AL and NL Championship Series Predictions Ahead of Game 1

LOS ANGELES, CA — Major League Baseball’s postseason has reached its championship series stage, with the Seattle Mariners facing the Toronto Blue Jays in the American League and the Los Angeles Dodgers taking on the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League. The matchups follow an exciting divisional round that concluded on Wednesday, with four teams remaining in the quest for the 2025 World Series.

The Mariners are hoping to reach their first-ever World Series after 49 years of existence, while the Blue Jays aim to return for the first time since their last title in 1993. “Destiny calls one of these snakebit organizations,” said ESPN analyst Jeff Passan, emphasizing the significance of this matchup.

For the Mariners, their journey to this point was dramatic, highlighted by a critical Game 5 victory over the Detroit Tigers. However, they face challenges entering the AL Championship Series, as key pitcher Bryan Woo‘s health remains uncertain following a month out with an injury. Julio Rodríguez, a standout for the Mariners, is under pressure to break out of a slump after struggling in the previous series.

On the other hand, the Blue Jays overcame the New York Yankees decisively, with powerhouse players like Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and George Springer crucial to their success. Analysts are highlighting how the Blue Jays’ offensive capability will play a pivotal role against the Mariners’ starting staff.

Meanwhile, in the National League, the Dodgers aim for consecutive titles, having defeated the Philadelphia Phillies in the Division Series. The team boasts stars like Shohei Ohtani and Blake Snell, aiming to edge past the Brewers, who have been resilient after coming out on top against the Chicago Cubs. Milwaukee holds a historical edge over the Dodgers in their recent matchups, having won all six games during the regular season.

“Everyone is keen to see if the Brewers can maintain that success against the talented Dodgers team, which is stronger now with a fully rested rotation,” commented ESPN analyst Buster Olney. The Brewers will need their underappreciated talent to shine against a Dodgers roster filled with high-profile stars.

The championship series begins with Game 1 of the AL Championship Series set for Sunday, October 12, as the Mariners visit Toronto for a high-stakes matchup. In the NL Championship Series, the Brewers host the Dodgers on Monday, October 13. The excitement builds as fans anticipate which teams will advance to the World Series.