The race to the Commissioner’s Trophy is down to four teams, and the stakes have never been higher. Each of these clubs has a compelling story, but only one will emerge as champion. But here’s where it gets controversial: while some teams seem unstoppable, others are battling doubts that could derail their dreams. Let’s dive into the LCS Power Rankings, where we’ll explore each team’s Reason to Believe they can win it all, and their Reason for Concern that might hold them back—along with a few bold questions to spark debate.
ALCS Game 1: Catch the action on Sunday at 8 p.m. ET/5 PT on FOX. Full schedule here.
These rankings are a collaborative effort from MLB.com contributors (find their names at the bottom), but the words? All mine. Love them or hate them, feel free to let me know—I’m here for it.
1. Dodgers
Last Title: 2024 (8th in franchise history)
Last World Series Appearance: 2024 (defeated NYY)
Last Postseason Result: 2024 World Series Champions
Reason to Believe: Remember when the Dodgers were the No. 3 seed in the National League? Their inconsistent regular season felt like a rollercoaster, but now, everything seems to be clicking. Their pitching rotation is healthy and dominant, their lineup is intact with Will Smith’s return, and the addition of Roki Sasaki to the bullpen gives them a championship-caliber edge. This is the team they’ve been building toward all year.
Reason for Concern: Shohei Ohtani, the Dodgers’ usual savior, is in the midst of his worst slump at the worst possible time. During the NLDS, he went 1-for-18 with nine strikeouts, looking uncharacteristically frustrated. While the Phillies’ left-handed pitchers posed a unique challenge, Ohtani’s struggles are hard to ignore. Bold question: Can the Dodgers afford to rely on him in high-pressure moments, or will this slump become their undoing?
2. Blue Jays
Last Title: 1993 (2nd in franchise history)
Last World Series Appearance: 1993 (defeated PHI)
Last Postseason Result: Lost 2023 ALWC (vs. MIN)
Reason to Believe: The Blue Jays’ energy is electric right now. Their clubhouse celebration after defeating the Yankees was a testament to how much this season means to the franchise and its fans. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. has been on fire, crushing homers and looking unstoppable. Their rotation is solid, their lineup is clutch, and they have a surplus of pitching talent. Plus, they have home-field advantage in the ALCS.
Reason for Concern: Bo Bichette’s health is a looming question mark. While he might return as a DH, his absence in the field could weaken their defense. And this is the part most people miss: even though the Blue Jays’ offense exploded in the ALDS, Bichette’s presence alongside Guerrero in the lineup makes them even more formidable. Bold question: Can they sustain their momentum without him at full strength?
NLCS Game 1: Tune in on Monday at 8 p.m. ET/7 CT/5 PT on TBS, truTV, and HBO Max. Full schedule here.
3. Mariners
Last Title: None
Last World Series Appearance: None
Last Postseason Result: Lost 2022 ALDS (vs. HOU)
Reason to Believe: This Mariners team is their strongest since the legendary 116-win squad of 2001. Their lineup is deep, their rotation is stacked, and they have a shutdown closer in Andrés Muñoz. Julio Rodríguez is already a franchise icon, and Cal Raleigh—with his 60 homers and Hall of Fame-worthy nickname—is a force to be reckoned with. The return of Bryan Woo to the roster is a huge boost after their grueling 15-inning ALDS victory. This could be Seattle’s year to finally reach the World Series.
Reason for Concern: Their lineup has been top-heavy in the postseason, and bullpen issues surfaced against the Tigers, pushing them to the brink while the Blue Jays rested. Bold question: Can they overcome the mental hurdle of being the only franchise to never reach the World Series?
4. Brewers
Last Title: None
Last World Series Appearance: 1982 (lost to STL)
Last Postseason Result: Lost 2024 NLWC (vs. NYM)
Reason to Believe: The Brewers had the best record in baseball for a reason. They’ve consistently found ways to win, both in the regular season and the postseason. This team excels at making clutch plays and has outperformed expectations all year. Plus, there’s something special about their underdog spirit.
Reason for Concern: Jackson Chourio’s hamstring injury is a major worry, given his offensive contributions. And let’s not forget they’re up against the star-studded Dodgers. Bold question: Can the Brewers’ teamwork and grit overcome the Dodgers’ star power, or will history repeat itself?
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Voters: Nathalie Alonso, Jason Catania, Mark Feinsand, Daniel Feldman, Doug Gausepohl, Will Leitch, Travis Miller, Brian Murphy, Arturo Pardavila, Andrew Simon, David Venn, Zac Vierra.
Final Thought: Which team do you think has what it takes to win it all? And which Reason for Concern do you think is most likely to derail a championship run? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
