
The 2025 MLB Preseason Power Rankings: Who Will Dominate?
2025-03-26
Author: Ken Lee
As the 2025 MLB season quickly approaches, it's time to unveil our preseason power rankings! After years of playoff chaos, the baseball fans encountered a rare moment of clarity last season: the Los Angeles Dodgers triumphed over the New York Yankees to capture the coveted World Series trophy. This victory proved that even the best regular-season teams can find playoff success, silencing debates about the fairness of playoff structures.
However, the Dodgers and Yankees have taken diverging paths since the Fall Classic. The Dodgers have fortified their already impressive roster by adding talent like Blake Snell, Roki Sasaki, and Shohei Ohtani (the pitcher) to their already formidable pitching staff. Conversely, the Yankees faced setbacks, losing superstar Juan Soto to the Mets and their ace Gerrit Cole for the entire season due to Tommy John surgery.
This offseason highlights a noticeable imbalance within the league. Our rankings reflect a top-heavy situation in the National League, where the best teams—led by the Dodgers and Braves—loom large, while opportunities are ripe for a dark horse to emerge from the American League.
With Opening Day just around the corner, here’s our ranking of all 30 MLB teams heading into 2025!
1. Los Angeles Dodgers
Coming off a successful World Series campaign, the Dodgers have solidified their pitching lineup with the addition of key players like Snell and Sasaki. Despite concerns over injuries to veteran stars Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman, their core remains formidable. If healthy, they will be a challenging match for any opponent come playoff time.
2. Atlanta Braves
After a disastrous 2024 season characterized by injuries to standout players Ronald Acuña Jr. and Spencer Strider, the Braves still managed to clinch a playoff spot. Their success hinges on the health of these stars, with Acuña expected to return in May. With a strong cyclical foundation, Atlanta remains a leading contender in the NL East.
3. Philadelphia Phillies
The Phillies’ trajectory has been fascinating; they've increased their win totals while consistently exiting earlier in the playoffs. With significant pitching improvements and notable young talent, the Phillies are poised to challenge for a title. However, their core players must find a way to elevate their postseason performance if they are to take the next step.
4. New York Mets
After trading for Juan Soto, the Mets have enormous offensive potential. Their pitching rotation, while uncertain, features promising new talent. With Soto and Francisco Lindor leading the charge, the Mets can create offensive havoc, but their pitching depth remains a significant area of concern.
5. Arizona Diamondbacks
Often overlooked, the Diamondbacks have a strong offensive lineup and an impressive pitching staff. After leading the league in runs last season, they aim to build on this success in 2025. With a reliable rotation and a revamped bullpen, they could make a surprise playoff run.
6. Texas Rangers
The Rangers have emerged as a leading contender in a weaker AL landscape. Their potent mix of veteran leadership and prospects positions them favorably. However, they must hope for health amongst their stars; missing key players could derail their ambitions.
7. Boston Red Sox
A refreshing approach in the offseason has propelled the Red Sox back into contention. With new acquisitions and promising prospects primed for debuts, Boston aims to make significant strides this season and contend once again.
8. Baltimore Orioles
The Orioles, despite early-season injuries, boast a deep and talented roster. Their young hitters are projected to excel, but overcoming the loss of key players may challenge their chances early in the season.
9. Houston Astros
The Astros' reign is under scrutiny following an unsatisfactory 2024 season. With key players either departed or struggling with injuries, their once-mighty dynasty appears to be in flux, yet they still possess enough talent in their starting roster to remain competitive.
10. New York Yankees
The Yankees face immense pressure after the departure of Soto and the injury setbacks to Cole. Their offseason reinforcements, including Cody Bellinger and Paul Goldschmidt, show promise but will require stellar performances to keep them in the upper echelon of MLB teams.
The rankings continue with a mix of emerging talents and rebuilding teams, presenting an unpredictable yet thrilling season ahead. Will the established powers maintain their dominance, or will a surprise contender rise from the ranks? Stay tuned as the 2025 MLB season unfolds!