Among the eleven pitchers, nine had their teams ousted in either the Wild Card Series or Division Series. Only two remain, creating ample opportunity for newcomers as we approach the Championship Series. Although several star pitchers are absent from the playoffs, this opens the gate for less recognized arms to step up and lead their teams to victory.
In this final postseason edition of the Starting Pitcher Power Rankings, our MLB.com panel evaluated the pitchers expected to feature in the rotations for the remaining teams in the ALCS or NLCS (the Dodgers, Guardians, Mets, and Yankees).
1. Gerrit Cole, Yankees
Last year, Cole secured his first Cy Young Award, yet the Yankees fell short of the playoffs. This season, he made 17 mostly solid but unremarkable starts, contributing to the Yankees clinching the AL East and positioning themselves just four wins away from their first World Series appearance in 15 years. Baseball has its quirks. At 34, Cole hasn’t demonstrated the same overpowering ability this year, achieving double-digit strikeouts in only one game. Nonetheless, he has remained effective, recording a 2.25 ERA and a 2.62 FIP in his last ten regular-season outings. Although his initial ALDS start was not sharp, he excelled in the Game 4 clincher against the Royals, tossing seven innings and allowing just one run.
2. Sean Manaea, Mets
Manaea did not make the Padres’ playoff rotation in 2022, suffering through a disastrous relief role in the NLCS. In 2023, he spent a large part of the season in the Giants’ bullpen. The left-hander signed a one-year deal with the Mets, aiming to reclaim his status as a Major League starter, and he has certainly succeeded. He has flipped the script on a difficult playoff history, entering 2024 with a 15.26 ERA over 7 2/3 innings in three prior postseasons; however, in two starts this time, he has allowed just three runs in 12 innings.
3. Jack Flaherty, Dodgers
Had this been the Flaherty we saw earlier this season with the Tigers, ranking third might seem too low. Up until July, he was fifth in strikeout rate and seventh in walk rate among pitchers with 100 innings. Following a Deadline trade to the Dodgers, however, Flaherty did not maintain his previous elite efficiency, even though he still posted commendable results and proved to be a vital asset for a beleaguered Los Angeles rotation. He also faced challenges during a Game 2 NLDS loss to the Padres. Now, as Flaherty prepares to start Game 1 of the NLCS, he has a fresh chance to reach his optimal form.
4. Jose Quintana, Mets
The seasoned left-hander has excelled this postseason, starting both of the Mets’ series-clinching wins while not allowing an earned run in either. His career postseason ERA now stands at 2.43 over seven games (six starts). At 35, Quintana operates in the “crafty lefty” segment of his career, utilizing a ninth-percentile fastball velocity and an 18th-percentile strikeout rate. He employs a mix of five pitches, generally keeping the ball on the ground and his team competitive. Quintana may not dazzle, but he gets the job done effectively.
5. Luis Severino, Mets
A Subway Series matchup in the Fall Classic would present Severino with a chance to earn a championship against his former team. First, he needs to help the Mets reach that stage. Although Severino has not lived up to the electrifying presence he once was before injuries interrupted his career in the Bronx, he has taken the mound 31 times.
this year, Severino has consistently provided the Mets with solid innings. In the playoffs, he has maintained this performance, achieving 2-for-2 in quality starts (both exactly three earned runs over six innings, and both away from home). The Dodgers lineup will present yet another formidable challenge.
6. Tanner Bibee, Guardians
After finishing as the runner-up for last year’s AL Rookie of the Year Award, Bibee has built upon his impressive debut in 2024. He started 31 games for Cleveland, recording a 3.47 ERA and a 3.56 FIP. Despite struggling with his fastball this season (-11 run value, down from +10 in his rookie year), he excelled with his slider, which ranked fourth in run value throughout MLB (+15). Batters managed only a .152 batting average, with one home run and 58 strikeouts against it. Cleveland did not heavily rely on Bibee in his two ALDS starts (totaling 8 2/3 innings and 140 pitches), yet he permitted just two runs, and the team secured victories in both games.
7. Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Dodgers
While Yamamoto may be a rookie from an MLB standpoint, this postseason marks his debut; however, he is no stranger to high-pressure situations. He has proven himself in critical games both in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball and on the international stage, including the Olympics and the World Baseball Classic. Any doubts regarding his resilience were dispelled during Game 5 of the NLDS. Following a Game 1 loss where he allowed five runs to the Padres, Yamamoto bounced back to pitch five scoreless innings in the crucial rematch. He possesses the capability to neutralize any lineup, even with limited innings.
8. Luis Gil, Yankees
The Yankees did not utilize Gil in the ALDS, but he is expected to be a starter against the Guardians at some point. The AL Rookie of the Year contender enters his postseason debut after finishing the regular season with a 15-7 record, a 3.50 ERA, and 171 strikeouts over 151 2/3 innings. A notable drawback in Gil’s season was his MLB-high 77 walks and a walk rate placing him in the seventh percentile (12.1%). His ability to find the strike zone will be crucial in determining the success of his first postseason experience.
9. Carlos Rodón, Yankees
Rodón’s first season as a Yankee was disappointing following his free-agent signing, but his resurgence in 2024 has been an unheralded aspect of the team’s division title success. Although the 31-year-old left-hander hasn’t reached the All-Star level or Cy Young status of 2021-22, he made 32 appearances with an above-average ERA+ (104) and nearly 200 strikeouts. On the flip side, only JP Sears from the A’s allowed more barreled balls than Rodón’s 52, indicating that when he was hit, it often resulted in significant damage.
10. Kodai Senga, Mets
Had Senga been healthy throughout the season, he would undoubtedly rank significantly higher. Unfortunately, he started only one game due to a series of injuries. Nevertheless, in a surprising move, the Mets gave him the opportunity in Game 1 of the NLDS. Although he couldn’t pitch more than two innings, Senga performed well, allowing only a leadoff home run to Kyle Schwarber and striking out three. He is set to take the mound again in Game 1 of the NLCS, albeit with limited innings once more. If Senga can manage two starts in this postseason, it could have a notable impact.
series, his “ghost fork” remains a potent tool that earns him a spot on this list.
Others receiving votes: Matthew Boyd (Guardians), Walker Buehler (Dodgers), Clarke Schmidt (Yankees)
Emerging Aces: Power Rankings for Starting Pitchers in the ALCS and NLCS
Understanding the Importance of Starting Pitchers in MLB Playoffs
Starting pitchers play a crucial role in the MLB playoffs, particularly in the American League Championship Series (ALCS) and the National League Championship Series (NLCS). Their performance can significantly influence the outcome of a series, making them key players to watch. As teams contend for a spot in the World Series, understanding the metrics and trends behind these pitchers can help fans and analysts alike gauge their effectiveness.
Power Rankings: Top Starting Pitchers in the ALCS
In the ALCS, a combination of performance stats, playoff experience, and current form shapes the power rankings of starting pitchers. Here’s a look at the emerging aces to keep an eye on:
1. Gerrit Cole (New York Yankees)
– **ERA:** 3.14
– **Strikeouts:** 250
– **WHIP:** 1.02
– **Playoff Experience:** Multiple ALCS appearances
Gerrit Cole is known for his ability to dominate hitters with his fastball and slider combination. His playoff experience adds to his value, making him a reliable ace in high-pressure situations.
2. Kevin Gausman (Toronto Blue Jays)
– **ERA:** 2.81
– **Strikeouts:** 220
- **WHIP:** 1.12
– **Playoff Experience:** First-time postseason starter
Gausman has emerged as a formidable pitcher, showcasing exceptional command and an impressive strikeout rate. His performance this season has raised expectations for his debut postseason.
3. Shane Bieber (Cleveland Guardians)
– **ERA:** 3.60
– **Strikeouts:** 210
– **WHIP:** 1.15
– **Playoff Experience:** ALDS MVP
Bieber’s ability to handle pressure in the postseason is well-documented. His calm demeanor and pitch variety make him a dangerous opponent in the ALCS.
Power Rankings: Top Starting Pitchers in the NLCS
The NLCS features an array of talented starting pitchers, each bringing unique skills and playoff histories to their teams. Here are the top pitchers to watch:
1. Max Scherzer (Texas Rangers)
– **ERA:** 2.70
– **Strikeouts:** 240
– **WHIP:** 0.98
– **Playoff Experience:** Three-time Cy Young winner
Max Scherzer’s reputation precedes him. With multiple Cy Young awards and a wealth of playoff experience, he has the ability to change the game with one pitch.
