Yesterday we concluded our division winner predictions with the American and National League East. Today we will cover the "other teams" who make the playoffs by grant of a Wild Card. For the second year in a row now, the MLB will feature four (two per league) Wild Card teams who will face off against each other in order to play in the Division Series round of the playoffs. Last season Cleveland, Tampa, Cincinatti, and Pittsburgh all made the Wild Card spot. Here are our predictions on who will make it this come postseason.
Andrew Gillen:
AL Wild Cards: Rays (92-70), Royals (91-71)
Tampa Bay has been a contender just about every season since they fell to Philly in the 2008 World Series. I think they return to an even better form this season, and head to the Fall Classic. Kansas City can't win their division, but go over 90 wins and secure that second Wild Card slot.
NL Wild Cards: Reds (89-73), Diamondbacks (89-73)
I had the Reds winning it all last year. Obviously, that didn't happen, but I think they turn things around this year under new management. Arizona was in the playoffs in 2012, and have been a respectable team for the last few seasons. Look for them to sneak past the Pirates for the second Wild Card.
Erik Seybold:
AL Wild Cards: Indians (88-74), Blue Jays (87-75)
I like the Indians' chances this season in a Wild Card spot. They won't be able to keep it up with the Tigers in the central division, but they will win enough games and will return to the postseason this year. The Blue Jays will also make a statement as their blockbuster trades pay off. They won't be able to take a division championship, but will snag the Wild Card spot with no problem.
NL Wild Cards: Nationals (88-74), Cardinals (90-72)
The Nationals will make a trip to the playoffs this year as they take second in the NL East, beating the Phillies narrowly for the second Wild Card spot in the NL. The first spot will go to the Cardinals, who will yet again make it to the playoffs, but this time they won't have a division championship to accompany them.
Kevin Durso:
AL Wild Card: Orioles, Yankees
NL Wild Card: Giants, D'Backs
I think the two most stacked divisions produce the most playoff teams. I really like the Orioles lineup and think the Yankees may be able to put together a playoff run. The Giants are always a threat to be a playoff contender and I personally like the Diamondbacks more than most. I think there is a lot of potential there
Check out who we pick for the yearly awards later tonight!
