MLB Opening Day: Predictions for 2025 Season and Player Awards

ARLINGTON, Texas — As Major League Baseball gears up for its 2025 Opening Day on March 28, anticipation mounts around the league with predictions from 28 ESPN writers, analysts, and editors on the upcoming season’s outcomes.

With the baseball season right around the corner, the questions are plentiful: Will the Los Angeles Dodgers confirm their dominance with a second consecutive World Series title? Will a surprise team emerge from the expanded playoffs? And how will the New York Yankees adapt without their star players?

Tim Keown predicts the Baltimore Orioles will clinch the AL East title. The young roster featuring standout players is expected to carry the offense despite the stiff competition from the Red Sox and Yankees. Keown cautions excitement by declaring the Boston Red Sox as his World Series pick.

“The Orioles will win the division because they will cobble together enough pitching to outlast the Red Sox and Yankees,” Keown said. “They will thrive with their younger players contributing significantly throughout the regular season.”

Meanwhile, AJ Mass astonished some with his bold prediction for the Toronto Blue Jays to secure the division title. He believes injuries to key players on rival teams will play a vital role in the Blue Jays’ performance.

The Kansas City Royals’ new addition, a player predicted to improve their lineup significantly, may help them vie for the AL Central title according to Doug Glanville. The Royals have demonstrated resilience by making the playoffs previously, and their prospects continue to shine.

“They have room to slump and still get in. I see a better September this time,” Glanville stated.

In the AL West, the Texas Rangers were overwhelmingly favored to take the division with 18 votes. Their key to success lies in further improving the offense, a critical need highlighted in the last few seasons. “The Rangers can rebound after their World Series hangover year,” predicted Tristan Cockcroft.

The Atlanta Braves enter the season as favorites in the NL East, although some analysts believe the Phillies could challenge for the title due to their starting pitching strength.

With 21 votes casting for the winning team, the Dodgers are the consensus favorite for the NL West title. However, opinions vary when it comes to their odds of winning consecutive titles.

Alden Gonzalez commented on their readiness and depth, stating, “The Dodgers’ chances of repeating as champions are as good as any team in recent history.”

As for individual accolades, the MVP race appears competitive with Bobby Witt Jr. being the favorite, followed closely by other emerging talents. For the Rookie of the Year, Paul Skenes, who took last season’s crown, is favored to repeat his success.

As the league prepares for what promises to be an exhilarating season, the intricate dynamics of roster changes, player performances, and competitive rivalries are set to unfold in the coming months, captivating fans and analysts alike.