MLB All-October Team: Stars Who Dominated the 2024 Playoffs
The 2024 MLB postseason provided fans with thrilling moments, clutch performances, and breakout stars. As teams fought for a shot at the World Series, a few players stood out, elevating their games when it mattered most. These postseason standouts not only contributed with stellar stats but also brought an intensity that inspired their teams and captivated audiences. Here’s a look at the 2024 MLB All-October team—players who made their mark this postseason and left an unforgettable impact on baseball fans.
# Starting Pitcher: Justin Verlander (Houston Astros)
The backbone of Houston’s playoff success, Justin Verlander, delivered one of the best postseason runs of his career in 2024. With an uncanny ability to navigate high-stakes innings, Verlander showcased incredible control, overpowering hitters and keeping his team in every game. His fastball command and pitch selection were flawless, giving him the upper hand against some of the league’s best hitters. His postseason ERA—just below 2.00—was a testament to his effectiveness, and his experience shined in every outing, bringing the Astros closer to championship contention.
Catcher: Will Smith (Los Angeles Dodgers)
Handling a pitching staff in the postseason requires skill, focus, and the ability to adjust quickly. Will Smith of the Dodgers was outstanding both behind the plate and at bat. Known for his excellent framing and game-calling, he was pivotal in maximizing the effectiveness of his pitchers. Offensively, he stepped up in clutch moments, delivering timely hits that kept the pressure on opposing teams. Smith’s ability to control the pace and tone of each game was instrumental in the Dodgers’ postseason success, and his leadership was evident in every inning.
First Base: Matt Olson (Atlanta Braves)
Matt Olson, the power-hitting first baseman of the Braves, was a crucial contributor throughout the playoffs. Known for his towering home runs, Olson was an offensive force, igniting the Braves with clutch hits that came at just the right time. Beyond the home runs, he provided a steady glove at first base, making several key defensive plays to support his team. Olson’s hot bat from the start of October, along with his ability to deliver under pressure, solidified his place on the All-October team.
Second Base: Jose Altuve (Houston Astros)
Quick, agile, and endlessly reliable, Jose Altuve gave a dynamic performance throughout the postseason for the Astros. His defensive prowess was on full display as he showcased incredible range and turned double plays in pivotal moments. Offensively, Altuve was an on-base machine, getting hits and drawing walks to set the table for his teammates. His presence on the base paths added another layer of difficulty for opposing pitchers, who had to contend with his aggressive baserunning. A spark plug for the Astros, Altuve exemplified the grit and determination needed to excel in October.
# Shortstop: Corey Seager (Texas Rangers)
Corey Seager was the heart of the Rangers’ defense, making game-saving plays and flashing incredible glove work at shortstop. His athleticism and instincts helped shut down opponents’ rallies, and he was a steadying presence on the field. Offensively, Seager provided key hits and proved to be a critical weapon in the lineup. His base running was both aggressive and intelligent, turning routine plays into extra bases and keeping pressure on the opposing defense. Seager embodied the all-around excellence needed to succeed in the playoffs.
Third Base: Austin Riley (Atlanta Braves)
Austin Riley came alive in the postseason for the Braves, showcasing his power and clutch hitting at third base. Known for his aggressive approach at the plate, Riley was a constant threat, delivering extra-base hits and home runs that boosted his team’s momentum. On the defensive side, Riley’s quick reactions and strong arm made a difference at the hot corner, preventing runs and securing crucial outs. Riley’s ability to excel on both sides of the game made him an essential part of Atlanta’s postseason run.
Left Field: Yordan Alvarez (Houston Astros)
Yordan Alvarez, the Astros’ slugging left fielder, continued his postseason dominance in 2024. Known for his power, Alvarez delivered several crucial home runs, each seeming bigger than the last. His presence in the lineup kept pitchers on edge, as they had to adjust strategies to prevent giving him anything to hit. Alvarez’s postseason success wasn’t just about power, though; his patience at the plate and ability to draw walks made him a consistent on-base threat.
Center Field: Julio Rodriguez (Seattle Mariners)
Julio Rodriguez was a breakout star for the Mariners in the playoffs, combining speed, power, and defensive prowess in center field. He made highlight-reel catches and displayed remarkable range, tracking down fly balls with ease. Offensively, Rodriguez was a game-changer, driving in runs and making things happen on the base paths. His energy and athleticism gave the Mariners a spark, and his postseason performance set the tone for a bright future.
Right Field: Mookie Betts (Los Angeles Dodgers)
Mookie Betts once again proved why he’s one of the most complete players in the league. Defensively, he covered ground with ease and made several difficult catches look routine, while his arm prevented runners from advancing. At the plate, Betts was a constant presence, reaching base regularly and setting up scoring opportunities for his teammates. His baserunning ability, coupled with his knack for getting big hits, made Betts a crucial part of the Dodgers’ playoff journey.
Designated Hitter: Shohei Ohtani (Los Angeles Angels)
Shohei Ohtani, one of baseball’s most electrifying players, dominated as a designated hitter in October. Although he couldn’t pitch due to injury, his offensive output alone was enough to earn him a spot on this list. With a mix of home runs, doubles, and clutch RBIs, Ohtani’s bat was instrumental in the Angels’ postseason games. His plate discipline and ability to change the game with one swing made him an essential component in every matchup, adding an extra layer of excitement to each appearance.
#m Relief Pitcher: Devin Williams (Milwaukee Brewers)
In a postseason full of tight games, Devin Williams emerged as the Brewers’ bullpen ace. Known for his devastating changeup, he routinely shut down opposing hitters in high-leverage situations. Williams recorded multiple saves and held batters to minimal contact, solidifying the Brewers’ leads and keeping them in contention throughout October. His ability to dominate late in games was essential to Milwaukee’s success, earning him a place on the All-October team.
Closer: Ryan Pressly (Houston Astros)
Ryan Pressly was a reliable closer for the Astros, maintaining his composure in high-pressure situations. His command over his pitches, particularly his breaking ball, kept hitters off balance. Pressly’s experience and calm demeanor proved invaluable, as he frequently shut down the opposition and secured crucial saves for the Astros. His clutch performances throughout the postseason made him a standout closer in 2024.
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This All-October team consists of players who shone the brightest on baseball’s biggest stage. From dominant pitching to clutch hitting and standout defense, these athletes exemplified the qualities needed to thrive in October. The 2024 playoffs will be remembered for their intensity, and each of these players left a mark that will resonate long after the season ends.
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