It’s that time of year again! The 2020 MLB playoffs are finally here, and this year’s bracket promises to be one of the most exciting yet. With the condensed season, no team is guaranteed a spot in the postseason, making every game leading up to the playoffs crucial. But now that the regular season is over, the focus shifts to the ultimate goal - the World Series.
American League:
Starting with the American League, there are several strong teams in the mix, including the Houston Astros. Despite a slow start to the season, the Astros rebounded to secure a playoff spot with a 29-31 record. With playoff veterans like Carlos Correa and George Springer, as well as ace pitcher Zack Greinke, the Astros have the experience and talent to make a deep playoff run.
Another perennial playoff team, the New York Yankees, are once again in the mix. Led by superstar Aaron Judge, the Yankees finished with a 33-27 record and secured the 5th seed in the AL. With powerful hitting and improved pitching, the Yankees are a dangerous team that can beat anyone on any given day.
But perhaps the biggest surprise of the season has been the Tampa Bay Rays. Despite a relatively modest payroll, the Rays finished with an impressive 40-20 record, good for the top seed in the AL. Led by young stars like Randy Arozarena and Brandon Lowe, as well as a strong pitching staff, the Rays have the potential to make a deep playoff run this year.
National League:
Turning to the National League, the Los Angeles Dodgers are the team to beat. After a dominant regular season that saw them finish with the best record in baseball at 43-17, the Dodgers are looking to finally bring a World Series title back to LA. With a stacked lineup that includes MVP candidate Mookie Betts and ace pitcher Clayton Kershaw, the Dodgers are the clear favorites to win it all.
Meanwhile, the Chicago Cubs are looking to recapture the magic of their 2016 championship season. Led by sluggers Anthony Rizzo and Kris Bryant, as well as a strong bullpen, the Cubs finished with a 34-26 record and secured the 3rd seed in the NL. With playoff experience and a hungry roster, the Cubs could be a dark horse team to watch this postseason.
Finally, there’s the Miami Marlins, who finished with a surprising 31-29 record to earn a spot in the playoffs. Despite having one of the lowest payrolls in the league, the Marlins have a solid roster and a strong team culture. With a mix of young talent and veteran leadership, the Marlins could be a tough out in the playoffs.
Predictions:
So who will come out on top this postseason? As always, there are plenty of variables and surprises that could come into play. But based on the talent and consistency they’ve shown throughout the season, the Los Angeles Dodgers seem like the clear favorites to finally win the World Series. With a stacked roster and a chip on their shoulder after coming up short in previous playoffs, the Dodgers are a force to be reckoned with.
Of course, as we’ve seen in past playoffs, anything can happen. A hot streak from a team or player can completely change the outcome of a series. And with the expanded playoffs this year, more teams have a shot at making a run. So sit back, relax, and get ready for what’s sure to be an exciting postseason!