2025 Regular Season Analysis: Final Grades
Despite the exciting final five days of the 2025 regular season, with divisional titles and wild cards still at stake, it’s time to evaluate the performance of each team. This final analysis considers the overall picture of a season full of unexpected twists.
The MLB season has been intriguing, without a clear dominant team. This means that, despite spectacular performances, no team received an A+ rating. The results in the standings have been very varied throughout the year, making the evaluation more interesting.Team Evaluation
Milwaukee Brewers: AThe Brewers maintained a consistent performance, standing out with a 14-game winning streak in August. Their run differential of +173 leads the majors, a remarkable achievement considering the initial series against the Yankees. With a combination of pitching, speed, defense, and power, the team will seek to translate their success to the playoffs.Philadelphia Phillies: A-The Phillies secured their second consecutive NL East title. Although the offense sometimes relied on Kyle Schwarber, the rotation was exceptional, the defense improved, and Dave Dombrowski made key acquisitions in the transfer market. The Phillies enter the postseason as favorites to win the World Series.Toronto Blue Jays: A-This grade depends on the Blue Jays securing the AL East title, something they haven’t achieved since 2015. They have performed better than their run differential suggests. George Springer has been their best offensive player, and they have received solid contributions from several players. World Series hopes could depend on the performance of closer Jeff Hoffman.Seattle Mariners: B+The Mariners, after an irregular season, recovered at the right moment, winning 15 of 16 games in September. They are close to their first divisional title since 2001 and their second postseason appearance since then. Cal Raleigh has set batting records, and the offense has been key. If Bryan Woo’s physical condition allows it, the Mariners could reach their first World Series.Cleveland Guardians: B+Despite the off-field issues, the late resurgence and collapse of Detroit have made this a memorable season for Cleveland. Although the team is mediocre, they have outperformed their rivals and received excellent pitching. The Guardians are in a position to achieve one of the biggest divisional comebacks in MLB history.Detroit Tigers: BFor three months, the Tigers were a high-performing team. However, the season could end disappointingly if they don’t secure the divisional title or a wild card spot. The current situation jeopardizes both possibilities, and the standings could change drastically.Chicago Cubs: BThe Cubs were exciting in the first half of the season. However, the second half was more difficult due to injuries and performance issues. Playoff hopes could depend on Kyle Tucker’s recovery.San Diego Padres: BThe Padres return to the playoffs for the second consecutive season. The bullpen has been their strength, while the offense improved with acquisitions in the transfer market. The rotation could be surprisingly good.New York Yankees: BThe Yankees have had a season full of ups and downs. Aaron Judge is having another historic offensive season. However, the inconsistent bullpen is a concern heading into October. If the bullpen recovers, the Yankees will be difficult to beat in the postseason.Athletics: BThe first year in West Sacramento has brought exciting developments for the A’s. Nick Kurtz had an impressive rookie season, and Jacob Wilson stood out. The future looks promising.Cincinnati Reds: B-The Reds are still in the fight. The series against the Cubs could define the season. The starting pitching has been good, and the offense has been sufficient. Elly De La Cruz’s performance in the last games could be crucial.Los Angeles Dodgers: C+The Dodgers should reach 90 wins. They’ve had more injuries in the pitching staff. The rotation is healthy for the playoffs for the first time since 2022. Mookie Betts and Shohei Ohtani have been important.Boston Red Sox: C+The season has had enough drama. If the Red Sox don’t make the playoffs, the rating could be much worse. Despite good individual performances, they haven’t secured a playoff spot.Houston Astros: C+The Astros lost Alex Bregman and Yordan Alvarez. The bullpen was good, but the back end of the rotation was a disaster. Despite everything, they have the opportunity to win a wild card.Miami Marlins: C+The Marlins were more competitive than expected. The offense has been stronger than the pitching staff. The rotation has struggled, which does not reflect well on the organization.Arizona Diamondbacks: CThe Diamondbacks are alive in the wild card race. Geraldo Perdomo has had an impressive season. They have played better after making changes in the transfer market.Texas Rangers: CThe Rangers have had a strange year. Globe Life Field became the most difficult park to hit in. The team has not met its win-loss record, despite a good performance in extra-inning games.San Francisco Giants: CThe Giants will not make the playoffs. They have struggled against the Dodgers and the Padres. The Rafael Devers trade has not yielded the expected results.Kansas City Royals: CThe Royals stayed in the playoff hunt until the last week. The search for a power-hitting outfielder will continue in the offseason.Tampa Bay Rays: CThe season was going to be difficult for the Rays. Junior Caminero has had a great year. The rotation has struggled.Chicago White Sox: CThe White Sox could have another 100-loss season. They have integrated a promising group of rookies into the lineup. There is something to build on for the future.New York Mets: C- … or F?The Mets’ grade could be an F if they don’t make the playoffs. They’ve had a collapse down the stretch. Mets fans are used to suffering.
