The Los Angeles Dodgers capped off a remarkable 2024 season by securing their eighth World Series title, defeating the New York Yankees in a thrilling five-game series. The Dodgers’ journey to the championship was spectacular, as they overcame adversity throughout the playoffs. After facing elimination twice in the National League Division Series against the San Diego Padres, the Dodgers rallied to win in five games. They then triumphed over the New York Mets in a hard-fought six-game National League Championship Series before outperforming the Yankees in the Fall Classic.
The Dodgers’ success was built on a foundation of stellar regular-season performance, continuing their trend of dominance in recent years. They secured 100 wins in the 2023 season, following impressive 111-win and 106-win campaigns in 2022 and 2021, respectively. This consistent excellence has established the Dodgers as the premier organization in baseball, a status they solidified with their World Series victory.
Looking ahead to the 2025 season, the Dodgers find themselves in a familiar position as favorites to repeat as champions. According to odds from gamblizard.ca sportsbook, the Dodgers open as +400 favorites to win the 2025 World Series. This places them well ahead of their closest competitors, reflecting the confidence oddsmakers have in the Dodgers’ ability to maintain their high level of play. Season wins totals for MLB have yet to be released, but the experts at GambLizard.ca expect that number to be in the high 90s. Los Angeles won 98 games this past regular season.
Likely Competitors
The New York Yankees, despite falling short in the 2024 World Series, are considered the second favorites at +700. The Atlanta Braves, perennial contenders in the National League, are close behind at +750. Other teams expected to compete for the title include the Philadelphia Phillies at +1000 and the Baltimore Orioles at +1100. The Houston Astros are +1400, and the San Diego Padres check in at +1500.
Free Agency Impacts
It’s worth noting that these odds are subject to change, particularly as the MLB free agency period unfolds. One of the most significant factors that could impact the 2025 World Series odds is the destination of superstar outfielder Juan Soto. Soto, who is coming off an outstanding season with the Yankees, where he hit .288/.419/.569 with 41 home runs and a 7.9 WAR, is the top free agent on the market.
The Dodgers are reportedly among the teams interested in Soto, and a meeting between the two parties is scheduled. However, given the Dodgers’ already substantial payroll commitments and recent World Series victory, it’s unlikely that they will be the ultimate landing spot for Soto. Other teams linked to the young slugger include the Toronto Blue Jays, Boston Red Sox, New York Mets, and a potential return to the Yankees.
Wherever Soto signs, it will likely significantly impact the World Series odds. Any team acquiring a player of Soto’s caliber would see their chances of contending for a championship improve dramatically. This is particularly true for teams like the Blue Jays or Red Sox, which are currently viewed as outsiders in the World Series race.
Dodgers Free Agency
While the pursuit of Soto is intriguing for the Dodgers, their offseason focus is more likely to be on retaining critical contributors from their championship run and bolstering their pitching depth. One priority is expected to be re-signing outfielder Teoscar Hernández, who declined the qualifying offer extended by the Dodgers, making him a free agent. Hernández played a crucial role in the Dodgers’ World Series run and desired to return to the team.
Additionally, the Dodgers will likely look to strengthen their pitching staff. Despite their success, the team faced some challenges in this area during the playoffs, often relying on bullpen games. Adding depth to the starting rotation and the bullpen could help solidify their position as favorites for the 2025 season.
It’s not a Slam Dunk
It’s important to remember that while the Dodgers are favorites, winning back-to-back World Series titles is a formidable challenge. The last team to accomplish this feat was the New York Yankees in 1998-2000. The long and unpredictable nature of the MLB season, coupled with the intensity of the playoffs, makes repeating as champions one of the most challenging achievements in professional sports.
As the offseason progresses and teams make moves to strengthen their rosters, the landscape of favorites for the 2025 World Series may shift. However, given their recent success, a strong core of players, and organizational excellence, the Dodgers are well-positioned to remain at the forefront of World Series contenders. Their ability to consistently compete at the highest level and their willingness to make strategic additions to their roster make them a formidable force in the quest for another championship in 2025.
