Elimination numbers and magic numbers are now incorporated into the MLB standings. Basically, the lower your number, the less life is left in your season. So the Houston Astros and Miami Marlins, who are the two worst teams in baseball, are at risk of quickly being eliminated, possibly before we enter the final month of baseball. Who's in danger? Find out the elimination of your favorite club.
Houston Astros: Elimination #6
They are 41-84 and playing in a division with the Texas Rangers and Oakland A's, who have won at least 70 games this season. The Astros are 31.5 games behind in the A.L. West division, making them the worst team in baseball.
Miami Marlins: Elimination #11
The Marlins are 27.5 games behind the Atlanta Braves. The Marlins are rebuilding and they were expecting to lose this year. The math is that simple.
Chicago White Sox: Elimination #16
At 50-74, the White Sox's 2013 season was a huge disappointment. Last year they were competing for the division, but in 2013, the White Sox are irrelevant as far as the postseason is concerned.
Philadelphia Phillies: Elimination #17
The Phillies fired their manager, Charlie Manuel, though personnel injuries had more to do with the team's struggles the past two seasons. They are 55-70, 17 games back behind the Braves with no hope of making a run.
Milwaukee Brewers & Chicago Cubs: Elimination # 18
Both teams have lost almost as many games as the Pittsburgh Pirates have won. The Brewers are 55-71, while the Cubs are 54-71 this season. The N.L. Central is one of the toughest divisions in baseball with the Cincinnati Reds, St. Louis Cardinals and Pirates battling for the top spot. However, the Cubs and the Brewers will have to begin preparing for 2014.
Magic Numbers
For those fans who can't wait for their teams to clinch the division, here are the teams closest to advancing to the playoffs.
Atlanta Braves: Magic #23
They are leading the Washington Nationals by 15 games with about 38 games remaining in their season. They have the best record in baseball at 76-49 and the Braves have the biggest lead of any first-place team in baseball.
Los Angeles Dodgers: Magic #31
The Dodgers are only 7.5 games ahead of the Arizona Cardinals, so they are far from victory, but they are winning at a high rate. They were expected to win the division before the beginning of the season and they are close to making this a reality despite a disappointing start.
Detroit Tigers: Magic #32
At 73-52, they are the best team in the American League. The Tigers lead the Cleveland Indians by 5.5 games in the A.L. Central. The division is far from settled, but the Tigers have some breathing room to work with.
Click here to view all elimination numbers entering Wednesday's games.