2025 MLB Standings: Early Predictions for Every Team

Jan 15

Introduction

As the 2025 MLB season approaches, teams have begun making key moves in free agency and trades to strengthen their rosters and improve their chances at Postseason glory in 2025. Here's a look at my early predictions to what the standings might shape up across both leagues based on offseason moves to this point, player development, and the current state of each team.

AL EAST

1. Yankees

In 2024, the Yankees had an impressive 94-68 season, making it to the World Series but losing to the Los Angeles Dodgers in five games. Their success stemmed from an elite pitching staff that posted the 7th-ranked ERA in MLB, as well as a bullpen ERA of 3.62 (5th in MLB). Offensively, Aaron Judge and Juan Soto combined for 99 home runs and a 1.074 OPS, anchoring the Bronx Bombers. However, the team lacked consistent production outside of them, although they finished 3rd among all teams in OPS.

Losing Juan Soto to the Mets was a major blow, but the Yankees rebounded aggressively by signing starter Max Fried, closer Devin Williams, veteran first baseman Paul Goldschmidt, and outfielder Cody Bellinger. With superstars Aaron Judge, Gerrit Cole, and rising star Anthony Volpe still leading the way, the Yankees remain the favourites to win the AL East, going 92-70.

2. Orioles

In 2024, the Orioles finished 91-71, earning a wild-card spot but losing in the postseason for the second consecutive year. Their offence was elite, ranking 4th in runs scored (786), led by Gunnar Henderson, Anthony Santander, and rookie breakout Colton Cowser. However, their pitching struggled, ranking 14th in ERA (3.94), relying heavily on their ace, Corbin Burnes (15-6, 3.23 ERA).

In 2025, I expect the Orioles to take a step back. The loss of Burnes to the Diamondbacks and the inevitable departure of Anthony Santander leave major holes on the roster. While their highly touted prospects continue to improve, pitching depth remains an issue. The Orioles are positioned to contend for a wild-card spot again, but without significant upgrades, their win total is likely to dip slightly from 2024. I have them going 87-75.

3. Red Sox

In 2024, the Red Sox finished with an 81-81 record, a slight improvement from recent years. Their offence was their strength, ranking 7th in OPS (.741) thanks to standout performances from third baseman Rafael Devers (.272 AVG, 28 HR) and power-hitting outfielder Tyler O'Neill (.241, 31 HR). The pitching staff, however, was a liability, ranking 17th in ERA (4.04) and allowing the 12th most home runs in the league, finishing a lacklustre season.

This offseason, Boston made significant pitching additions, signing former Dodger Walker Buehler and trading for flamethrower Garrett Crochet from the White Sox. The bullpen also received help by signing veteran closer Aroldis Chapman. However, they lost key offensive contributors, including catcher Danny Jansen and Tyler O'Neill, placing more pressure on others to produce runs. While the pitching upgrades should stabilize the team, the lineup lacks depth to consistently compete in the AL East, which will likely keep them around 83-79 wins in 2025.

4. Blue Jays

The Blue Jays disappointed with a 74-88 record, finishing last in the AL East in 2024. Their bullpen was disastrous, posting a franchise-worst 4.82 ERA (29th in MLB). The offence also only ranked 23rd in runs scored, as anyone other than superstar Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (.323 AVG, 30 HR) and rookie Spencer Horwitz (.265 AVG, 125 OPS+) underperformed. The rotation was solid but unspectacular, ranking 14th in ERA (4.32). The one bright spot for the team was the defence, as they won the Team Gold Glove Award for the second straight year in 2024.

With Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette entering contract years, the Jays are under pressure to contend in 2025. They’ve pursued major names but have yet to land significant reinforcements. The bullpen remains a large issue despite signing All-Star reliever Jeff Hoffman, among others. Unless GM Ross Atkins makes significant late moves, it's hard to see the Blue Jays contend in the AL East. Expect them to hover near 82-80 in 2025.

