As the final week of the 2024 MLB regular season unfolds, fans are on the edge of their seats, eager to witness the climax of postseason and awards races. Of particular interest is Tommy Edman, whose recent form has been nothing short of spectacular.
Edman's Explosive Performance and Versatility
The Dodgers have been a buzz with Tommy Edman's remarkable contributions since he joined from the Cardinals via a three-team trade that included the White Sox. Since overcoming offseason wrist surgery and an ankle injury during his rehab assignment, Edman has showcased his prowess. In his last 15 games heading into Tuesday, Edman has belted six home runs and swiped three bases, proving to be an asset for the Dodgers.
Manager Dave Roberts couldn’t hide his admiration for Edman’s performance. “Really surprised with the power. I know that he has an apt to put the barrel on the ball. Certainly versatile defensively. But in the batter's box, he just really takes good at-bats. He's hit six or seven homers for us already in a short period of time and they all seem like they were big. He's gotten a lot of big hits for us,” Roberts stated.
Edman's statistics reflect his impact; in 31 games with the Dodgers, he boasts a .265/.310/.470 line. Over the last 23 games, his line improves to .284/.333/.523, further underscoring his recent surge. His versatility has been crucial for the Dodgers, with Edman making starts in center field, shortstop, and second base. This adaptability and his 1.0 WAR over 31 games underline his value to the team.
Cedric Mullins: Resurgence After a Slow Start
Cedric Mullins offers another compelling storyline. He started the season sluggishly, posting a dismal .170/.221/.301 slash line by June 8. However, Mullins turned his season around significantly; his overall lines now stand at .228/.299/.404 with 18 home runs. His transformation is evident from his positive 2.4 WAR over his last 85 games, a stark contrast to the minus-0.4 WAR during the first 57 games.
Reflecting on his season, Mullins noted, “I think the biggest part was for me to stop chasing that season (30-30 in 2021). That season was awesome, but at the same time, I think the reason I'm putting up numbers that are similar to it is because I'm no longer chasing that guy. I'm just being who I am.”
The Tigers’ Youth Movement and Playoff Aspirations
Meanwhile, in Detroit, the Tigers are on the precipice of a wild-card spot. It would mark their first playoff appearance since 2014. The excitement is palpable as the team’s youth movement takes center stage. On Tuesday, six of their starting nine position players were 24 or younger, adding an element of exuberance and energy to their lineup.
In the wake of Javier Báez's season-ending hip injury on August 22, Trey Sweeney has emerged as the starting shortstop, stepping up admirably in a pivotal role. Acquired in a trade with the Dodgers, Sweeney has started 29 of the last 32 games and proven his worth with a .267/.345/.450 slash line in Triple-A this year. His 15 home runs and 20 steals in 107 games paint the picture of a well-rounded player ready for the big leagues.
Adding to the Tigers’ optimism is the recent call-up of top prospect Jackson Jobe, signifying the franchise's commitment to nurturing young talent for sustained success.
As the regular season reaches its zenith, players like Edman and Mullins exemplify resilience and adaptation, while teams like the Tigers illustrate the importance of youth and strategic acquisitions. Baseball, at its best, is a blend of individual brilliance and collective effort—a narrative playing out perfectly in the final chapter of this year’s campaign.