{"id":16159,"date":"2025-09-30T06:49:50","date_gmt":"2025-09-30T13:49:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sportrelay.com\/mlb\/?p=16159"},"modified":"2025-09-30T06:49:50","modified_gmt":"2025-09-30T13:49:50","slug":"mlb-wild-card-2025-sportrelay-writers-predict","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sportrelay.com\/mlb\/2025\/09\/30\/mlb-wild-card-2025-sportrelay-writers-predict\/","title":{"rendered":"MLB Wild Card 2025: SportRelay Writers Predict"},"content":{"rendered":"<p data-start=\"173\" data-end=\"299\">After a dramatic 2025 MLB regular season, the American League and National League\u2019s best teams now battle in the postseason, starting with the wild card.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"301\" data-end=\"581\">The MLB playoffs start Tuesday (1:00 ET). After a full 162 games, 18 teams are out, leaving 12 still chasing the Commissioner\u2019s Trophy. With the MLB playoffs now in swing, eight teams take the limelight of national television to try to punch their ticket to the Division Series.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"583\" data-end=\"930\">The Wild Card round sets the stage with four matchups, each carrying its own storylines: teams riding late-season hot streaks, underdogs looking to shock the baseball world, and heavyweights fighting to avoid an early exit. From clutch pitching duels to explosive lineups, every game is a win-or-go-home opportunity to keep October dreams alive.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"932\" data-end=\"1210\">October baseball always delivers unpredictability \u2014 with unexpected heroes stepping into the spotlight and powerhouses stumbling under pressure. The 2025 Wild Card round promises no shortage of drama, with each series shaping the path toward the coveted Commissioner\u2019s Trophy.<\/p>\n<p><a id=\"zoy4d8BFROtRNeZKmdfs_Q\" class=\"gie-single\" style=\"color: #a7a7a7; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal !important; border: none; display: inline-block;\" href=\"http:\/\/www.gettyimages.com\/detail\/1350972907\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Embed from Getty Images<\/a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'zoy4d8BFROtRNeZKmdfs_Q',sig:'qTtvF-td_DHmk8SdgNQMmHcJPNDQ8bNaxIDIeZnUqQ0=',w:'396px',h:'594px',items:'1350972907',caption: true ,tld:'com',is360: false })});<\/script><script src='\/\/embed-cdn.gettyimages.com\/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async><\/script><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"777\" data-end=\"1069\">SportRelay writers weigh in with their 2025 Wild Card predictions for a promising slate of action:<\/p>\n<h4 data-start=\"777\" data-end=\"1069\"><a href=\"https:\/\/sportrelay.com\/mlb\/category\/tigers\/\">Detroit Tigers<\/a> at <a href=\"https:\/\/sportrelay.com\/mlb\/category\/guardians\/\">Cleveland Guardians<\/a><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Game 1: Tuesday at 1:08 p.m.<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Game 2: Wednesday at 1:08 p.m.<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Game 3*: Thursday at 1:08 p.m.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong><em>*if necessary<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1388\" data-end=\"1847\">An AL Central matchup between two less nationally marketed rivals now has casual fans glued to the series. On September 5, the Cleveland Guardians had a 2.9% chance to make the playoffs according to FanGraphs, sitting 11 games behind the Tigers. The 2024 ALCS participants were down to 0.1% odds. Although Cleveland\u2019s 2024 season also featured improbable comebacks, few expected the Guardians to capture the division. Yet the improbable became reality.<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"1849\" data-end=\"1887\">Tigers Collapse, Guardians Surge<\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"1888\" data-end=\"2350\">For much of the first half, Detroit looked every bit like the American League\u2019s top team. The Tigers hit the All-Star break with the best record in baseball, rolling like a turbocharged version of the 2024 squad that had improbably sneaked into October. <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/s\/skubata01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-29_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Tarik Skubal<\/a><\/strong> was dominant, the rotation held steady, and an offense built on interchangeable parts kept producing. <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/t\/torregl01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-29_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Gleyber Torres<\/a><\/strong> and Javy B\u00e1ez even earned All-Star starter nods. Everything seemed to click.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"2352\" data-end=\"2774\">Then it unraveled. Detroit stumbled to a 28\u201337 mark after the break \u2014 the worst second-half record of any playoff team. When the Guardians caught fire in September, the Tigers faltered, giving away the division crown in the final week. Only Houston\u2019s late collapse saved Detroit from missing the field altogether. In the end, all that matters is that they are in the postseason. Any team can dance when given the chance.