5. Tampa Bay Rays

The Rays finished 80-82 in 2024 but outperformed their Pythagorean record (74-88), suggesting luck played a role in their lacklustre season. Their offence struggled mightily, ranking 29th in runs scored (604), while their bullpen and rotation lacked depth after midseason injuries but maintained composure with the 9th-best ERA in the league (3.77).

Key losses this offseason included Jeffrey Springs (3.42 ERA) and Jose Siri (19 HR), among others. The Rays face additional challenges this offseason, as Tropicana Field is undergoing repairs from Hurricane Milton, forcing them to play at George M. Steinbrenner Field, the Yankees’ spring training facility. Offseason signings have been minimal, with only catcher Danny Jansen providing offensive upside. With further potential losses (Tyler Alexander, Colin Poche), the Rays are unlikely to match even last year's modest performance, finishing 79-83.

AL Central

1. Guardians

The Guardians won the AL Central in 2024 with a 92-69 record, capitalizing on their outstanding pitching staff, which boasted the 3rd-best ERA in MLB (3.61). With perhaps one of the best bullpens ever constructed, the Guardians had four relievers on the staff who posted ERAs under 2.00, including lights-out closer Emanuel Clase (0.61 ERA, 47 saves) . However, their offence was just average, ranking 14th in runs scored (708). The bullpen was the standout performer of the Guardians' 2024 season, playing a major role in their success.

This offseason, the Guardians made modest moves to maintain their roster, re-signing starter Shane Bieber and signing veteran Carlos Santana, among others. However, they lost several key contributors from the offence, including Josh Naylor and Andrés Giménez. The team's offence remains a major question mark. Their strong pitching keeps them as division favourites, but their margin for error is slim. I have the Guardians finishing 88-74.

2. Tigers

The Tigers shocked the league by finishing 86-76 in 2024, fueled by a 34-19 finish to the season and an elite pitching staff led by 2024 Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal, assisting the team post the 4th-best ERA in MLB (3.61). Their offence, however, ranked 19th in runs scored. Rookie second baseman Colt Keith and former 1st overall pick Spencer Torkelson showed flashes but struggled with consistency in 2024, but the year was a major success for the Motor City.

This offseason, Detroit addressed its offence by signing Gleyber Torres to a one-year deal, adding much-needed power and infield depth. They didn’t lose any important pieces this offseason, so if key players like shortstop Javier Báez, utility player Matt Vierling, and Torkelson take a step forward, this team could easily challenge for the division. I have the Tigers finishing 83-79, contending for a wild-card spot.

3. Royals

In 2024, the Royals finished 86-76, thanks to their great pitching staff, which posted the 8th-best ERA in the league (3.76), despite a limited bullpen. Their ace, Seth Lugo, had a career year (3.00 ERA, 206 IP). Their offence in 2024 was headlined by MVP runner-up Bobby Witt Jr. (.332 AVG, 32 HR, 31 SB), legendary catcher Salvador Pérez, and rising star Vinnie Pasquantino. Despite this, the team finished 13th in runs scored (735), with depth being a major issue, missing the Postseason.

This offseason, Kansas City lost a major piece in Brady Singer but bounced back, trading for middle infielder Jonathan India, but without Singer’s help, their pitching depth remains a cause for concern, along with their run-producing ability. If Witt continues his ascent to superstardom and India performs well, the Royals could take another step forward and contend in the AL Central. However, I believe the Guardians are slightly out of reach for the Royals, but they could easily contend for a wild-card spot. I have them finishing 83-79, tied with the Tigers.

4. Twins

The Twins disappointed in 2024 with an 82-80 record, plagued by injuries and an inconsistent offence. Outfielder Byron Buxton continued to struggle with health, despite his immense potential. Star shortstop Carlos Correa also missed half the season with plantar fasciitis. The list of injured players on the Twins seemed endless in 2024. Surprisingly, the Twins put up the 10th-most runs in 2024 (742) despite injuries. Their pitching, however, was their real issue, ranking 21st in MLB in ERA (4.26). The season ended in disappointment for the Twin Cities.

