Following the conclusion of the Wild Card Series, the MLB Postseason is set to progress to the next stage on Saturday, with four Division Series matchups commencing.
In the American League, the Yankees will compete against the Royals, while the Guardians are up against the Tigers. Meanwhile, in the National League, the Dodgers will face off against the Padres, and the Phillies will take on the Mets.
Below is a summary of all four series as they head into Game 1.
Yankees (1) vs. Royals (5)
Season series (Yankees 5, Royals 2): The Yankees claimed three out of four games against the Royals at Kauffman Stadium from June 10-13, outscoring them 28-12. The teams met once more at Yankee Stadium from September 9-11, where the Yankees secured two of three victories.
Postseason history: These two teams were once intense rivals, clashing in the AL Championship Series four times between 1976 and 1980, with the Yankees emerging victorious in three of those contests (1976-78). However, this will mark their first playoff encounter since the Royals’ ALCS triumph in 1980.
One player to watch for each team: This upcoming series will showcase the two frontrunners for the AL MVP award this year: Yankees center fielder Aaron Judge and Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. Additionally, Yankees right fielder Juan Soto is also expected to be a key player in the race. Judge led the league in home runs (58), RBIs (144), walks (133), and OPS (1.159), while finishing third in the AL batting average (.322). Witt clinched the batting title with a .332 average and achieved his second consecutive 30-homer/30-steal season, making history as the first shortstop in MLB to record more than one 30-30 season.
Potential series X-factor: On one hand, the Royals possess a starting pitching advantage, which is significant in a best-of-five series. Conversely, the Yankees have the opportunity to establish their ALDS rotation, while the Royals do not. This results in seemingly mismatched pitching matchups, with New York likely guaranteed two starts from their ace, Cole, if the series extends beyond Game 3.
Guardians (2) vs. Tigers (6)
One player to monitor for each team: Guardians third baseman José Ramírez had a remarkable season in 2024, missing out on joining the exclusive 40-homer/40-steal club by just one home run. Despite being a six-time All-Star, postseason success has been elusive for him, as he has recorded a .242 batting average, two home runs, and a .638 OPS over 32 playoff appearances. The “pitching chaos” strategy has worked in the Tigers’ favor during their unexpected run to the ALDS, and they are set to rely on AL Cy Young Award frontrunner Tarik Skubal to maintain stability during his starts.
Potential series X-factor: The ALDS schedule, featuring off-days after Games 1, 2, and 4, could prove beneficial for the Tigers’ pitching lineup, which consists of only one established starter (Skubal) and a mix of openers and bulk relievers. This arrangement not only allows Detroit to start Skubal twice during the series—including in a possible winner-take-all Game 5—but also provides manager A.J. Hinch with the flexibility to utilize his relievers without significant concerns about their rest.
Dodgers (1) vs. Padres (4)
Season series (Padres 8, Dodgers 5): The season-opening two-game series between the Padres and Dodgers was divided in Seoul, South Korea. The Padres won two of three games at Dodger Stadium from April 12-14, and again at Petco Park from May 10-12. They completed a two-game sweep in San Diego from July 30-31, while the Dodgers came out on top in two out of three during their last regular-season series in Los Angeles from September 24-26.
Postseason history: This playoff confrontation could signal the new “even year” trend for the NL West. It marks the third postseason meeting between the Dodgers and Padres in the last five years, and the series is currently tied, with the Dodgers sweeping the 2020 rounds and the Padres taking the 2022 rematch, three games to one.
One player to monitor for each team: Shohei Ohtani will make his postseason debut in his seventh Major League season after setting a historic record by hitting 50 or more home runs (54) and stealing 50 or more bases (59) in one season. On the Padres’ side, rookie center fielder Jackson Merrill is a strong candidate for NL Rookie of the Year following a noteworthy regular season. He contributed with a solid performance, going 3-for-7 with a double, triple, and two RBIs during the NL Wild Card Series. His electrifying presence at the plate and in the field, along with his ability to perform under pressure, makes him a key player to watch in his inaugural postseason outing.
Phillies (2) vs. Mets (6)
Game 1 start time: 4:08 p.m. ET on Saturday
Probable starting pitchers: Zack Wheeler (PHI) vs. TBA (Mets)
Season series (Phillies 7, Mets 6): This year, the rivalry has seen both teams exchange victories. The Phillies secured three wins in the first four encounters between the teams in mid-May. Their next matchup took place in London in June, where they split the two-game series. Philadelphia then went on to win the subsequent series at home in mid-September; however, the Mets rebounded to win three out of four games at Citi Field from September 19-22, thus concluding the regular season series.
Postseason history: As division rivals in the NL East, the Mets and Phillies have a notable history, particularly as the Phillies famously surpassed the Mets in the race for the division title during the final stretch in 2007 and 2008, preventing the Mets from reaching the playoffs. However, they have never faced off in postseason play until now.
One player to watch for each team: For the Mets, Francisco Lindor played a critical role in their playoff journey, but it was Pete Alonso who propelled them into the NLDS with a crucial swing during the Wild Card Series. His pivotal three-run homer against elite Brewers closer Devin Williams in the ninth inning of the decisive Game 3 preserved the Mets’ season. If Polar Bear Pete finds his power against the rival Phillies, it could significantly impact New York’s chances. On the Phillies side, Bryce Harper is the player to keep an eye on. As the leader of the team, Harper has produced several key moments for Philadelphia in the last two postseasons, hitting 11 home runs across the 2022 and 2023 playoffs—tying with teammate Kyle Schwarber for the most in that period.
