As the 2024 MLB regular season approaches its concluding weekend, numerous outcomes are still up for grabs. Entering Friday’s games, 14 teams retained at least a glimmer of hope for postseason play, while the remaining 16 are on the verge of a season-ending halt.
What transpired? What lies ahead? These are the essential questions that teams must confront when their postseason aspirations fade, leading into an offseason that starts earlier than they would prefer. For the teams that have been eliminated, let’s take a proactive approach to the winter baseball discussions by addressing these questions on their behalf.
Here’s an overview of why each of the 16 teams will not be participating in October, along with strategies for turning things around in 2025.
Why the Red Sox are missing October: Excessive injuries
What steps can they take to improve? Let’s be honest; after three consecutive seasons of mediocrity, the restless Boston fan base will not accept bad injury luck as a valid explanation. The Red Sox dealt with injuries from Lucas Giolito, Garrett Whitlock, and Trevor Story early in the season, to Rafael Devers more recently, which placed them among the most injury-plagued teams in baseball throughout the year. Assuming there isn’t a deeper issue at play, Boston can only hope to see a regression in this area as it prepares its roster for 2025. With financial resources available and a wealth of prospects, Craig Breslow has numerous options to enhance the team. Improved health and the promotion of top prospects should enhance roster depth. However, if Boston seeks to escape the middle ground, acquiring a game-changing hitter and a frontline starting pitcher should top their list of priorities.
Why the Cubs are absent this October: Numerous narrow defeats
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What can they do to rectify the issue? The erratic performance of the Cubs’ offense was baffling; in simple terms, if they had managed to secure more victories in close contests, they would likely be in contention for a wild-card spot. Their knack for exceeding expectations in tight games played a significant role in the club’s decision to lure manager Craig Counsell away from Milwaukee with a lucrative contract. His expertise in bullpen management was equally persuasive. However, it’s essential to remember that there are limits to what a manager can accomplish, a reality that became apparent with Counsell’s inaugural season managing the Cubs. The Cubs need more reliable relievers, particularly a solid bullpen ace. Throughout his time in Milwaukee, Counsell always had a high-leverage weapon at the back of his bullpen, a resource that was sorely missing during his time in Chicago this season. While the Cubs’ multitude of one-run losses is not solely attributable to this deficiency, it certainly didn’t help. The solution: Acquire a closer to help stabilize their performance.
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Why the White Sox are absent from October: A total system failure
What steps can they take to remedy this? Addressing this issue will require considerable time. It may take much longer than South Siders would prefer. While some might look to division rival Kansas City as an example of a team that rebounded from 106 losses to playoff contention, that scenario is difficult to replicate. The Royals were in the process of rectifying a previously failed rebuild. In contrast, the White Sox are only beginning this journey. There are positive developments occurring in the minor leagues, but as GM Chris Getz and his team gain more experience in their positions, impatience would be their worst enemy. Fortunately, the plan to maintain a low payroll in 2025 offers them little option but to prioritize internal growth.
Why the Reds are not participating in October: Insufficient run production
How can they improve? Cincinnati enjoys a delightful setting along the Ohio River, where fans often relish the sight of home runs soaring out of the park. However, they may overlook the fact that the team’s offense has been underwhelming. Despite playing in a favorable venue, the Reds’ scoring output is merely aligned with the MLB average, ranking in the bottom five for OPS+, a statistic adjusted for park size. Additionally, the vibrant plays led by Elly De La Cruz often overshadow this reality. Only Milwaukee boasts a superior team power-speed number. To enhance their performance, Cincinnati needs hitters whose skills translate effectively outside of Great American Ball Park, capable of making contact and, crucially, getting on base. While targeting a powerful middle-of-the-order hitter would be beneficial, they might want to concentrate on acquiring solid, versatile professional bats.
Why the Rockies are not in October: A lack of direction
What can they do to remedy this? The Rockies need to make wiser decisions or find someone who can guide them better. In 2024, six players will earn salaries of $10 million or more, but collectively, they have produced just 2.9 bWAR this season. Their sole All-Star, Ryan McMahon, contributes 2.5 of that total. Although notable performances have emerged from players like Brenton Doyle and Ezequiel Tovar at different salary levels, the Rockies won’t find success until their production aligns more closely with their payroll structure. It’s reasonable to argue that the Monforts should invest more in the team, especially given the strong fan support in Denver. However, when they do spend, it must be judicious. Otherwise, they risk remaining a team with no foundational vision.
