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- We’re nearing the halfway point of the MLB season, and the contenders for the 2019 World Series are making themselves known.
- In the National League, the Los Angeles Dodgers have dominated, while the Philadelphia Phillies have struggled to meet the high expectations that came with the signing of Bryce Harper.
- Meanwhile, the New York Yankees and Houston Astros remain the front-runners of the American League, with the Minnesota Twins surprisingly in the mix as well.
- Visit Business Insider’s homepage for more stories.
Through the first half of the MLB season, a few teams have emerged as the powerhouses, with the Los Angeles Dodgers dominating the National League and the New York Yankees and Houston Astros maintaining their status atop the American League.
The biggest surprise of this season so far has been the Minnesota Twins, who have rode brilliant performances from across the roster to a blistering 52 wins. Meanwhile, the Baltimore Orioles have played just as expected.
Take a look below at where every team ranks at the halfway point of the season as we head into the All-Star break.
Playoff chances based on FiveThirtyEight’s latest projections.
30. Baltimore Orioles
Greg Fiume/Getty Images
Record: 22-58
Chance at the postseason: <1%
One thing to know: The Orioles remain the basement-dwellers of Major League Baseball, currently on pace to pass their dreadful 115-loss mark set last season. Chris Davis’ hitless streak is finally over, but he’s still batting just .167 this year.
29. Kansas City Royals
Stephen Brashear / Getty Images
Record: 28-53
Chance at the postseason: <1%
One thing to know: The Royals posted a disappointing 4.93 ERA as a team, but their one surprising bright spot this season has been designated hitter Jorge Soler. Soler has a .239 batting average but has hit a team-high 21 balls out of the park – a steep increase from his previous high of 12 home runs.
28. Detroit Tigers
Justin K. Aller / Getty Images
Record: 26-49
Chance at the postseason: <1%
One thing to know: Closer Shane Greene has been impeccable for the Tigers this season, despite the disappointing year they’re having. Greene has allowed three earned runs in 29 appearances and has recorded 21 saves with a 0.90 ERA, which is the lowest in the league among relievers (minimum 20 innings pitched).
See the rest of the story at Business Insider
See Also:
- Cody Bellinger had to ask Dodgers fans to stop jumping on the field to hug him
- Mets manager Mickey Callaway and a pitcher had to be restrained from going after a reporter in an ugly clubhouse scene
- The Rays are reportedly exploring a wild plan that would have them split their season between Tampa Bay and Montreal
Source: Business Insider – feedback@businessinsider.com (Tyler Lauletta)