Currently, the Twins are having a quiet offseason, having seen key contributors like outfielder Max Kepler and Carlos Santana depart without bringing in notable reinforcements. Without significant upgrades, the Twins look poised for another middling season, hinging on bounce-back years from Buxton and Correa, and hopes of infielder Royce Lewis and the rest of the team staying healthy for 162 games. I have them finishing slightly worse at 80-82.

5. White Sox

The White Sox hit rock bottom in 2024, finishing an abysmal 41-121, breaking the record for the worst season ever. The Sox's offence ranked dead last in MLB at 30th in runs scored (507), while their pitching ranked 28th in ERA and was decimated by injuries and trades. Despite this, starter Garrett Crochet (3.58 ERA, 209 K) solidified himself as a frontline starter. Andrew Vaughn and Andrew Benintendi led the lacklustre offence, combining for 39 home runs and 134 RBIs to finish the 2024 campaign.

This offseason has provided little hope for a turnaround in the Southside of Chicago. They lost their ace, Garrett Crochet, and pitcher Michael Soroka. Their acquisitions have been depth pieces rather than impact players. With Yoán Moncada and Gavin Sheets gone, the lineup remains a barren wasteland. I have them finishing with a slightly less record-breaking loss total at 51-111. But hey, the only way from here is up, right?

AL West

1. Rangers

The Rangers had a very underwhelming 2024 season, finishing 78-84 and placing 3rd in the AL West, just one year removed from winning a World Series Championship. Their offence was below average, scoring just the 18th most runs in MLB (683). The pitching staff, led by Nathan Eovaldi (3.80 ERA), wasn’t much to rave about either, finishing the season with the 18th-ranked ERA (4.28) and the 25th-worst bullpen ERA (4.41). The team finished the year disappointed, missing the postseason by a large margin and looking to bounce back in 2025.

This offseason, the Rangers retained Nathan Eovaldi on a three-year deal and bolstered their offence with lefty slugger Joc Pederson and corner infielder Jake Burger, adding power to an already potentially potent lineup. Relievers Chris Martin and Jacob Webb addressed the need for bullpen depth. With their core very much intact, and the possibility of a fully healthy Jacob deGrom at the helm of the rotation, I predict perhaps the biggest improvement in this article. I believe the Rangers to go 90-72, a 12-win improvement, and win the AL West, bouncing back in a major way.

2. Astros

The Astros finished 88-73 in 2024, claiming a division title in the AL West. They had a respectable offence, scoring the 11th most runs in MLB (740) and boasting the 3rd highest team average (.262), thanks to a loaded lineup featuring the likes of Yordan Alvarez. A very solid pitching staff followed with the 6th best ERA in MLB (3.74), with Framber Valdez (2.91 ERA) leading the charge and rookie sensation Ronel Blanco (2.80 ERA) on the rise. However, the Astros would conclude their season by being swept out of the AL Wild Card Series by the Tigers.

This offseason, Houston made several impactful moves, signing slugger first baseman Christian Walker and trading for corner infielder Isaac Paredes, adding defensive and offensive value at third base after losing Alex Bregman to free agency. However, the loss of Kyle Tucker in a deal to Chicago could be costly. Other subtractions ensured that the rotation and bullpen were weakened slightly, but their already elite lineup gained strength in the process. The Astros remain strong enough for another playoff push in 2025. I project them to go 87-75.

