As the 2024 MLB season enters its final stretch, the National League playoff picture is taking shape, with several teams vying for division titles and wild card spots. With the best record in baseball, the Philadelphia Phillies are +225 odds to win the National League pennant, just behind the favorite Los Angeles Dodgers at +160. The San Diego Padres (+650), Milwaukee Brewers (+900), and Arizona Diamondbacks (+1000) round out the top five contenders in terms of betting odds, but with the expanded playoff format, it’s become less where to bet than who to bet on.
The race for individual accolades is equally intense, with the Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani chasing both the NL MVP award and an unprecedented 50-50 season. Ohtani already has 47 home runs and 48 stolen bases, putting him on pace to become the first player in MLB history to achieve the 50-50 milestone. Meanwhile, Luis Arraez will likely capture his second consecutive batting title, leading the league with a .323 average heading into the last two weeks of the season.
Francisco Lindor of the New York Mets is having a fantastic season. He has showcased his all-around skills with 31 home runs, 98 RBIs, and a .271 batting average. His stellar performance has been crucial in keeping the Mets in playoff contention despite their early-season struggles, leading some to believe he should be the league’s MVP over Ohtani.
The NL Cy Young race is heating up, with Atlanta’s Chris Sale leading the pack. The left-hander has dominated since joining the Braves, posting a 2.62 ERA and 187 strikeouts, and picking up his 17th win of the season against Los Angeles in his last start. However, Philadelphia’s Zack Wheeler and Chicago’s Shota Imanaga are not far behind, with Wheeler’s 0.98 WHIP and Imanaga’s impressive rookie campaign keeping them in contention for most of the season.
National League Power Rankings
1. Philadelphia Phillies (90-60)
The Phillies have been on a tear, opening up significant leads over their division rivals. Their balanced offense, led by Bryce Harper and J.T. Realmuto, combined with a strong pitching staff anchored by Wheeler, has made them the team to beat in the NL East. With a comfortable lead and momentum, the Phillies are poised for a deep playoff run.
2. Los Angeles Dodgers (89-61)
The Dodgers continue to be a powerhouse in the National League, largely thanks to the addition of Shohei Ohtani. The two-way superstar has electrified the lineup, while Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman provide consistent production. On the pitching side, Tyler Glasnow has emerged as the ace, supported by a deep rotation. The Dodgers’ 3.5-game lead over the Padres in the NL West looks secure, but a crucial three-game series against their California rivals looms large.
The Dodgers’ success this season can be attributed to their depth and star power. Ohtani’s pursuit of the 50-50 season has energized the team and fans alike, while his MVP-caliber performance has elevated an already potent offense. Manager Dave Roberts has expertly managed his roster, keeping players fresh for the stretch run. The upcoming series against the Padres will be an actual test of the Dodgers’ mettle and could determine whether they can secure home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.
3. San Diego Padres (86-65)
The Padres have hit their stride at the right time, separating themselves from the pack in the wild card race. Fernando Tatis Jr. and Manny Machado form a formidable duo in the heart of the order, while the pitching staff, led by Yu Darvish, has been consistently solid. With an outside shot at catching the Dodgers, the Padres are a dangerous team heading into October.
4. Milwaukee Brewers (87-63)
On the verge of clinching the NL Central, the Brewers have relied on their trademark pitching and defense. Corbin Burnes anchors the rotation, while closer Devin Williams has been nearly unhittable. The offense, while not flashy, has been timely and efficient. With a 10-game lead and a magic number of two, Milwaukee can start preparing for the postseason.
5. New York Mets (82-68)
After a disastrous start to the season, the Mets have clawed their way back into playoff contention. Francisco Lindor’s outstanding play has been a catalyst for their resurgence, along with Pete Alonso’s power and timely hitting from the supporting cast. However, the Mets face a challenging schedule to close out the season, with crucial series against the Phillies, Braves, and Brewers that will determine their playoff fate.
As the regular season winds down, these top teams are gearing up for what promises to be an exciting postseason. The Dodgers and Phillies appear to be on a collision course for the NLCS, but the Padres, Brewers, and Mets can make noise in October. With individual awards and team success on the line, the final weeks of the 2024 MLB season are sure to provide plenty of drama and excitement for baseball fans across the country.
