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. 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 a division to watch closely. 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 move into 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 what we’ve seen so far and what we knew heading into the 162-game marathon that is a full baseball season. We also asked ESPN MLB experts Jorge Castillo, Alden Gonzalez, and Bradford Doolittle to provide insights for all 30 teams.
1. Los Angeles Dodgers
Record: 16-9
Previous ranking: 2
The Dodgers spent the offseason bolstering their roster to withstand the inevitable attrition of a long season. However, their pitching depth has been tested early, with Tony Gonsolin, Blake Snell, Blake Treinen, and Michael Kopech all landing on the injured list. Despite these setbacks, the Dodgers have managed to stay among the elite teams in baseball. — Gonzalez
2. San Diego Padres
Record: 17-8
Previous ranking: 1
The Padres have defied expectations after a disappointing offseason, starting the season with the second-best record in baseball. Nick Pivetta has been a revelation, and Fernando Tatis Jr. is showing newfound patience at the plate. The Padres’ home environment at Petco Park has been electric, with the team posting a 12-1 record and a 1.30 ERA at home. — Gonzalez
3. New York Mets
Record: 18-7
Previous ranking: 3
The Mets are on fire, and the atmosphere at Citi Field is electric. Their starting rotation, initially seen as lacking star power, has been one of the best in the majors, with an average game score of 56 and an ERA of 2.29. — 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 reminiscent of Barry Bonds, and he’s been a key factor in the Yankees’ strong start. — Castillo
5. San Francisco Giants
Record: 16-9
Previous ranking: 4
Under the leadership of Buster Posey, the Giants are focusing on pitching and defense. Jung Hoo Lee has provided a spark on offense, showcasing his elite bat-to-ball skills. — Gonzalez
6. Arizona Diamondbacks
Record: 14-10
Previous ranking: 8
Corbin Carroll, Josh Naylor, and Geraldo Perdomo have been key contributors to the Diamondbacks’ lineup. Pavin Smith’s impressive start has been a pleasant surprise, filling the void left by Joc Pederson. — Gonzalez
7. Chicago Cubs
Record: 16-10
Previous ranking: 6
The Cubs have shown resilience, winning high-scoring games despite bullpen struggles. 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 tested early, with struggles from key relievers like Jordan Romano. Despite this, the team remains competitive, thanks to solid performances from Jose Alvarado, Matt Strahm, and Tanner Banks. — Doolittle
9. Detroit Tigers
Record: 15-10
Previous ranking: 9
Casey Mize and Spencer Torkelson are finally realizing their potential as former No. 1 overall picks. Mize has been the best starter in the rotation, while Torkelson is off to a strong start at the plate. — Castillo
10. Texas Rangers
Record: 14-10
Previous ranking: 10
The Rangers’ pitching has been solid, but their aggressive offense needs to produce more consistently. They rely heavily on home runs, and their ambush approach hasn’t been as effective this season. — Doolittle
11. Boston Red Sox
Record: 14-12
Previous ranking: 9
Rafael Devers has rebounded from a slow start, but the Red Sox have struggled to consistently produce high-scoring outputs. Despite having a lineup with firepower, they have scored four or fewer runs in 13 of 21 games this month. — Castillo
12. Cleveland Guardians
Record: 14-10
Previous ranking: 11
The Guardians continue to defy expectations, with strong performances from Steven Kwan, Kyle Manzardo, and Jose Ramirez. Despite Emmanuel Clase’s struggles, the bullpen has been solid, keeping the Guardians competitive in the AL Central. — Castillo
13. Milwaukee Brewers
Record: 13-12
Previous ranking: 19
After a rough start, the Brewers have turned things around, winning 13 of their last 21 games. Their rotation has been impressive, posting a 2.34 ERA despite injuries to key pitchers. — Gonzalez
14. Houston Astros
Record: 13-11
Previous ranking: 21
Hunter Brown has emerged as the Astros’ new ace, with a dominant start to the season. His four-seamer has been particularly effective, making him one of the best pitchers in baseball so far. — Doolittle
15. Atlanta Braves
Record: 10-14
Previous ranking: 18
The Braves have struggled to build momentum after a winless season-opening trip. Spencer Strider’s return was short-lived due to a hamstring strain, highlighting the team’s challenges in maintaining consistency. — Doolittle
16. Seattle Mariners
Record: 13-11
Previous ranking: 15
The Mariners’ offense has been inconsistent, with a stark contrast between their home and road performances. Dylan Moore’s success on the road highlights the team’s struggles at T-Mobile Park. — Doolittle
17. Toronto Blue Jays
Record: 12-13
Previous ranking: 13
The Blue Jays have had a solid start to the season, but the focus remains on Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s $500-million contract. The team’s future hinges on his performance, and staying competitive will be crucial. — Castillo
18. Cincinnati Reds
Record: 12-13
Previous ranking: 17
The Reds’ offense has underperformed, but their pitching has been a bright spot. Hunter Greene and Nick Lodolo have shown significant improvement, providing hope for the team’s future. — Gonzalez
19. Tampa Bay Rays
Record: 10-14
Previous ranking: 12
The Rays have struggled at their temporary home, Steinbrenner Field, with a 9-10 record. 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 the highest starters’ ERA in baseball. Injuries and underperformance have left the team struggling to stay competitive. — Castillo
21. Kansas City Royals
Record: 10-14
Previous ranking: 16
The Royals’ offense has been lackluster, with Bobby Witt Jr. and Maikel Garcia providing the only bright spots. The team is eagerly awaiting the arrival of top prospect Jac Caglianone. — 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 key players, the team remains below .500. — Gonzalez
23. Los Angeles Angels
Record: 11-12
Previous ranking: 22
The Angels have cooled off after a hot start, with bullpen struggles hindering their progress. Ryan Zeferjahn has shown promise, but the team needs more consistency. — Doolittle
24. Athletics
Record: 11-13
Previous ranking: 26
The Athletics have struggled at their new home, Sutter Health Park, with a 2-8 record. Their hitters have performed better on the road, highlighting the challenges of their new environment. — Doolittle
25. Miami Marlins
Record: 11-13
Previous ranking: 25
The Marlins have held their own, but Sandy Alcantara’s performance remains a key focus. His return to form will be crucial for the team’s success and potential trade value. — Doolittle
26. Minnesota Twins
Record: 9-15
Previous ranking: 24
Injuries have plagued the Twins once again, with key players like Royce Lewis and Pablo Lopez sidelined. The team has struggled to stay competitive in the AL Central. — Castillo
27. Washington Nationals
Record: 11-13
Previous ranking: 27
MacKenzie Gore has been a bright spot for the Nationals, on pace for a potential 300-strikeout season. His performance offers hope for the team’s future. — Doolittle
28. Pittsburgh Pirates
Record: 10-15
Previous ranking: 28
The Pirates’ season has been marred by controversy, with fan dissatisfaction and off-field issues overshadowing Paul Skenes’ promising start. — Gonzalez
29. Chicago White Sox
Record: 5-19
Previous ranking: 29
The White Sox are in the midst of a rebuild, but Luis Robert Jr.’s struggles have hindered their progress. His performance will be crucial for the team’s future plans. — Castillo
30. Colorado Rockies
Record: 4-18
Previous ranking: 30
The Rockies made a coaching change early in the season, but their struggles continue. With the third-lowest OPS in the majors, it’s shaping up to be another long season in Colorado. — Gonzalez
Originally Written by: ESPN