<\/p>\n<h4 data-start=\"2776\" data-end=\"3166\"><strong data-start=\"2776\" data-end=\"2812\">Tigers X-Factor: <\/strong>Kerry Carpenter<\/h4>\n<p data-start=\"2776\" data-end=\"3166\">The Tigers\u2019 offense sputtered after the All-Star break, hitting just .239. Against Cleveland\u2019s expected right-handed rotation of <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/search\/search.fcgi?pid=williga01,willia002gav&amp;search=Gavin+Williams&amp;utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-29_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Gavin Williams<\/a><\/strong>, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/b\/bibeeta01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-29_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Tanner Bibee<\/a><\/strong>, and <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/c\/ceccosl01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-29_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Slade Cecconi<\/a><\/strong>, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/c\/carpeke01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-29_br\">Kerry Carpenter<\/a><\/strong> will be critical. The left-handed slugger hit 26 homers this season \u2014 23 against righties \u2014 but struggled in Cleveland, going 1-for-9 at Progressive Field.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\" data-media-max-width=\"560\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" lang=\"en\">DET &#8211; Kerry Carpenter 2-run HR (19)<\/p>\n<p>\ud83d\udccf Distance: 437 ft<br \/>\n\ud83d\udca8 EV: 109.5 mph<br \/>\n\ud83d\udcd0 LA: 32\u00b0<br \/>\n\u26be\ufe0f 94.3 mph sinker (MIN &#8211; RHP Noah Davis)<br \/>\n\ud83c\udfdf\ufe0f Would be out in 30\/30 MLB parks<\/p>\n<p>MIN (3) @ DET (5)<br \/>\n\ud83d\udd3b 6th<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/hashtag\/RepDetroit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#RepDetroit<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/UB6j7Qz6iQ\">pic.twitter.com\/UB6j7Qz6iQ<\/a><\/p>\n<p>\u2014 MLB Home Runs\ud83d\ude80 (@MLBHRs_) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/MLBHRs_\/status\/1952518701489754267?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 4, 2025<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p><script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script><\/p>\n<h4 data-start=\"3168\" data-end=\"3612\"><strong data-start=\"3168\" data-end=\"3204\">Guardians X-Factor: Jos\u00e9 Ram\u00edrez<\/strong><\/h4>\n<p data-start=\"3168\" data-end=\"3612\">It may be obvious to highlight Cleveland\u2019s best position player, but <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/search\/search.fcgi?pid=ramire022jos,ramire039jos,ramire038jos,ramire032jos&amp;search=Jose+Ramirez&amp;utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-29_br\">Jos\u00e9 Ram\u00edrez<\/a> <\/strong>is the key to their success. The switch-hitting third baseman has been hot recently, batting .318 over the past week, and he hit .289 at home this season. Against Detroit, he posted a .347 average in 2025 and has a career .333 mark against Tarik Skubal. For Cleveland to win, Ram\u00edrez will need to spark the offense early.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\" data-media-max-width=\"560\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" lang=\"und\">CLE &#8211; Jos\u00e9 Ram\u00edrez 2-run HR (26)<\/p>\n<p>\ud83d\udccf Distance: 409 ft<br \/>\n\ud83d\udca8 EV: 104.3 mph<br \/>\n\ud83d\udcd0 LA: 21\u00b0<br \/>\n\u26be\ufe0f 85.6 mph changeup (ARI &#8211; LHP Eduardo Rodriguez)<br \/>\n\ud83c\udfdf\ufe0f Would be out in 30\/30 MLB parks<\/p>\n<p>CLE (4) @ ARI (2)<br \/>\n\ud83d\udd3a 5th<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/hashtag\/GuardsBall?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#GuardsBall<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/eTYUfXzCq6\">pic.twitter.com\/eTYUfXzCq6<\/a><\/p>\n<p>\u2014 MLB Home Runs\ud83d\ude80 (@MLBHRs_) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/MLBHRs_\/status\/1958000571887259918?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">August 20, 2025<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p><script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script><\/p>\n<h4>SportRelay Writers Predictions:<\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li data-start=\"104\" data-end=\"134\">Brooks Thomason: Guardians 3<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"137\" data-end=\"182\">Dean Koutouratsas: Guardians in 3<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"185\" data-end=\"215\">Ezra Charles: Guardians in 3<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"218\" data-end=\"250\">Terynce Garner: Guardians in 2<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"253\" data-end=\"288\">John (JJ) Misiewicz Jr: Cleveland<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"291\" data-end=\"325\">Nate Miller: Tigers in 3<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"328\" data-end=\"354\">Fabian Garcia: Guardians<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"357\" data-end=\"382\">Chris Gray: Tigers in 2<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"385\" data-end=\"413\">Joshua Gingrich: Guardians<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"416\" data-end=\"453\">Jeffrey Cagan: Tigers in 3<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"456\" data-end=\"481\">Peyton Youse: Guardians<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"484\" data-end=\"504\">Grant: Tigers in 3<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"507\" data-end=\"533\">Evan Thompson: Guardians<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Guardians \u2014 9 picks<br data-start=\"3671\" data-end=\"3674\" \/>Tigers \u2014 4 picks<\/p>\n<h4 data-start=\"777\" data-end=\"1069\"><b><a href=\"https:\/\/sportrelay.com\/mlb\/category\/redsox\/\">Boston Red Sox<\/a>\u00a0at <a href=\"https:\/\/sportrelay.com\/mlb\/category\/yankees\/\">New York Yankees<\/a><\/b><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Game 1: Tuesday at 6:08 p.m.