**Title: Five Second-Half Storylines to Watch in the 2023 MLB Season**
The 2023 MLB season’s been a wild ride so far. There’s been no shortage of surprises, and the second half looks just as unpredictable.
Some teams have come out of nowhere, while certain players are putting up jaw-dropping numbers. Here are five storylines that are making the second half of this season a must-watch.
Surging Teams and Unexpected Contenders
Unexpected contenders have kept things interesting this year. Teams that most people counted out early on are shaking up the standings and making things messy for everyone’s preseason predictions.
Arizona Diamondbacks’ Resurgence
The Arizona Diamondbacks have turned a lot of heads. They’re mixing young talent with savvy vets, and somehow, it’s working in a division that’s anything but easy.
Can they keep it up and snag a playoff spot? That’s the question.
Baltimore Orioles’ Youth Movement
The Orioles have been a blast to watch, mostly thanks to their young, energetic roster. Guys like Adley Rutschman and Gunnar Henderson have brought a spark that’s hard to ignore.
If these kids keep developing, the Orioles could crash the postseason party.
Individual Player Performances
There’s always a few players who just take over the conversation. This season, a handful are making headlines with crazy performances.
Shohei Ohtani’s Dual Dominance
Shohei Ohtani is still doing things that almost don’t seem real. He’s pitching, he’s hitting—he’s pretty much carrying the Angels whenever he can.
How long can he keep this up? We’ll see, but it’s hard to look away.
Aaron Judge’s Home Run Chase
Aaron Judge is swinging for history, and every at-bat feels like an event. He’s got the power, and honestly, it’s tough not to root for him as he chases those big records.
Trade Deadline Drama
The trade deadline always brings chaos. This year, it feels like almost any big name could be on the move.
Potential Blockbuster Trades
Rumors are swirling about teams like the Yankees and Dodgers making huge deals. A blockbuster trade could flip the league on its head in an instant.
Teams in Sell Mode
Meanwhile, some teams are ready to hit reset. The A’s and Royals, for example, look like they’ll be selling off pieces and thinking about the future.
Injury Comebacks
Injuries are brutal, but when stars come back, it can change everything. A few big names are almost ready to return, and their teams are counting on them.
Jacob deGrom’s Return
Mets fans are counting the days until Jacob deGrom is back on the mound. If he’s healthy, he instantly makes the Mets a different team.
Fernando Tatis Jr.’s Impact
Fernando Tatis Jr. could be the jolt the Padres need. They’ve missed his energy, and his return might just push them over the top.
Rookie Sensations
This season’s rookie class is something else. Several newcomers are already making big impacts, and it’s been genuinely fun to watch.
Corbin Carroll’s Breakout
Corbin Carroll has been a bright spot for the Diamondbacks. He’s got speed, he can hit, and his defense isn’t too shabby either.
Honestly, it’s hard not to get excited about what he might do next.
Masataka Yoshida’s Transition
Masataka Yoshida came over from Japan, and honestly, he’s fit right in with the Boston Red Sox. The outfielder’s made a real impact—he just seems to get it, you know?
Watching him adapt to the majors has been something else. If he keeps this up, he’s going to be a huge piece for the Red Sox.
For more analysis and updates, check out the Five Second-Half Storylines blog post on FanGraphs.
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