2025 MLB playoff predictions show Tigers and Cubs nearly locked into postseason spots as Dodgers, Yankees, and Phillies remain strong contenders with World Series odds shaping up.
The 2025 MLB season is heating up, and the latest projections suggest fans could be in for an exciting postseason run. According to the SportsLine Projection Model, which simulates every game 10,000 times, the Detroit Tigers and Chicago Cubs are virtually guaranteed to make the playoffs this year. The model also points to the Los Angeles Dodgers, Philadelphia Phillies, New York Yankees, and Milwaukee Brewers as safe bets for October baseball.
For Detroit, the resurgence is especially notable. The Tigers went nearly a decade without a playoff appearance before snapping their drought in 2024 with a wild-card berth. This season, they look poised for even more. With a league-best 59-38 record at the All-Star break and an 11.5-game cushion in the AL Central, the Tigers are in position to claim their first division crown since 2014. Fans are already dreaming of their first World Series title since 1984.
The Cubs are also making headlines with a 99% chance to reach the postseason, per the model. Powered by strong performances from Pete Crow-Armstrong and Seiya Suzuki, who have combined for 50 home runs so far, Chicago has been one of the most consistent teams in the National League. Left-hander Matthew Boyd is enjoying a career year, posting a 2.34 ERA and ranking second in the NL with 10 wins. The Cubs’ depth at the plate and on the mound has them positioned as one of the model’s top World Series bets, with a 19% chance of taking home the Commissioner’s Trophy.
Meanwhile, the reigning champion Dodgers remain a threat despite battling injuries. With Shohei Ohtani back on the mound, Freddie Freeman hitting .297, and Will Smith leading the NL with a .323 average, Los Angeles still boasts one of baseball’s most dangerous lineups. The model gives them a 12% chance to repeat, keeping hopes alive for back-to-back championships—something not seen since the Yankees’ three-peat from 1998-2000.
Speaking of the Yankees, their 2025 campaign has been defined by both setbacks and resilience. Losing Gerrit Cole to Tommy John surgery in spring training could have derailed the season, but Max Fried and Carlos Rodón stepped up, both earning All-Star nods. Combined with Aaron Judge’s MVP-level hitting—he leads the majors with 125 hits and a .355 average—the Yankees are firmly in contention. The model gives them a 13% chance to win it all, second only to the Cubs.
Other notable contenders include the Phillies, Brewers, Mariners, and Astros, with the model identifying value bets like the Rays and Rangers for those looking at playoff odds. Still, as the second half of the season unfolds, all eyes remain on the powerhouse trio of Cubs, Yankees, and Dodgers—each chasing history and another shot at October glory.
