The 2012 MLB season is geared toward a strong finish. As I mentioned before, I’m not 100% psyched about the new Wild Card system, but maybe it’ll provide some fireworks.

There are some teams that are going to be fighting down to the bitter end. On these respective teams, there are a few guys that are going to be difference makers. They could be the reason a team makes the playoffs… if they perform.

Hit the jump to see 5 of the biggest difference makers down the stretch…

5.) Tim Lincecum – SP – San Francisco Giants

Matt Cain – stud. Madison Bumgarner – stud. Ryan Vogelsong – pretty solid. Tim Lincecum has been all over the place. Here’s the thing though – the season has been a disaster for Lincecum, but he has the potential to turn the Giants into a World Series threat. If the Giants go Cain, Bumgarner, and the solid Lincecum we know – that’s a really good team.

4.) Brandon McCarthy – SP – Oakland Athletics

Returning to the mound this evening, the underrated Oakland A’s pitcher Brandon McCarthy. The A’s are hanging tough with a young rotation of guys nobody has ever heard of… McCarthy is the leader of the staff, and although they are HUGE underdogs against the Rangers and Angels. They could make things easier…

3.) Andrew McCutchen – OF – Pittsburgh Pirates

Of course, the NL MVP is going to be on this list. I don’t know about you, but I really want the Pittsburgh Pirates to make the playoffs. Without question, the Pirates go as he does. It’s a big load to carry, but this kid has been up to it all year.

2.) Chris Sale – SP – Chicago White Sox

Chris Sale is the guy for the White Sox. In a “wild card” game the Sox have to win – You’re pitching the rookie. He’s the difference maker for the White Sox. (They’ll probably pitch a veteran like Peavy, but I’d pick Sale) I love this kid, he’s be an easy ROY if it wasn’t for….

1.) Mike Trout – OF – Los Angeles Angels

Jered Weaver, C.J. Wilson, Zack Greinke, Albert Pujols, etc.. Nope, it’s Mike Trout. Mike Trout is going to carry the Angels into the playoffs. This is the best baseball player we’ve seen come along in a VERY long time my friends..