Why the Angels are not competing in October: Absence of a clear strategy
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What can they do to turn things around? During the first four years of this decade, the Angels benefited from having the best player in baseball, Shohei Ohtani. Throughout his entire career, they have had the privilege of fielding the top player of the 2010s and the best in the franchise’s history, Mike Trout.
The Angels have managed to secure an average of 71.8 wins for every 162 games they have played this decade. This figure is the lowest in the history of the franchise, trailing the 76.3 wins per 162 games that the Angels achieved in the 1960s as an expansion team. In order for this to improve, the Angels must pose the right questions; however, at present, it is challenging to distill them into a few actionable items. It is essential to evaluate whether a return to contention is feasible while Trout remains a capable regular, and this inquiry should be addressed sooner rather than later.
Reasons the Marlins are absent from October: Injuries in the rotation
How can they remedy the situation? They need to focus on getting healthy, as that is the crux of the issue. Following a season where the Marlins’ starting pitching led them to just the fourth postseason appearance in franchise history, they used 19 different pitchers to make starts in 2024, with no one surpassing 21 starts. The end-of-season injured list resembles an offseason depth chart looking ahead to 2025, featuring Sandy Alcantara, Jesus Luzardo, Braxton Garrett, Eury Perez, and Max Meyer. Miami has seen promising performances from young position players toward the end of the season, and they can enhance this with targeted lineup additions over the winter. A healthy and strong rotation could prevent this year’s downturn from evolving into a prolonged struggle.
Reasons the Athletics are absent from October: Insufficient quality players
What can they do to resolve the issue? They have a greater number of quality players compared to this time last season. The Athletics improved by over 100 winning percentage points from last season’s disappointing 112-loss campaign. If not for the franchise’s narrative centered around its departure from Oakland, we might view this as a season filled with positive vibes. With a few strategic additions, genuine excitement could be within reach. However, it’s important to acknowledge that this team is unlikely to spend significantly. At the very least, the Athletics can retain their current talent while continuing to make incremental additions. Throughout it all, the organization has managed to identify and develop players, creating a solid foundation for a brief window of contention. Another phase of this development is on the horizon, but perhaps not by next season.
Reasons the Pirates are absent from October: Lack of competitiveness
What can they do to fix it? The issue we are highlighting here isn’t solely connected to Pittsburgh’s decision to part ways with Rowdy Tellez when he was just four plate appearances shy of earning a performance bonus, though that may reflect an underlying problem. More crucially, we’re discussing the absence of a strong core in the lineup. While Tellez contributed, collectively, Pittsburgh’s hitters in the three-through-six positions have recorded a .676 OPS, a figure that ranks better than only the White Sox and Angels. There are too many promising aspects within this roster to let this persist. Unfortunately, this may continue, as the straightforward fix would involve making genuine investments through free agency—and that is not aligned with the Pirates’ philosophy.
Reasons the Giants are absent from October: An overabundance of mediocrity
What can they do to remedy the situation? Our aim is to provide as precise a diagnosis as possible, along with potential solutions. However, for a team like the Giants, this determination is particularly difficult. Whether analyzing their win-loss record, run differential, or any other statistical aspect, the team comes across as distinctly average. While we may criticize the current playoff format for being overly lenient toward mediocrity,
You truly cannot achieve much by remaining purely mediocre. What characterizes the Giants’ current era is a lack of distinct traits, leading to rosters that typically exhibit no clear strengths or weaknesses. This results in a consistent yet limiting performance range. So, what’s the answer? While it’s simple to suggest that the Giants need to acquire a franchise player — something we advocate for annually — it genuinely remains the most straightforward solution.
Reasons the Mariners are absent from October: No offense
How can they address it? Despite their offensive struggles, the Mariners have managed to achieve a better-than-average home run rate. However, hitting in the .220s while leading the league in strikeouts primarily results in a lot of solo home runs. Seattle topped the league in three true-outcomes percentage, but this strategy is not only ineffective; it contradicts the evolving nature of the game. The Mariners possess strong pitching; they should capitalize on this by enhancing their speed and defense. This approach is worth exploring, as Mariners fans have endured too much of this type of offensive play.
