MLB Power Rankings: Surprises and Standouts as the 2025 Season Unfolds
As we approach the one-month mark of the 2025 MLB season, it’s a time of excitement and unpredictability. While it’s still early to put too much stock in the standings, there are already some intriguing surprises and storylines emerging across the league. Let’s dive into the latest power rankings and see how the teams are stacking up.
In the National League West, the competition is fierce, with just 2.5 games separating four teams. Three of these teams boast winning percentages above .600, making it clear that the NL West is shaping up to be a battleground for playoff contenders. Meanwhile, in the NL East, the Atlanta Braves find themselves in an unexpected position at the bottom of the division, trailing even the Marlins and Nationals.
Over in the American League, the New York Yankees are living up to expectations, but several teams are hovering around the .500 mark. The Baltimore Orioles are struggling, and the Minnesota Twins have the second-worst record in the league. As we look ahead to May, the big question is whether these teams can maintain or change their momentum.
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 Jorge Castillo, Alden Gonzalez, and Bradford Doolittle to provide observations for all 30 teams.
1. Los Angeles Dodgers
Record: 16-9
Previous ranking: 2
The Dodgers entered the season with a fortified roster, aiming to withstand the inevitable injuries that come with a long season. However, their pitching depth has already been tested with Tony Gonsolin, Blake Snell, Blake Treinen, and Michael Kopech landing on the injured list. Despite these setbacks, the Dodgers have managed to stay among the elite teams in baseball. Their resilience is a testament to their depth and talent. — Gonzalez
2. San Diego Padres
Record: 17-8
Previous ranking: 1
The Padres have come out swinging in 2025, dispelling any doubts about their resolve after last year’s NL Division Series loss. With the second-best record in baseball, they’ve been dominant at home, boasting a 12-1 record at Petco Park. Fernando Tatis Jr. has been a standout, showing newfound patience at the plate, while Nick Pivetta has been a revelation on the mound. The energy at Petco Park is palpable, and the Padres are feeding off it. — Gonzalez
3. New York Mets
Record: 18-7
Previous ranking: 3
The Mets are on fire, and their fans are loving it. The atmosphere at Citi Field is electric, especially during thrilling games like their recent extra-inning win against the Phillies. The Mets’ starting rotation, initially seen as lacking star power, has been one of the best in the majors, with an ERA of 2.29. The Mets are living up to their high expectations and are a force to be reckoned with. — Doolittle
4. New York Yankees
Record: 15-10
Previous ranking: 7
Aaron Judge continues to prove he’s the best hitter on the planet, leading the majors in several offensive categories. His performance has been nothing short of spectacular, reminiscent of Barry Bonds in his prime. Judge’s dominance at the plate is a key reason why the Yankees are performing as expected. — Castillo
5. San Francisco Giants
Record: 16-9
Previous ranking: 4
Under the leadership of Buster Posey, the Giants are building a team focused on pitching and defense. While that strategy develops, they’ve received a boost from Jung Hoo Lee, who is excelling at the plate. Lee’s performance is a promising sign for the Giants as they navigate the challenges of Oracle Park. — Gonzalez
6. Arizona Diamondbacks
Record: 14-10
Previous ranking: 8
The Diamondbacks’ lineup is firing on all cylinders, with Corbin Carroll, Josh Naylor, and Geraldo Perdomo leading the charge. Pavin Smith has been a pleasant surprise, providing much-needed production. The D-backs are proving they can compete without relying on outside acquisitions. — Gonzalez
7. Chicago Cubs
Record: 16-10
Previous ranking: 6
The Cubs are showing resilience, winning high-scoring games and relying on their offense to carry them. With key players like Kyle Tucker and Pete Crow-Armstrong off to strong starts, the Cubs are slugging their way to the top of the NL Central. — Gonzalez
8. Philadelphia Phillies
Record: 13-12
Previous ranking: 5
The Phillies’ bullpen has been a mixed bag, with some relievers struggling. Jordan Romano, in particular, has had a rough start. Despite these challenges, the Phillies remain competitive, thanks to solid performances from key players. — Doolittle
9. Detroit Tigers
Record: 15-10
Previous ranking: 9
Casey Mize and Spencer Torkelson are finally realizing their potential, leading the Tigers to a strong start. Mize has been the standout in the rotation, while Torkelson is delivering at the plate. The Tigers are showing promise as they aim to climb the standings. — Castillo
10. Texas Rangers
Record: 14-10
Previous ranking: 10
The Rangers’ pitching has been solid, but their offense needs to step up. They’ve relied heavily on home runs, and their aggressive approach hasn’t paid off yet. If they can find a balance, they could maintain their lead in the AL West. — Doolittle
11. Boston Red Sox
Record: 14-12
Previous ranking: 9
