The Los Angeles Dodgers have made another significant move in pursuing continued success, reportedly signing two-time Cy Young Award winner Blake Snell to a five-year, $182 million contract. While the team has not officially confirmed the deal, Snell teased the signing by posting a picture of himself in a Dodgers uniform on his Instagram account. This acquisition further solidifies the Dodgers’ position as favorites to win the 2025 World Series, with their online betting odds currently at +375, down slightly from +400 at the start of the day.
Formidable Rotation
Adding Snell to the Dodgers’ pitching staff creates a formidable rotation that would include Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Tyler Glasnow, Shohei Ohtani, and Bobby Miller if he can find his lost form. The return of Dustin May and Tony Gonsolin from injuries further deepens their pitching options. There’s also speculation about Walker Buehler potentially re-signing with the team and the possibility of Clayton Kershaw pitching for another year, and Japanese phenom Roki Sasaki, who was posted by the Chiba Lotte Marines of Nippon Professional Baseball, making the Dodgers’ rotation even more impressive.
This star-studded lineup of pitchers positions the Dodgers as clear frontrunners for the 2025 World Series. Their odds reflect the confidence oddsmakers have in the team’s ability to maintain its high level of play and potentially secure back-to-back championships. However, it’s worth noting that repeating as World Series champions is a formidable challenge. The last team to accomplish this feat was the New York Yankees, who won three straight between 1998 and 2006.
Yankees, Braves, Phillies, and Orioles
While the Dodgers have strengthened their position, other teams are not far behind in the World Series odds. The New York Yankees, despite falling short in the 2024 World Series, are considered the second favorites at +700, according to GGBET. The Yankees’ odds could improve if they re-sign Juan Soto, who played a crucial role in their 2024 campaign. Soto’s free agency is one of the most significant factors that could impact the 2025 World Series odds across the league.
The Atlanta Braves, perennial contenders in the National League, are close behind the Yankees at +800. The Braves’ consistent performance and strong core of players seriously threaten the Dodgers’ championship aspirations. The Philadelphia Phillies and Baltimore Orioles are listed at +1000, indicating that oddsmakers also see them as potential contenders.
Astros and Mets
The Houston Astros, with their recent history of success, are not to be overlooked at +1400. Despite not being among the top favorites, their experience in postseason play and strong roster make them a team to watch in the coming season. The New York Mets, currently at +1200 odds, could see a significant boost if they sign Juan Soto. The Mets have been linked to Soto in free agency rumors, and his addition to their lineup could dramatically improve their World Series chances. The Mets’ ability to potentially offer Soto a lucrative contract, combined with their young core and motivated ownership, makes them a dark horse in both the Soto sweepstakes and the World Series race.
The Wildcard: Juan Soto
Juan Soto’s free agency decision looms large over the entire league. Wherever Soto signs, it will likely impact the World Series odds. Teams like the Yankees, Mets, Dodgers, Chicago Cubs, and Toronto Blue Jays have all been mentioned as potential suitors for the young superstar. Soto’s exceptional hitting ability and youth make him a game-changing acquisition for any team, potentially shifting the balance of power in the league.
It’s important to remember that while these odds provide insight into teams’ perceived strengths, they are subject to change as the offseason progresses. Trades, injuries, and other signings can all impact a team’s chances of success. The long and unpredictable nature of the MLB season, coupled with the intensity of the playoffs, means that even teams with lower odds can make surprising runs to the World Series.
Dodgers Are Not a Lock
The Dodgers’ addition of Blake Snell to their already impressive roster cements their status as the team to beat in 2025. However, they will face stiff competition from several talented teams across both leagues. The Yankees and Braves, in particular, appear poised to challenge the Dodgers’ supremacy.
As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on the remaining free agents, particularly Juan Soto. His decision could reshape the league’s competitive landscape and significantly alter the World Series odds. Teams like the Mets or Boston Red Sox could see their odds improve dramatically if they sign Soto, while the Yankees’ odds might dip if they fail to retain him.
In conclusion, while the Dodgers have strengthened their position as World Series favorites with the signing of Blake Snell, the race for the 2025 championship remains wide open. With several months until Opening Day, teams still have plenty of time to make moves that could shake up the odds. Baseball fans and bettors will watch closely as the offseason progresses, eager to see how the World Series picture evolves.
