The 2024 MLB Playoffs: Crafting American League Superteams
As the 2024 MLB playoffs approach, excitement is palpable among fans and analysts alike. With the postseason just around the corner, FOX Sports’ Deesha Thosar and Rowan Kavner took on the challenge of assembling superteams from the best players remaining in the American League. This mock draft not only showcases the talent in the league but also highlights the competitive spirit and playful banter between the two writers.
The Draft Format
The draft was structured linearly, with Thosar selecting first for the American League and Kavner taking the lead for the National League iteration. Each roster consists of eight position players, one designated hitter, four starting pitchers, and one closer. The selections were made in a way that required the writers to declare the position each player would occupy upon selection, adding an extra layer of strategy to the exercise.
The American League Draft Picks
1. Aaron Judge, Yankees CF (Thosar)
Thosar kicked off the draft with a bang, choosing Aaron Judge as her first pick. She emphasized Judge’s ability to change the game with every swing, particularly in high-pressure situations. After a stellar season leading the majors in home runs, RBIs, OBP, and OPS, Thosar believes this is Judge’s moment to shine in the playoffs.
2. Bobby Witt Jr., Royals SS (Kavner)
Kavner countered with Bobby Witt Jr., praising the young star’s all-around game. Witt’s combination of hitting for average, power, and defensive prowess at a premium position made him an ideal choice for Kavner’s squad.
3. José Ramírez, Guardians 3B (Thosar)
Thosar quickly followed up with José Ramírez, a perennial All-Star and MVP candidate. She highlighted Ramírez’s near 40/40/40 season, showcasing his elite status among third basemen.
4. Juan Soto, Yankees RF (Kavner)
Kavner’s next pick was Juan Soto, a player who has consistently performed well in clutch situations. With Soto and Witt, Kavner felt confident in his team’s ability to produce runs.
5. Gunnar Henderson, Orioles SS (Thosar)
Thosar selected Gunnar Henderson, emphasizing his ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game, including on-base percentage and defense. She noted the friendly competition among her MVP candidates would only elevate Henderson’s performance.
6. José Altuve, Astros 2B (Kavner)
Kavner opted for veteran presence with José Altuve, citing his postseason experience and success. Altuve’s track record in the playoffs makes him a valuable asset for any team.
7. Kyle Tucker, Astros RF (Thosar)
Thosar picked Kyle Tucker, who she believes will be particularly dangerous in October after recovering from injury. His ability to get on base and create runs is crucial for her lineup.
8. Tarik Skubal, Tigers SP (Kavner)
Kavner made a bold choice with Tarik Skubal, who won the pitching Triple Crown. Kavner’s confidence in Skubal’s strikeout ability adds depth to his pitching rotation.
9. Corbin Burnes, Orioles SP (Thosar)
Thosar selected Corbin Burnes, highlighting his recent dominance and workhorse mentality. She expects him to stabilize her rotation as they head into the playoffs.
10. Yordan Alvarez, Astros DH (Kavner)
Kavner took Yordan Alvarez, acknowledging the risk due to health concerns but emphasizing his impressive playoff OPS. Alvarez’s bat is a significant threat in any lineup.
11. Gerrit Cole, Yankees SP (Thosar)
Thosar secured Gerrit Cole, aiming for a powerful 1-2 punch with Burnes. She expressed confidence in Cole’s ability to perform at a high level in the postseason.
12. Framber Valdez, Astros SP (Kavner)
Kavner countered with Framber Valdez, who has shown consistent performance. His low ERA makes him a valuable addition to Kavner’s rotation.
13. Anthony Santander, Orioles LF (Thosar)
Thosar picked Anthony Santander, noting his impressive home run total and ability to perform under pressure, rounding out her outfield.
14. Riley Greene, Tigers LF (Kavner)
Kavner selected Riley Greene, an All-Star with a strong OPS. Greene’s recent performance has been pivotal for the Tigers, making him a solid choice.
15. Emmanuel Clase, Guardians Closer (Thosar)
Thosar concluded her draft with Emmanuel Clase, whom she deemed the best closer in baseball. His dominance in the bullpen makes him a game-changer in tight situations.
16. Alex Bregman, Astros 3B (Kavner)
Kavner picked Alex Bregman, recognizing his value as the next best option at third base after Ramírez. Bregman’s motivation heading into free agency adds to his appeal.
17. Salvador Perez, Royals 1B (Thosar)
Thosar selected Salvador Perez, who has had a renaissance season. His World Series experience is invaluable for her lineup.
18. Yainer Diaz, Astros C (Kavner)
Kavner took Yainer Diaz, the top offensive catcher available. His high batting average adds depth to Kavner’s lineup.
19. Seth Lugo, Royals SP (Thosar)
Thosar chose Seth Lugo, who has been dominant in his transition to a full-time starter. His All-Star selection speaks to his capabilities.
20. Cole Ragans, Royals SP (Kavner)
Kavner picked Cole Ragans, emphasizing his superior whiff rate and strikeout ability, crucial for postseason success.
21. Hunter Brown, Astros SP (Thosar)
Thosar rounded out her pitching staff with Hunter Brown, who has shown promise in limited playoff appearances.
22. Josh Naylor, Guardians 1B (Kavner)
Kavner selected Josh Naylor, who leads AL first basemen in home runs and RBIs, adding significant power to his lineup.
23. Adley Rutschman, Orioles C (Thosar)
Thosar picked Adley Rutschman, a two-time All-Star who can still make an impact despite a disappointing second half.
24. Colton Cowser, Orioles CF (Kavner)
Kavner concluded his draft with Colton Cowser, a Rookie of the Year candidate who brings both offensive and defensive value.
25. Kerry Carpenter, Tigers DH (Thosar)
Thosar selected Kerry Carpenter, who boasts an impressive OPS among designated hitters, making him a valuable asset.
26. Tanner Bibee, Guardians SP (Kavner)
Kavner picked Tanner Bibee, the ace of Cleveland’s staff, who has shown reliability and momentum heading into October.
27. Jazz Chisholm, Yankees 2B (Thosar)
Thosar concluded her picks with Jazz Chisholm, adding speed to her lineup.
28. Cade Smith, Guardians Closer (Kavner)
Kavner wrapped up his draft with Cade Smith, a strikeout specialist who has been dominant in the bullpen.
The Final Rosters
Team Deesha’s Starting Lineup:
- Gunnar Henderson, SS
- Kyle Tucker, RF
- Aaron Judge, CF
- José Ramírez, 3B
- Kerry Carpenter, DH
- Salvador Perez, 1B
- Anthony Santander, LF
- Adley Rutschman, C
- Jazz Chisholm, 2B
Pitching Staff:
SP1. Corbin Burnes
SP2. Gerrit Cole
SP3. Seth Lugo
SP4. Hunter Brown
Closer: Emmanuel Clase
Team Rowan’s Starting Lineup:
- José Altuve, 2B
- Juan Soto, RF
- Bobby Witt Jr., SS
- Yordan Alvarez, DH
- Josh Naylor, 1B
- Alex Bregman, 3B
- Riley Greene, LF
- Yainer Diaz, C
- Colton Cowser, CF
Pitching Staff:
SP1. Tarik Skubal
SP2. Framber Valdez
SP3. Cole Ragans
SP4. Tanner Bibee
Closer: Cade Smith
As the playoffs loom, these superteams reflect the depth of talent in the American League and set the stage for an exciting postseason. Fans can look forward to seeing how these players perform under pressure and whether the selections made by Thosar and Kavner will lead to playoff glory.