We finally have clarity on the postseason lineup. One of these 12 teams will raise a championship flag next March. However, even though all teams have a shot, not all teams are equally positioned. Some enter the playoffs with the mindset of World Series or nothing, while others are simply thrilled to be participating and are excited to see if they can make a deep run. In our inaugural Power Rankings for the postseason, we analyze the stakes for each team: what they stand to gain, what truly matters, their past performances, and the potential paths ahead.
These rankings are derived from the evaluations of MLB.com contributors, whose names you can find at the conclusion of this article, but all opinions expressed are my own. If you take issue with these rankings, feel free to voice your frustration at all of us. However, if you disagree with the phrasing, then direct your comments toward me.
1. Phillies (previously: 2)
Season high: 1 | Season low: 8
The stakes: The Phillies last claimed a World Series title in 2008. More significantly, many of their key veterans—such as Trea Turner, Zack Wheeler, J.T. Realmuto, Aaron Nola, Nick Castellanos, and notably Bryce Harper—have never experienced this achievement. This entire season, along with this era of Phillies baseball, is geared toward clinching a World Series title. That’s the aspiration. That’s the sole ambition.
2. Dodgers (previously: 1)
Season high: 1 | Season low: 6
The stakes: The Dodgers have faced numerous injury challenges within their rotation, lost Mookie Betts for a significant portion of the season, and their lineup has frequently been heavily reliant on a few players. Still, they feature Shohei Ohtani (who is finally set to play a postseason game!), Freddie Freeman (provided his ankle is in good shape), and Betts, not to mention holding the best record in baseball once again. The regular season serves merely as a prelude; what truly matters is winning the World Series.
3. Yankees (previously: 3)
Season high: 1 | Season low: 7
The stakes: Entering this season, following a modest 82-win performance in 2023, the Yankees faced a level of pressure not experienced in years. They ultimately captured the AL East title, secured the No. 1 seed in the American League, and enjoyed an extraordinary season from Aaron Judge, along with what could be a career-best year from Juan Soto. While this is commendable, it’s important to remember that the Yankees are a storied franchise that hasn’t made it to the World Series since Jasson Domínguez was just six years old. For them, that’s still the baseline expectation this year.
4. Astros (previously: 6)
Season high: 5 | Season low: 26
The stakes: Back in June, it seemed like we might be witnessing the end of the Astros dynasty, with even whispers of Alex Bregman trade rumors circulating. Yet, here they are again, having won their division and hitting their stride at the perfect moment. They are on track to make their eighth consecutive appearance in the American League Championship Series, a remarkable streak that’s hard to comprehend.
5. Padres (previously: 6)
Season high: 7 | Season low: 21
The stakes: The atmosphere surrounding the Padres in 2024 is worlds apart from what they experienced in 2023, in every conceivable manner.
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In a surprising turn of events, the Padres this year have enjoyed a sunlit season, contrasting sharply with the snake-bitten experience of last year. Perhaps this squad can achieve the lofty goals that last year’s team—and numerous past Padres teams—failed to realize.
