Fri Sep 20 11:00:00 UTC 2024: ## Wild Card Contenders: Who Will Challenge for the 2024 World Series?

With the current division leaders seemingly locked in, attention turns to the wild-card contenders vying for a shot at the World Series. In 2022 and 2023, three of the four World Series participants were wild-card entrants, proving the potential for these teams to upset the odds.

**Here’s a look at the top contenders for a World Series run:**

* **Seattle Mariners:** Boasting a potent starting rotation, the Mariners could be dangerous if their anemic offense awakens.
* **Minnesota Twins:** With a potent one-two punch in Pablo López and Bailey Ober, the Twins face a playoff hurdle: exorcising past postseason demons.
* **Detroit Tigers:** A.J. Hinch’s squad has been resurgent since the All-Star Break, with exciting young stars like Riley Greene and Brant Hurter.
* **Atlanta Braves:** Despite injuries, the Braves have the offensive firepower and a strong rotation, including likely NL Cy Young winner Chris Sale, to contend for a short series.
* **Milwaukee Brewers:** Carlos Mendoza has steered the Brewers towards a playoff spot, but their chances hinge on their pitching depth.
* **New York Mets:** With a lineup featuring Francisco Lindor and Pete Alonso, the Mets have the potential for a run, but they need to bolster their pitching staff.
* **Baltimore Orioles:** While their offense has slowed in the second half, the Orioles are still in control of the top AL wild-card spot and face a challenge in solidifying their bullpen.
* **Kansas City Royals:** Bobby Witt Jr. is a legitimate MVP candidate, and the Royals possess a strong pitching staff. However, relying on veterans for offensive support may be a weakness.
* **Arizona Diamondbacks:** Last year’s World Series surprise, the Diamondbacks have a dangerous offense, but question marks linger about their pitching depth.
* **San Diego Padres:** With an MLB-best winning percentage since the All-Star Break, the Padres have a strong lineup and bullpen, but they need to stay healthy and rely on their pitching depth.

While these teams all have a shot at the World Series, the unpredictable nature of the playoffs means that any of them could make a deep run. As the regular season comes to a close, the race for the wild card spots and the chance to upset the division leaders will be fiercely competitive.

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