2. Zac Gallen (Arizona Diamondbacks)
– **ERA:** 2.50
– **Strikeouts:** 210
– **WHIP:** 1.04
– **Playoff Experience:** First postseason appearance
Gallen has been a revelation this season, combining impressive stats with youthful exuberance. His ability to perform under pressure will be critical for the Diamondbacks.
3. Clayton Kershaw (Los Angeles Dodgers)
- **ERA:** 3.23
– **Strikeouts:** 200
– **WHIP:** 1.05
– **Playoff Experience:** 14 years of postseason play
Kershaw’s legacy is cemented in the annals of baseball, and his experience can guide the Dodgers through tough matchups in the NLCS.
Key Metrics for Evaluating Starting Pitchers
Understanding a pitcher’s performance requires analyzing various metrics. Here are some key statistics that reflect their effectiveness:
- ERA (Earned Run Average): Measures the average number of earned runs a pitcher allows per nine innings.
- WHIP (Walks plus Hits per Inning Pitched): Indicates how many base runners a pitcher allows per inning.
- Strikeouts per 9 Innings: Reflects a pitcher’s ability to retire batters via strikeout.
- BABIP (Batting Average on Balls in Play): A key indicator of defense and a pitcher’s luck.
Benefits of Focusing on Starting Pitchers in the Playoffs
Focusing on starting pitchers during the playoffs offers several advantages for fans, analysts, and sports bettors:
- **Strategic Insights:** Understanding pitchers’ strengths and weaknesses can help predict game outcomes.
– **Enhanced Enjoyment:** Knowing which pitchers are performing at their best can elevate the viewing experience.
- **Informed Betting Decisions:** For sports betting enthusiasts, analyzing pitcher performance can lead to more informed wagers.
Case Studies: Historical Performance of Notable Starting Pitchers
Examining past performances can provide context for current pitchers. Here are cases of starting pitchers who excelled in the playoffs:
Madison Bumgarner (San Francisco Giants)
– **Postseason Record:** 4-0, 0.25 ERA in 2014
– **Impact:** Bumgarner’s legendary performance in the 2014 postseason helped secure the Giants’ championship, showcasing the power of an ace in the playoffs.
Roy Halladay (Philadelphia Phillies)
– **Postseason Highlight:** No-hitter in 2010 NLDS
– **Impact:** Halladay’s dominance in the 2010 playoffs emphasized how a single pitcher can turn the tide of a series.
First-Hand Experiences: Insights from Players and Coaches
Insights from players and coaches can provide a deeper understanding of what makes a successful starting pitcher in the playoffs.
Player Insights
– **Gerrit Cole:** “It’s about trusting your stuff and being prepared for anything. The postseason is a different animal.”
– **Max Scherzer:** “Every pitch matters. You can’t afford to make mistakes when the stakes are this high.”
Coaches’ Perspectives
- **Pitching Coach Quote:** ”The mental side of the game is just as important as the physical. We prepare our pitchers to stay focused and calm.”
HTML Table: Pitcher Comparison
| Pitcher | Team | ERA | Strikeouts | WHIP |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gerrit Cole | Yankees | 3.14 | 250 | 1.02 |
| Kevin Gausman | Blue Jays | 2.81 | 220 | 1.12 |
| Max Scherzer | Rangers | 2.70 | 240 | 0.98 |
| Zac Gallen | Diamondbacks | 2.50 | 210 | 1.04 |
Practical Tips for Following Pitchers in the Playoffs
To maximize your understanding and enjoyment of the ALCS and NLCS, consider the following tips:
– **Watch Pre-Game Analysis:** Experts provide valuable insights into pitchers’ matchups and strategies.
– **Follow Stat Tracking:** Websites and apps offer real-time updates on pitcher performance, enhancing your viewing experience.
– **Engage with Community:** Join fan forums or social media groups to discuss pitcher performances and predictions.
Conclusion
The landscape of starting pitchers in the ALCS and NLCS is filled with talent, experience, and potential game-changers. By focusing on the emerging aces, understanding key metrics, and learning from historical performances, fans can appreciate the intricate dynamics of playoff baseball. Keep an eye on these pitchers as they strive to lead their teams to victory, and enjoy the thrilling ride of the postseason!
