Supercomputer Predictions: AI predicts the MLB Wild Card Rounds and Playoffs

How does AI think the MLB Playoffs and Wild Card will play out? Check out the Supercomputer’s picks for the 2024 MLB Playoffs.

Key Highlights:

• Dodgers predicted to win the 2024 World Series.
• Yankees and Orioles set for a showdown in the ALCS.
• Phillies could pull off a surprise win against the Braves.

As the 2024 MLB playoffs approach, an advanced supercomputer has run the numbers, predicting which teams will dominate and which ones might fall short. This model provides some bold insights, projecting everything from the Wild Card round to the World Series champion. If the supercomputer’s predictions hold true, the Los Angeles Dodgers are on track to take home the title, while the Yankees and Orioles are expected to face off for the American League crown.

These predictions are based on a deep dive into team stats, player performances, and trends throughout the season. The Dodgers, thanks to their balance of power and depth, have emerged as the Supercomputer’s favorites to win it all. Meanwhile, the Yankees are primed for a strong postseason run, and the Phillies might surprise everyone by knocking out the Braves early. Of course, baseball is full of surprises, but if the data is right, October is shaping up to be one exciting ride.

Wild Card Round Matchups

National League:

• Arizona Diamondbacks (ARI) vs. Chicago Cubs (CHC)
  Prediction: The Diamondbacks’ offensive depth (796 RBIs, .337 wOBA) and solid overall WAR (32.0) give them the upper hand. The Cubs’ offense isn’t bad, but Arizona’s better offense and defense (more balanced overall) should help them edge out the Cubs in a best-of-three series.
  Projected Winner: Arizona Diamondbacks (ARI)
• Philadelphia Phillies (PHI) vs. Milwaukee Brewers (MIL)
  Prediction: The Phillies’ combination of power (184 HRs) and decent base running (135 SB) should help them against the Brewers, whose reliance on stealing bases (197 SB) might not be enough to compensate for their lower HR totals and offensive production. Philly’s better WAR and offense should give them the advantage.
  Projected Winner: Philadelphia Phillies (PHI)

American League:

• New York Yankees (NYY) vs. Houston Astros (HOU)
  Prediction: The Yankees’ elite power-hitting (222 HRs) and best-in-class wRC+ (116) should overpower the Astros, who have a weaker defense (-14.9) and rely more on small-ball tactics. Houston’s struggles with power-hitting may hurt them here.
  Projected Winner: New York Yankees (NYY)
• Baltimore Orioles (BAL) vs. Seattle Mariners (SEA)
  Prediction: Baltimore’s superior power (218 HRs) and decent offense will likely outmatch Seattle, which struggles with hitting for average (.221) and lacks offensive consistency. Baltimore’s defense (-23.3) is a weak spot, but Seattle’s offense isn’t strong enough to capitalize.
  Projected Winner: Baltimore Orioles (BAL)

Step 2: Division Series Matchups

National League:

• Arizona Diamondbacks (ARI) vs. Los Angeles Dodgers (LAD)
  Prediction: This will be a close matchup between two well-balanced teams. The Dodgers’ superior offensive output (746 RBIs, 214 HRs) might give them a slight edge, especially if Arizona’s defense (-3.5) fails under pressure. The Dodgers’ ability to generate runs at a high level could be the difference-maker.
  Projected Winner: Los Angeles Dodgers (LAD)
• Philadelphia Phillies (PHI) vs. Atlanta Braves (ATL)
  Prediction: The Braves have been inconsistent (WAR: 15.5) and have defensive issues (-16.4). Philly, on the other hand, has a well-rounded offense with good run production and more stability. Philly’s power and pitching will likely overwhelm the Braves, who struggle to keep runs off the board.
  Projected Winner: Philadelphia Phillies (PHI)

American League:

• New York Yankees (NYY) vs. Texas Rangers (TEX)
  Prediction: The Yankees’ power advantage (222 HRs vs. 161 HRs for Texas) and higher wRC+ will likely see them outclass the Rangers, who struggle with offensive consistency and defensive performance.
  Projected Winner: New York Yankees (NYY)
• Baltimore Orioles (BAL) vs. Minnesota Twins (MIN)
  Prediction: The Orioles should outmatch the Twins in terms of offensive firepower. Baltimore’s ability to hit for power (218 HRs) and create runs (wOBA .323) should give them the advantage, despite their defensive struggles. Minnesota’s mediocre WAR (23.3) and inconsistent offense (711 R) will likely be their downfall.
  Projected Winner: Baltimore Orioles (BAL)

Step 3: Championship Series Matchups

National League:

• Los Angeles Dodgers (LAD) vs. Philadelphia Phillies (PHI)
  Prediction: Both teams have strong offenses, but the Dodgers’ consistency (high OBP .330, SLG .440) might give them the edge. Philadelphia’s WAR is lower (26.4), and while their power is formidable, the Dodgers’ more complete lineup should see them through in a close series.
  Projected Winner: Los Angeles Dodgers (LAD)

American League:

• New York Yankees (NYY) vs. Baltimore Orioles (BAL)
  Prediction: The Yankees’ elite power (222 HRs, .181 ISO) and their ability to draw walks (10.7% BB%) should overpower Baltimore’s inconsistent defense. The Orioles’ high strikeout rate (21.9%) could be exploited by the Yankees’ strong pitching.
  Projected Winner: New York Yankees (NYY)

Step 4: World Series Matchup:

Los Angeles Dodgers (LAD) vs. New York Yankees (NYY)

• Prediction: This is a heavyweight matchup between two of the most storied franchises. Both teams are loaded with offensive firepower, but the Yankees have a slight edge in home runs and wRC+ (116). The Dodgers, however, have a more balanced offense and are better defensively. In a series this close, pitching and defense will likely make the difference. The Dodgers’ ability to limit strikeouts (21.8%) and generate runs consistently should be enough to tip the series in their favor.

Projected Winner: Los Angeles Dodgers (LAD) win the 2024 World Series.

The Dodgers’ combination of power, consistency, and solid pitching gives them the edge in a closely contested series against the Yankees. Their ability to perform in high-leverage situations and maintain offensive pressure should help them win the championship.