MLB 2025 Playoffs: Analysis and Perspectives on Alofoke Deportes
The first two weeks of the 2025 MLB playoffs have been spectacular. From the epic Game 5 of the American League Division Series between the Detroit Tigers and the Seattle Mariners, to the elimination of the Philadelphia Phillies at the hands of the Los Angeles Dodgers in a game that was decided by an error with the bases loaded in the 11th inning. The Toronto Blue Jays advanced with a demolishing offense over the New York Yankees. Now, we are in the initial stages of the league championship series, with the four finalist teams: one seeking a second consecutive championship, two yearning for their first title, and another looking to revive the glory of the 90s. The Mariners surprised everyone by winning the first two games in Toronto. The Dodgers, for their part, managed to maintain a slight lead to take Game 1 in Milwaukee. We analyze the current situation with our “Real or Not” section, examining the stories of the remaining and already eliminated teams.Teams still in competition
The Dodgers: The team to beat… again
Verdict: Real
They are the defending champions. They have a star-studded rotation, including Shohei Ohtani, and seem to have found a closer in Roki Sasaki. They are the favorites to win. Milwaukee Brewers manager Pat Murphy sums it up: “The Dodgers are a powerhouse.” He also highlights Mookie Betts as an underrated star and admires Freddie Freeman. He also praises Ohtani and Blake Snell, among others. The Dodgers are the favorites, but recent history doesn’t favor them, as no team has repeated since the Yankees in 2000.The Blue Jays’ ability to put the ball in play makes them the biggest threat to L.A.’s throne.Verdict: Not Real
The Blue Jays had the lowest strikeout rate in the regular season, but the Brewers, with a similar rate, scored more runs. Bo Bichette’s injury is an important factor. Although contact is key in October, the strikeout numbers of the last World Series champions suggest a problem for the Mariners. Toronto’s rotation, especially in the bullpen, will be crucial. The Dodgers, with a strikeout rate similar to last season’s, seem to have an advantage.Jorge Polanco, the MVP of the playoffs so farVerdict: Real?
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. had a great performance in the Divisional Series, but Polanco has been key for the Mariners. His decisive moments include crucial home runs and game-winning hits. Although his overall numbers are not spectacular (.258/.303/.548), he has been fundamental for the Mariners, who are two wins away from the World Series.- Guerrero: .375/.429/.750, 3 HR, 9 RBIs
- Cal Raleigh: .357/.471/.607, 2 HR, 5 RBIs
- Clement: .476/.478/.667, 1 HR, 5 RBIs
- Jackson Chourio: .333/.348/.571, 1 HR, 7 RBIs
- Teoscar Hernandez: .276/.323/.621, 3 HR, 9 RBIs
Verdict: Not Real
Ohtani has already performed well as a pitcher, but his offensive performance has been inconsistent. In addition, his effectiveness against fastballs decreases. The Brewers have several pitchers with high-velocity pitches that could affect his performance. Much is expected of Ohtani, but maintaining the pace of the regular season could be difficult.The Mariners’ atmosphere is enough to propel them in OctoberVerdict: Real
Although the environment doesn’t win games on its own, home runs, good starting pitching, and a solid bullpen do. The Mariners have shown resilience and the ability to overcome obstacles. The manager’s decisions, such as leaving Bryce Miller on the mound, have been key. The Mariners’ power and pitching have kept them in the fight, but strikeouts could be their Achilles’ heel.
Blake Snell looks like the man on the mound this postseasonVerdict: Real
Snell could have a memorable October. His performance against the Reds and Phillies was excellent, and his one-run game with 10 strikeouts against the Brewers was exceptional. After missing much of the regular season, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts could have managed his return so that he would be ready for October. Snell is determined to pitch more innings and prove his worth in important moments.Eliminated Teams
The Phillies will look very different the next time we see themVerdict: Not Real
After the defeat against the Dodgers, the end of an era is being considered for the Phillies. Key players like Kyle Schwarber, J.T. Realmuto, and Ranger Suarez are free agents. Although there could be changes, they are unlikely to be drastic. Management will seek to stay the course and continue competing for the title.Having a true ace no longer guarantees October successVerdict: Real
Elite starters like Tarik Skubal, Garrett Crochet, and Cristopher Sanchez couldn’t pitch deep into games, affecting their teams’ performance. Managers tend to pull starters earlier, even if they are the best. While aces are still valuable, their impact is lessened if they can’t pitch more innings.Aaron Judge finally silenced his October critics, foreverVerdict: Not Real
Although Judge had a great postseason, with a .500 average, it won’t be enough to silence his critics. In New York, until he wins a championship, the pressure and expectations will be present every October.This was the San Diego Padres’ last great opportunity for a deep postseason runVerdict: Real
The Padres’ future is full of challenges, including the free agency of Michael King, Dylan Cease, and Nestor Cortes. In addition, the contracts of Manny Machado, Xander Bogaerts, and Fernando Tatis Jr. represent a significant financial burden. The Padres are becoming more expensive and older. The situation might not be favorable in the future.The state of Ohio had two playoff teams, two more than it will have in 2026Verdict: Not Real
The Cleveland Guardians and the Cincinnati Reds had a standout season. Both teams will rely on defense to compete in 2026. The Reds have a promising rotation, with Hunter Greene, Nick Lodolo, Andrew Abbott, and Brady Singer. The money saved with Nick Martinez’s departure could be invested in the offense. If the young hitters improve, the Reds could return to the postseason.
