2024 MLB Postseason: Baltimore Orioles and Kansas City Royals Set for Wild Card Clash
The anticipation is palpable as the 2024 MLB postseason officially kicks off, with a riveting Wild Card Series match-up between the Baltimore Orioles and the Kansas City Royals. Both teams bring unique narratives into the series, promising an enthralling competition for the fans.
Wild Card Series Set to Begin at Camden Yards
In this best-of-three format, the Orioles, who secured the No. 4 seed, will have the home-field advantage at Camden Yards. Game 1 is slated for Tuesday, Oct. 1, at 4:08 p.m. ET. Baltimore's right-handed ace, Corbin Burnes, with a standout record of 15-9 and a 2.92 ERA, will be taking the mound. On the opposite side, Kansas City's left-handed pitcher, Cole Ragans, touts an impressive 11-9 record with a 3.14 ERA.
Orioles Eye Redemption
For the Orioles, this postseason appearance marks their second consecutive year in contention. Last season, they finished second to the Yankees in the AL East with a 91-71 record but were unfortunately swept out of the ALDS by the Texas Rangers. This year, they aim to advance further, riding high on momentum after scoring 56 runs in their final 10 games of the regular season.
Baltimore's confirmed starter for Game 1, Burnes, will be a pivotal figure in their quest for redemption. Should the series extend to a third game, the experienced Michael Wacha is ready to step in.
Royals Return to October
The Kansas City Royals, meanwhile, are soaking in the postseason excitement for the first time since their World Series win in 2015. Their journey to this point is one of remarkable turnaround, having suffered 106 losses just last season. They now join the ranks of the 2017 Minnesota Twins and the 2020 Miami Marlins as the third team in the Expansion Era to make the postseason following a 100-loss season.
Led by key players such as Bobby Witt Jr., Salvador Perez, Cole Ragans, and Seth Lugo, the Royals bring a mix of youth and experience to the diamond. Both Ragans and Lugo are potential top-five finishers in this year’s Cy Young voting, showcasing the strength of Kansas City's pitching rotation.
An unexpected twist for the Royals is the potential return of Vinnie Pasquantino, who has been sidelined since Aug. 29 due to a broken thumb. Reports indicate that Pasquantino has been working out and hitting, suggesting he might play a crucial role if he can make it back onto the field.
Key Match-ups and Strategies
Kansas City’s aggressive base running has been a hallmark of their play this season, having swiped the third most bases among postseason teams. Contrastingly, Baltimore’s defense will be tested, as they have a 20% caught stealing rate. This tactical battle could prove decisive in the series outcome.
The odds lean slightly in favor of Baltimore (BAL -155 | KC +130), with a set over/under of 7.0 runs. While betting lines offer one perspective, the unpredictability of postseason play ensures that both teams have a fair shot at advancing.
Awaiting the Yankees
Whichever team emerges victorious in this Wild Card Series will face the formidable New York Yankees in the ALDS. This prize is one worth fighting for, adding an extra layer of intensity to an already highly anticipated matchup.
As the first pitch approaches, the stage is set for a dramatic series. Both teams have made significant strides to get here, and their paths to the postseason have been nothing short of compelling. Whether it’s the Orioles seeking to erase the disappointments of the past or the Royals trying to keep their fairytale turnaround alive, fans can expect a showcase of grit, determination, and baseball at its finest.