Let’s go around Major League Baseball for three quick points followed by an update on the Nationals and Orioles. It’s the homestretch and not many games are left.
- Division Races: The division races are a little weak this season. The closest race is in the American League Central where the Cleveland Guardians and the Chicago White Sox are half a game apart. The only other tight race is weird. The American League West has the Houston Astros leading the division at 75-75. The Texas Rangers are only 1 game behind, and sub-.500. The National League is set with the Braves, Brewers, and Dodgers leading their respective divisions.
. - Hitting is Down: There are only six players in Major League Baseball who are hitting over .300. Kyle Schwarber is leading MLB in home runs (44) and strikeouts (210).
. - Cruz Missile: Elly De La Cruz of the Reds threw a laser on a relay to home that was clocked at 105 mph. That’s serious speed from a shortstop.
Nationals (70-81): Such promise. I was really hoping for a .500 record and better than the Marlins in the standings. At 70-81 and four and half games behind the Marlins, it looks like the Nationals will come up short on both goals. The race for the basement is real close. Got to finish ahead of the Mets.
Orioles (72-78): Last place? Really? Am I supposed to believe that the last place O’s can capture a Wild Card? C’mon. I didn’t see the O’s finishing last this season, but I’m a biased fan. I think more objective people are surprised, too.