The 2025 MLB season is in full swing, and with the first-third marker approaching, it's time to take a closer look at the 12 teams that made the playoffs last year and rank their chances of returning in 2026. Here's a breakdown of the top contenders and some surprising contenders, with a heavy dose of personal commentary and analysis.
The Top Contenders
Dodgers: The Dodgers are cruising through the regular season, with a 7.5-game lead in the NL West. They've mastered the art of staying healthy and performing at their best for the postseason. With a strong lead and a healthy lineup, they're a strong bet to return to October.
Mariners: The Mariners are starting to round into shape, with a strong lineup and a solid rotation. They've pulled back into first place in the AL West and are looking to make a serious run at the division title. With a healthy lineup and a strong rotation, they're a force to be reckoned with.
Brewers: The Brewers are the class of the NL Central, with a strong rotation and a deep lineup. They've won the last three NL Central titles and are looking to keep getting better. With a strong rotation and a deep lineup, they're a strong bet to return to the playoffs.
Guardians: The Guardians had a stressful playoff run last year, but they're looking to make it smoother this time. With a strong lineup and a solid rotation, they're a strong bet to return to the playoffs.
The Contenders in the Wild Card Race
Yankees: The Yankees are well-positioned to weather the loss of Aaron Judge, with a strong rotation and a deep lineup. They have a solid lead in the AL Wild Card race and are looking to make a serious run at the postseason.
Phillies: The Phillies are a wild card contender, with a strong lineup and a solid rotation. They've had a wilder season so far, but they're still in the mix.
The Struggling Contenders
Cubs: The Cubs have had a wild season, with two 10-game winning streaks and a 10-game losing streak. Their lineup is in a slump, and their starting pitching has collapsed. They're a long shot to make the playoffs.
Blue Jays: The Blue Jays are struggling with injuries, but they have a strong lineup and a solid rotation. They're in a muddled AL Wild Card race, but they're still in the mix.
Padres: The Padres are in a tough spot, with a wobbly offense and a high-priced lineup that's struggling. They're on the Wild Card bubble and are looking to turn things around.
The Struggling Teams
Reds: The Reds are teetering, with a losing record and a struggling bullpen. They're in a tough spot in the NL Central and are looking to turn things around.
Red Sox: The Red Sox are struggling, with a 10-17 start and a firing of their manager. They're in a tough spot in the AL East and are looking to turn things around.
Tigers: The Tigers are in deep trouble, with a shocking nine-game deficit in the AL Central. They're looking to turn things around, but it's a long shot.
Conclusion
The 2025 MLB season is shaping up to be an exciting one, with a mix of strong contenders and struggling teams. The top contenders are looking to make a serious run at the postseason, while the struggling teams are looking to turn things around. With a mix of strong rotations and deep lineups, the playoffs are shaping up to be an exciting affair.
