Image Source: CBS Sports
As the countdown to the MLB playoffs intensifies, the MLB playoff picture is becoming increasingly defined. With less than two weeks left in the regular season, teams are making their final pushes to secure postseason berths.
2025 MLB Playoff Picture: Who’s In and Who’s Out
Last week, the Milwaukee Brewers claimed the first playoff spot in 2025, and they were soon joined by the Philadelphia Phillies, who clinched the NL East title just a day later. The Chicago Cubs followed suit, making the postseason bracket for the first time since 2020.
In the National League, the leading teams also showcase notable competition. The Los Angeles Dodgers are currently in first place in the NL West and are in pursuit of another division title. However, they face stiff competition from the San Diego Padres, who, along with the New York Mets, occupy the other two wild card spots behind the Cubs.
American League Tightens Up
The situation in the American League is equally thrilling, with the Seattle Mariners and Houston Astros locked in a neck-and-neck battle for the AL West title. Both teams have shown resilience and determination, indicating that whoever falls short in this race is likely to settle for a wild card position.
Back east, the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox are vying for grip on one of the AL wild card spots, while the Cleveland Guardians are making an impressive late-season push to reclaim their postseason status. The< strong> Detroit Tigers and Toronto Blue Jays continue to dominate their respective divisions.
Understanding the Wild Card Landscape
With 12 playoff berths now available—six for division winners and three wild card spots in each league—the dynamics of the MLB playoff picture are more competitive than ever. The top two division winners are rewarded with first-round byes, allowing them to bypass the three-game Wild Card Series.
As it stands, if the season ended today, the playoff matchups would be:
- AL Byes: Toronto Blue Jays and Detroit Tigers
- AL Wild Card Series: Houston Astros vs. Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees vs. Seattle Mariners
- NL Byes: Milwaukee Brewers and Philadelphia Phillies
- NL Wild Card Series: Los Angeles Dodgers vs. New York Mets, Chicago Cubs vs. San Diego Padres
World Series Odds and Predictions
As the postseason looms, fan excitement is palpable. According to current odds, both the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Philadelphia Phillies are listed as favorites to win the World Series at +475, closely followed by the Milwaukee Brewers at +600. The Toronto Blue Jays, Seattle Mariners, and Detroit Tigers are also among the top contenders, showcasing a blend of strong pitching and batting lineups as the teams jockey for position heading into October.
What’s Next for Teams and Fans
As we move into the final stretch, each game counts significantly. Teams such as the Cleveland Guardians are aiming for a comeback while contenders like the New York Mets and San Diego Padres hope to solidify their wild card standings. Fans are eager to see how the playoff picture will evolve in these crucial last days of regular-season play.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the new playoff format in MLB for 2025?
The MLB introduced a 12-team playoff format, with six automatic berths going to division winners and three wild card slots in each league.
When do the MLB playoffs start in 2025?
The MLB playoffs are set to begin on Tuesday, September 30, 2025.
Which teams have already clinched playoff spots?
The Milwaukee Brewers and Philadelphia Phillies have already secured their spots, with the Chicago Cubs joining them soon after.
How does the wild card tiebreaker work?
If teams are tied for a wild card spot, the tiebreaker is determined by the head-to-head record during the regular season.
What teams are currently leading their divisions?
The Toronto Blue Jays, Detroit Tigers, Milwaukee Brewers, and Philadelphia Phillies are currently leading their respective divisions.
