As the 2024 MLB regular season approaches its climax, the excitement of postseason races is palpable. However, amidst the thrill of teams vying for playoff berths, there lies a sobering reality for several franchises that have faltered in the second half of the season. While some clubs still cling to postseason hopes, others have seen their dreams slip away, marking them as second-half disappointments. Let’s delve into five teams that have notably struggled since the All-Star break, presented in alphabetical order to maintain a sense of calm.
### Baltimore Orioles
The Baltimore Orioles, who dazzled fans with a remarkable 101-win season last year, are still likely to make the playoffs this year. However, their second-half struggles have relegated them to a wild-card position, a disappointing outcome for a team that entered the season with high expectations. Coming out of June with a solid 53-31 record, the Orioles seemed poised to challenge for the American League East title. Yet, since then, they have limped to a 32-37 record, including a lackluster 27-30 since the break.
Key issues have plagued the Orioles, particularly in their bullpen and injuries to pivotal players in the lineup. These setbacks have significantly impacted their performance, making it increasingly difficult to catch the New York Yankees in the division. While a deep playoff run remains a possibility, the Orioles’ recent form has cast a shadow over their once-promising season.
### Boston Red Sox
The Boston Red Sox have experienced a dramatic downturn since the All-Star Game, transforming from a team that appeared to be in contention for a wild-card spot to one that is now struggling to stay above .500. With a dismal 23-34 record in the second half, the Red Sox have seen their postseason aspirations dwindle, culminating in a loss to the Tampa Bay Rays that dropped them below the .500 mark for the season.
Their run differential of minus-43 since the break highlights the severity of their struggles, indicating that their woes are not merely the result of bad luck. The Red Sox are now at risk of enduring three consecutive losing seasons for the first time since the early 1990s, a stark reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in Major League Baseball.
### Minnesota Twins
The Minnesota Twins, who were riding high as division champions in 2023, now find themselves in a precarious position as they battle to secure a playoff spot. With a 26-31 record in the second half, their performance has sharply contrasted with their first-half success, where they boasted a 42-33 record. The Twins’ pitching staff has struggled, posting a 4.19 ERA since the break, which ranks 21st in MLB.
This downturn has coincided with a resurgence from the Detroit Tigers, leading to a tie for the third and final wild-card spot in the American League. Once seen as a team that could potentially run down the Cleveland Guardians for the Central Division title, the Twins now face the grim reality of potentially missing the playoffs altogether.
### Seattle Mariners
The Seattle Mariners appeared to be in a strong position at the close of play on June 18, boasting a 13-game advantage over .500 and a commanding lead in the AL West. However, the second half has been a tale of woe for the Mariners, who have posted a 26-29 record since then. Their struggles have been exacerbated by the Houston Astros’ resurgence, leaving Seattle fighting for a wild-card spot.
The disappointing performance in the second half ultimately cost manager Scott Servais his job, a stark indication of the urgency felt within the organization. While the Mariners remain above .500 and still have a chance at the playoffs, their recent form has significantly dampened what could have been a much more successful season.
### St. Louis Cardinals
The St. Louis Cardinals entered the second half of the season with a respectable 50-46 record, and expectations were high following a strong trade deadline. However, the team has since faltered, posting a 27-30 record with a minus-19 run differential. This decline has pushed them out of playoff contention, a shocking turn of events for a franchise that has historically been a postseason mainstay.
With only the San Francisco Giants scoring fewer runs among National League teams in the second half, the Cardinals are at risk of experiencing consecutive losing seasons for the first time since the 1950s. The organization, known for its resilience and competitive spirit, now faces an uncertain future as they navigate the challenges of the current season.
As the 2024 MLB season winds down, these five teams serve as poignant reminders of the unpredictability of baseball. While some clubs have thrived, others have stumbled, leaving fans to ponder what went wrong and what the future holds. The postseason may be just around the corner, but for these franchises, the road ahead is fraught with challenges and disappointment.