\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Game 2: Wednesday at 6:08 p.m.\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Game 3*: Thursday at 6:08 p.m.\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong><em>*if necessary<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>America&#8217;s past time brings the most traditional baseball rivalry into October. The Red Sox, the Yankees, a fixture filled with rancor and resentment. Since 1999, the two AL East foes are 12-12 against each other in the postseason; however, the Red Sox are 8-1 in the last nine postseason games against the Bronx Bombers. Contextually, this season, the Sox are 9-4 this season, and 5-2 against the pinstripes in Yankee Stadium.<\/p>\n<h4>Red Sox Rocket Race<\/h4>\n<p data-start=\"94\" data-end=\"810\">The 2025 Red Sox experienced a season full of highs and lows. The team traded longtime star <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/d\/deverra01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-29_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Rafael Devers<\/a><\/strong> following a public dispute over his defensive role, a move accelerated by a season-ending knee injury to Tristan Casas on May 2. Free-agent addition <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/b\/bregmal01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-29_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Alex Bregman<\/a><\/strong> missed two months with a quad injury, while a group of top prospects had mixed results \u2014 <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/c\/campbkr01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-29_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Kristian Campbell<\/a><\/strong> struggled, and both <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/m\/mayerma01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-29_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Marcelo Mayer<\/a><\/strong> and <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/a\/anthoro01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-29_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Roman Anthony<\/a><\/strong> dealt with injuries.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"94\" data-end=\"810\">Yet the Carmines shook off the troubles and delivered. <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/c\/crochga01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-29_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Garrett Crochet<\/a><\/strong> emerged as one of the best in the majors and is expected to finish second in AL <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/y\/youngcy01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-29_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Cy Young<\/a><\/strong> voting. Hovering around .500 for much of the first half, Boston used a nine-game winning streak before the All-Star break to reestablish itself in the playoff race.<\/p>\n<h4>Yanks Rakes<\/h4>\n<p data-start=\"812\" data-end=\"1259\">The Yankees enter October with one of the most productive offenses in baseball. They led the league in runs, home runs, slugging percentage, and OPS. <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/j\/judgeaa01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-29_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Aaron Judge<\/a><\/strong> put together another MVP-caliber campaign, while <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/s\/stantmi03.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-29_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Giancarlo Stanton<\/a><\/strong> returned from an elbow injury and provided consistent power. Jazz Chisholm Jr, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/r\/ricebe01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-29_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Ben Rice<\/a><\/strong>, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/g\/grishtr01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-29_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Trent Grisham<\/a><\/strong>, and <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/b\/bellico01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-29_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Cody Bellinger<\/a><\/strong> all surged their way as key contributors towards the Yankees strong season.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1261\" data-end=\"1636\">New York\u2019s rotation remained strong despite losing <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/c\/colege01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-29_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Gerrit Cole<\/a><\/strong> to a torn UCL in spring training. <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/f\/friedma01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-29_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Max Fried<\/a><\/strong> delivered in his first year with the club, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/r\/rodonca01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-29_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Carlos Rod\u00f3n<\/a><\/strong> rebounded with an important season, and rookies <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/s\/schlica01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-29_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Cam