The MLB Wild Card Series: A Look at Teams and Expectations

The Athletic has live coverage of the MLB Wild Card Series.

Every baseball fan knows that the postseason is unpredictable. Take last year’s Arizona Diamondbacks, for example, who defied expectations and made it all the way to the World Series with just 84 wins. Or the Texas Rangers, who managed to turn their struggling bullpen into an asset during the postseason, seemingly by magic. This unpredictability is what makes October baseball so thrilling.

However, this year feels different. For the first time in recent memory, there doesn’t seem to be one clear favorite to win it all. The field is so even that it’s hard to pinpoint just a few teams as contenders. This parity sets the stage for an exciting and wide-open playoff series.

As we head into the playoffs, it’s not just about favorites and underdogs anymore. It’s about the journey each team and its fans will endure, and how they will reflect on the season if they fall short of a championship. Let’s take a look at some of the teams in different tiers and what winning or losing the World Series could mean for them.

Tier 5: Aw, raspberries. But what a season! Wait ’til next year!

Detroit Tigers

The Tigers may be considered underdogs, but they’ve had an impressive season, shocking many with their late surge to the postseason. With a roster boasting top talent, the Tigers could still pull off a surprise win, but even if they don’t, their fans will remember the 2024 season fondly.

Kansas City Royals

After a dismal performance last year, the Royals have already exceeded expectations this season, showcasing young talent and a promising future. Regardless of their postseason outcome, the Royals have already marked this season as a success.

Tier 4: The window is still wide open, but impatience is creeping in

Baltimore Orioles

The Orioles have a young, contending team with a bright future ahead. While their window for success seems promising, the pressure to win a championship is mounting, making this postseason a crucial test for the team.

Adley Rutschman is part of the Orioles’ young core.

The postseason can be a tricky time for young, contending teams like the Orioles, as the pressure to win it all mounts. While their future looks bright, the Orioles will need to seize the opportunity this postseason presents.