The MLB season is entering its home stretch and teams around the league are now vying for playoff spots.
While it’s obvious that some teams are virtually guaranteed a spot in the playoffs, there are a handful that are still on the outside looking in.
However, there is still time left for these teams to make a run.
Here is a look at three MLB teams that are looking to make a playoff push in the second half.
3. Cleveland Guardians
The Cleveland Guardians have quietly climbed their way into the Wild Card conversation.
They are 7-3 in their last 10 games, improving their record to 48-45 and sitting just two games back of a playoff position.
When looking at their season stats, it really isn’t surprising why they are in this position.
They have a deep and well-rounded lineup, led by Jose Ramirez and Andres Gimenez.
Jose Ramirez is ready for the HR Derby 💪 pic.twitter.com/Yrk7TL79c8
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) July 16, 2022
There isn’t a ton of power throughout the lineup, but they consistently post higher-than-normal batting averages.
The Guardians also have strong pitching pieces in place.
Perennial Cy Young contender Shane Bieber is once again pitching at a high level, while Triston McKenzie and Cal Quantrill have added standout rotation depth.
The bullpen is anchored by Emmanuel Clase, who has proven himself as an elite closer this year.
Emmanuel Clase, Unhittable Cutter (home plate view). 🔥 pic.twitter.com/3RG18ivxTE
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) July 20, 2022
This makes the Guardians an interesting case at the deadline.
They truly seem just a couple pieces away from being able to sneak into the playoffs.
At the deadline, they would likely need to add one or two bullpen arms, along with a starter to round out their rotation.
If they can do this, the Guardians may become a team to watch in the AL as they try and make a final playoff push.
2. Philadelphia Phillies
In many ways, it has been a disappointing year for the Philadelphia Phillies.
After adding Nicholas Castellanos and Kyle Schwarber in the offseason, they find themselves outside of the playoff picture.
Kyle Schwarber Homered in his first AB of the first half.
HE HOMERS ON THE FIRST AB OF THE SECOND HALF @BarstoolPhilly pic.twitter.com/kU2X7bbS0Q
— Starting 9 (@Starting9) July 22, 2022
The team also took a devastating blow when star Bryce Harper went down with a thumb fracture after being hit by a pitch in June.
Now the team isn’t sure when he will be back.
However, even without Harper, the Phillies are in a position to make a playoff push.
They have the talent to win, if they are able to put it all together.
Their sluggers will need to have strong second half, especially to replace the production lost with Harper.
Meanwhile, their pitching has the top end talent to make a run.
Starters Aaron Nola and Zack Wheeler are among the game’s best arms.
Where they lack is the depth, both in the rotation and bullpen.
The Phillies will either need their current arms to step up over the final stretch of the season, or they will have to make some moves before the upcoming trade deadline.
Either way, don’t be surprised if the Phillies continue sneaking their way into the playoff picture.
1. San Francisco Giants
Another team outside of the final Wild Card spot, the San Francisco Giants may have an uphill battle to the postseason.
They have undoubtedly been carried by their pitching, which has put up stellar numbers across the board.
Starters Carlos Rodon and Logan Webb have been one of the league’s best combos.
Carlos Rodon exhibiting BCE (big closer energy) while acting as closer for the game he started (he threw a CG) pic.twitter.com/nD0LqTL4ds
— Stephen Schoch (@bigdonkey47) July 10, 2022
Camilo Doval has also emerged as a legit talent in the bullpen.
However, the Giants’ offense has been very bad.
The regressions of Darin Ruf and Brandon Crawford have hurt the lineup, which has just two players with an OPS above .800.
This is something that will need to change for the Giants, especially during the trade deadline.
The Giants’ name has been tied to Juan Soto, and there is belief that they will make an attempt to get the star outfielder.
They could also take a look at other bats like Andrew Benintendi or Josh Bell.
An interesting trade that could open for the Giants is if the Boston Red Sox are willing to deal Xander Bogaerts.
A move for Bogaerts would give the Giants the perfect infield help that they need.
With a move like this, the Giants could set themselves up to contend.
Look for them to make a playoff push over these next couple of months.
