Since the turn of the century, Major League Baseball (MLB) has witnessed numerous remarkable teams that fell short of clinching the World Series title. Ranking the best runners-up since 2000 reveals a collection of talented squads that, despite their impressive performances, could not secure the ultimate prize. This article highlights the ten best teams that came close but ultimately lost in the World Series.
2019 Houston Astros: Dominance Meets Disappointment
The 2019 Houston Astros, with a regular season record of 107–55, showcased a powerhouse lineup that outscored opponents by 280 runs. Their journey to the World Series included hard-fought victories against the Tampa Bay Rays and the New York Yankees. Unfortunately, despite their impressive performance, they lost to the Washington Nationals in a thrilling seven-game series.
2004 St. Louis Cardinals: A Stellar Season Ends in Heartbreak
The 2004 St. Louis Cardinals ended the regular season with 105 wins and boasted a roster featuring players like Albert Pujols, Scott Rolen, and Jim Edmonds. They advanced to the World Series after defeating the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Houston Astros. Facing the Boston Red Sox, they were swept in four games, marking a disappointing end to a season filled with expectations.
2017 Los Angeles Dodgers: A Strong Squad Falls Short
The 2017 Los Angeles Dodgers achieved a 104–58 record, dominating their postseason opponents before reaching the World Series. They faced the Houston Astros in a tightly contested series but ultimately lost in seven games. This team is often remembered for its incredible depth and talent, which included standout performances from pitchers like Clayton Kershaw.
2018 Los Angeles Dodgers: Another Near Miss
Returning to the World Series in 2018, the Dodgers had a regular season of 92–71. Despite a lower win total compared to their previous season, they still demonstrated their skill by outscoring opponents by 194 runs. Their journey ended in a 1–4 loss to the Boston Red Sox, who proved to be an exceptional team that year.
2021 Houston Astros: Consistent Excellence
The Astros made their third appearance in this ranking, showcasing their continued excellence in recent years. In 2021, they posted a record of 95–67 and advanced through the playoffs by defeating the Chicago White Sox and the Boston Red Sox. They ultimately faced the Atlanta Braves in the World Series, where they lost the series 2–4.
2013 St. Louis Cardinals: Solid Efforts Fall Short
In 2013, the Cardinals returned to the World Series after a 97–65 regular season. Their postseason run included victories over the Pittsburgh Pirates and the Los Angeles Dodgers. However, they were unable to secure the championship, losing to the Boston Red Sox in six games. The team featured strong performances from players like Yadier Molina and Adam Wainwright.
2011 Texas Rangers: The Pain of Near Victory
The 2011 Texas Rangers reached the World Series for the second consecutive year, finishing the regular season with a 96–66 record. Their postseason included wins against the Tampa Bay Rays and the Detroit Tigers. The World Series ended in heartbreak as they lost in seven games to the St. Louis Cardinals, with David Freese delivering a memorable performance.
2002 San Francisco Giants: Bonds’ Brilliance Not Enough
In the 2002 World Series, the Giants faced off against the Anaheim Angels. The Giants, led by Barry Bonds, who achieved a remarkable season hitting 46 home runs, finished the regular season with 95 wins. Despite their strong performance, they lost the series 3–4, with Bonds’ historic season ultimately falling short of a championship.
2003 New York Yankees: A Tale of Unluckiness
The 2003 New York Yankees had a successful regular season, recording 101 wins. They defeated the Minnesota Twins and the Boston Red Sox en route to the World Series. However, they were bested by the Florida Marlins, who emerged victorious in six games, marking another chapter in the Yankees’ series of near misses in the early 2000s.
2006 Detroit Tigers: A Strong Chance at Glory
The 2006 Detroit Tigers finished their regular season with a 95–67 record. Their playoff run included victories over the New York Yankees and the Oakland Athletics. However, they were ultimately defeated by the St. Louis Cardinals in the World Series, concluding a season that had promised so much.
These ten teams exemplify the high stakes and fierce competition of Major League Baseball. Each squad demonstrated exceptional talent and resilience, yet they ultimately fell short of their championship dreams. Their stories serve as a reminder of the unpredictability and thrill that defines the sport.
