MLB Power Rankings: Week 2 Shake-Up
Welcome to Week 2 of the 2025 MLB season! As we dive into the rankings, it’s clear that while the top three teams have held their ground from Week 1, there have been some significant movements within the top 10. Let’s break it down and see who’s making waves and who’s struggling to stay afloat.
First up, we have Juan Soto and the New York Mets making a splash by cracking the top five. This leap has seen them surpass Aaron Judge and the New York Yankees, who are known for their torpedo-bat power. Meanwhile, Kyle Tucker’s Chicago Cubs have rocketed from No. 14 to No. 6, showcasing their potential early in the season. The San Francisco Giants and Boston Red Sox have also joined the ranks of the single-digit club, making their presence known.
Unfortunately, the Atlanta Braves haven’t had the same luck. They’ve tumbled from No. 2 in the preseason rankings to No. 11 in Week 1, and now find themselves at No. 15 in Week 2. It’s been a tough start for the Braves, and they’ll need to regroup quickly to climb back up the rankings.
Our expert panel has ranked every team based on a combination of early-season performance and preseason expectations. We’ve also gathered insights from ESPN MLB experts Jesse Rogers, Bradford Doolittle, and David Schoenfield, who have shared their observations for all 30 teams.
1. Los Angeles Dodgers
Record: 10-4
Previous ranking: 1
The Dodgers have hit a bit of a rough patch with three consecutive losses. Despite their dominance at home, their road performance has been average, and their pitching depth is being tested. Justin Wrobleski’s recent struggles on the mound have highlighted the team’s current challenges. With Blake Snell and others sidelined, and Clayton Kershaw working his way back, the Dodgers are feeling the pressure. Their offense will need to step up, especially as they find themselves with the third-best record in their division. — Rogers
2. Philadelphia Phillies
Record: 8-3
Previous ranking: 2
Kyle Schwarber is off to a phenomenal start, leading the NL with a 248 OPS+ and tying with Shohei Ohtani for the highest average exit velocity in the majors. His improved contact rate is a promising sign for the Phillies, who are looking to capitalize on his hot streak. Schwarber’s ability to square up pitches has seen a significant leap, and his performance will be crucial for the Phillies moving forward. — Doolittle
3. San Diego Padres
Record: 10-3
Previous ranking: 3
The Padres have been impressive, boasting the third-lowest ERA in baseball. Their bullpen has been stellar, ranking second in ERA with a 1.78 mark. Despite a series loss in Chicago, the Padres are off to a fast start, thanks to their dominant pitching staff. — Rogers
4. New York Mets
Record: 8-4
Previous ranking: 8
Francisco Lindor is reaching impressive career milestones, recently hitting the 1,500-hit mark. As he continues to climb the ranks, Lindor’s performance will be key for the Mets as they aim to maintain their position in the top five. — Doolittle
5. New York Yankees
Record: 7-5
Previous ranking: 4
The Yankees have struggled in cold weather games, but with Clarke Schmidt expected to join the rotation soon, they hope to stabilize their pitching staff. The Yankees will need to bounce back quickly to regain their footing in the rankings. — Schoenfield
6. Chicago Cubs
Record: 9-6
Previous ranking: 14
The Cubs have been relying on walks and stolen bases to fuel their offense, and it’s paying off. With a focus on speed and defense, the Cubs have been able to capitalize on their strengths, especially in cold weather games at Wrigley Field. — Rogers
7. Texas Rangers
Record: 9-4
Previous ranking: 6
The Rangers have managed to win close games despite a slumping offense. While their run differential raises concerns, the Rangers are buying time until their bats come alive. They’ll need to score more runs to maintain their position in the standings. — Doolittle
8. San Francisco Giants
Record: 9-3
Previous ranking: 12
Wilmer Flores has been a bright spot for the Giants, hitting four home runs in fewer than 40 at-bats. His return from injury has provided a boost for the team, and his power will be crucial as the Giants aim to climb higher in the rankings. — Rogers
9. Boston Red Sox
Record: 6-7
Previous ranking: 13
Rafael Devers and the Red Sox lineup have turned things around with a dominant performance against the Cardinals. Scoring 44 runs in four games, the Red Sox are finding their rhythm, and Devers’ resurgence is a promising sign for the team. — Schoenfield
10. Arizona Diamondbacks
Record: 7-6
Previous ranking: 5
The Diamondbacks are feeling the absence of Ketel Marte, who is sidelined with a hamstring strain. Despite this setback, Arizona is positioning itself as a destination for players, with recent extensions and the allure of the Phoenix area. — Rogers
As we continue to follow the 2025 MLB season, it’s clear that the landscape is constantly shifting. With teams like the Mets and Cubs making significant leaps, and others like the Braves struggling to find their footing, the coming weeks promise to be full of excitement and surprises. Stay tuned as we keep you updated on all the action!
Originally Written by: ESPN
