgers advancing without much contribution from Ohtani, it seems time for him to deliver a standout series propelling the Dodgers to the World Series, just as Cleveland’s bullpen might.
Kiley McDaniel: I selected the Dodgers to reach the World Series, but I mistakenly thought they would lose to the Orioles. I believed the American League was wide open and favored youth, depth, and a top-tier pitcher, while the National League seemed predictable. My strengths lie more in predicting prospects than playoff outcomes, especially with the shorter series we’ve witnessed so far.
World Series Predictions That Missed the Mark
Jorge Castillo: I predicted the Astros would triumph over the Phillies. I thought the Astros’ experience and solid starting rotation would see them through a competitive American League. However, it turns out neither of these factors played much role in a three-game series against an incredibly hot team. Who could have foreseen the Phillies’ bats going silent?
Tristan Cockcroft: My prediction was for the Padres to defeat the Yankees. Regardless of whether this occurred in the division or championship series — which, by the way, MLB should really consider restoring reseeding to the playoff bracket — I viewed a Padres-Dodgers matchup as a premier league championship. The Padres came close, losing by just two runs in the decisive game. These Mets have made a significant impression in October, and imagining another Subway Series would be exciting, but many of these uplifting playoff stories often stall just before the finish line.
Highlights of the 2024 MLB Playoffs
Passan: Perez remains the heart of the Royals’ efforts »
Olney: Padres embracing Seidler’s spirit »
Keown: Escalation of NL West rivalry »
Castillo: Judge seeking redemption in October »
Alden Gonzalez: I anticipated a World Series matchup between the Astros and Padres, yet neither team made it to their respective championship series. Despite their early exits, both teams highlighted a crucial aspect of October baseball: even the strongest offenses can struggle if faced with intricate game plans and a variety of high-leverage pitchers.
Eric Karabell: Admittedly, it was unrealistic to expect a rematch from the 2022 World Series, so let’s refer back to the matchups of 1977, 1978, and 1981 instead. Enjoy, traditionalists!
Tim Keown: Ultimately, the Padres did not reach the World Series to contend against the Yankees as I predicted, but who wouldn’t enjoy a Subway Series? It seems unlikely that the Dodgers, despite their bullpen prowess observed in the NLDS, can piece together sufficient pitching to win a seven-game series.
Jeff Passan: I chose the Phillies to prevail over the Astros. It’s best if I say little else about my World Series prediction. Simply put, I did not foresee four relievers with a collective ERA of 2.20 during the regular season — Carlos Estevez, Matt Strahm, Jeff Hoffman, and Orion Kerkering — producing a 12.10 ERA in the postseason.
Jesse Rogers: I had the Phillies slated to win over a different team. My World Series choice was eliminated quickly, which suggests that the victorious team should be given serious consideration. Not to mention, the $300 million Mets can conveniently adopt the underdog narrative against the Dodgers. I’ll also point out this trend: the team that has eliminated Milwaukee in the playoffs always claims the pennant. That would be the Mets.
2024 MLB Playoffs: Championship Series Matchups Set as Mets, Dodgers, Yankees, and Guardians Battle for World Series Berth
Overview of the 2024 MLB Championship Series
The 2024 MLB Playoffs have reached a thrilling climax as the Championship Series matchups are set. New York Mets, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Yankees, and Cleveland Guardians are ready to clash for a coveted spot in the World Series. Fans are buzzing with excitement as these powerhouse teams bring their A-game to the postseason. In this article, we’ll delve into each team’s journey, key player performances, and what to expect in the upcoming series.
2024 Championship Series Matchups
| Matchup | Teams | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| NLCS | Mets vs Dodgers | October 15, 2024 | Citi Field, New York |
| ALCS | Yankees vs Guardians | October 16, 2024 |
New York Mets: A Season of Resilience
The New York Mets have had a rollercoaster season marked by injuries and unpredictable gameplay. However, they managed to secure their spot in the Championship Series through sheer resilience and talent.
Key Players to Watch
- Max Scherzer: The veteran pitcher has been crucial in clutch moments, proving his worth in the postseason.