Schlittler<\/a><\/strong> and <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/w\/warrewi01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-29_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Will Warren<\/a><\/strong> established themselves as reliable starters. The bullpen has been less consistent, but overall pitching depth has carried the team. Newly acquired <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/b\/bednada01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-29_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">David Bednar<\/a><\/strong> helped shake the tough start from the bullpen, significantly from Opening Day closer <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/search\/search.fcgi?pid=willide03,willia005dev&amp;search=Devin+Williams&amp;utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-29_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Devin Williams<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n<h4>Red Sox X-Factor: Garrett Crochet<\/h4>\n<p>The new style power vs power lineup. Garrett Crochet zips the ball around the triple digit mark, and the Bronx Bombers did not get their tagline hanging around for no reason. The Yankees hit 274 home runs, 30 more than any other team. Crochet is 21st in the majors in HR\/9 (1.1). The long ball could be the reason that the Red Sox go home early. However, Crochet&#8217;s tries to continue to streamline success against their strongest rival. The left-handed ace struck out 39 batters across in 27 1\/3 innings. The Red Sox need his Game One performance to mimic his regular season success, and could be the reason why the Red Sox will take the driver&#8217;s seat after Game One.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\" data-media-max-width=\"560\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" lang=\"en\">Aaron Judge is now 0-for-6 with six strikeouts against Garrett Crochet this year <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/bTsOdXM9Oq\">pic.twitter.com\/bTsOdXM9Oq<\/a><\/p>\n<p>\u2014 Talkin\u2019 Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/TalkinBaseball_\/status\/1933686630285451267?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">June 14, 2025<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p><script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script><\/p>\n<h4>Red Sox X-Factor: Aaron Judge<\/h4>\n<p><span class=\"my-[1em] [&amp;&gt;a]:underline [&amp;&gt;a]:text-team-secondary whitespace-pre-wrap text-pretty\">Mano a mano. The Red Sox power ace is their deciding factor, and former AL MVP and current AL MVP candidate <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/j\/judgeaa01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-30_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Aaron Judge<\/a><\/strong> is their deciding factor. Judge&#8217;s inability to hit the ball in the postseason is his most detrimental case against his hall-of-fame resume. Judge posts a current .205 batting average with 45 hits, 16 home runs, 34 RBIs and 37 runs scored in 58 games in the postseason in his career. In 2024, Judge hit .184 but had a .344 OBP. He had nine hits, but three of them went over the fence. Judge&#8217;s 2025 campaign is stellar. .331 average, 179 hits, 53 homers, 114 RBI. MVP statistics from one of the most talented hitters in the 21st century. In 2025 against the Sox, Judge posted a .286 batting average with 14 hits, 5 homers, 8 RBIs and 12 runs scored in 13 games. <\/span><\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\" data-media-max-width=\"560\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" lang=\"en\">NYY &#8211; Aaron Judge Solo HR (26)<\/p>\n<p>\ud83d\udccf Distance: 443 ft<br \/>\n\ud83d\udca8 EV: 115.5 mph<br \/>\n\ud83d\udcd0 LA: 29\u00b0<br \/>\n\u26be\ufe0f 99.6 mph four-seam fastball (BOS &#8211; LHP Garrett Crochet)<br \/>\n\ud83c\udfdf\ufe0f Would be out in 30\/30 MLB parks<\/p>\n<p>NYY (1) @ BOS (1)<br \/>\n\ud83d\udd3a 9th<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/hashtag\/RepBX?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#RepBX<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/lv3BTBX5ET\">pic.twitter.com\/lv3BTBX5ET<\/a><\/p>\n<p>\u2014 MLB Home Runs\ud83d\ude80 (@MLBHRs_) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/MLBHRs_\/status\/1933698437805195531?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">June 14, 2025<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p><script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script><\/p>\n<h4>SportRelay Writers Predictions:<\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li data-start=\"560\" data-end=\"588\">Brooks Thomason: Red Sox 2<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"591\" data-end=\"634\">Dean Koutouratsas: Yankees in 3<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"637\" data-end=\"665\">Ezra Charles: Red Sox in 3<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"668\" data-end=\"698\">Terynce Garner: Yankees in 3<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"701\" data-end=\"734\">John (JJ) Misiewicz Jr: Red Sox<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"737\" data-end=\"771\">Nate Miller: Red Sox in 3<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"774\" data-end=\"798\">Fabian Garcia: Red Sox<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"801\" data-end=\"827\">Chris Gray: Yankees in 3<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"830\" data-end=\"856\">Joshua Gingrich: Red Sox<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"859\" data-end=\"898\">Jeffrey Cagan: Yankees in 3<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"901\" data-end=\"924\">Peyton Youse: Yankees<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"927\" data-end=\"948\">Grant: Yankees in 2<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"951\" data-end=\"975\">Evan Thompson: Red Sox<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Red Sox \u2014 7 picks<br data-start=\"6201\" data-end=\"6204\" \/>Yankees \u2014 6 picks<\/p>\n<h4><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/sportrelay.com\/mlb\/category\/reds\/\">Cincinnati Reds<\/a> at\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/sportrelay.com\/mlb\/category\/dodgers\/\">Los Angeles Dodgers<\/a><\/strong><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Game 1: Tuesday at 9:08 p.m.