A Postseason Without a Clear Favorite
The 2025 MLB postseason has arrived, and for the first time in years, no team enters as a dominant frontrunner. Unlike past seasons when the Los Angeles Dodgers or Houston Astros loomed large, this year’s best regular-season record belongs to the Milwaukee Brewers at just 97 wins — the lowest win total for the top seed since 2013 (excluding the pandemic-shortened season).
With 12 teams in contention and a relatively balanced field, this October promises unpredictability. Fans can choose to back historic powerhouses, perennial underdogs, or teams with unique storylines that could define the postseason.
Long-Suffering Franchises Seek Their First Title
For those who love rooting for underdogs, this postseason offers compelling options. The Seattle Mariners headline that group, as they are the only current MLB franchise never to reach the World Series. After clinching their first AL West title since 2001, Seattle enters as the No. 2 seed in the American League, riding momentum from a September surge and a record-breaking season from Cal Raleigh, who hit 60 home runs.
Other teams with empty championship cabinets include the San Diego Padres, last in the Fall Classic in 1998, and the Milwaukee Brewers, whose only appearance was in 1982. Both clubs have built playoff-caliber rosters in recent years but remain hungry for the final step.
Classic Rivalries and Heavyweights Return
Fans who thrive on historic rivalries have their wish granted. The New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox will meet in the Wild Card round, a showdown that could reignite the most famous rivalry in baseball. The Yankees bring star power led by Aaron Judge, who delivered another MVP-caliber season with 53 home runs, while Boston counters with elite pitching anchored by Garrett Crochet and veteran closer Aroldis Chapman.
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Dodgers are looking to defend their 2024 championship. With Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, and Freddie Freeman at the top of their order, they remain one of the most dangerous lineups in the sport. Ohtani’s return to pitching, even in limited appearances, adds intrigue to how the Dodgers will deploy him this October.
The Philadelphia Phillies are another powerhouse to watch, featuring a stacked lineup with Kyle Schwarber, Trea Turner, Bryce Harper, and Nick Castellanos. Despite losing ace Zack Wheeler, they remain one of the most balanced teams in the postseason.
Contact Hitters and Small-Market Surprises
If you prefer old-school contact hitting over pure power, the Toronto Blue Jays offer a refreshing approach. With Bo Bichette and George Springer batting above .300, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Alejandro Kirk close behind, Toronto leads the league in batting average and on-base percentage. While not a traditional small-ball team, their disciplined offense sets them apart from the strikeout-heavy norm.
The Brewers, despite their low payroll, surged midseason to secure the National League’s top record. Their success story is a reminder that payroll giants like the Dodgers and Phillies don’t always hold a monopoly on postseason glory.
Rising Stars to Watch
Beyond team narratives, individual performances will draw eyes. The Detroit Tigers boast ace Tarik Skubal, who finished with a sparkling 2.21 ERA and is a strong Cy Young contender. The Chicago Cubs bring youthful energy with Pete Crow-Armstrong, while the Cincinnati Reds showcase electrifying shortstop Elly de la Cruz, set to make his playoff debut against the Dodgers.
With no clear favorite, the 2025 postseason has all the ingredients for chaos, upsets, and history-making moments. Whether you root for cursed franchises, star-studded lineups, or the drama of a rivalry clash, October baseball promises something for everyone.