The Los Angeles Dodgers are riding high after their triumphant 2024 World Series victory over the New York Yankees. Led by a star-studded lineup and bolstered by key offseason acquisitions, the Dodgers dominated the regular season and playoffs, ultimately securing their eighth championship in franchise history. As they enter the 2025 season, this powerhouse team’s expectations couldn’t be higher.
Oddsmakers at StayCasino and sportsbook have installed the Dodgers as an overwhelming +250 favorite to repeat as World Series champions. These short odds are a testament to their talent-laden roster and the front office’s aggressive moves to keep the team at the pinnacle of Major League Baseball.
At the heart of the Dodgers’ success are their three best batters: Freddie Freeman, Mookie Betts, and Shohei Ohtani. This formidable trio forms the backbone of what many consider the most potent lineup in baseball. Their combined skills, accolades, and consistent production make them a nightmare for opposing pitchers and a dream for Dodgers fans.
Freddie Freeman
Freddie Freeman remains a model of consistency and excellence for the Dodgers at first base. The 2020 National League MVP has shown no signs of slowing down, coming off another stellar season in 2024. Freeman’s smooth left-handed swing and exceptional plate discipline have made him one of the most feared hitters in the league.
Freeman’s trophy case is impressive, boasting multiple All-Star selections, Gold Glove and Silver Slugger awards. His crowning achievement came in 2020 when he was named the NL MVP, but he has remained in the MVP conversation nearly every year since. In 2024, Freeman added to his hardware collection by being named the World Series MVP—his walk-off grand slam in Game #1 of the championship cemented his legacy as a clutch performer on baseball’s biggest stage.
Looking ahead to 2025, Freeman is expected to anchor the middle of the Dodgers lineup once again. Despite undergoing minor ankle surgery in the offseason, he is projected to be ready for Opening Day and should continue to provide elite production across all offensive categories. With his exceptional batting average, power, and run production, Freeman remains a cornerstone of the Dodgers’ championship aspirations.
Mookie Betts
Since joining the Dodgers in 2020, Mookie Betts has established himself as one of the most dynamic players in baseball. His speed, power, and defensive prowess make him a true five-tool player. Betts’ versatility was on full display in 2024 as he seamlessly transitioned to shortstop, showcasing his athletic ability and team-first mentality.
Betts’ trophy case rivals Freeman’s, with multiple All-Star selections, Gold Glove, and Silver Slugger awards to his name. He won the American League MVP award in 2018 with the Boston Red Sox and has finished in the top five in MVP voting several times as a Dodger. In 2024, Betts added to his legacy by winning his seventh Silver Slugger award and sixth Gold Glove, joining an elite group of players to achieve such defensive and offensive excellence. Betts is a three-time World Series champion, twice with the Dodgers and once with the Red Sox.
As the 2025 season approaches, Betts is poised to continue his role as the Dodgers’ leadoff hitter and offensive catalyst. His ability to get on base, steal bases, and provide power from the top of the order sets the tone for the entire lineup. With his move to shortstop, Betts’ value to the team has only increased, and he remains a perennial MVP candidate entering his age-32 season.
Shohei Ohtani
Shohei Ohtani’s impact on the Dodgers and baseball cannot be overstated. The Japanese phenom continued to redefine what’s possible in the sport during the 2024 season, becoming the first player in MLB history to record 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a single season. This unprecedented achievement earned Ohtani his third career MVP award and second consecutive unanimous selection.
Ohtani’s list of accolades is extensive and growing. In addition to his three MVP awards, he has been selected to multiple All-Star teams, won Silver Slugger awards, and was named the 2023 World Baseball Classic MVP. His ability to excel as a hitter and pitcher has drawn comparisons to Babe Ruth, with many considering Ohtani’s prime seasons among the greatest in baseball history.
Looking ahead to 2025, Ohtani is expected to return to his two-way role after focusing solely on hitting in 2024 while recovering from elbow surgery. His return to the mound only adds to the Dodgers’ already formidable pitching staff. Ohtani will continue to be a middle-of-the-order force at the plate, providing elite power, speed, and on-base skills. His offensive prowess and pitching ability make Ohtani arguably the most valuable player in baseball and a key factor in the Dodgers’ quest to repeat as World Series champions.
Hernandez, Muncy, and Smith
While Freeman, Betts, and Ohtani form an unparalleled top-of-the-order, the Dodgers’ lineup depth extends well beyond this trio. Teoscar Hernandez, fresh off a strong 2024 campaign where he hit .299 with 15 home runs and 44 RBIs over the final three months, provides additional power and run production in the middle of the order. Max Muncy, despite battling injuries in 2024, remains a potent left-handed power threat when healthy and is expected to bounce back in 2025. Will Smith continues to be one of the best offensive catchers in the game, providing valuable production from the bottom half of the lineup.
However, the combination of Freeman, Betts, and Ohtani sets the Dodgers apart. Their collective talent, consistency, and ability to impact the game in multiple ways make them the engine that drives this powerhouse lineup. As the Dodgers aim to become the first team in over two decades to win back-to-back World Series titles, the performance of these three superstars will be crucial to their success. With their track records of excellence and the supporting cast around them, the sky’s the limit for the 2025 Los Angeles Dodgers.