3. Seattle Mariners

In 2024, the Seattle Mariners finished with an 85-77 record. Their strength was an elite pitching staff, which was tied for the best ERA in MLB with the Atlanta Braves (3.49), led by an all-star rotation of starters featuring George Kirby, Logan Gilbert, Bryan Woo, Luis Castillo, and Bryce Miller. Pitching was clearly their X-factor, as the offence only put up the 21st most runs in MLB (676). Lefty-swinging catcher Cal Raleigh (.220 AVG, 34 HR) led the charge, with young star Julio Rodríguez (.273 AVG, 20 HR) following in the middle of the order. However, the lineup lacked consistency, and their bullpen stumbled slightly during midseason, missing the postseason yet again.

Despite being on the verge of contention in 2025, the Mariners have been quiet this offseason. Aside from rumours, the Mariners have made no major acquisitions and have lost key contributors, such as reliever Yimi García. The team is seemingly relying heavily on its core of Rodríguez, Raleigh, Randy Arozarena, and its elite rotation to take another step forward. The lack of offensive upgrades, however, may keep them just short of postseason contention again. I have them going 85-77, which likely means they'll miss the postseason.

4. Los Angeles Angels

The Los Angeles Angels disappointed in 2024, finishing with a 63-99 record and falling to last place in the AL West. The Angels served the 3rd lowest number of runs scored in the 2024 campaign (635). Superstar Mike Trout missed all but a month of the season with a torn meniscus, and runs were few and far between. Taylor Ward (.246 AVG, 25 HR) picked up most of what there was to offer. The Angels’ pitching was nothing to be excited about either, as they were 26th in ERA (4.56), but 14th in ERA out of the pen (3.87), highlighted by now free-agent veteran closer Carlos Estévez (2.38 ERA, 20 Saves).

The Angels have been very active this offseason, signing starter Yusei Kikuchi to a three-year deal and trading for Jorge Soler to add much-needed firepower to the lineup. They also signed veteran starter Kyle Hendricks and catcher Travis d'Arnaud to address pitching and catching depth needs. However, losing Patrick Sandoval and Griffin Canning weakens their rotation, and the roster still lacks the depth and balance to contend. The Angels seem destined for another disappointing season. I have them finishing 73-89.

5. Athletics

In 2024, the Athletics had their final season in Oakland after 57 seasons. With fans raging at owner John Fisher, the Athletics fielded a 69-93 team, which finished above last place for the first time since 2021. The Athletics had a disappointing 26th-most runs scored (643), carried by the offensive powerhouse and rising star Brent Rooker (.293 AVG, 39 HR). The A’s, from the bump, continued to be lacklustre, as they had the 25th-ranked team ERA in MLB (4.37), with the single shining light on the staff being All-Star rookie closer Mason Miller (2.49 ERA, 28 Saves).

The Athletics made modest upgrades this offseason, signing Luis Severino to a two-year deal and trading for lefty arm Jeffrey Springs to bolster their weak rotation. Their offence remains largely unchanged and still among the weakest in the league, even after extending Brent Rooker to a 5-year deal. The team is far from contention and focused on relocating. A tough season looms as they transition to their new home. I predict the Athletics will regress and go 63-99 in 2025 under current conditions.

NL East

1. Braves

The Braves had a close year with the New York Mets in 2024, finishing tied for second in the NL East. Despite this, the Braves were only 15th in runs scored (704), with superstar Ronald Acuña Jr.’s season ending early last May, along with All-Star third baseman Austin Riley fracturing his hand in August. However, the Braves had perhaps the most potent pitching staff in 2024. They were tied for 1st in ERA with the Mariners (3.49). Veteran Chris Sale led the charge with a career resurgence, winning the Cy Young Award. Despite a strong regular season, they faced an early playoff exit in the NL Wild Card Series.

The Braves faced significant losses this offseason, with starter Max Fried signing to the Evil Empire Yankees and longtime veteran Charlie Morton departing for Baltimore. Key contributors, slugger Jorge Soler and catcher Travis d'Arnaud, were traded, leaving gaps in their offence despite signing Bryan De La Cruz. Despite these setbacks, the Braves still have an incredible core, with multiple All-Star-calibre players and returning stars from injury. Expect the Braves to bounce back in a big way and retake the NL East, finishing with a 91-71 record.

