2025 MLB Playoff Picture, Yankees Wild Card Watch + World Series Readiness

As summer winds down, two things will be heating up: pumpkin spice season and the MLB playoff race. With October baseball just weeks away, the 2025 postseason picture is starting to take shape — though some spots are still up for grabs.

The Los Angeles Dodgers won the 2024 World Series, defeating the New York Yankees in five games (4–1). It was a dramatic series, with the Dodgers clinching the title after a 7–6 comeback win in Game 5 at Yankee Stadium. Freddie Freeman was named Series MVP, tying a World Series record with 12 RBIs and hitting home runs in each of the first four games.

This marked the Dodgers’ first championship since 2020, and the Yankees’ first World Series appearance since 2009.

MLB Playoff Picture: August 15, 2025

With just 4 or so weeks left in the regular season, the race to October is heating up across Major League Baseball.

Who’s Leading Now

Milwaukee Brewers hold the best record in baseball (74-44), riding a dominant win streak and looking like a serious World Series contender.
Toronto Blue Jays and Detroit Tigers top the American League, with the Blue Jays slightly ahead in the standings.
Philadelphia Phillies are comfortably leading the NL East and sit just behind the Brewers in overall wins.

Playoff Odds Favorites

Brewers, Dodgers, and Blue Jays are the top favorites to make deep playoff runs.
Mets, Padres, and Astros are hanging on to Wild Card spots but face pressure from surging teams like the Reds and Guardians.

Projected Matchups (If Season Ended Today)

American League

First-Round Byes: Toronto Blue Jays (1), Detroit Tigers (2)
Wild Card Series:
- Houston Astros (3) vs. New York Yankees (6)
- Boston Red Sox (4) vs. Seattle Mariners (5)

National League

First-Round Byes: Milwaukee Brewers (1), Philadelphia Phillies (2)
Wild Card Series:
- Los Angeles Dodgers (3) vs. New York Mets (6)
- Chicago Cubs (4) vs. San Diego Padres (5)

Rivalries to Watch in the 2025 Postseason

From classic Yankees vs. Red Sox tension to a potential Dodgers vs. Mets power clash, this year’s playoff bracket could bring some legendary matchups. The Brewers, a small-market team with the league’s best record, could also face the Dodgers — creating a David vs. Goliath narrative baseball fans love.

Betting Insights for MLB Playoffs 2025

While nothing is guaranteed in October baseball, oddsmakers currently favor the Brewers and Dodgers in the National League, and the Blue Jays in the American League. The Yankees remain a tempting underdog pick if they secure a Wild Card spot.

Game Day Looks for the MLB Postseason

Whether you’re tailgating, heading to the stadium, or watching with friends, playoff baseball is the perfect excuse to elevate your fan gear before all the top picks sell out. I’ve rounded up the best Fanatics finds for a few teams in the hunt — from cozy postseason hoodies to vintage-inspired jerseys that scream October baseball.

Think Yankees navy bomber jackets for chilly fall nights, Dodgers retro tees for sunny LA afternoons, and Brewers beanies for brisk Milwaukee evenings. You can check out my full MLB Playoff Game Day Collection from Fanatics below. Although I am an affiliate who may earn a small commission, your price is never increased.

Game Day Style: What to Wear to Playoff Games or Tailgates

Get official MLB baseball gear for your favorite team from Fanatics to cheer for your favorite team in style. See below image for direct shopping links or click here to shop the full collection.

See our other blog post featuring more outfit inspo ideas for women!

Where Will the World Series Be Played?

Home-field advantage in the Fall Classic depends entirely on regular season records. Currently, Detroit and Chicago remain the front-runners to host, but if the Mets or Dodgers finish with stronger records, they could shift the hosting duties. Expect Game 1 to be played on or around October 22 at the higher seed’s stadium.

How to Get World Series Tickets

1. Buy early from trusted sources

MLB.com, Fanatics Experiences, StubHub, SeatGeek
Ticket prices can jump fast once series matchups are confirmed

2. Sign up for your team’s email newsletter or fan club

These groups often receive pre-sale chances ahead of the general public

3. Use credit card perks

Cards like Amex or Chase often offer presale or seat upgrades

Pro tip: Set ticket alerts and refresh vigilantly—especially right after the LCS matchups are confirmed.

Could the Mets Make it in?

Mets fans have been waiting since 1986, and this year feels different. With health, a dominant rotation, and improving offense, they’ve climbed to an 80–85% playoff probability—a huge step in the right direction.

The fan base? Emotional, passionate, and finally hopeful again. If the Mets do reach October, Citi Field will be electric—and Mets merch will fly off the shelves.

Are You Ready for October?

The Tigers, Cubs, and Dodgers are nearly locked in. The Mets are climbing fast. The Yankees? It's still all on them to secure their spot.

Who do you think will win it all this October? Will Detroit finally break through, will Chicago’s breakout stars make history, or can the Mets complete their long-awaited redemption story? Since the Dodgers took the victory last year, I'm ready to see a new team win.