The race to the Major League Baseball (MLB) playoffs is nearing the end, with one week remaining in the regular season. In both the American and National Leagues, six teams have the opportunity to clinch a spot in the 2025 playoffs. Out of the six division winners, the two with the best regular season records from each league will have a bye from the first-round. Additionally, the other four are Wild Card teams, meaning they had the best winning percentage (Pct) out of the teams remaining, with three from each league advancing into the playoffs. Several teams, such as the Milwaukee Brewers and the Toronto Blue Jays have already secured their divisional spots.
The Blue Jays are the first American League team to clinch their spot, representing Canada as their only MLB team. With a current record of 90-66, Toronto looks to finish with a Pct above 0.570 heading into their final two series of the regular season. First baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. recently signed a 14-year, $500 million contract with the franchise, allowing for his powerful offensive assets to benefit the team long-term. With a 0.869 on-base plus slugging percentage (OPS), 23 home runs and 83 Runs Batted In (RBI) makes Guerrero Jr. one of the top offensive contributors for the Blue Jays.
Looking at other potential American League playoff teams, the Seattle Mariners are in a position to be the American League West division winners. If the Mariners successfully close out their regular season, winning three more games, the team would receive a first-round bye. Additionally, the Detroit Tigers are currently leading their division, the American League Central, with a record of 85-71. The Tiger’s standings gives them over an 85% chance of making the post season, according to ESPN, but their final series against the Cleveland Guardians will have a major impact on their seeding or even their chances of advancing.
The National League already has two division winners, with the Milwaukee Brewers clinching the National League Central title and the Philadelphia Phillies with the National League East title. The Brewers have a current Pct of 0.605 and a record of 95-62, making them the MLB team with the most wins in the 2025 regular season so far. As for the Phillies, they move into the remainder of the regular season with a 92-64. However, the team has a 50% win rate for away games this season, with a record of 41-40. Moving into the post season, the Phillies will need to improve this record to ensure success in the playoffs.
The Los Angeles Dodgers have also clinched a spot in the 2025 post season, but have yet to secure the divisional title Shohei Ohtani, Dodgers designated hitter and pitcher, has been an integral part to the team’s success. With 53 home runs, 99 RBI and a 1.015 OPS percentage, Ohtani has been the most significant contributor to the Los Angeles team. On the other hand, the Chicago Cubs have secured one of the wildcard spots for the National League. With a 88-68 record, the Cubs land in second place within their division, behind the Brewers.
The first playoff game of the 2025 postseason is scheduled for Tuesday Sept. 30 with teams, such as the Tigers, working to win their first World Series of the century. The comparable records of the division winners will make for a competitive race for the ultimate baseball title. Viewers can stream playoff games on ABC, ESPN, HBO Max and MLB.TV.
