Introduction

The 2025 MLB trade deadline was one of the most eventful in recent history, with 92 veteran players and 92 prospects changing teams. This flurry of activity has significantly altered the landscape of Major League Baseball, with teams now reassessing their playoff chances and future strategies.

Top-Tier Contenders

1. Milwaukee Brewers

• Win Average: 95.9
• Playoff Probability: 99.2%
• Championship Odds: 11.3%
• Lingering Concern: Middle-of-the-order power

The Brewers have surged to the top of the standings, largely due to their stellar run prevention and hot offense. Despite a passive approach at the deadline, Milwaukee's internal solutions have proven effective.

2. Chicago Cubs

• Win Average: 95.8
• Playoff Probability: 99.4%
• Championship Odds: 13.6%
• Lingering Concern: Frontline pitching

The Cubs' offense has been formidable, but their pitching staff remains a concern. Without significant upgrades at the deadline, Chicago will rely on their current rotation and bullpen to carry them through the postseason.

3. Los Angeles Dodgers

• Win Average: 95.8
• Playoff Probability: 99.4%
• Championship Odds: 15.4%
• Lingering Concern: Pitching health

The Dodgers' pitching staff has been plagued by injuries all season. Despite this, they remain one of the top contenders, with the Padres pushing them in the NL West.

Second-Tier Contenders

7. San Diego Padres

• Win Average: 90.2
• Playoff Probability: 89.0%
• Championship Odds: 4.5%
• Lingering Concern: History

The Padres are well-positioned for the postseason, but their history of falling short looms large. With a strong roster, they aim to break their title drought.

8. New York Mets

• Win Average: 90.1
• Playoff Probability: 89.4%
• Championship Odds: 4.5%
• Lingering Concern: Juan Soto

Juan Soto has been good, but not great, this season. The Mets need him to return to his MVP form if they hope to emerge from a crowded field of contenders.

Teams Just Hanging On

14. Cincinnati Reds

• Win Average: 82.3
• Playoff Probability: 12.3%
• Championship Odds: 0.4%
• Hope for a Run: Powerhouse rotation

With Hunter Greene nearing his return, the Reds' rotation could be a force down the stretch. However, they need more than just strong pitching to make a playoff push.

15. San Francisco Giants

• Win Average: 81.8
• Playoff Probability: 9.4%
• Championship Odds: 0.2%
• Hope for a Run: Exploding stars

The Giants have several All-Star-level players, but their roster is thin. They need their stars to carry them if they hope to make a late-season run.

Teams Looking Ahead to 2026 and Beyond

20. Miami Marlins

• Win Average: 78.1
• Playoff Probability: 1.6%
• Championship Odds: 0.0%
• Remaining Objective: Dig that pitching

The Marlins' rotation has been stifling, but they need more offense to compete. Their focus is on building momentum for the hot stove season.

21. Arizona Diamondbacks

• Win Average: 77.3
• Playoff Probability: 0.9%
• Championship Odds: 0.0%
• Remaining Objective: See what's what with Jordan Lawlar

With a disappointing season behind them, the Diamondbacks are looking to evaluate their young talent, including Jordan Lawlar.

Conclusion

The 2025 MLB trade deadline has set the stage for an exciting finish to the season. Teams are now focused on their playoff hopes and future strategies, with some looking to make a late-season push and others already planning for 2026.