As the baseball season draws to a close, it's a fitting moment to reflect on the standout performances and evolving narratives that have captured the baseball world's attention. This year has been filled with astonishing feats, remarkable comebacks, and intriguing transitions, marking it as a memorable chapter in the sport's long history.
Power at the Plate
Juan Soto has been a central figure, launching over 35 home runs in consecutive seasons and now poised to enter free agency. His consistency at the plate makes him a hot commodity on the market, sparking curiosity about which team will secure his sought-after services.
Equally noteworthy is the formidable presence of Pete Alonso, who has knocked more than 30 home runs in every full season of his career. Anthony Santander etched his name in the record books as well, becoming the first switch-hitter since 2006 to hit 40 or more home runs in a season, showcasing a rare blend of power and versatility.
Continuing to impress is Christian Walker, who has maintained his dominance at first base, while Teoscar Hernández, with four impressive seasons out of the last five, remains a pivotal player in the lineup.
Pitching Prowess
On the mound, Corbin Burnes stood out with All-Star honors in four consecutive seasons, reinforcing his status as one of the most reliable arms in the league. Similarly, Blake Snell, a two-time Cy Young Award winner, continues to demonstrate his pitching mastery.
Max Fried, with the best ERA+ among left-handed pitchers over 200 innings since 2020, has become a cornerstone of his team's rotation. Meanwhile, innovative adjustments by Sean Manaea and Jack Flaherty have yielded significant improvements in their performances, highlighting the never-ending pursuit of excellence that defines major league baseball.
Blake Treinen's resurgence to surpass his 2021 form, despite previous injuries, underscores the resilience of seasoned pitchers. Jeff Hoffman’s 184 ERA+ over two seasons with the Phillies further exemplifies the impactful role of pitchers who can adapt and thrive, while Nick Martinez's impressive 126 ERA+ since returning from Japan marks a successful reintegration into the league.
Challenges and Triumphs
Baseball's unpredictable nature was highlighted by Walker Buehler, who managed to close out the World Series despite a lackluster regular season, proving that it’s not just about the regular season stats but performing when it matters most.
However, the season was not without its setbacks. Max Scherzer, a normally dependable starter, was limited to just nine starts, a blow that echoed throughout his team. Compounding such injury woes were the cases of Shane Bieber, set for Tommy John surgery recovery until mid-2025, and Ha-Seong Kim, whose shoulder surgery will likely sideline him into next season.
The Art of Adaptation
Amidst these challenges, some players have not only adapted but flourished. Luis Severino’s adjustment to his pitch arsenal led to a promising rebound season, while Yusei Kikuchi bolstered the Astros with a stellar 147 ERA+ after being acquired at the trade deadline. Carlos Estévez also reached new heights with a career-best 171 ERA+ in 2024.
Veterans like Justin Turner and Charlie Morton have shown that age has not diminished their abilities. Turner's continued offensive productivity and Morton's durability over the past four seasons are testaments to their enduring talent and work ethic. Likewise, Kirby Yates has proven his resilience by throwing 60 innings in consecutive seasons, despite earlier injuries threatening his career.
Unexpected Stars
Unexpected players have also made their mark this season. Jurickson Profar had his first star-caliber season at age 31, reminding everyone that sometimes it takes time for a player to reach their full potential. Joc Pederson and Donovan Solano contributed significantly in their roles, with Pederson achieving a career-best 151 OPS+ and Solano consistently proving his value against left-handed pitchers.
Amidst these highlights, one stunning performance stands out: Roki Sasaki's 19-strikeout perfect game in 2022. Such feats remind us of the magic that baseball is capable of, capturing the imagination of fans and etching unforgettable moments into the sport's history.
This season has illustrated not only the individual brilliance of players but also the intricate stories and challenges woven throughout their careers. As we look forward to next year, it is these narratives and achievements that will continue to inspire and captivate the baseball community.