5 times MLB teams proved the experts wrong this year ft. Toronto Blue Jays

Entering a new MLB season is one of the most exciting times of the year. It is an opportunity for teams to show whether or not their offseason moves will pay off and will allow fans, experts, and analysts the chance to see if their projections will prove to be accurate.

Well, one of the main reasons why sports remain exciting is the fact that they are unpredictable, something that MLB teams proved for better and worse in 2024. Regardless of what a lineup looks like on paper, there is no guarantee that things will play out that way on the field. This year, a number of clubs proved the experts' predictions wrong; in some cases, it was an unexpected failure that achieved this.

Here's a look at 5 MLB teams that proved the experts wrong in 2024

#1 - Detroit Tigers

No one saw the Detroit Tigers competing at the level that they did in 2024. While the team has been building up a solid roster of homegrown talent, including the development of Tarik Skubal into one of the best pitchers in MLB, no one saw them both reaching the postseason and winning a series. The Tigers defied their expectations and took a considerable step forward in 2024.

#2 - Toronto Blue Jays

While the Tigers deserve praise for their tremendous 2024 season, the opposite could be said for the Toronto Blue Jays, who were one of the most disappointing teams in baseball. Although it wasn't believed that they would win the AL East, no one predicted that the Blue Jays would be one of the most disappointing MLB squads, finishing with a 74-88 record.

#3 - Cleveland Guardians

The Cleveland Guardians are another MLB club that dramatically outperformed their projections in 2024. MLB insider Ben Verlander had the Guardians finishing fourth in the AL Central with only 76 wins. In reality, the Guardians dominated all year, posting a 92-69 record to win their division by 6.5 games.

#4 - Cincinnati Reds

Another disappointing squad that failed to live up to the hype that many had for them coming into 2024 was the Cincinnati Reds. Even though the Reds showed flashes of brilliance, their story in 2024 was one of injuries. The club battled adversity all season, with stars such as Nick Lodolo, Matt McLain, and TJ Friedl all missing time. It was unlucky, but the Reds definitely proved experts wrong in 2024.

#5 - Chicago White Sox

No one across baseball thought the Chicago White Sox were going to contend for the World Series in 2024. However, no one also predicted that they would set the all-time record for losses in a season. The club entered the history books for all the wrong reasons, posting a dreadful 41-121 record, 22 victories less than Verlander had predicted to open the season.