As the MLB postseason commences, baseball enthusiasts worldwide are gearing up for an exciting showdown. Here are five standout players to watch as they aim to make their mark on the playoff stage:
1. Ronald Acuña Jr. (Braves – Right Fielder):
The front-runner for the NL MVP award, Ronald Acuña Jr., enters the playoffs with an astounding 2023 season record. With 41 home runs and 73 stolen bases, he etched his name in history by becoming the first player to achieve 40 homers and 70 steals in a single season. Acuña missed the Braves’ 2021 World Series title run due to injury, and now, he’s determined to make up for lost time as Atlanta kicks off its NLDS campaign.
2. Luis Arraez (Marlins – Second Baseman):
Holding a remarkable .400 batting average through 78 games, Arraez secured his second consecutive batting title. He previously claimed the AL batting title with the Twins and continued his prowess by winning the NL title with Miami in 2023 (.354 average). Arraez’s consistency at the plate makes him a player to watch as the Marlins embark on their playoff journey in the NL Wild Card round against Philadelphia.
3. Mookie Betts (Dodgers – Right Fielder):
Mookie Betts had a season that could have easily secured him the NL MVP award. His .307 average, 39 home runs, and 107 RBIs contributed significantly to the Dodgers’ success. Tying with Acuña for the highest WAR (8.3), Betts is known for his discipline at the plate. He faces redemption after the Dodgers’ NLDS loss to the Padres in 2022, where he posted a .143 batting average.
4. Corey Seager (Rangers – Shortstop):
Despite missing 43 games this season due to injuries, Corey Seager ranks second in AL MVP odds, trailing only Shohei Ohtani. Entering the playoffs in good health, Seager is poised to make a significant impact. He improved upon a lackluster first season with the Rangers, matching his home run tally from the previous season (33) while leading the AL with 42 doubles. The Rangers start their postseason journey in the AL Wild Card round against Tampa Bay.
5. Kyle Tucker (Astros – Right Fielder):
For the Houston Astros to clinch their fifth AL pennant in seven seasons, they’ll heavily rely on Kyle Tucker’s bat. Tucker emerged as the Astros’ top hitter this season, ranking 19th in batting WAR (4.9) and leading the team in RBIs (112). Almost achieving a rare 30-30 season, Tucker’s contributions will be pivotal as the Astros begin their playoff quest in the ALDS.