The excitement is building as the 2025 MLB playoffs reach the league championship series (LCS) phase. Four teams remain: the Los Angeles Dodgers, Milwaukee Brewers, Seattle Mariners, and Toronto Blue Jays. Following intense division series encounters, the matchups are set for a thrilling conclusion to the season.
Predictions for LCS: Who Advances to the World Series?
MLB experts have weighed in on which teams are likely to advance from the LCS to the World Series and who might clinch the MVP honors. Here’s what they have to say.
American League Championship Series (ALCS)
- Teams: Seattle Mariners vs. Toronto Blue Jays
- Predicted Duration: Seven games (5 votes); six games (3 votes); five games (1 vote)
- MVP Predictions if Mariners Win:
- Cal Raleigh (4 votes)
- Randy Arozarena (2 votes)
- Josh Naylor (1 vote)
- Julio Rodriguez (1 vote)
- MVP Predictions if Blue Jays Win:
- Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (3 votes)
- George Springer (1 vote)
- Kevin Gausman (1 vote)
- Daulton Varsho (1 vote)
- Ernie Clement (1 vote)
The Seattle Mariners, who have never reached the World Series, come into the LCS with high stakes. Their thrilling journey to this point has captured the attention of fans and analysts alike. In contrast, the Toronto Blue Jays are looking to break their own playoff slump, having not won the title since 1993. The matchup promises both teams will channel their competitive spirits for a place in the World Series.
National League Championship Series (NLCS)
- Teams: Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Milwaukee Brewers
- Predicted Duration: Seven games (2 votes); six games (4 votes); five games (3 votes); four games (1 vote)
- MVP Predictions if Dodgers Win:
- Shohei Ohtani (6 votes)
- Blake Snell (2 votes)
- Teoscar Hernandez (1 vote)
- Freddie Freeman (1 vote)
- MVP Predictions if Brewers Win:
- Jackson Chourio (4 votes)
- Andrew Vaughn (1 vote)
The Dodgers are favorites, bolstered by a formidable pitching lineup that includes Shohei Ohtani and Blake Snell. They are seeking their second consecutive championship, a feat not accomplished in a quarter-century. Meanwhile, the Brewers aim for their first World Series title, stepping into the series with their own strengths.
Key Factors in LCS Matchups
Each team brings a unique blend of talent and strategy. The Dodgers’ rotation is being hailed as one of the best ever. The performance of key players will be crucial in determining the outcomes of these series. The Mariners, aiming for redemption, showcase notable offensive power while the Blue Jays are known for their strategic hitting.
As the league championship series unfolds, fans are eager to see which teams will rise to the occasion and secure their spot in the World Series, making October a month of thrilling baseball.
