Choosing a player to build a franchise around for the next five years, Shohei Ohtani stands out as the top choice. His unique ability to excel as both a hitter and a pitcher makes him a rare asset in Major League Baseball. At just 30 years old, Ohtani is not only recovering from elbow surgery but is also hitting the ball harder than ever. He is on track to potentially win the MVP award solely as a designated hitter while maintaining his status as one of the league’s premier pitchers if he returns to full health.
Aaron Judge is another strong candidate for franchise building, especially given his impressive performances with the New York Yankees. As the current MVP frontrunner in the American League, Judge has demonstrated his ability to lead his team to the playoffs when fully healthy. His partnership with fellow superstar Juan Soto has elevated his game even further, making him a compelling choice for any franchise looking for a cornerstone player.
However, the question of longevity arises with Judge, who is already 32 years old. While his current form is impressive, concerns about his ability to maintain this level of performance as he ages linger, especially given the Yankees’ struggles during his injury periods. In contrast, younger talents like Soto present a long-term option, but Ohtani’s dual-threat capability makes him a unique proposition for a franchise aiming for sustained success.
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As the MLB landscape shifts, teams like the Cleveland Guardians and Milwaukee Brewers have emerged as unexpected contenders this season. Their matchup this weekend promises to be an exciting clash, showcasing their respective strengths. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Dodgers and St. Louis Cardinals will also face off in a crucial series that could impact playoff positioning.
1. Which Central division leader is better positioned for a World Series run?
Thosar: The Cleveland Guardians have surprised many this season, consistently racking up wins and proving their worth. Their defensive prowess, leading the majors with 78 defensive runs saved, positions them as a formidable contender come October. In comparison, the Milwaukee Brewers, while strong, have only 54 defensive runs saved, indicating a potential area of vulnerability.
Kavner: Despite the Guardians’ impressive bullpen, I believe the Brewers may have a slight edge. Cleveland’s starting rotation lacks depth outside of Tanner Bibee, which could lead to challenges in the postseason. The Dodgers, meanwhile, face their own struggles, especially with the absence of star player Mookie Betts, who has the ability to ignite their offense.
4. Who is most likely to win the triple crown this year?
In the race for the triple crown, Aaron Judge currently holds a significant advantage in home runs and RBIs, making him the frontrunner. Shohei Ohtani follows closely, with Marcell Ozuna also in contention. The tight competition in the AL East could further motivate Judge to keep his momentum going.
5. Best National League team not leading a division?
Kavner: The San Diego Padres emerge as a strong contender, showcasing depth and talent across their roster. Their recent acquisitions have bolstered their bullpen, making them one of the most formidable teams in baseball. However, the Arizona Diamondbacks should not be overlooked; their impressive performance since the All-Star break positions them as a potential division leader by season’s end.
Thosar: The Diamondbacks have proven to be resilient, winning crucial games and demonstrating their ability to compete against top teams. With a favorable schedule ahead, they could very well challenge the Dodgers for the NL West crown, making their upcoming series a must-watch event.
