National League Dominates Power Rankings with Seven Teams in Top Ten

The National League now occupies seven of the ten spots in this week’s power rankings, underscoring its depth heading into the playoffs. The Dodgers, Brewers, Braves, Phillies, Cubs, Padres and Diamondbacks are all listed among the league’s strongest teams.

The Brewers are ranked as the top club, projected to set a franchise record for wins for a second straight season. The Braves, on a pace for 96 victories, sit as the third seed and would enter the Wild Card round. The Phillies, after replacing their manager early in the season, have posted a 72-44 record since the change, positioning them as the fourth seed.

The Cubs, who have posted stretches of 20-3 and 41-17, are projected to finish with over 90 wins and are listed as the fifth seed. The Dodgers, two-time defending champions, remain a focal point of the league’s competitive landscape, with any series involving them expected to draw significant attention.

Analysts note that while the National League’s top teams boast high win totals, postseason outcomes can be unpredictable. Historical examples include the 2015 NL bracket, where the Cardinals, Pirates, Cubs and Dodgers each failed to advance despite strong regular-season records, while a 90-win Mets team captured the league title.

The rankings also highlight the potential for compelling matchups, such as a Dodgers-Brewers rematch or a Cubs-Phillies series, and recall past upsets where lower-seeded clubs defeated higher-seeded opponents.

Overall, the National League’s concentration of high-performing teams suggests a competitive postseason, with multiple possible scenarios for dramatic series.