As we look ahead to the 2025 MLB season, it’s time for the annual tradition of predicting team records, playoff outcomes, and individual award winners. While these projections are made in good fun, based on a combination of analysis and intuition, it’s always interesting to see how the season unfolds and if any of these predictions come true.
Starting with the American League, the Boston Red Sox are projected to have the best record in the league, thanks to their strong roster upgrades and solid lineup. However, there are concerns about their rotation, especially with some key pitchers dealing with injuries. The Orioles, despite making some moves, still lack a true ace in their rotation, which could hinder their chances of making a deep playoff run. The Yankees face challenges after losing Gerrit Cole for the year, putting pressure on their young talent to step up.
In the AL Central, the Twins are predicted to come out on top, even though they made minimal additions in the offseason. The Royals made efforts to improve their roster, but their success will depend on the performance of their returning starters. The Tigers, like the Orioles, missed opportunities to strengthen their team and might struggle to replicate their surprising playoff run from the previous season. Cleveland, despite winning the division last year, is expected to regress due to unsustainable performances in key areas.
Moving to the AL West, the Mariners stand out as a strong contender with a playoff-caliber rotation and a solid defense. The Rangers, with some key players returning from injury, have the potential to compete for a postseason spot. The Astros face challenges after losing key players, and their rotation depth might be tested throughout the season. The Athletics, despite stadium issues, are improving on the field and have a competitive rotation.
In the National League, the Mets made a splash by signing Juan Soto, setting high expectations for their season. However, uncertainties in their rotation could impact their performance. The Phillies added Jesús Luzardo and Max Kepler to bolster their roster, aiming to build on last year’s success. The Nationals opted to maintain their current roster, signaling a slower rebuild process. The Marlins are expected to struggle, as they traded away key players and lack depth in their lineup.
In the NL Central, the Cubs made a significant move by acquiring Kyle Tucker, giving them a boost in a division where no other team made substantial changes. The Brewers, known for their strong defense, might face challenges in a competitive division. The Reds have the potential to reach 85+ wins if they stay healthy and get some luck on their side. The Cardinals are rebuilding, with potential trades looming in the future.
In the NL West, the Diamondbacks are poised to make a run at the postseason, especially if the Dodgers face difficulties. The Padres, with a closing window of contention, need standout performances from key players to secure a playoff spot. The Giants invested in their roster, focusing on development and growth for young prospects. The Rockies, with an aging lineup, might struggle to avoid a 100-loss season.
Overall, the season looks promising with strong contenders in both leagues. It will be interesting to see how these predictions play out on the field and which players emerge as MVPs, Cy Young winners, and Rookies of the Year. As the season unfolds, fans can expect exciting matchups and fierce competition as teams vie for a spot in the World Series.