2. Mets

The Mets were perhaps the most intriguing storyline of the 2024 season, finishing with a 89-73 record. Led by fan favourite shortstop Francisco Lindor (.273 AVG, 33 HR), the Mets boasted a dangerous offence, ranking 7th in the league in runs scored (768). The Mets posted an average ERA, ranking 15th in baseball (3.96), with a staff led by a career year from lefty starter Sean Manaea and comeback years from Luis Severino, José Quintana, and David Pederson. The Mets became contenders, inching their way into the postseason, where they miraculously went on a run to the NLCS.

The Mets made a statement this offseason by signing Juan Soto to a record-breaking 15-year deal worth over $800 million. Owner Steve Cohen is willing to spend and wants to win immediately. However, the Mets lost Luis Severino to the Athletics, and the risk of losing several key free agents, including Pete Alonso, looms. With Soto joining an already strong team, the Mets are primed to contend for the division title. However, they will need a better bullpen performance, similar to the one they had in 2024, to unseat the Braves. I have them finishing with a 90-72 record.

3. Phillies

The Phillies lived the high life in 2024, going 95-67 and winning the division title with ease. Outfielder Kyle Schwarber and first baseman Bryce Harper continued to mash, allowing the Phillies to put up the fifth-most runs in MLB (784). With starter Ranger Suárez posting an otherworldly first half (1.75 ERA through his first 15 starts), the Phillies had the 11th best-ranked ERA in MLB (3.85). However, the team struggled with bullpen consistency, finishing 15th in ERA out of the pen (3.94). Their postseason run was cut short by the Mets, who beat them in 4 games in the NLDS.

This offseason, the Phillies traded for Jesús Luzardo to bolster their rotation and signed Jordan Romano to shore up the bullpen. They also added Max Kepler to improve their outfield defence and provide some left-handed power. However, the Phillies still have questions about their depth and the ability of players like Ranger Suárez to continue their success. Their high-ceiling core gives them a chance to compete, but they'll need everything to click to keep pace with the Braves and Mets. I have them finishing third, going 87-75, losing eight more games than they did in the previous season.

4. Nationals

Finishing 71-91 for the last two years in a row, the Nationals have been the definition of a rebuilding team. The Nats in 2024 were ranked 25th in runs scored (660), making them one of the weakest offences in the league, which was carried by young All-Star shortstop CJ Abrams (.246 AVG, 20 HR, 31 SB). The pitching side was not much better, ranked 23rd in ERA (4.30). However, Trevor Williams (2.03 ERA) had a breakout campaign, while former top prospect Josiah Gray showed flashes of brilliance but struggled with consistency. The bullpen also continued to struggle, leaving them far from contention.

The Nationals made several low-risk moves this offseason, adding first baseman Nathaniel Lowe, pitcher Michael Soroka, power bat Josh Bell, and middle infielder Amed Rosario to provide some veteran experience. These players give more time for prospects to develop in the minors, but the Nationals didn't address their pitching. Losing lefty Robert Garcia further weakens a rotation that finished 23rd in ERA last season. The Nationals' moves this offseason suggest another 90+ loss season as they await further development of their prospects. I have them going 72-90.

5. Marlins

The Miami Marlins in 2024 experienced a complete overhaul, finishing with a 62-100 record. The team posted the 27th most runs in the league (637), with season highlights from Jake Burger (.250 AVG, 29 HR) carrying much of the weight, along with rookie Xavier Edwards (124 OPS+) breaking out in a big way. The pitching staff was abysmal, being the second worst in the league, with starter Ryan Weathers (3.63 ERA) and now free-agent closer Tanner Scott (1.18 ERA) being bright spots on a very weak Marlins team.

