With the current playoff structure in its third season, teams in the MLB are still trying to adapt to the strategy shift it brings. The focus has shifted from winning the division to just making it to the postseason, as seen by the number of upsets in recent years. In the last five years, only two 100-game winners have gone on to win the World Series. This raises questions for teams on how they should approach the season, whether they should trade prospects or hold onto expiring contracts in hopes of making a playoff run against the odds.
In the competitive AL East, all five teams are alive in the race with potential playoff spots up for grabs. The Yankees lead the pack, followed by the Orioles, Red Sox, Rays, and Blue Jays. Only the Yankees and Orioles would be in the playoff picture if the season were to end today. With much of the season left to play, the Red Sox face decisions on whether to push their chips in for a playoff run or focus on rebuilding. Despite not making many moves in the offseason, the Red Sox have performed well with a top team ERA in the majors.
The Tampa Bay Rays offer a blueprint for success by investing in player development and maintaining a competitive roster despite their low payroll. With a strong farm system and a roster of young, affordable players, the Rays could consider selling to improve their team for the future. On the other hand, the Toronto Blue Jays have a core of players reaching their primes and are in a position to compete now. Recent playoff disappointments have put pressure on the team to make moves to improve their chances in the postseason.
As the AL East teams navigate the trade deadline and make decisions on their rosters, the division remains tight with potential for any team to make a playoff push. While the division may be decided by how the teams approach the trade market and make adjustments to their lineups, the AL East promises to be an entertaining division to watch as the season progresses. With a strong level of pitching in the division, teams will need to make strategic moves to stay competitive and secure a spot in the postseason.