- Francisco Lindor: A leader on and off the field, Lindor’s batting average in the playoffs has been stellar, making him a vital component of the Mets’ offense.
- Pete Alonso: Known for his power-hitting, Alonso has the potential to turn games around with one swing.
Season Highlights
The Mets finished the regular season with an impressive record, showcasing their depth and versatility. Key victories against division rivals helped them gain momentum leading into the playoffs.
Los Angeles Dodgers: Dominance in the NL
The Los Angeles Dodgers have consistently been one of the strongest teams in Major League Baseball. Their blend of experienced veterans and young talent has been instrumental in their playoff success.
Star Players
- Clayton Kershaw: The future Hall of Famer continues to perform at a high level, often shutting down opposing lineups.
- Mookie Betts: An all-around player, Betts’ combination of speed and power makes him a nightmare for pitchers.
- Will Smith: The young catcher has shown great poise under pressure and has been a reliable contributor in the lineup.
Road to the Championship Series
The Dodgers’ path to the NLCS included a series of commanding wins, demonstrating their ability to adapt and overcome challenges. Their performance in the playoffs has solidified their status as a top contender for the World Series.
New York Yankees: The Bronx Bombers’ Legacy
The New York Yankees, often referred to as the Bronx Bombers, have a storied history in the postseason. Their current roster is filled with power hitters who can change the game in an instant.
Key Contributors
- Aaron Judge: The face of the franchise, Judge’s ability to hit home runs makes him a perennial threat.
- Gleyber Torres: A young star, Torres has emerged as a key player in the Yankees’ playoff run, showcasing his batting skills.
- Gerrit Cole: The ace pitcher has been instrumental in the Yankees’ playoff success, often delivering standout performances.
Yankees’ Playoff Performance
Despite some mid-season struggles, the Yankees have bounced back in the playoffs, displaying resilience and power. Their deep lineup and strong pitching rotation make them a formidable opponent for any team.
Cleveland Guardians: Underdogs with Heart
The Cleveland Guardians have made waves this postseason, defying expectations and proving that they are a team to be reckoned with. Their underdog status has only fueled their determination to succeed.
Impact Players
- Shane Bieber: As the ace of the staff, Bieber’s pitching prowess has been essential to the Guardians’ success.
- José Ramírez: A versatile player, Ramírez has been pivotal in both offense and defense, consistently delivering key hits.
- Andrés Giménez: Emerging as a star, Giménez has brought energy and skill, making him a valuable asset in crucial moments.
Guardians’ Journey to the Championship Series
With strategic plays and a never-give-up attitude, the Guardians have made their way through tough matchups, earning their place in the ALCS. Their tenacity and teamwork have been key to their playoff performance.
What to Expect in the Championship Series
Predicted Outcomes
As the Mets face off against the Dodgers and the Yankees take on the Guardians, fans can expect intense matchups filled with high stakes and thrilling moments. Each team boasts a mix of star power and strategic depth, making predictions challenging but exciting.
Key Factors Influencing the Series
- Pitching Matchups: The effectiveness of starting pitchers could determine the outcome of games, making every pitch count.
- Offensive Production: Teams will need to capitalize on scoring opportunities to secure victories.
- Defensive Plays: Defensive errors can shift momentum, so each team must maintain focus and discipline in the field.
Fan Engagement and Experience
The Championship Series presents not only a chance for teams to compete but also for fans to engage in the excitement of postseason baseball. Here are some ways fans can amplify their experience:
Ways to Enhance Your Playoff Experience
- Attend Games: If you’re local, attending games can provide an electric atmosphere that enhances the experience.
- Watch Parties: Organize or join watch parties with friends to celebrate each game collectively.
- Social Media: Follow teams and players on social media for real-time updates, behind-the-scenes content, and fan interactions.
Conclusion
The 2024 MLB Championship Series promises to be an unforgettable showdown amongst some of baseball’s most competitive teams. With the Mets, Dodgers, Yankees, and Guardians set to battle for a spot in the World Series, fans are in for a thrilling ride. Stay tuned for what is sure to be a historic postseason!
