One Key Player For Each MLB Playoff Team

The marathon known as MLB’s regular season has come to an end, and the sprint known as the MLB postseason is set to begin. There’s little margin for error as the competition ramps up in October, and one pitch can make the difference between advancing and going home. We’ll take a look at one crucial player on every MLB playoff team.

The Braves made a mockery of the National League East this season, and had the NL’s best record wrapped up well before the season ended. If Atlanta wants to end this season in style, Strider is going to need to pitch like an ace nearly every time out. The Braves put Max Fried and Charlie Morton on IL at the end of September, so their effectiveness and health is a question at this time.

For many years, the Dodgers had the comfort of turning to Kenley Jensen to shut the door in the ninth inning. In the last couple of years, Los Angeles had had to mix and match at the back of their bullpen. Phillips recorded 24 saves in 2023, but his true test will come when the pressure is at its highest in the postseason.

There was a time when Donaldson was one of the best players in the sport. It’s been a few years since he’s consistently displayed that level of output though, and the 37 year-old infielder is now a dart throw at best in Milwaukee. In 17 games with the Brewers, he hit .169. With everything on the line, the leash may be short if Donaldson can’t get it going right away.

After a disappointing first half of his first season in Philadelphia, Turner has played more like the player who has been a star for the last few years. When he’s on his game, he has the potential to make the opposition crumble with his unique blend of power and speed. He’s no stranger to the playoffs, having participated in October baseball with the Dodgers and Washington Nationals.

It felt like Arraez was going to challenge for a record earlier in the season, as his average hovered near .400 in June. The second baseman would cool off by his standards, but his ability to make solid contact is one of the best in the league. Sometimes it feels like Miami starts with a runner on whenever Arraez is slated to hit, which can be a difficult chore for the opposition to tackle.

Carroll has a legitimate chance to take home some hardware this year as National League Rookie of the Year. He’s been a sensational part of Arizona’s lineup, but it’s going to be very interesting to see how the young player handles playoff baseball. Pitchers might elect to pitch around him, which will gauge how patient Carroll is willing to be.

The Orioles are heading into the 2023 playoffs with an injury to their closer at the worst possible time. Felix Bautista will undergo Tommy John surgery this month, which will potentially sideline him until 2025. Baltimore still figures to be in good hands with Cano, who was an All-Star this year, and saved eight games for the club as well.

Houston was thrilled to bring Verlander back into the fold during the trade deadline, as he helped them win the World Series last year. The Astros have a stacked lineup and excellent arms in the rotation, but Verlander brings the type of experience that can help a younger club navigate the stress of the postseason.

Correa’s offseason was one for the ages, as he appeared to have lucrative contracts lined up with two different teams. They would eventually back off due to physical concerns, which allowed him to return to Minnesota. Correa’s health is once again in question, as he’s been dealing with a foot injury heading into the playoffs.

It didn’t seem like there would be a way for Caminero to make Tampa Bay’s postseason roster. The young phenom has only spent a week in the big leagues, but now seems poised to be part of the Rays’ playoff run. It appears very unlikely that Wander Franco will be allowed to participate in October baseball due to the continued controversy he’s embroiled in.

The Rangers have had all sorts of trouble keeping their veteran starters healthy in 2023, but they hope that a veteran reliever can close the door for them when they have a lead. Chapman still has one of the best arms in baseball, and the lefty will leverage his experience to help Texas advance.

The New York Mets were willing to let Bassitt walk this offseason, and the Blue Jays are thankful they did. The veteran hurler had an excellent season, just as he did a year ago in New York. Bassitt struggled in his one postseason outing for the Mets though, and Toronto will hope that he’s able to perform better in 2023.