5 MLB teams that can make surprise run in season’s second half

St. Louis Cardinals

The Cardinals began the year 15-24 after losing three straight games to their NL Central rival Brewers and looked to be headed toward another lost season. However, the Cards have gone an impressive 35-22 since and are now in position to earn a wild-card spot and challenge Milwaukee in the division race. St. Louis isn’t a team that shines in any one particular category, but the Cardinals have found a nice blend of youth and veteran talent that has led to success. While they could perhaps use another starting pitcher, Sonny Gray and Kyle Gibson have had strong campaigns while closer Ryan Helsley has been one of the best relievers in baseball with an MLB-leading 32 saves. 

Meanwhile, the lineup has seen the emergence of younger players like Nolan Gorman, Alec Burleson and Brendan Donovan. While they have often struggled, the Cards still have Paul Goldschmidt, Nolan Arenado and Willson Contreras as well, giving them a group of veterans who know what it takes to win. St. Louis has a relatively favorable schedule down the stretch, but August will be a telling month with consecutive series against the Brewers, Dodgers, Twins, Padres and Yankees. If the Cardinals excel through that, they may be battle-tested enough to not only reach the postseason, but to also make a push at winning a couple of playoff series.