Rafael Devers has bounced back from a rough start, but the Red Sox are struggling to consistently produce high-scoring games. With a lineup full of potential, they need to find their rhythm to compete in the AL East. — Castillo
12. Cleveland Guardians
Record: 14-10
Previous ranking: 11
The Guardians are defying expectations once again, with strong performances from Steven Kwan and Kyle Manzardo. Despite Emmanuel Clase’s struggles, the bullpen has been a bright spot. The Guardians are quietly making noise in the AL Central. — Castillo
13. Milwaukee Brewers
Record: 13-12
Previous ranking: 19
After a rough start, the Brewers have turned things around, thanks to a strong rotation. Despite injuries, they’ve managed to keep pace in the NL Central. The Brewers are showing their resilience and determination. — Gonzalez
14. Houston Astros
Record: 13-11
Previous ranking: 21
Hunter Brown has emerged as the Astros’ new ace, delivering impressive performances on the mound. His four-seamer has been particularly effective, making him one of the best pitchers in baseball so far. The Astros are benefiting from his dominance. — Doolittle
15. Atlanta Braves
Record: 10-14
Previous ranking: 18
The Braves have had a rocky start, but Spencer Strider’s return provides hope. Despite setbacks, the Braves have the potential to turn things around and climb the standings. — Doolittle
16. Seattle Mariners
Record: 13-11
Previous ranking: 15
The Mariners’ offense has been inconsistent, with stark differences between home and road performances. Dylan Moore’s success on the road highlights this disparity. If they can find consistency, the Mariners could make a push in the AL West. — Doolittle
17. Toronto Blue Jays
Record: 12-13
Previous ranking: 13
The Blue Jays are off to a solid start, but the focus is on Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s $500-million contract. Whether this investment pays off will be crucial for the franchise’s future. Staying competitive will be key for the Blue Jays. — Castillo
18. Cincinnati Reds
Record: 12-13
Previous ranking: 17
The Reds’ offense has been inconsistent, but their young pitchers, Hunter Greene and Nick Lodolo, are showing promise. With solid performances on the mound, the Reds have the potential to surprise in the NL Central. — Gonzalez
19. Tampa Bay Rays
Record: 10-14
Previous ranking: 12
The Rays are struggling to find their footing, especially at their temporary home in Steinbrenner Field. With a challenging schedule ahead, they’ll need to improve to compete in the AL East. — Castillo
20. Baltimore Orioles
Record: 9-14
Previous ranking: 20
The Orioles’ starting pitching has been a major concern, with high ERAs across the board. Without an obvious solution, this weakness could hinder their progress in the standings. — Castillo
21. Kansas City Royals
Record: 10-14
Previous ranking: 16
The Royals are struggling offensively, with key players underperforming. The fan base is eager to see top prospect Jac Caglianone make his debut, hoping for a spark to ignite their season. — Castillo
22. St. Louis Cardinals
Record: 10-15
Previous ranking: 23
The Cardinals have shown flashes of potential, but inconsistency has been their downfall. Despite strong performances from some players, they need to find a way to win close games. — Gonzalez
23. Los Angeles Angels
Record: 11-12
Previous ranking: 22
The Angels’ bullpen has been a weak point, but Ryan Zeferjahn’s potential offers hope. If they can shore up their relief pitching, the Angels could make a push in the standings. — Doolittle
24. Athletics
Record: 11-13
Previous ranking: 26
The Athletics are struggling to adapt to their new home, with their opponents taking advantage of the conditions. If they can find a way to capitalize on their home field, they could improve their standing. — Doolittle
25. Miami Marlins
Record: 11-13
Previous ranking: 25
The Marlins are holding their own, but Sandy Alcantara’s performance is crucial. Whether for trade value or a surprise playoff push, Alcantara’s success will be key to their season. — Doolittle
26. Minnesota Twins
Record: 9-15
Previous ranking: 24
Injuries have plagued the Twins once again, hindering their ability to compete. With key players sidelined, the Twins face an uphill battle in the AL Central. — Castillo
27. Washington Nationals
Record: 11-13
Previous ranking: 27
MacKenzie Gore is a bright spot for the Nationals, with the potential to make history. As he continues to develop, the Nationals have reason to be optimistic about their future. — Doolittle
28. Pittsburgh Pirates
Record: 10-15
Previous ranking: 28
The Pirates have faced controversy and challenges, but Paul Skenes’ performance offers hope. Despite the turmoil, Skenes is showing promise on the mound. — Gonzalez
29. Chicago White Sox
Record: 5-19
Previous ranking: 29
The White Sox are struggling, and Luis Robert Jr.’s performance is a concern. If he can turn things around, the White Sox might attract trade offers to aid their rebuild. — Castillo
30. Colorado Rockies
Record: 4-18
Previous ranking: 30
The Rockies made a coaching change early in the season, but challenges remain. With a struggling offense and a tough division, it’s shaping up to be a long season in Colorado. — Gonzalez
Originally Written by: ESPN
