The 2025 MLB postseason’s down to eight contenders, each with their own path—some clearer than others—toward World Series glory. From the powerhouse Phillies to those scrappy Mariners, every team brings a mix of talent and headaches into October.
Some squads have intimidating batting orders. Others lean on deep rotations or those clutch, late-game heroes.
There’s no obvious juggernaut this year. Multiple question marks are scattered across the bracket, making these playoffs feel especially unpredictable—maybe even wild, honestly.
The Underdogs and Dark Horses
This postseason’s got a few teams that, while not favorites, could absolutely shake things up. The Detroit Tigers, for one, aren’t used to being this deep into October.
Tarik Skubal’s been downright dominant on the mound and keeps them in every game. Still, the Tigers’ roster depth isn’t quite there, so their upside feels capped.
But hey, in a short series, a hot ace can upend any prediction. That’s what makes October so chaotic.
Cubs: Built for Consistency
The Chicago Cubs have stayed under the radar, but they enter the playoffs balanced on both sides of the ball. Their rotation doesn’t have a big-name ace, yet the starters are steady, and the offense just keeps finding ways to score.
If they can dodge those long cold streaks, the Cubs could surprise people. There’s real potential for a deep run if things break their way.
The Brewers and Blue Jays: Talent with Caveats
It’s odd to see the team with the best regular-season record not even cracking the top five, but that’s the Milwaukee Brewers right now. Even after 162 games of excellence, their lack of power and some ill-timed pitching injuries have dulled their shine.
They’ll have to manufacture runs and squeeze every last drop out of a thinned-out staff. It’s not impossible, but it’s a tall order.
Toronto’s Power vs. Pitching Uncertainty
The Toronto Blue Jays know they can mash with anyone. With Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette in the lineup, their offense can get loud in a hurry.
But October’s often about pitching depth, and the Jays have a lot of questions there. If they can string together enough quality innings, maybe their bats can carry them—but that’s a big “if.”
The Heavy Hitters: Yankees, Mariners, Dodgers
The New York Yankees still manage to strike fear in pretty much everyone. The Bronx Bombers have MLB’s most explosive offense, plus a rotation that can shut down almost anyone.
But their bullpen’s been shaky when it matters most. In those nail-biter playoff games, that flaw could be the difference between a parade and another year of frustration.
Seattle’s Sleeper Potential
The Seattle Mariners might be the most dangerous team nobody’s talking about. Julio Rodríguez leads the offense, and Luis Castillo heads up a deep four-man rotation.
Seattle’s got star power, stability, and versatility. If their bats heat up, they could absolutely bulldoze higher seeds.
Dodgers: Stars and Depth
On paper, the Los Angeles Dodgers look as complete as ever. Mookie Betts headlines a stacked lineup, and the rotation’s finally healthy again.
Still, that bullpen is a worry. Late-game drama could be their undoing unless the relievers step up big time.
Phillies: The Team to Beat
The Philadelphia Phillies, even after losing Zack Wheeler, sit atop most lists as the team to beat. Cristopher Sánchez anchors the rotation, and Bryce Harper leads a lineup packed with experience.
Clutch hitting, steady defense, and a resilient rotation have put them in the driver’s seat. October’s never a sure thing, but the Phillies look ready for the ride.
Why This Postseason Feels Wide Open
This year, there isn’t a clear favorite. Every team left has strengths that could carry them, but none are perfect.
Each contender also has flaws that might trip them up. That kind of balance means fans can expect more nail-biters and wild upsets.
Get ready for a postseason packed with drama. Maybe it’ll be a Tarik Skubal strikeout, a Harper bomb, or Betts making some ridiculous catch—October baseball in 2025 feels like it could go in any direction.
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Here is the source article for this story: MLB Power Rankings: Why World Series race is wide open with eight contenders left standing
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