The 2025 baseball season is fast approaching. As tradition dictates, it’s time to categorize all 30 teams into a set of loosely defined tiers. This method allows for an insightful breakdown beyond statistical projections or win totals. It groups teams based on trajectory, roster composition, and momentum. While some rankings might seem unconventional, each placement is based on a holistic assessment rather than strict numbers.
At the top stands one team alone. The Los Angeles Dodgers, reigning World Series champions, had an extraordinary offseason. They secured Roki Sasaki and Blake Snell while adding Tanner Scott, Teoscar Hernández, Kirby Yates, Michael Conforto, and Ha-Seong Kim. Their dominance transcends typical roster concerns, making them clear favorites. While some claim they “bought a championship,” history shows that even elite teams can falter.
Several franchises enter the season with one goal: winning the World Series. The Atlanta Braves, New York Mets, Philadelphia Phillies, Baltimore Orioles, and New York Yankees all have championship aspirations. The National League East is highly competitive, with three powerhouse teams contending. The Braves and Phillies, both recent World Series contenders, bring continuity. The Mets, despite pitching concerns, now feature Juan Soto, strengthening their lineup.
The American League has its own contenders. Baltimore’s young core remains strong, but their pitching is uncertain after losing Corbin Burnes. The Yankees, always held to championship standards, must overcome significant depth concerns. Gerrit Cole’s absence and injuries to Luis Gil and Giancarlo Stanton create challenges.
Several non-playoff teams from 2024 are poised to surprise. The Chicago Cubs, Arizona Diamondbacks, Texas Rangers, and Boston Red Sox all have potential. The Diamondbacks and Rangers, former World Series contenders, suffered setbacks last year. Arizona lost Christian Walker but gained Corbin Burnes. Texas expects a healthy Jacob deGrom to stabilize its rotation. The Cubs and Red Sox have made impactful roster changes. Both teams brought in key players like Kyle Tucker, Ryan Pressly, Justin Turner, and Alex Bregman. The NL Central and AL East remain wide open.
A robust middle class of teams exists. These contenders may not be championship favorites but have playoff potential. The San Francisco Giants, Seattle Mariners, San Diego Padres, Tampa Bay Rays, Cincinnati Reds, Kansas City Royals, Detroit Tigers, and Minnesota Twins fall into this group. The AL Central features a tight race, as Detroit and Kansas City made significant strides. Minnesota aims for a rebound after a disappointing 2024. The Mariners and Rays possess strong pitching but lack offensive firepower. The Padres and Giants fight for relevance in the NL West. The Reds, under new manager Terry Francona, must improve offensive support for Elly De La Cruz.
Two teams face the possible end of an era. The Houston Astros have dominated the AL West for years but may be in decline after losing key players. Their roster remains strong but shows signs of aging. Similarly, the Toronto Blue Jays must decide on the future of Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette, both nearing free agency. With Max Scherzer and Chris Bassitt also in their final contract years, 2025 is a crucial season.
Some teams consistently outperform expectations. The Milwaukee Brewers and Cleveland Guardians maximize their talent despite skepticism. Milwaukee introduced rising star Jackson Chourio while losing key players. Cleveland’s bullpen remains elite, though offensive struggles persist. Relying on relief pitching is a risky strategy, but history suggests they will remain competitive.
Three teams—Oakland Athletics, Washington Nationals, and Pittsburgh Pirates—provide intrigue. Oakland improved significantly in the second half of 2024, led by Brent Rooker and Lawrence Butler. Washington fans are excited about Dylan Crews and James Wood, young outfielders expected to play full-time. Pittsburgh boasts one of baseball’s most exciting pitchers, Paul Skenes. Despite these bright spots, depth remains a concern for all three teams.
The St. Louis Cardinals and Los Angeles Angels remain hard to define. The Cardinals, despite talks of a “reset,” retained most core players. With leadership changes ahead, their immediate path remains unclear. The Angels, still led by Mike Trout, struggle to establish a clear long-term strategy. Their offseason moves provided some optimism, but they haven’t had a winning season since 2015.
Three franchises—Miami Marlins, Colorado Rockies, and Chicago White Sox—are in full-scale rebuilds. Miami overhauled its front office and acquired multiple prospects. Their lineup lacks power, making contention unlikely. Colorado continues to rely on the same core players from nearly a decade ago. Progress remains elusive. Chicago, after a disastrous 2024 season, is bound to improve slightly. However, their roster lacks the depth for a significant turnaround.
As the 2025 season begins, these tiers help define the competitive landscape. Some teams appear dominant, others are in transition, and a few are on the verge of major breakthroughs. While projections provide insight, only time will reveal how the season unfolds.
