As the final week of the 2024 MLB regular season approaches, fans are eagerly anticipating the intense battles that will determine both postseason berths and individual accolades. The Los Angeles Dodgers' midseason acquisition, Tommy Edman, has emerged as an influential player during this crucial stretch.
Tommy Edman's Impressive Comeback
Tommy Edman has showcased a remarkable return to form, especially after enduring a challenging journey marked by offseason wrist surgery and an ankle injury during his rehab assignment. Initially absent from game action, Edman has erupted in the season's final weeks, hitting six home runs and stealing three bases in his last 15 games leading into Tuesday. His contributions are reflected in his .284/.333/.523 slash line over his last 23 games, an upgrade from his season totals of .265/.310/.470 in 31 games with the Dodgers.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts commented on Edman’s unexpected power surge: “Really surprised with the power. I know that he has an apt to put the barrel on the ball. Certainly versatile defensively. But in the batter's box, he just really takes good at-bats. He's hit six or seven homers for us already in a short period of time and they all seem like they were big. He's gotten a lot of big hits for us.”
Utility on the Field
Edman's versatility has proven invaluable to the Dodgers, who acquired him in a three-team trade involving Erick Fedde and the White Sox. He has seamlessly transitioned between center field, shortstop, and second base, recording 20, 9, and 2 starts at these positions, respectively. His flexibility and skill have contributed to his 1.0 WAR over 31 games—a testament to his well-rounded value on both offense and defense.
Cedric Mullins' Redemption Arc
Cedric Mullins of the Baltimore Orioles has had a season characterized by dramatic turnaround and resilience. After struggling with a .170/.221/.301 slash line on June 8, Mullins has since rebounded to post an overall line of .228/.299/.404 with 18 home runs. Over his last 85 games, he has been particularly effective, amassing a positive 2.4 WAR, correcting the earlier negative 0.4 WAR from his first 57 games.
Mullins reflected on his resurgence, stating, “I think the biggest part was for me to stop chasing that season (30-30 in 2021). That season was awesome, but at the same time, I think the reason I'm putting up numbers that are similar to it is because I'm no longer chasing that guy. I'm just being who I am.”
Detroit Tigers Eye a Wild-Card Spot
In the American League, the Detroit Tigers are on the brink of securing a wild-card spot, marking their first potential playoff appearance since 2014. The youthful energy is unmistakable on this squad, as six of Tuesday's starting nine position players were 24 years or younger. This year’s stalwart performances have been essential for the Tigers' momentum.
The midseason loss of Javier Báez to a season-ending hip injury on August 22 prompted the Tigers to lean on Trey Sweeney as their starting shortstop. Sweeney, acquired in a trade with the Dodgers for Jack Flaherty, has embraced this opportunity, starting 29 of 32 games since Báez's departure. A former first-round pick by the Yankees in 2021, Sweeney has demonstrated his value across all levels, boasting a .267/.345/.450 slash line in Triple-A with 15 home runs and 20 steals in 107 games.
Emerging Talent and Future Prospects
The Tigers have also called up their top prospect, pitcher Jackson Jobe, from their farm system, further illustrating their commitment to building a competitive roster. As they stand on the verge of breaking their prolonged playoff drought, the combination of emerging talent and experienced leadership could pave the way for a promising postseason run.
The upcoming days will be pivotal for each of these teams as they strive to secure their places in October baseball, showcasing the spirit and unpredictability that make the sport so exhilarating.