As the dust settles on another exhilarating season of Major League Baseball, attention shifts to the standout individuals who have shaped the game's current landscape. From powerhouse hitters and reliable pitchers to players exhibiting career renaissances, the 2024 season has etched several names into baseball's unfolding history.
Slugging Successes
Juan Soto, the young sensation known for his powerful swing and disciplined eye, has hit at least 35 home runs in consecutive seasons. As he approaches free agency, teams across the league are undoubtedly taking note of his consistent power at the plate. His potential influence on the market cannot be overstated.
Pete Alonso, another home run machine, continues his streak of slugging over 30 homers in every full season of his career, establishing himself as one of the league's most reliable power hitters. Meanwhile, Anthony Santander reached a laudable milestone by becoming the first switch-hitter since 2006 to hit 40 or more home runs in a single season, further underscoring his unique talents from both sides of the plate.
Teoscar Hernández has had four out of his last five seasons marked by impressive performances, solidifying his standing as a crucial component of his team's offensive strategy. Christian Walker's ongoing dominance at first base adds another layer of intrigue to a season filled with potent batters making their mark.
The Art of Pitching
On the mound, Corbin Burnes has secured All-Star honors for four consecutive seasons, a testament to his unwavering excellence. Blake Snell, the accomplished two-time Cy Young Award winner, continues to bolster his reputation in the pitching realm. Similarly, Max Fried stands out with the best ERA+ among left-handed pitchers who have pitched a minimum of 200 innings since 2020. These performances highlight the exceptional talent currently defining the pitching landscape.
In the realm of comebacks and adjustments, Sean Manaea's delivery modifications, inspired by Chris Sale, have led to noticeable improvements in his game. Jack Flaherty has fine-tuned his fastball axis and pitch mix, resulting in an enhanced performance that has not gone unnoticed by fans and analysts alike. Blake Treinen also rebounded past his 2021 form, demonstrating resilience despite previous injuries.
Rising Stars and Resurgent Careers
Roki Sasaki's 19-strikeout perfect game in 2022 remains a defining moment for the young pitcher, highlighting his enormous potential. In contrast, seasoned pros like Max Scherzer encountered setbacks, limited to just nine starts this season. Similarly, injuries have sidetracked talents such as Shane Bieber, who is on the road to recovery from Tommy John surgery and is expected to return by mid-2025.
Ha-Seong Kim's upcoming shoulder surgery is likely to sideline him into the next season, delaying his return to form. On a positive note, Luis Severino has adjusted his pitch arsenal, enjoying a rebound season that hints at a promising future.
Noteworthy Achievements
In a storyline showcasing mid-season moves, Yusei Kikuchi posted a remarkable 147 ERA+ after being acquired by the Astros at the trade deadline. Meanwhile, Carlos Estévez achieved a career-best 171 ERA+ in 2024, a year that seems to mark the zenith of his career thus far. Alex Bregman's consistent performance places him among the top third basemen, with the sixth-most Wins Above Replacement (WAR) since 2020, further cementing his legacy.
Valuable contributions were seen from players like Donovan Solano, proving his worth against left-handed pitchers, and Justin Turner, who maintained an above-average offensive pace despite advancing age. Jurickson Profar's first star-caliber season at age 31 signifies a breakthrough in his career. Another noteworthy pitcher, Nick Martinez, compiled a 126 ERA+ since his return from Japan, underscoring his successful transition back into Major League Baseball.
Jeff Hoffman's 184 ERA+ over two seasons with the Phillies highlights his growth and reliability as a pitcher. Moreover, Charlie Morton demonstrated remarkable endurance, making over 30 appearances each of the past four years. Kirby Yates, too, showcased resilience, throwing 60 innings in consecutive seasons, despite previous injuries that could have derailed his career.
Finally, the postseason spotlight shone brightly on Walker Buehler, who, despite a lackluster regular season, closed out the World Series with aplomb, showcasing the unpredictable nature of baseball where players can rise to the occasion with impeccable timing.
The 2024 season has been rich with unforgettable feats and personal triumphs, highlighting the depth of talent and the dynamic narratives this beloved sport produces year after year. As teams look forward to the next season, the legacies forged in 2024 will continue to inspire awe and admiration in fans and players alike.