MLB Power Rankings Predict Playoff Favorites Among the 12 Qualified Teams

MLB.com contributors have released a power ranking of the twelve clubs that secured postseason spots on the final day of the regular season. The rankings place the Milwaukee Brewers at the top, citing their franchise-best season, a dominant starting rotation and a deep, versatile roster. The Los Angeles Dodgers follow, noted for their attempt to become the first team this century to win three consecutive World Series titles, despite a slightly thinner roster than last year. The Tampa Bay Rays are ranked third, praised for their strong home record of 55-26 in their first season back at Tropicana Field and the potential advantage of home-field advantage through the World Series.

The Atlanta Braves are listed fourth after reclaiming the NL East division title, while the New York Yankees sit fifth, with their postseason chances tied to the performance of sluggers such as Aaron Judge and a solid pitching staff. The Chicago Cubs rank sixth, recognized for a potent offense and solid defense but with an uncertain pitching outlook. The Boston Red Sox are seventh, having entered the playoffs after a late-season surge.

The San Diego Padres are eighth, highlighted for the contributions of Fernando Tatis Jr. The Philadelphia Phillies are ninth, entering the postseason after a challenging final stretch. The Cleveland Guardians occupy the tenth spot, having won a third straight division title despite a down year for José Ramírez. The Chicago White Sox are eleventh, marking a turnaround after three seasons with 100-plus losses. The Houston Astros close the list at twelfth, returning to the playoffs for the tenth time in twelve years despite a lower winning percentage.

"If it’s ever going to happen, it’s going to happen now," the ranking notes about the Brewers. "No one knows what it takes more than this team," the commentary adds regarding the Dodgers. "If they can keep that going, they’re bound to have a great October," the analysis says of the Rays.

The rankings reflect the contributors' assessments and are intended as a preview of potential postseason performance.