(6) Detroit Tigers @ (3) Houston Astros
This series pits the American League West champion Houston Astros against the hottest team in baseball entering the postseason, the Detroit Tigers. Additionally, Detroit manager A.J. Hinch returns to the stadium he won a World Series in with intentions of eliminating the franchise that fired him after Houston’s cheating scandal came to light. Houston is hopeful that Yordan Álvarez can make an impact, but his ability to play through injury will be key for the ‘Stros. Detroit is the underdog for a reason, but I am banking on Tarik Skubal picking up a victory in Game 1 and a strong bullpen holding Houston in check in Game 3. Detroit, 2-1.
(6) New York Mets @ (3) Milwaukee Brewers
Can the Mets continue to shock the league by knocking off the National League Central champs? New York appeared to be dead in the water earlier this season, but a great surge after the All-Star break resulted in the Mets securing the No. 6 seed on the final day of the season. Now, they will face a Milwaukee club that took 5-of-6 from the Mets this year — including 2-of-3 last week. The Mets certainly have momentum on their side, but Milwaukee is the better club and will capitalize on its home-field advantage. Milwaukee, 2-0.
(5) Kansas City Royals @ (4) Baltimore Orioles
This is a series that we may see numerous times over the coming years. The Orioles arrived on the scene last year and entered 2024 with huge expectations. Meanwhile, the Royals went from losing 106 games in 2023 to winning 86 this season. Both teams struggled down the stretch, but Baltimore is playing better entering the series having won 7-of-10. Game 1 is a battle between two star pitchers — Kansas City’s Cole Ragans and former Cy Young winner Corbin Burnes. The winner of this game will take the series and I am confident Burnes will carry the O’s to victory. Baltimore, 2-0.
(5) Atlanta Braves @ (4) San Diego Padres
The most intriguing Wild Card series pits a perennial contender against baseball’s best team since the All-Star break. Atlanta has overcome numerous injuries to its stars to reach the postseason for the seventh year in a row. Unfortunately, Chris Sale — the probable Cy Young winner — is dealing with back spasms and won’t be able to take the mound for the Braves. San Diego is playing with a ton of confidence and it will take advantage of Atlanta having to play a double-header on Monday. San Diego sweeps Atlanta in a tight battle. San Diego, 2-0.