\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Game 2: Wednesday at 9:08 p.m.\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Game 3*: Thursday at 9:08 p.m.\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong><em>*if necessary<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The underdog vs the &#8220;struggling&#8221; powerhouse. The Cincinnati Reds were in pole position to make the wild card in game 162. With a win, they would clinch. However, their loss against the Milwaukee Brewers left the New York Mets able to capitalize with a win. The Mets lost 4-0 against the Miami Marlins, securing the Reds first playoff berth since 2020 and first in a full 162-game season since 2013.<\/p>\n<h4>Reds Ready<\/h4>\n<p>The Reds came in with promising hopes of <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/d\/delacel01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-30_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Elly De La Cruz<\/a><\/strong> being an MVP candidate and a long shot for the playoffs. Although the hopes of De La Cruz didn&#8217;t land, the hiring of <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/f\/francte01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-30_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Terry Francona<\/a><\/strong> as manager signaled a victory in the Reds dugout. The experienced manager gave the Reds a much needed change after <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/search\/search.fcgi?pid=bellda01,bell--007dav&amp;search=David+Bell&amp;utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-30_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">David Bell<\/a><\/strong> lost his spot last fall. The pitching staff of Cincinnati helped the Reds make it to October, with a 3.86 team ERA and .233 opponent average.<\/p>\n<h4>Dodgers Downspot<\/h4>\n<p data-start=\"554\" data-end=\"1041\">After an offseason that included the additions of <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/s\/snellbl01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-30_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Blake Snell<\/a><\/strong>, closer <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/s\/scottta01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-30_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Tanner Scott<\/a><\/strong> and international star <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/s\/sasakro01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-30_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Roki Sasaki<\/a><\/strong>, the Dodgers entered 2025 as heavy favorites. The year, however, came with challenges. <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/b\/bettsmo01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-30_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Mookie Betts<\/a><\/strong> and <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/f\/freemfr01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-30_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Freddie Freeman<\/a><\/strong> endured uncharacteristic struggles at the plate. Albeit, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/o\/ohtansh01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-30_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Shohei Ohtani<\/a><\/strong> delivered a historic campaign with a franchise-record 55 home runs and is in position to win his third consecutive MVP Award while also returning to the mound.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1043\" data-end=\"1369\">Injuries again tested the Dodgers\u2019 rotation early, but improved health in the second half allowed a group led by <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/y\/yamamyo01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-30_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Yoshinobu Yamamoto<\/a><\/strong>, Snell, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/g\/glasnty01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-30_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Tyler Glasnow<\/a><\/strong> and Ohtani to stabilize. Los Angeles ultimately captured the NL West title for the 12th time in the past 13 seasons, entering October with both experience and star power. The Blue Crew finished as the worst NL division winners, a very different expectation from the pre-season looks. Nevertheless, a spot in the postseason is all they need.