The San Francisco Giants finished the 2024 season with an 80-82 record, landing them in 4th place in the NL West. Despite being ranked 19th in both ERA and OPS, the team showcased some standout performances.

Logan Webb emerged as the ace, leading the NL in innings pitched. Blake Snell had a solid season when healthy, while Ryan Walker excelled in the bullpen. On offense, Matt Chapman had a career year, earning a lucrative contract extension.

However, the team faced challenges with rotation depth and inconsistent performances from several players, including Thairo Estrada, who struggled significantly. The Giants will need to address these issues in the offseason, particularly if Snell opts out of his contract.

As the season concludes, a review of the top relief pitchers highlights their performance against draft expectations. Ryan Helsley of the St. Louis Cardinals emerged as a standout, setting a franchise record with 49 saves despite a previous injury.

Kirby Yates of the Texas Rangers, initially overlooked, proved his worth with a stellar season, saving 33 games. Robert Suarez of the San Diego Padres also had a strong start but faced challenges later in the season.

Ryan Walker from the San Francisco Giants and Mason Miller of the Oakland Athletics both showed promise, with Miller leading in strikeouts despite injury concerns. Overall, these players have reshaped expectations for the upcoming draft.

San Francisco Giants closer Camilo Doval, once an All-Star, faces uncertainty after a challenging 2024 season. Giants President Larry Baer's season-ending letter highlighted the team's young talent but notably omitted Doval, raising questions about his future.

Doval's performance dipped significantly mid-season, leading to a demotion to Triple-A. Despite a high strikeout rate, his control issues and poor ERA have made him a potential trade candidate as his salary is set to increase.

The Washington Nationals are gaining attention as a promising team in the National League East, despite a consistent win-loss record of 71 in both 2023 and 2024.

Key players like second baseman Luis Garcia Jr. and closer Kyle Finnegan have emerged as standout performers, with Garcia nominated for the All-MLB Team and Finnegan recognized as the team's pitcher of the year.

Fans have the opportunity to vote for their favorite nominees until October 11, with winners announced on November 14.

Rookie photographer Stephanie Scarbrough, based in Baltimore, captured a pivotal moment for the Baltimore Orioles during a game against the San Francisco Giants. After a tough stretch, the Orioles were tied 3-3 in the ninth inning when designated hitter Anthony Santander hit a two-run homer, securing a victory and ending the team's losing streak.

Scarbrough utilized her photography skills to capture the excitement of the moment, focusing on the action and the celebration that followed. Her unique composition emphasized Santander's achievement and the joy of his teammates.