Assessing the Odds for Division Winners to Secure a Repeat Title

Quick trivia time for our loyal readers: How many teams successfully defended their division titles last year? Specifically, which teams were champions in both 2024 and 2025?

The count of repeat champions is considerable but not unprecedented. Here’s how many defending titleholders have won again over the past eight seasons:

2025: 4
2024: 3
2023: 3
2022: 2
2021: 2
2020: 3
2019: 3
2018: 4

In six of the last eight seasons, at least three teams have repeated as division champions. As we look to 2026, will that trend continue?

Here’s a ranking of last season’s six division champions based on their chances of defending their titles. Each team is presented with their 2025 record and their winning margin within the division.

While the Dodgers’ future looks a bit uncertain, they still have strong prospects. Aging players and a less robust outfield raise some concerns. They captured their division title by the smallest margin since 2018, and with active competition from the Padres, Giants, and Diamondbacks, they remain a formidable force—especially as recent champions aiming for another title.

After finally clinching their first division title since 2001, the Mariners are positioned as favorites in the AL West for 2026. Their prospects appear bright due to the weakened competition and their strong roster, featuring two MVP candidates. With potential for further offensive enhancements, they look set to continue their recent success.

The Phillies navigated a rocky season yet still secured the division title. However, formidable competition from the Braves and Mets looms, making their repeat ambitions challenging. Yet, they remain motivated to maximize their win total, seeking a championship before their current roster ages out of competitiveness.

Placing the Blue Jays is tricky. They appear stronger compared to last season, having come close to a World Series win. However, as their division becomes more competitive, they must keep improving to maintain their edge.

The Brewers have faced skepticism despite winning multiple titles. Concerns linger about their ability to sustain success with changes to their roster. While the Cubs, Reds, and Pirates aim to improve, the Brewers’ track record has often defied expectations, creating uncertainty heading into the new season.

This division is unpredictable, with many teams facing significant questions. The Guardians, alongside other teams vying for improvement, will need consistency and ideally, progress from last season to remain competitive.