The 2025 MLB Wild Card playoffs are set to begin, marking the start of an intense race towards the World Series championship. Following a demanding 162-game regular season, teams now face high-stakes, best-of-three matchups to secure their spots in the next round. The Athletic’s experts have analyzed the teams in contention, providing insights and predictions for the key games ahead.
**Detroit Tigers vs. Cleveland Guardians**
The Detroit Tigers, surprisingly clinching the AL Central, are set to face the Cleveland Guardians, a team they’ve pursued ambitiously until the final weekend. Opinion among staff members is divided, with several siding with the Guardians due to their recent performance and team cohesion under manager Stephen Vogt. Critics of Detroit point to their late-season stumblings, yet others believe that pitcher Tarik Skubal could turn the tide for the Tigers.
**Boston Red Sox vs. New York Yankees**
In another chapter of their historic rivalry, the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees clash in what’s anticipated to be an exhilarating series. Both sides have been formidable in the closing months, although predictions vary. The Yankees have been on a strong winning streak while the Red Sox boast a solid bullpen. The potential impact of key players like Aaron Judge and the strategic deployment of pitchers like Garrett Crochet remain crucial talking points.
**Cincinnati Reds vs. Los Angeles Dodgers**
The Cincinnati Reds enter the playoffs with momentum, securing their position on the season’s last day, and now face off against a heavily favored Los Angeles Dodgers team. Despite the Dodgers’ talent-heavy roster, their bullpen vulnerabilities add an element of unpredictability to the series. The Reds have a strong starting rotation, featuring Hunter Greene, but could struggle against the Dodgers’ offensive firepower.
**San Diego Padres vs. Chicago Cubs**
This playoff sees the San Diego Padres battle the Chicago Cubs, both teams having made strong cases for pushing further in the postseason. The matchup is perceived as evenly balanced, with the Padres’ bullpen strength contrasted against the Cubs’ home advantage at Wrigley Field, even without key pitcher Cade Horton. The series outcome may depend on performances from both teams’ star players and depth in crucial game moments.
The 2025 Wild Card matches promise suspense and excitement as these teams fight to advance, each determined to keep their championship dreams alive. With expert opinions split across many of the matchups, unpredictability is a key theme, highlighting the intensity and competitive spirit that makes playoff baseball so thrilling.