In the American League, the playoff picture is taking shape following the 2024 season. The Cleveland Guardians and Baltimore Orioles have secured byes, while the wild card series will feature exciting matchups: the Seattle Mariners against the Boston Red Sox and the New York Yankees facing the Minnesota Twins. The National League also has its playoff scenarios defined, with the Philadelphia Phillies and Los Angeles Dodgers earning byes. The wild card series will see the Milwaukee Brewers take on the San Diego Padres and the Atlanta Braves squaring off against the New York Mets.
Free agency is a hot topic as teams prepare for the upcoming season. Veteran relief pitcher Brooks Raley is attracting interest despite recovering from Tommy John surgery, which will sideline him for part of the season. His potential return could be a game-changer for whichever team signs him.
Cody Bellinger is another player to watch closely. With an option decision looming at the end of the 2025 season, his performance could significantly impact the Yankees' lineup. The Yankees are also keeping an eye on Marcus Stroman, whose performance will determine whether he triggers an $18 million player option for 2026 or enters free agency.
Other players are looking to bounce back in 2025, including Jeimer Candelario, who is crucial for the Cincinnati Reds after a disappointing 2024 season. The Reds are facing challenges with injuries and performance issues among their young infielders, making Candelario's contributions vital.
The season will kick off with a unique series between the Dodgers and Cubs in Tokyo on March 18-19, 2025, followed by MLB Opening Day for all 30 teams on March 27, 2025. Key events to look forward to include the MLB trade deadline on July 30, Roberto Clemente Day on September 15, and the final day of the regular season on September 29, 2025.
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