2025 MLB Playoff Showdown: Predictions for ALCS and NLCS

The Road to the World Series

The 2025 MLB playoffs are now down to the final four teams after a whirlwind of games. The Milwaukee Brewers and Seattle Mariners advanced in thrilling Game 5s of their respective series, while the Los Angeles Dodgers and Toronto Blue Jays look to capitalize on their solid performances.

Now that the matchups are set— Dodgers vs. Brewers and Mariners vs. Blue Jays— it's time for predictions! Our MLB experts weighed in on who they think will reach the World Series, which players will shine as league championship series MVPs, and the overarching themes dominating this postseason.

ALCS Breakdown

Seattle Mariners (8 votes)

Predicted in how many games: Seven games (5 votes), six games (3 votes)

MVP if Mariners win: Cal Raleigh (4 votes), Randy Arozarena (2 votes), Josh Naylor (1 vote), Julio Rodriguez (1 vote)

Experts backing Seattle: Jorge Castillo, Alden Gonzalez, Paul Hembekides, Eric Karabell, Tim Keown, Kiley McDaniel, Jeff Passan, David Schoenfield

Toronto Blue Jays (7 votes)

Predicted in how many games: Seven games (3 votes), six games (3 votes), five games (1 vote)

MVP if Blue Jays win: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (3 votes), George Springer (1 vote), Kevin Gausman (1 vote), Daulton Varsho (1 vote), Ernie Clement (1 vote)

Experts backing Toronto: Tristan Cockcroft, Bradford Doolittle, Tim Kurkjian, Matt Marrone, Dan Mullen, Buster Olney, Jesse Rogers

What to Watch

One major storyline is the Seattle Mariners—the only team in MLB history never to reach a World Series—finally getting a shot at redemption. After a long 49 seasons, every October game counts more than ever for them.

The Blue Jays, meanwhile, are coming off a revitalized season. While they've stumbled in the AL East in past years, this team has shown an impressive ability to claw back into postseason contention, showcasing both offensive might and defensive skill. It's this combination of grit and talent that could propel them back to championship glory.

“Destiny calls one of these snakebit organizations. It's a fight decades in the making.” – Jeff Passan

NLCS Breakdown

Los Angeles Dodgers (10 votes)

Predicted in how many games: Seven games (2 votes), six games (4 votes), five games (3 votes), four games (1 vote)

MVP if Dodgers win: Shohei Ohtani (6 votes), Blake Snell (2 votes), Teoscar Hernandez (1 vote), Freddie Freeman (1 vote)

Experts backing Los Angeles: Jorge Castillo, Alden Gonzalez, Paul Hembekides, Tim Kurkjian, Matt Marrone, Kiley McDaniel, Buster Olney, Jeff Passan, Jesse Rogers, David Schoenfield

Milwaukee Brewers (5 votes)

Predicted in how many games: Seven games (3 votes), six games (2 votes)

MVP if Brewers win: Jackson Chourio (4 votes), Andrew Vaughn (1 vote)

Experts backing Milwaukee: Tristan Cockcroft, Bradford Doolittle, Eric Karabell, Tim Keown, Dan Mullen

What to Watch

The Dodgers, on the cusp of becoming the first repeat champions in a quarter-century, are boasting a rotation for the ages with Shohei Ohtani, Blake Snell, and more. Their collective dominance thus far makes them the team to beat in this postseason.

Conversely, the Brewers are looking to make their case as a serious contender. With a combination of stellar pitching and timely hitting, they are set to challenge the Dodgers' juggernaut. Home advantage will play a pivotal role in this series—can they leverage it effectively?

“Can anyone stop the Dodgers? The answer might just end up being no.” – Jeff Passan

Looking Forward

As the postseason unfolds, keep an eye on how each matchup evolves. Strategies will be tested and stars will shine—who will secure their place in history? Whether it's the long-suffering Mariners, the resurgent Blue Jays, the dominant Dodgers, or the sneaky Brewers, this October is shaping up to be one for the record books. Stay tuned for more updates.