<\/p>\n<h4>Reds X-Factor: Hunter Greene<\/h4>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/g\/greenhu01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-30_br\"><strong>Hunter Greene<\/strong><\/a>, the ace of the Cincinnati Reds, is the focal point of this playoff-worst win percentage team. The Reds post a .706 OPS, 100 fewer runs and outslugged by 50 points by the Dodgers. The pitching staff can be the main team that can open the key in the lock towards the NLDS. However, the game one starter must be on point. Against Blake Snell, the Dodgers lefty ace is strong through five innings, but historically gets pulled around that time. The Dodgers bullpen is shaky this season, and the Reds can outmaneuver the Dodgers to steal game one, and further through.<\/p>\n<p>Greene this season slots a 7-4 record, 2.76 ERA, and 0.938 WHIP. Against the Dodgers in his career, the righty is 1-3 with an ERA of 4.55 and 25 strikeouts in 5 appearances. This season, Greene pitched once against the NL West Champions, going five full innings, six hits, five runs, three earned. In order to get the Reds closer to the NLDS door, the flame-throwing pitcher needs to shake the Dodger scares and pitch his best.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\" data-media-max-width=\"560\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" lang=\"en\">Such a cool moment for Hunter Greene. We\u2019re watching a star in the making.<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/hashtag\/Reds?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#Reds<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/KudEz2ZONm\">pic.twitter.com\/KudEz2ZONm<\/a><\/p>\n<p>\u2014 Chatterbox Sports (@CBoxSports) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/CBoxSports\/status\/1968852586615718162?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">September 19, 2025<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p><script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script><\/p>\n<h4>Dodgers X-Factor: Bullpen<\/h4>\n<p>The Dodgers bullpen ranks 21st in ERA in the regular season at 4.27. Out of all playoff teams, they rank second to last. Although the hitting of the Dodgers is up and down, if the game comes to a high-scoring affair, the The Los Angeles Dodgers had a record of 75-15 when scoring 5+ runs this season. In low scoring games, the Dodgers had a record of 18-54 when scoring at most 4 runs this season. If the hitting goes mute, the bullpen is shaky at best. <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/s\/scottta01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-30_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Tanner Scott<\/a><\/strong> leads the Majors with 10 blown saves, while <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/t\/treinbl01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-30_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Blake Treinen<\/a><\/strong> has also struggled in recent outings.\u00a0 In response, the Dodgers have recently turned to <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/s\/sasakro01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-30_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Roki Sasaki<\/a><\/strong> and <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/k\/kershcl01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-30_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Clayton Kershaw<\/a><\/strong> out of the bullpen, with the possibility of <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/o\/ohtansh01.shtml?utm_medium=linker&amp;utm_source=sportrelay.com&amp;utm_campaign=2025-09-30_br\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Shohei Ohtani<\/a><\/strong> also being used in a relief role. In order to combat the struggles, the Dodgers are trying anything to shake the struggles.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\" data-media-max-width=\"560\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" lang=\"en\">Tanner Scott slams the door for the first <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/Dodgers?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">@Dodgers<\/a> win of the season \ud83d\udd25 <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/hashtag\/TokyoSeries?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#TokyoSeries<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/ymQrJtvlWy\">pic.twitter.com\/ymQrJtvlWy<\/a><\/p>\n<p>\u2014 MLB (@MLB) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/MLB\/status\/1901980135013695627?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">March 18, 2025<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p><script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script><\/p>\n<h4>SportRelay Writers Predictions:<\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li data-start=\"999\" data-end=\"1027\">Brooks Thomason: Dodgers 2<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1030\" data-end=\"1071\">Dean Koutouratsas: Dodgers in 2<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1074\" data-end=\"1099\">Ezra Charles: Reds in 3<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1102\" data-end=\"1132\">Terynce Garner: Dodgers in 2<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1135\" data-end=\"1168\">John (JJ) Misiewicz Jr: Dodgers<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1171\" data-end=\"1210\">Nate Miller: Dodgers in 2<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1213\" data-end=\"1234\">Fabian Garcia: Reds<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1237\" data-end=\"1263\">Chris Gray: Dodgers in 2<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1266\" data-end=\"1292\">Joshua Gingrich: Dodgers<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1295\" data-end=\"1337\">Jeffrey Cagan: Dodgers in 2<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1340\" data-end=\"1363\">Peyton Youse: Dodgers<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1366\" data-end=\"1387\">Grant: Dodgers in 2<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1390\" data-end=\"1411\">Evan Thompson: Reds<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Dodgers \u2014 10 picks<br data-start=\"7975\" data-end=\"7978\" \/>Reds \u2014 3 picks<\/p>\n<h4><b><a href=\"https:\/\/sportrelay.com\/mlb\/category\/padres\/\">San Diego Padres<\/a>\u00a0at\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/sportrelay.com\/mlb\/category\/cubs\/\">Chicago Cubs<\/a><\/b><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Game 1: Tuesday at 3:08 p.m.