The Marlins continued their roster overhaul this offseason, trading stars Jesús Luzardo and Jake Burger. Otherwise, they have signed players who provide modest offensive help. However, the team made no significant upgrades to a rotation that finished 29th in ERA last year, and their bullpen remains a glaring weakness without Tanner Scott. Young starter Eury Pérez and former Cy Young winner Sandy Alcántara, returning from injury, can help, but the roster is far from being competitive; another last-place finish seems inevitable in 2025 for the Marlins. I have them going 64-98.

NL Central

1. Cubs

In 2024, the Cubs finished 83-79 for the second year in a row. Their offence ranked 12th in runs scored (736), fuelled by a career year from tenured left fielder Ian Happ (.246 AVG, 25 HR). The pitching staff also took strides from previous years, ranking 10th in ERA (3.78). All-Star Shota Imagawa (2.91 ERA) led the rotation, finishing fifth in Cy Young voting in his first year in the MLB. The bullpen was also sharp, ranking 11th in ERA (3.81). Despite falling short of the postseason by a decent margin, the Cubs looked like a team ready to compete.

Heading into the offseason, the Cubs quickly made significant upgrades. They added All-Star outfielder Kyle Tucker, immediately making their lineup one of the best in the division. The rotation was reinforced with the signing of lefty starter Matthew Boyd, and lights-out reliever Eli Morgan (1.93 ERA) was brought in to strengthen the bullpen. Losing Cody Bellinger and Kyle Hendricks are notable subtractions, but the Cubs’ improved roster heading into 2025, along with underperforming projections in 2024 by 5 wins (expected to go 88-74), leads me to predict they will finish 89-73.

2. Brewers

The Brewers won the NL Central in 2024, finishing with a 93-69 record. Their offence ranked extraordinarily well, being the 6th best run-producing team (777), with All-Star shortstop Willy Adames (.251 AVG, 32 HR) leading the pack. They also caught fire from rookie outfielder Jackson Churio (.275 AVG, 21 HR). Not only was their offence extremely impressive, but their pitching was just as good, ranking 5th overall in ERA (3.65), despite missing star closer Devin Williams for the first four months. With a rotation led by Freddy Peralta, the pitching staff outperformed all expectations. Yet, the team fell short to the Mets in last year’s Wild Card Series.

This offseason, the Milwaukee Brewers traded star closer Devin Williams to the Yankees and shortstop Willy Adames to the Giants, incurring a significant loss of top talent. However, they addressed the rotation by acquiring unconventional lefty Nestor Cortés from the Yankees. While their rotation remains strong, the bullpen will take a step back without Williams, leaving the Brewers reliant on current talent to repeat their 2024 success. I believe they will contend for the division, finishing with an 87-75 record.

3. Reds

Heading into 2024, the Reds were a young squad with considerable potential. However, they finished with a record of 77-85. The Reds' offence showed some resilience while missing their young shortstop Matt McLain, who missed the entire season. However, the team only ranked 16th in runs scored (699), with rising superstar Elly De La Cruz (.259 AVG, 25 HR, 67 SB) stealing the show. Other young prospects disappointed in their rookie campaigns, such as Novél Marte (former Reds #2 prospect) and Christian Encarnacion-Strand (former Reds #7 prospect). The pitching followed a similar story to the offence, ranking 18th in ERA (4.09), headlined by flamethrower Hunter Greene (2.75 ERA), who had a career year.

The Reds' 2025 outlook is mixed. They traded for Royals starter Brady Singer to support Greene and the rest of the rotation, and added second baseman Gavin Lux. Adding catcher José Trevino improves the defence behind the plate and lightens the stress on Tyler Stephenson. However, losing former Rookie of the Year Jonathan India weakens their defence and offence. With their lineup still set to be dangerous but pitching improvements minimal, another .500-level season seems likely. I have them going 80-82.

