The Dodgers and Cubs are set to kick off the 2025 season with the two-game Tokyo Series next week. Leading up to this event, we have been rolling out our traditional preview series, each article examining specific aspects of the upcoming season by division.
Today: Predictions for division winners and Wild Card teams
The countdown is almost over: Opening day is less than a week away with Game 1 of the Tokyo Series featuring the Cubs and Dodgers next Tuesday. This is the moment to solidify these division forecasts. Who will emerge victorious? Which teams will make it to the playoffs? Let’s make these predictions concrete… and please, don’t revisit them after the season unless, of course, my predictions prove accurate.
The late-season difficulties faced by Adley Rutschman and the Orioles in 2024 have overshadowed their key strength: a wealth of young batting talent. While player development isn’t always straightforward, would it really be shocking if Rutschman, Gunnar Henderson, Jordan Westburg, Colton Cowser, and Jackson Holliday all significantly improve this year? I think not.
Don’t be misled by some disheartening postseason performances: the buzz surrounding the Orioles is well-founded. I believe this is the year they truly come together as a team. (However, adding some pitching depth would still be beneficial, fellas!)
Wild Card teams: Red Sox and Blue Jays
I’m currently feeling anxious about the Yankees. If Aaron Judge encounters issues like in 2023, they could very well finish last. Meanwhile, the Red Sox might be the second-best team in the AL, especially with Rafael Devers potentially transitioning to DH. As for the last Wild Card slot, let’s predict it for the Jays, who are going all-in this season before Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette hit free agency. They’ve faced a fair share of setbacks in recent years, so it’s their turn for good fortune, right?
AL Central: Tigers
Would my confidence in this prediction be higher had they signed Bregman? Absolutely. But I see their late-season surge as more than just a lucky streak; this young team seems to be becoming cohesive and realizing its potential. With Jack Flaherty back in the rotation and potentially Jackson Jobe making his debut soon, there’s reason for optimism. While Spencer Torkelson is still developing, key contributors like Riley Greene and Kerry Carpenter have emerged, and more exciting talent could be on the way.
Although the division has weaknesses, the Tigers stand out with fewer glaring issues and thus have the clearest chance at around 87 wins, which may be enough to take the AL Central. Last season in Detroit wasn’t an anomaly; it could just be the beginning.
