As the 2024 MLB season progresses, teams are being assessed using a 20-80 scouting scale, with the Dodgers and Braves emerging as frontrunners in their divisions. The Astros are eyeing their eighth consecutive AL Championship Series appearance, while the Orioles and Rangers are vying for wild card spots in their respective leagues.
These rankings offer insight into the competitive dynamics of MLB teams as the season unfolds. They highlight standout players, notable developments, and anticipated outcomes. The rankings cover some top Tier 1, 2, and 3 contenders.
Tier 1 - The Top Two
Atlanta Braves
With a projected record of 105-57 and promising odds in the playoffs, the Braves have proactively strengthened their roster for the upcoming MLB season. Although their attempt to acquire Aaron Nola from the Phillies fell through, they successfully secured Reynaldo Lopez through free agency and traded for Chris Sale from the Red Sox.
The Braves are optimistic about Sale's potential to regain his previous form. In addition to bolstering their bullpen, they took a chance on former top prospect Jarred Kelenic. Despite these moves, the Braves remain focused on clinching another division title.
Los Angeles Dodgers
The Dodgers, anticipated to achieve a record of 104-58 with favorable playoff odds for the World Series, are preparing to redeem themselves following a premature playoff departure.
Despite previous unsuccessful attempts, the team finally secured Shohei Ohtani, marking a significant addition to their roster. Building on this momentum, they invested substantially in Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Tyler Glasnow, securing their pitching lineup for the future.
Additionally, the Dodgers strengthened their lineup with the signings of Teoscar Hernandez and Kiké Hernández. Despite these acquisitions, they maintain a formidable roster with players like Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, Will Smith, and Max Muncy.
Tier 2 - The main competitors
Houston Astros
The Astros, expected to achieve a record 97-65 with favorable odds, have strategically strengthened their bullpen for the upcoming season. Despite already having solid options like Ryan Pressly and Bryan Abreu, the addition of Josh Hader provides a formidable trio to close out games.
This move reflects Houston's commitment to strengthening their roster and shortening games, especially considering their uncertainties in the rotation.
Baltimore Orioles
The Orioles, anticipated to reach a 87-75 record with favorable odds, have taken substantial steps to fortify their pitching staff for the upcoming season. Securing Corbin Burnes, a former Cy Young Award winner, addresses their top offseason priority and bolsters their rotation, especially with Kyle Bradish sidelined due to injury.
As Burnes gears up for Opening Day, attention turns to prospects like Jackson Holliday, who are making strong cases for roster spots during spring training.
Tier 3 - The next-in-line
Seattle Mariners
With a projected 86-76 record and moderate odds in the playoffs, the Mariners have seen significant changes since their last appearance. Despite operating under financial constraints, Jerry Dipoto orchestrated a busy offseason, making several moves without increasing payroll.
New additions include Jorge Polanco, Tom Murphy, and Mitch Garver, while notable departures include Teoscar Hernández and Eugenio Suárez. However, the team's success will hinge on the performance of its talented starting rotation and the development of key players like Julio Rodriguez.
Toronto Blue Jays
The Blue Jays, with an expectation to achieve 87-75 with moderate odds, have experienced significant changes since their last outing. In early December, the baseball world anticipated a transformative moment when Shohei Ohtani was rumored to join the team, only for the deal to fall.
Instead, the Blue Jays made smaller acquisitions, including Justin Turner and Isiah Kiner-Falefa. While not as impactful as initially hoped, these additions underscore the team's reliance on critical players like Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette to lead their success charge.
As the season unfolds, fans can expect thrilling matchups and intense competition as each team vies for a shot at postseason glory.
With the stage set for an exciting baseball season, every game becomes a crucial opportunity for teams to assert dominance and make their mark on the road to the World Series.