The 2024 Major League Baseball season was quite a ride filled with emotions, with lots of surprises and exciting moments that had fans hooked till the end. From standout player performances to game-changing trades and unfortunate injuries that shook things up a bit. It was a season of moments that truly made a mark on how it all played out in the end.

Besides icons like Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, and others crafting the trajectory of MLB headlines all year, teams like the Yankees, the Dodgers, and other squads, too, had their fair share of ups and downs. So, considering how whirlwind of a season 2024 was, what were some of the moments this year that really changed the direction of the league?

Shohei Ohtani’s battle with injuries

Shocking the baseball community in August was the news of Shohei Ohtani’s injury, which sent ripples through the sports scene. Reports revealed that this multitalented player suffered a torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in his pitching arm and required intervention to rectify the issue. Ohtani had been a candidate for the MVP title of the season owing to his skills as both a hitter and a pitcher, showcasing remarkable performances on both fronts during games. The injury didn’t just alter Ohtani’s personal Major League Baseball season; it also impacted the Los Angeles Angels playoff aspirations when they were in contention.

The Yankees’ bold trade deadline move

During the 2024 trade deadline season, the New York Yankees took a big step by adding Braves starting pitcher Max Fried to their lineup. A decision for a Yankees squad striving to stay in the playoff race edge as they addressed concerns about their starting rotation’s performance issues. Upon Fried’s arrival, the Yankees team during the postseason brought a wave of optimism, boosting their chances of securing a spot in the playoffs in the American League East division race. Without Fried’s notable contributions, the team could have missed out on the postseason opportunities altogether.

Blake Snell’s no-hitter with the Giants

On August 2, Blake Snell created history when he pitched a no-hitter for the San Francisco Giants during their 6-0 victory against the Colorado Rockies. This standout performance did not just show Snell’s talent but also marked a significant moment for the Giants as they aimed to secure a spot in the National League playoffs. The team’s management reacted promptly by strengthening the roster after witnessing Snell’s display, enhancing their chances of making a postseason push.

Cody Bellinger’s Major League Baseball resurgence with the Cubs

In 2024, Cody Bellinger’s comeback was a highlight of the season. It was thrilling to see him return to his MVP level in 2019 and emerge as a player for the Chicago Cubs after struggling in multiple seasons. His performance propelled the team into playoff contention by securing a wildcard spot by the end of the season.

Bellinger’s impressive offensive display and top-notch defense were factors in the Cubs’ success that year. His contribution was crucial for Chicago to clinch a spot in the postseason amidst competition in the NL.

The Dodgers’ consistency and Mookie Betts’ MVP push

The Los Angeles Dodgers had yet another interesting season in baseball, with Mookie Betts playing a crucial role in their success story. Through his outstanding MVP-caliber performance that encompassed power-hitting abilities and exceptional leadership qualities that propelled the team to victory in key moments. Betts’ reliable performance as the lead batter helped the Dodgers excel in the NL West and smoothly advance to the playoffs, positioning them as contenders for the World Series title.

The collapse of the Chicago White Sox

The Chicago White Sox had hoped for the 2024 season to vie for the AL championship but faced setbacks with injuries and lackluster performances from key players, along with changes in leadership, which led to their downfall. Things took a turn for the worse in mid-August when they were defeated by the Guardians in a series and dropped out of contention for the playoffs entirely. The disappointing performances of signings such as Yasmani Grandal and Eloy Jiménez marked a low point for the White Sox this Major League Baseball season. The team’s downfall resulted in a reorganization of the management team and coaching staff, which brought up the upcoming modifications.

Injury woes for the Braves

The Atlanta Braves came into the 2024 Major League Baseball season with hopes of clinching victory. However, they faced challenges, with injuries to players along the way, which required them to adjust their strategies on the field. Star athletes such as Ronald Acuña Jr. and Austin Riley had to push through their injury woes while the Braves had to bring in younger talents to fill their shoes when needed. Despite these obstacles, the Braves managed to hold strong and showcase their depth by securing a place in the playoffs.

The 2024 MLB season was full of standout performances mixed with twists and bold choices that kept fans on their toes throughout the year. Bold trades, like Max Fried to the Yankees, and injuries to stars like Shohei Ohtani and Ronald Acuña Jr. derailed contenders. Individual feats, such as Blake Snell’s no-hitter and Trea Turner’s hitting streak, highlighted personal excellence, while unexpected team surges, like the Marlins’ playoff push, disrupted expectations. Meanwhile, collapses by franchises like the Cardinals and White Sox marked significant turning points. Together, these defining moments set the stage for an exciting future in Major League Baseball.