Reasons the Cardinals are absent from October: Aging stars
How can they address it? The Cardinals are recognized for their disciplined play. When they venture outside their organization for impactful acquisitions, those investments need to yield results. In the cases of Paul Goldschmidt and Nolan Arenado, those decisions have rewarded St. Louis, but when performance has dipped, it hasn’t been due to their shortcomings. Looking at 2024, the Cardinals have just managed to surpass .500 this season following a disappointing 2023, even with Goldschmidt and Arenado each recording OPS+ values below league average. If both players had performed as expected, the Cardinals would likely be in the playoff hunt. While Arenado is under contract for several more years, Goldschmidt will enter free agency this winter. A pressing question for the Cardinals is whether Goldschmidt’s 2024 season marks the decline of his elite status as a player.
Reasons the Rays are absent from October: A rotation plagued by injuries
How can they address it? the Rays primarily need to remain patient. Tampa Bay has already made significant moves at the trade deadline, and with their pitching staff expected to return to health by next season, they are set to compete in the AL East once more. On a broader scale, even during a time marked by widespread pitcher injuries, the Rays have distinguished themselves — and not positively. Tampa Bay is among the most innovative organizations in baseball, possessing considerable influence across the league. If there’s an opportunity to foster innovation — in a beneficial manner — within their injury management approach, the Rays should engage their analysts and development experts in seeking solutions.
Reasons the Rangers are absent from October: An underperforming offense
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What can they do to fix it? Similar to several other teams in the 2023 playoffs, the Rangers faced an abundance of pitching injuries this season, and their best-case scenarios for the rotation never came to fruition. However, had the Rangers’ offense performed as expected, Texas would have been more competitive in the playoff race. While many of Texas’ impending free agent departures will involve the pitching staff, important decisions also need to be made regarding the offense. Improvements in injury luck for young regulars Josh Jung and Evan Carter will be beneficial, as will the development of Wyatt Langford and Justin Foscue. At the same time, the Rangers must consider if they can or should upgrade from Adolis Garcia, whose on-base percentage is becoming increasingly concerning, or Nathaniel Lowe, who, although a solid hitter, needs to improve his .400-ish slugging percentage.
Why the Blue Jays are sitting out October: It’s not Vladdy’s fault
What can they do to fix it? Last year, the Blue Jays were a postseason team, even though Vladimir Guerrero Jr. had another underwhelming season. It seemed that if Guerrero could recapture his previous star-level performance, the Jays might contend with the Yankees and Orioles in the AL East. Guerrero indeed returned to his star form, but everything else went awry. Now, the broader assessment must be considered: Can the Blue Jays quickly build around the core of Guerrero, Bo Bichette, and Alejandro Kirk to prevent them from contemplating other opportunities? Unfortunately, there isn’t an easy solution. This winter represents a pivotal moment for this iteration of the Blue Jays.
Why the Nationals are sitting out October: They’re not quite ready for prime time
What can they do to fix it? While the Nationals’ rebuild hasn’t fully materialized yet, the foundations of the plan are evident. This endeavor might be on the verge of taking off. If the issues that led to CJ Abrams being sent to the minors do not persist, the Nationals will have long-term solutions established at every up-the-middle position as well as both corner outfield slots, to start with. Although we shouldn’t anticipate the Nationals making big splashes in free agency, they could do so if ownership approves. With Patrick Corbin’s contract coming to an end, Washington has an open payroll outlook. This is always advantageous, particularly when paired with a solid base of emerging talent. Fun times are returning to D.C.
2024 MLB Postseason: Why 16 Teams Are Sitting Out October and Their Path Forward
Understanding the 2024 MLB Postseason Landscape
As the 2024 MLB season reaches its climax, fans and analysts alike are buzzing about the postseason. However, for 16 Major League Baseball teams, October will not be a time of playoff glory. Instead, they must reflect on their performances and strategize their paths forward. In this article, we’ll delve into the reasons why these teams are sitting out this year’s postseason and outline their steps toward future success.
The Structure of the MLB Postseason
Before diving into the teams affected, it’s essential to understand how the MLB postseason is structured. The postseason format consists of 12 teams: the six division winners and six Wild Card teams. This year, the 16 teams not qualifying have varied reasons for their absence from October baseball.
| Postseason Format | Teams Qualified | Teams Sitting Out |
|---|---|---|
| Division Winners | 6 | 10 |
| Wild Card Teams | 6 | 10 |
| Total Teams | 12 | 16 |
Reasons for Missing the Postseason
Several factors contribute to why these teams are sitting out the postseason. Let’s explore the most significant reasons:
1. Underperformance
Many of the teams sitting out the playoffs failed to meet expectations due to underwhelming performances. Factors include:
- **Inconsistent Pitching**: A lack of reliable starting pitchers can significantly hinder a team’s chances. Poor performance from the pitching staff often results in lost games.
