Officially set! Three teams have already secured their place in the playoffs, leaving nine spots available with only 11 days remaining in the 2025 regular season. The excitement of high-caliber baseball is at its peak.
The Brewers, for the second year in a row, took the lead in the race, securing first place. They were followed by the Phillies, who, in addition to securing their place, won the National League East title for the second time in a row. The Cubs also joined the party.
The question now is: who will be the next to secure their spot? Teams like the Blue Jays and the Dodgers are on their way, but there’s still a lot at stake for others.
In the last week, the Mariners have climbed the ranks, reclaiming first place in their division, while the Mets suffered a losing streak that almost knocked them out of contention. The playoff races promise excitement until the last day of the season. Get ready for an epic finish!
Our panel of experts has ranked each team, based on their current performance and expectations prior to this marathon 162-game season. In addition, the experts at Alofoke Deportes have shared their analyses for all 30 teams.
Team Ranking
Record: 93-59. Previous ranking: 1
The Brewers were the first to secure their place in the postseason. Now, their goal is to secure the top spot in the National League, crucial if they face the Phillies in the Championship Series. In addition, they seek to break the franchise’s win record and secure the National League Central Division title over the Cubs.
Record: 91-62. Previous ranking: 2
The Phillies clinched their second consecutive National League East title with an epic victory at Dodger Stadium. Kyle Schwarber hit his 53rd home run and Harrison Bader stole third base, setting the stage for an unforgettable celebration. The Phillies look ready for October.
Record: 89-63. Previous ranking: 5
With a 95.6% chance of winning the American League East, manager John Schneider has several options for the playoff rotation. Kevin Gausman is the most likely candidate for Game 1, followed by Shane Bieber, Chris Bassitt, Max Scherzer, Eric Lauer, and rookie Trey Yesavage, who had an impressive debut. The Jays’ depth is enviable.
Record: 85-67. Previous ranking: 3
Despite Shohei Ohtani’s performance, the Dodgers must secure the National League West Division title. The winner will be the number 3 seed, and the second place, number 5. This means the Dodgers could host the Mets or play against the Cubs at Wrigley Field.
Record: 88-64. Previous ranking: 7
The Cubs have already secured their place in the playoffs and are in a good position to be the league’s wild card. They need Pete Crow-Armstrong to regain his form to succeed in the postseason.
Record: 85-67. Previous ranking: 4
The difficulties in the Tigers’ rotation are surprising, but manager A.J. Hinch has several options for the playoffs. With a developed and acquired bullpen, including Troy Melton, Jose Urquidy, and the hope of Kyle Finnegan and Paul Sewald’s return, the Tigers have weapons to compete.
Record: 85-67. Previous ranking: 6
The competition for the shortstop position is open, with Anthony Volpe and Jose Caballero competing for the spot. With Volpe eligible for arbitration and the promising arrival of George Lombard, the future of the Yankees’ shortstop is uncertain.
Record: 83-69. Previous ranking: 12
Cal Raleigh is having an exceptional season, with impressive home runs. Aaron Judge’s record of 62 home runs is at stake if Raleigh achieves a great season finish. Furthermore, the Mariners achieved their tenth consecutive victory.
Record: 83-69. Previous ranking: 9
The key question is whether the Padres’ bullpen will maintain its level in the final stretch and in the playoffs. The rotation has been inconsistent, which increases the pressure on the bullpen, reinforced with the acquisition of Mason Miller. Will the bullpen be able to regain its dominance?
Record: 83-69. Previous ranking: 8
The absence of Roman Anthony, due to an injury, has significantly affected the Red Sox. The team has struggled since his injury, averaging less than 4.0 runs per game.
Record: 84-69. Previous ranking: 10
The Astros’ injured list continues to grow, with Yordan Alvarez out due to an injury. Zach Cole, in his fourth MLB game, replaced Alvarez and hit a crucial home run. The series against the Mariners will be key in the fight for first place.
Record: 79-74. Previous ranking: 13
The Rangers lost ground after falling to the Astros, and now face a difficult task to qualify for the postseason.
Record: 78-74. Previous ranking: 11
The Mets fight to secure the last wild card. The key to their success will be the young pitchers, Nolan McLean, Jonah Tong, and Brandon Sproat.
Record: 80-71. Previous ranking: 15
The Guardians are seeking the last wild card spot in the American League, facing significant challenges in their schedule.
Record: 77-76. Previous ranking: 19
The Diamondbacks have returned to contention for the wild card thanks to an explosive offense and the performance of Geraldo Perdomo.
Record: 76-76. Previous ranking: 14
Despite a difficult series, the Giants still have playoff hopes. Fans can focus on the debut of Bryce Eldridge.
Record: 76-76. Previous ranking: 17
The Reds depend on the Mets to keep their wild card aspirations alive. Their remaining schedule is complicated.
Record: 76-76. Previous ranking: 16
Despite few playoff chances, the Royals are still playing meaningful baseball. Salvador Perez reached important milestones in his career.
Record: 74-78. Previous ranking: 18
Although they won’t make the playoffs, the Rays have a rising star in Junior Caminero, who could receive MVP votes.
Record: 74-79. Previous ranking: 20
The Cardinals haven’t given much reason to be excited, and attention is focused on the changes that could come.
Record: 71-81. Previous ranking: 23
Nick Kurtz has had a standout rookie season, including a 493-foot home run.
Record: 72-80. Previous ranking: 21
Baltimore was eliminated from playoff contention. The team’s biggest challenge will be building a solid pitching staff.
Record: 70-83. Previous ranking: 22
Matt Olson has had a great September, leading the National League in doubles and with a chance to reach 100 runs and 100 RBIs.
Record: 72-80. Previous ranking: 24
Sandy Alcantara has shown improvements, and he hopes to be a stabilizing force for the team’s rotation next season.
Record: 66-86. Previous ranking: 26
Byron Buxton could surpass personal records in several categories. He has had a consistent season and could receive votes for the MVP.
Record: 69-83. Previous ranking: 25
The Angels suffered a sweep that put them in last place. Jo Adell keeps hitting home runs.
Record: 65-88. Previous ranking: 27
Will Paul Skenes be able to lower his effectiveness below 2.00? His last outing was the worst of the season.
Record: 57-96. Previous ranking: 29
The White Sox are looking to avoid 100 losses. Colson Montgomery has been a key piece, but he needs to improve against left-handed pitchers.
Record: 62-91. Previous ranking: 28
The Nationals will need a rebuild. James Wood and MacKenzie Gore have struggled. Pitchers Irvin and Parker have seen their ERA increase.
Record: 41-111. Previous ranking: 30
Rockies fans can focus on the American football team. The team has attracted many fans despite their defeats.
