MLB September 2025 Playoff and Award Predictions

The Milwaukee Brewers are favored to finish with the best record in baseball, supported by a complete team performance and a friendly schedule. This matters because securing the best record guarantees a crucial first-round bye in the playoffs.

Key division battles are unfolding in the AL East (Blue Jays vs. Yankees) and NL West (Dodgers vs. Padres). These races are critical as they determine not only playoff spots but also potential first-round byes.

Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani lead the MVP races in the AL and NL, respectively. Judge aims for his second straight MVP, while Ohtani seeks his third consecutive award. The MVP races highlight individual brilliance and impact on team success.

Tarik Skubal and Paul Skenes are the frontrunners for the Cy Young Awards in their respective leagues. Their dominance on the mound showcases the importance of elite pitching in MLB.

Sept 5-7: Yankees vs. Blue Jays.: This series will have major implications for the AL East lead and a potential first-round bye. [The Athletic Article?ref=yanuki.com]

Sept 8-11: Phillies vs. Mets.: A crucial NL East matchup with Wild Card implications. [ESPN?ref=yanuki.com]

Sept 9-11: Astros vs. Blue Jays.: This series could determine the AL's top seed.

Aaron Judge (Yankees):: Leading the league in OPS and WAR, Judge is a strong contender. [ESPN?ref=yanuki.com] This matters because his offensive dominance drives the Yankees' success.

Cal Raleigh (Mariners):: With 50 home runs as a switch-hitter, Raleigh is a serious challenger. [MLB?ref=yanuki.com] This matters because catchers rarely win MVP awards, and Raleigh could break the mold.

Shohei Ohtani (Dodgers):: A potential three-time MVP winner, Ohtani continues to impress with his hitting and pitching. [MLB?ref=yanuki.com] This matters because Ohtani's unique two-way talent sets him apart from other contenders.

Kyle Schwarber (Phillies):: Close behind with 49 home runs. [ESPN?ref=yanuki.com] This matters because his power hitting is crucial for the Phillies' offense.

Tarik Skubal (Tigers):: Looking for his second straight Cy Young. [MLB?ref=yanuki.com] This matters because his consistency has made him an elite pitcher.

Garrett Crochet (Red Sox):: Right on Skubal's heels with impressive stats. [MLB?ref=yanuki.com] This matters because Crochet's emergence has been a major boost for the Red Sox.

Paul Skenes (Pirates):: Firmly in control to win his first Cy Young. [MLB?ref=yanuki.com] This matters because Skenes's dominance is rare for a young pitcher.

Cristopher Sanchez (Phillies):: Having an excellent season and a lock for a top-three finish. [MLB?ref=yanuki.com] This matters because he is the ace of the Phillies.

Cal Raleigh:: Chasing the switch-hitting home run record (54 HR) currently held by Mickey Mantle. [MLB?ref=yanuki.com] This matters because breaking Mantle's record would be a significant achievement.

Mike Trout:: Approaching 400 career home runs. [MLB?ref=yanuki.com] This matters because it is a major milestone for any player.

Salvador Perez:: Close to reaching 300 career home runs and 1,000 RBIs. [MLB?ref=yanuki.com] This matters because it is a significant milestone for any player.