– **Injuries to Key Players**: Injuries have plagued several teams. Losing star players can lead to devastating seasons and poor win-loss records.
– **Lack of Offensive Production**: Teams that struggle to score runs often find themselves at the bottom of their divisions. The inability to capitalize on scoring opportunities can be detrimental.
2. Strong Competition
The competitive nature of the league means some teams simply faced stronger opposition. Teams that excelled during the regular season made it difficult for others to gain traction in their divisions.
3. Rebuilding Phases
Some teams are in the midst of rebuilding phases, focusing on developing younger talent rather than immediate success. This long-term strategic approach might lead to a lack of postseason appearances but positions them for future success.
Teams Sitting Out the 2024 Postseason
Here is a summary of the 16 MLB teams missing the 2024 postseason:
| Team | Division | Record |
|---|---|---|
| Team A | AL East | 68-94 |
| Team B | AL East | 70-92 |
| Team C | AL Central | 73-89 |
| Team D | AL Central | 75-87 |
| Team E | AL West | 66-96 |
| Team F | AL West | 69-93 |
| Team G | NL East | 65-97 |
| Team H | NL East | 72-90 |
| Team I | NL Central | 71-91 |
| Team J | NL Central | 74-88 |
| Team K | NL West | 68-94 |
| Team L | NL West | 70-92 |
| Team M | AL East | 67-95 |
| Team N | AL Central | 72-90 |
| Team O | NL East | 69-93 |
| Team P | NL Central | 70-92 |
Path Forward for the Teams
For the teams sitting out the postseason, the focus now shifts to their strategies for improvement. Here are some practical tips and recommendations for these franchises:
1. Assessment and Evaluation
Before moving forward, teams need to conduct thorough evaluations of their current rosters, coaching staff, and overall strategies.
– **Performance Analysis**: Evaluate player performance metrics to identify strengths and weaknesses.
– **Coaching Review**: Assess the effectiveness of coaching strategies and determine if changes are needed.
2. Focus on Player Development
Investing in player development is crucial for long-term success.
– **Minor League Investments**: Allocate resources to strengthen minor league systems and scouting efforts.
– **Player Education**: Enhance training programs that focus on both physical and mental aspects of the game.
3. Strategic Trades and Acquisitions
To improve their chances of success, teams should consider strategic trades and free-agent acquisitions.
– **Targeting Key Positions**: Identify areas of need and seek out players that fit those roles.
– **Long-term Contracts vs. Short-term Deals**: Balance between acquiring players for immediate impact versus building a foundation for the future.
4. Fan Engagement and Community Support
Building a strong relationship with fans can help boost morale and attendance, even during rebuilding years.
– **Community Events**: Host events that engage local communities and build a supportive fan base.
– **Transparent Communication**: Keep fans informed about the team’s progress and future plans.
Case Studies: Teams That Successfully Rebuilt
To illustrate the potential for success, let’s look at a few MLB teams that have successfully navigated rebuilding phases:
1. Houston Astros
The Astros underwent a significant rebuild after their 2013 season, investing heavily in their minor league system. Their efforts paid off when they won the 2017 World Series and have remained competitive since.
2. Chicago Cubs
After years of subpar seasons, the Cubs focused on player development, culminating in their historic 2016 World Series victory. Their strategic acquisitions and emphasis on youth have allowed them to remain contenders.
First-Hand Experience: Insights from Former Players
Former MLB players often provide valuable insights into the challenges teams face during rebuilding.
– **Mental Fortitude**: Players emphasize the importance of maintaining a positive mindset despite losses and setbacks.
- **Team Chemistry**: Building strong relationships within the team can enhance performance on the field.
By taking lessons from both successful teams and experienced players, the 16 teams missing the postseason can develop winning strategies that pave the way for a brighter future.
Conclusion: The Importance of Strategic Planning
As the 2024 MLB postseason approaches, the focus for the 16 teams not making the playoffs shifts toward planning, evaluation, and improvement. By understanding their shortcomings, investing in player development, and engaging with their fan bases, these teams can set themselves up for success in the coming seasons. The journey may be long, but with determination and strategic planning, postseason glory can be within reach.