Potential series X-factor: The Phillies enter the series well-rested, with their ace, and former Met, Zack Wheeler set to take the mound in Game 1. Aaron Nola and Cristopher Sánchez are lined up in some order to pitch Game 2 and Game 3 following him. Conversely, the Mets had to exert considerable effort just to earn their spot in the NLDS. They utilized Luis Severino, Sean Manaea, José Quintana, and David Peterson, who closed out Game 3 by pitching the ninth inning during the Wild Card Series. Additionally, closer Edwin Díaz has thrown 105 pitches over the past five days. Consequently, the Mets face a challenging task against the formidable Phillies lineup, although their recent victories over the Braves and Brewers have infused them with a magical energy.
MLB Postseason Preview: Breakdown of the Division Series Matchups
Overview of the Division Series
The MLB Division Series (DS) is a pivotal stage in the postseason where eight teams compete for a chance to advance to the Championship Series. This year, the matchups are set to ignite fan excitement and showcase some of the best talent in baseball. Let’s delve into the key matchups, player performances, and what fans can expect in the upcoming series.
Key Matchups in the 2024 Division Series
As the postseason unfolds, the following matchups are anticipated to be thrilling:
American League Division Series
- Team A vs. Team B
- Team C vs. Team D
National League Division Series
- Team E vs. Team F
- Team G vs. Team H
American League Division Series Breakdown
Team A vs. Team B
Overview: Team A entered the postseason with a strong record, thanks to a potent offense led by star players. Team B, however, has a formidable pitching lineup that can dominate any batting order.
Key Players to Watch:
- Team A: Player 1 (batting average: .320, home runs: 30)
- Team B: Pitcher X (ERA: 2.50, strikeouts: 250)
Strategies:
Team A will need to leverage their offensive strengths early in games, while Team B could focus on executing their pitching strategy to contain runs.
Team C vs. Team D
Overview: This matchup features two teams with contrasting styles. Team C excels in base running and aggressive tactics, while Team D relies on power hitting.
Key Players to Watch:
- Team C: Player 2 (stolen bases: 40)
- Team D: Player 3 (home runs: 35)
Strategies:
Expect Team C to apply pressure with speed, while Team D will seek opportunities to hit home runs, potentially changing the tide of the game in one swing.
National League Division Series Breakdown
Team E vs. Team F
Overview: Both teams have shown resilience throughout the season. Team E boasts a well-rounded offense, whereas Team F shines due to its exceptional bullpen.
Key Players to Watch:
- Team E: Player 4 (batting average: .290, RBIs: 85)
- Team F: Reliever Y (saves: 35)
Strategies:
Team E will aim for sustained offensive pressure, while Team F’s relievers could be crucial in high-leverage situations late in games.
Team G vs. Team H
Overview: This series features a classic rivalry. Team G has a formidable starting rotation, while Team H has a dynamic lineup that can score runs in bunches.
Key Players to Watch:
- Team G: Pitcher Z (ERA: 2.80)
- Team H: Player 5 (runs scored: 95)
Strategies:
Team G will rely on their starters to go deep into games, minimizing pressure on the bullpen, while Team H will look to capitalize on any mistakes made by the opposing pitchers.
Impact of Home Advantage
The significance of home-field advantage in the postseason cannot be overstated. Teams playing in their home stadiums benefit from familiar surroundings, crowd support, and strategic advantages that can influence the outcomes of tight games.
| Team | Home Record | Away Record |
|---|---|---|
| Team A | 50-31 | 40-41 |
| Team B | 45-36 | 50-31 |
| Team C | 55-26 | 36-45 |
| Team D | 48-33 | 42-39 |
| Team E | 52-29 | 41-40 |
| Team F | 49-32 | 45-36 |
| Team G | 54-27 | 39-42 |
| Team H | 47-34 | 44-37 |
Player Performances to Watch
Throughout the postseason, individual player performances can tilt the balance in favor of one team or another. Here are some players who are likely to make a significant impact:
- Star Pitchers: Expect ace pitchers from each team to dominate and set the tone for their respective matchups.
- Clutch Hitters: Players with a knack for delivering in high-pressure situations will be pivotal.
- Defensive Standouts: Great defensive plays can turn the tide of any game, especially in close matchups.
Practical Tips for Fans Watching the Division Series
- Stay Updated: Follow live updates on sports networks and apps to keep track of scores and player performances.
- Engage with Fellow Fans: Participate in online discussions and social media interactions to enhance your viewing experience.
- Plan Viewing Parties: Gather friends and family for a fun-filled game-watching experience.
Historical Context of the Division Series
Understanding the history of the Division Series can enrich the viewing experience. The DS has been a critical component of the MLB postseason since its inception in 1995, featuring memorable moments and legendary performances that have defined baseball history.
Fans often reminisce about iconic plays and unforgettable comebacks, adding to the lore of this thrilling stage of the postseason.
Conclusion
As the 2024 MLB Division Series approaches, the stage is set for excitement, drama, and unparalleled baseball. The matchups promise to showcase elite talent and provide fans with unforgettable moments as teams vie for a chance to continue their journey toward the World Series.
