UPDATE: The 2025 MLB playoffs are heating up as the Los Angeles Dodgers, Seattle Mariners, Milwaukee Brewers, and Toronto Blue Jays battle for a spot in the World Series! The thrilling division series concluded with the Brewers and Mariners advancing after intense Game 5 victories.
As the matchups are set for the American League Championship Series (ALCS) and National League Championship Series (NLCS), expert predictions are rolling in on who will clinch the coveted World Series berth. The Dodgers are poised to face the Brewers, while the Mariners take on the Blue Jays in a showdown that promises fireworks!
ALCS Preview: The Seattle Mariners have garnered 8 votes from experts predicting their victory over the Toronto Blue Jays, with most forecasting a dramatic seven-game series. Key players to watch include Cal Raleigh, likely to snag MVP honors if the Mariners prevail, supported by Randy Arozarena and Julio Rodriguez.
The Toronto Blue Jays, with 6 votes backing them, are also seen as strong contenders, with Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and George Springer leading the charge. As both teams prepare for this high-stakes clash, the pressure is palpable. The Mariners have never reached the World Series in their 49-year history, while the Blue Jays haven’t tasted championship glory since 1993. “Destiny calls one of these snakebit organizations,” says ESPN’s Jeff Passan.
NLCS Outlook: In the NLCS, the Los Angeles Dodgers are favored by 9 analysts to defeat the Milwaukee Brewers, with predictions suggesting a six-game series. Shohei Ohtani is tipped as the MVP if the Dodgers win, despite his recent struggles at the plate with a .148 postseason average. Experts believe he will turn it around starting Monday.
The Dodgers’ pitching rotation, featuring Blake Snell, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Tyler Glasnow, is touted as one of the best in playoff history. “The Dodgers’ rotation could be a game-changer,” notes Alden Gonzalez. However, concerns linger about their bullpen depth, which could put them at risk in crucial moments.
“Can anyone stop the Dodgers?” asks Jeff Passan. Recent performances suggest they have the momentum, but both the Brewers and Mariners are ready to challenge the status quo.
The upcoming series will not only showcase star players but also highlight the emotional stakes for franchises desperate to break their championship droughts. Fans are already buzzing with anticipation as Game 1s are set to commence this week. Tune in for what promises to be an unforgettable week of playoff baseball!
What’s Next: The ALCS kicks off on October 16, 2025, while the NLCS begins the following day. Keep an eye on how these teams adapt and strategize in the playoff pressure cooker, as every pitch could change the course of history!
For the latest updates and analyses, stay tuned to ESPN and other credible sources as the playoffs unfold!
