Steve Davis: Parity In MLB
Tom Verducci of Sports Illustrated had an interesting piece about parity in baseball, which seems to be following the path of the NFL.
Among the data, in the last 8 years, only 3 teams have won 100 games. In the prior 8 years, 16 teams did. Also, since MLB expanded to 30 teams, only once this far into the season have 16 teams have been within 5 games of .500. 26 of the 30 teams are still in contention for a playoff spot.
Baseball has become mediocre.
What are my feelings about it?
From a provincial perspective, I like it. The Orioles are in position to contend, even if they are kind of an average team.
As a fan of the sport, I don't like it. Dynasties, or at least dominant teams, make the major sports more interesting. People don't remember teams that were good once, won a title and disappeared. They remember teams that do it after year. In baseball, the Orioles of the 60's, 70's and 80's, the Yankees of course, the Cardinals and Red Sox recently. In the NFL, the Steelers of the 70's, then the 49'ers and the Cowboys of the 90's, the Patriots in the early 2000's. NBA, it's the Lakers and Celtics.
My point is, for local fans, mediocrity is often good. But for national fans, great teams are better.
Follow @SteveDavisBmore
Related Stories - Baltimore Orioles:
