The All-Star break marks the midpoint of an exhilarating MLB season. Several teams have risen to the top, showcasing impressive performances and strategic offseason moves. Here’s a look at the top five baseball teams in 2024 so far.
5. Los Angeles Dodgers (56-41, LW 4)
The Dodgers have faced significant challenges, especially with injuries to key players. Yoshinobu Yamamoto moved from the 15-day injured list to the 60-day IL due to triceps tightness, sidelining him until mid-August. Ace Tyler Glasnow also landed on the IL, and Dustin May underwent season-ending esophagus surgery. These setbacks have thinned their rotation, and the team has struggled on the field, winning only three of their past 11 games.
The break comes at a crucial time for the Dodgers to regroup and push forward in the second half of the season.
4. New York Yankees (58-40, LW 7)
The Yankees have had a roller-coaster first half, culminating in a dramatic series against the Orioles. After a series loss to the Tampa Bay Rays, they won the first two games against Baltimore but were walked off in the third game due to defensive errors. On a positive note, Gerrit Cole’s recent start was his best since returning from injury. Despite the ups and downs, the Yankees remain a strong contender with solid performances from key players.
3. Cleveland Guardians (58-37, LW 3)
The Guardians ended the first half with four losses in five games, but they have been one of the standout teams this season. Steven Kwan’s impressive .352 batting average and Josh Naylor’s consistent performance with an .816 OPS and 22 home runs have been highlights.
Although José Ramírez is in a slump with a .548 OPS and no homers in July, his past performance indicates a likely resurgence. The Guardians have shown resilience and skill, making them a formidable team.
2. Baltimore Orioles (58-38, LW 1)
The Orioles experienced a rough patch right before the break, getting swept by the Chicago Cubs and almost by the Yankees. However, their star players continue to shine. Gunnar Henderson and Corbin Burnes are strong contenders for the AL MVP and Cy Young awards, respectively. Henderson’s 28 home runs place him second in the league, and Burnes has allowed only six runs in 19 innings over his last three starts. The Orioles remain a top team despite recent setbacks.
1. Philadelphia Phillies (62-34, LW 2)
The Phillies have been the standout team in the first half of the season!
They have won more games than any other team and lead the majors in run differential with a plus-110. Their roster includes eight All-Stars, a record five of whom are pitchers. Bryce Harper has maintained an impressive 1.009 OPS since returning from injury, and Trea Turner leads the MLB with eight home runs in July.
The Phillies’ combination of strong pitching and powerful hitting has set them apart as the best team in baseball so far.