With spring training right around the corner, the early pecking order across Major League Baseball is starting to take shape. These power rankings reflect offseason moves, roster momentum, and how teams look on paper before the first meaningful pitch is thrown. From established contenders to fast-rising clubs, the hierarchy already hints at who could define the upcoming season.
1. Los Angeles Dodgers
Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Blake Snell (7), right fielder Teoscar Hernandez (37), shortstop Mookie Betts (50) and second baseman Miguel Rojas (72) on stage during the World Series celebration at Dodger Stadium. Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
The Dodgers sit at the top because their roster still looks like a superteam on paper, with elite talent across both the lineup and rotation. Their ability to generate offense from multiple MVP-caliber players makes them dangerous every single night. Just as importantly, their pitching depth gives them one of the highest floors in baseball. Entering spring, they look like the most complete and least vulnerable contender.
2. Toronto Blue Jays
Toronto Blue Jays third baseman Ernie Clement (22) celebrates with first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (27) after scoring against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the sixth inning during game seven of the 2025 MLB World Series at Rogers Centre. Credit: Kevin Sousa-Imagn Images
Toronto remains near the top thanks to a lineup that blends star power with prime-age production. Their core has matured into one of the most consistent offensive groups in the American League, and the pitching staff has stabilized behind them. They’ve proven they can win in different ways — slugfests or tight games — which keeps expectations high. The sense is they’re firmly in win-now mode and built to challenge for the top spot.
3. Seattle Mariners (↑1)
Seattle Mariners pitcher Eduard Bazardo (83) throws in the seventh inning against the Toronto Blue Jays during game seven of the ALCS round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at Rogers Centre. Credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images
Seattle’s steady climb reflects a roster that keeps trending upward, especially with a pitching staff capable of dominating any series. Their young core continues to develop, and the offense looks more balanced than in recent years. There’s growing confidence they can sustain success over a full season rather than relying on hot stretches. The upward movement signals belief that their window is fully open.
4. New York Yankees (↓1)
New York Yankees pitcher Cade Smith during the Arizona Fall League Fall Stars Game at Sloan Park. Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
A slight drop doesn’t change the fact that the Yankees remain one of baseball’s most talented teams. Their power-heavy lineup still has game-changing potential, but questions about consistency and health linger just enough to nudge them down. The pitching staff has high-end arms, yet depth remains something to monitor. They’re dangerous, but not quite as stable as the teams just ahead of them.
5. New York Mets (↑4)
The New York Mets pitchers and catchers take part in their first day of spring training on the back fields of Clover Park on Feb. 11, 2026, in Port St. Lucie. Credit: © CRYSTAL VANDER WEIT/TCPALM / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The Mets’ jump reflects renewed optimism around roster upgrades and improved overall balance. Their pitching outlook appears stronger, and the lineup has enough thump to compete with anyone in the National League. There’s a sense the organization has corrected past weaknesses and is better positioned for sustained contention. Momentum — both on paper and perception — is clearly in their favor.
6. Chicago Cubs (↑1)
Chicago Cubs Alex Bregman (3) hits live batting practice during spring training camp at Sloan Park. Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
Chicago continues to rise thanks to a roster that blends emerging young talent with reliable veterans. Their pitching infrastructure looks improved, and the offense has become more dynamic and versatile. They’re not flashy, but they’re increasingly well-rounded and competitive in every phase. That steady growth makes them a legitimate threat to outperform expectations.
7. Milwaukee Brewers (↓2)
Milwaukee Brewers players join (center) Bob Uecker Jr. to throw a ceremonial first pitch during the Milwaukee Brewers’ Bob Uecker celebration of life on Sunday August 24, 2025 at American Family Field in Milwaukee, WI. Credit: © Jovanny Hernandez / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Milwaukee slips a bit despite still having one of the league’s strongest pitching identities. Their run prevention remains elite, but offensive inconsistency has raised concerns about their ceiling. When the bats go quiet, they can struggle to keep pace with more explosive teams. They’re still formidable — just facing more questions than before.
8. Boston Red Sox (↓2)
Boston Red Sox infielder Stanley Tucker during the Arizona Fall League Fall Stars Game at Sloan Park. Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Boston’s drop reflects uncertainty about whether their roster improvements fully address long-standing pitching volatility. The lineup has plenty of energy and run-scoring potential, but preventing runs remains the bigger test. They feel competitive but not fully stabilized compared to other contenders. Until the pitching proves reliable, they hover just outside the top tier.
9. Philadelphia Phillies (↓1)
Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Jack Dallas during the Arizona Fall League Fall Stars Game at Sloan Park. Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The Phillies remain dangerous thanks to a battle-tested core that knows how to win big games. However, the slight slide suggests concerns about depth and long-term consistency, particularly on the pitching side. Their stars still give them a high ceiling, but the margin for error feels thinner than it once did. They’re respected — just not surging.
10. Baltimore Orioles (↑12)
Baltimore Orioles pitcher Tanner Smith during the Arizona Fall League Fall Stars Game at Sloan Park. Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Baltimore’s massive jump signals one of the biggest momentum swings in the league. Their young core continues to mature, and the organization’s long rebuild is clearly translating into real contention potential. Energy, athleticism, and upside define this roster, and expectations are rising fast. They may be the most exciting upward-trending team entering spring training.
Conclusion
Toronto Blue Jays designated hitter Bo Bichette (11) throws to first for an out against Los Angeles Dodgers second baseman Tommy Edman (25) in the eighth inning during game seven of the 2025 MLB World Series at Rogers Centre. Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
Of course, preseason rankings are only a snapshot — and baseball has a way of rewriting expectations quickly. Injuries, breakout performances, and early-season chemistry will reshuffle this list before long. For now, though, this is the landscape of MLB as teams prepare to turn potential into results.
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