4. Pirates

The Pirates showed flashes of promise in 2024 but finished 76-86. Their offence was inconsistent, ranking 24th in runs scored (665), despite productive campaigns from two-time All-Star Bryan Reynolds (.275 AVG, 24 HR) and 20-homer seasons from Pirates legend outfielder Andrew McCutchen and 6’7” shortstop O’Neil Cruz. However, all eyes were on the mound, as the rookie of the year and number 1 overall draft pick in 2023, ace Paul Skenes (1.96 ERA, 170 K), had the league on watch. He outperformed the rest of the rotation heavily. Closer David Bednar also stumbled through the year, posting a dreadful 5.77 ERA through 62 appearances from the back end of the bullpen.

Pittsburgh made modest improvements this offseason, re-signing fan favourite Andrew McCutchen and trading for lefty infielder Spencer Horwitz to protect Reynolds in the order. However, the loss of outfielder Bryan De La Cruz and starter Luis Ortiz hurts their depth. While the Pirates are improving, they remain a step behind the NL Central’s top teams and are likely to hover around the same win total as last season. I predict a slight improvement, with the Bucs going 78-84.

5. Cardinals

The Cardinals in 2024 finished second, tied with the Cubs, with a record of 83-79, missing the postseason. Their offence, once a strength, struggled to produce, ranking 22nd in runs scored (672). Designated hitter Alex Burleson (.269 AVG, 21 HR) carried the offence for what it’s worth, with other players like Nolan Gorman and Nolan Arenado taking a step back from 2023. Their pitching staff was just okay, ranking 16th in ERA in MLB (4.04). The rotation lacked standout talent in 2024, and the real highlights were in the bullpen, where they had the 6th-ranked ERA in the league (3.64), with two-time All-Star closer Ryan Helsley (2.04 ERA, 49 Saves) being lights out, winning the NL Reliever of the Year award.

The Cardinals made little to no improvement during the offseason. Meanwhile, losing future Hall of Fame Paul Goldschmidt to the Yankees and starter Kyle Gibson on his easy out leaves a big deficit in their lineup and rotation. Despite the development of young talent like Jordan Walker, the lack of impactful moves suggests that St. Louis is still in a transitional phase. I project the Cardinals to finish with a record of 73-89 in 2024. One of the biggest falls I predict in 2025.

NL West

1. Dodgers

In 2024, the Dodgers further solidified their place as a dynasty in MLB, finishing with a record of 101-61 and securing their 10th division title in 11 seasons. Their offence ranked 2nd in runs scored (842), led by a superstar-filled lineup highlighted by perhaps the most talented player ever, Shohei Ohtani (.310 AVG, 54 HR, 59 SB). On the other hand, the pitching staff had an average performance, ranking 13th in ERA in MLB, with future Hall of Fame starter Clayton Kershaw limited to just seven appearances. However, the bullpen performed admirably, ranking 3rd in ERA (3.53), with incredible depth that carried them deep into the postseason.

The Dodgers made major moves this offseason to solidify their status as a superteam. They signed former Cy Young winner Blake Snell, completing a three-headed monster with Tyler Glasnow and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, while re-signing Blake Treinen to ensure stability in the bullpen. The addition of outfielder Michael Conforto and the re-signing of Teoscar Hernández bolster an already potent lineup, and Korean infielder Ha-seong Kim provides elite infield depth. The Dodgers remain the team to beat in MLB. I have them going 101-61.

2. Padres

In 2024, the Padres finished with a 93-69 record, securing the second spot in the NL West. Their offence ranked 8th in runs scored (760), with a lineup led by superstar third baseman Manny Machado (.275 AVG, 29 HR). The pitching wasn’t as strong, but it was still solid, ranking 12th in the league-wide ERA (3.86). Dylan Cease and Michael King sat atop the rotation, combining for 425 strikeouts and a 3.21 ERA. The cherry on top was their bullpen, which ranked 10th in the league, highlighted by closer Robert Suárez (2.77 ERA, 36 Saves).

