Sliding into October, for many means getting straight into the Halloween season. But when looking at this month’s lineup there’s only one way to thoroughly enjoy the start of the fall playoff baseball season.
Whether it’s the Red Sox coming back from an 0-3 series deficit, Derek Jeter becoming Mr. November on Halloween night, or the Chicago Cubs breaking the curse of the Billy goat, playoff baseball has engraved itself into the fond memories of those who have their eyes glued onto the field every fall season.
The stigma rings true as many fans put their attention on Major League Baseball (MLB) only after the postseason starts.
But thanks to a crazy finish to the 2024 MLB regular season, many students have an efficient sense of how the playoffs can play out.
When asked if he was excited for the playoffs, freshman Tony Retana said he feels dejected.
“I’m not really (watching because) the Rangers aren’t in it. We’re not defending our title this year,” said Retana. “A lot of injuries plagued us, but it happens to the best.”
The 2023 World Series champion, the Texas Rangers, missed out on this year’s MLB postseason, breaking the hearts of a substantial amount of baseball fans across El Paso.
However, loyalty to a team is much more diverse in West, Texas, for example the Philadelphia Phillies or San Diego Padres.
“Phillies, they’re for sure going to take the World Series,” said junior Elijah Munoz. “I feel like the Phillies are going to go all the way.”
Overall, the Phillies came in second in the National League (NL), meaning they get a chance to skip the MLB’s Wild Card round and rest up in time for the NL Division Series.
But for the El Paso Chihuahuas’ big brother and major league affiliate Padres, a fourth-place finish means they have to go through the Wild Card round, but in no way do supporters think that’s a sign of weakness for the team.
“I expect them to at least make the NL championship series,” said freshman Matthew Rodriguez. “If they make the championship, most of El Paso will be going crazy.”
Despite the difference in team support, most have one common denominator, a large hope that the big teams lose.
“The (Los Angeles) Dodgers I don’t want them, the (Houston)Astros don’t like them, don’t like (the New York Yankees) either, their fans are just annoying,” said Retana.
Sorry LA, but the 915 isn’t fond of the blue crew.
“I do hope we beat the Dodgers in the playoffs,” said Rodriguez.
Currently it’s the Dodgers and Yankees at number one in their respective leagues, with the Phillies and Guardians trailing right behind them at the second seed.
And while the games have the potential to be a classic, the anticipation really stems from the memories fans have yet to make.
“Just be with my family, be with my dad,” said Munoz. “I love to be around him when we watch baseball.”
October awaits a new chapter in baseball history.
Sebastian Perez-Navarro is a staff reporter for The Prospector and can be reached at [email protected]