The Padres had a surprisingly quiet offseason, failing to address key needs despite the loss of ace Blake Snell and pitcher Martín Pérez. Their offence remains one of the best in the league, with Machado, Jackson Merrill, and Fernando Tatis Jr. forming a very competitive core. However, the rotation behind Cease and King lacks depth. The Padres are still one of the better teams in the National League; however, I believe they will continue to chase the Dodgers. I project them to finish 88-74.

3. Diamondbacks

The Diamondbacks finished the 2024 season with an 84-78 record, marking just their second winning season since 2018. Their offence ranked the highest in MLB in terms of runs produced (886), even surpassing the Dodgers. Notable seasons came from various players, most prominently from All-Star second baseman Ketel Marte (.292 AVG, 36 HR). However, their pitching was the third-worst in ERA among all MLB teams (4.62). Ace Zac Gallen (3.65 ERA) carried his weight, but that was it for the 2024 D-Backs, leaving them struggling late in the season.

The Diamondbacks made impactful moves this offseason to build on their shortcomings in 2024. They signed Cy Young award winner Corbin Burnes, giving the rotation a much-needed frontline starter to pair with Zac Gallen. Adding lefty first baseman Josh Naylor improves their lineup after losing Christian Walker. However, the departures of power hitter Joc Pederson and infielder Kevin Newman weaken their depth, while the bullpen took a hit with the loss of closer Paul Sewald. Despite these losses, the Burnes signing and Naylor’s addition should keep the D-backs in the win column. I have them going 84-78.

4. Giants

The Giants underperformed expectations in 2024, finishing with a record of 80-82. Their offence ranked 17th in runs scored (693), proving to be slightly below average. Led by Platinum Glove winner Matt Chapman (.247 AVG, 27 HR), the offensive depth beyond a few key players was light at best. The Giants' pitching was also below average, ranking 19th in ERA (4.10). Ace Blake Snell and All-Star Logan Webb did most of the heavy lifting. and the bullpen struggled as well, with closer Camilo Doval (4.88 ERA, 23 Saves) underperforming greatly in 2024. The team lacked the necessary pieces to compete in the NL West and quickly fell out of playoff contention.

The Giants made some key moves this offseason to bolster their roster, signing All-Star shortstop Willy Adames and adding future Hall of Fame talent Justin Verlander to assist the rotation. However, losing outfielder Michael Conforto and Ace Blake Snell to the Dodgers leaves question marks for 2025. While Adames adds the star power they need, the Giants still lack the overall talent to contend in the division. I have them going 78-84.

5. Rockies

The Rockies endured another dismal season in 2024, finishing with a record of 61-101. Their offence ranked 19th in runs scored (687), with Gold Glove-winning shortstop Ezequiel Tovar (.269 AVG, 26 HR) providing a breath of fresh air amidst an ugly season in Colorado. Unsurprisingly, the Rockies' pitching staff performed by far the worst in the league with a horrid 5.47 ERA, a result of a poorly structured staff and the challenges of pitching in the thin Colorado air. The Rockies' inability to develop pitching continued to hinder their competitiveness, as they finished last in the West.

The Rockies made minimal moves this offseason, re-signing Jacob Stallings for depth behind the plate and adding infielders Kyle Farmer and Thairo Estrada. However, they lost longtime infielder Brendan Rodgers to free agency. With no major upgrades and a roster lacking top-tier talent, the Rockies remain mired in a rebuild. Their offence may take another step back, and their pitching is unlikely to improve. I have them finishing 61-101 once again in 2025, firmly in last place in the NL West.

Takeaways:

With the start of the 2025 MLB season just a few short months away and the conclusion of the regular season still far in the future, teams could make unprecedented signings, trades, and management changes, or underdogs could rise up and prove everything I’ve predicted to be wrong. But that’s the beauty of the game—you can never be 100% sure of anything in a sport built on variables, except maybe one thing: the 2025 season is going to be a rollercoaster.

Tristan Morgan