<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Game 2: Wednesday at 3:08 p.m.<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Game 3*: Thursday at 3:08 p.m.\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong><em>*if necessary<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Two of the most exciting teams in the majors. One led through recent history of not making the playoffs, the other trying to make it to the Fall Classic after many seasons of falling short. Both teams split the regular season series going 3-3 and an even run differential. Both teams have lofty expectations in the postseason.<\/p>\n<h4>Friar Faithful<\/h4>\n<p data-start=\"81\" data-end=\"646\">The Padres reached the postseason in a new way this year. Instead of relying primarily on an star offense previously, the Padres were powered by pitching. They finished the regular season ranked in the top three in team ERA and led the Majors in bullpen ERA. A key moment came at the Trade Deadline, when the club acquired hard-throwing reliever <a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/m\/millema03.shtml\">Mason Miller<\/a> from the A\u2019s in one of the biggest moves of the summer. The NL West Wild Card team went all-in on the deadline, and are back in October.<\/p>\n<h4>Fly the W<\/h4>\n<p data-start=\"81\" data-end=\"646\">The Cubs are back in the playoffs for the first time since 2018 in a 162-game season, posting their highest win total since that year. An explosive first-half offense \u2014 paced by breakout seasons from <a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/c\/crowape01.shtml\">Pete Crow-Armstrong<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/b\/buschmi02.shtml\">Michael Busch<\/a> \u2014 helped Chicago build momentum early. The second half was more of a challenge, as offensive production dipped and the team leaned on its pitching staff to secure a Wild Card berth. With room to spare in the standings, the Cubs now have an opportunity to advance and set up a division-rival matchup in the NLDS if they can get past San Diego.<\/p>\n<h4>Padres X-Factor: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/t\/tatisfe02.shtml\">Fernando Tatis Jr.<\/a><\/h4>\n<p>Fernando Tatis Jr&#8217;s season is a complete upside down for a right handed hitter. Against lefties, the 26-year-old hits .229 and five home runs. Meanwhile against righties, his .281 average and 20 home runs are a lofty change. For the Cubs, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/i\/imanash01.shtml\">Shota Imanaga<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/b\/boydma01.shtml\">Matthew Boyd<\/a> look to toe the rubber in the opening two games. Tatis&#8217; season struggles against lefties must change quick, but it is with good timing. In the last 15 days, Tatis is on fire. With a .368 average, .429 OBP and 1.034 OPS, Nando&#8217;s left the yard three times in the last four games. With the windy city in play, it&#8217;s a needed power to throw one over the hedges in the outfield or in the basket.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\" data-media-max-width=\"560\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" lang=\"en\">SDP &#8211; Fernando Tatis Jr. Grand Slam (24)<\/p>\n<p>\ud83d\udccf 409 ft | \ud83d\udca8 111.7 mph | \ud83d\udcd0 24\u00b0<br \/>\n\u26be\ufe0f 95.3 mph four-seam fastball (ARI &#8211; RHP Zac Gallen)<br \/>\n\ud83c\udfdf\ufe0f Out in 30\/30 MLB parks<\/p>\n<p>ARI (2) @ SDP (5)<br \/>\n\ud83d\udd3b 4th<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/hashtag\/ForTheFaithful?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#ForTheFaithful<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/hoO0fEmWb7\">pic.twitter.com\/hoO0fEmWb7<\/a><\/p>\n<p>\u2014 MLB Home Runs\ud83d\ude80 (@MLBHRs_) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/MLBHRs_\/status\/1971771649734115546?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">September 27, 2025<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p><script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script><\/p>\n<h4>Cubs X-Factor: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.baseball-reference.com\/players\/t\/tuckeky01.shtml\">Kyle Tucker<\/a><\/h4>\n<p>After missing nearly a month with a calf strain, the left-handed outfielder is back. Tucker, who the Cubs acquired this off-season, is on an expiring deal, looking to increase his value. With the Padres backing three right-handed starters, Tucker may find his value fluctuate on his performance. The Cubbies need his strong .264 average and 14 home runs to come alive. Only two major problems. This season, Tucker struggles at home and in day games. At home, his .236 average shrivels compared to a .292 away from Wrigley Field. In day games, his .229 average ois considerably worse than his .297 in night games. For the Cubs to be successful, they need a revitalized Tucker coming off his injury in the postseason.<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\" data-media-max-width=\"560\">\n<p dir=\"ltr\" lang=\"en\">CHC &#8211; Kyle Tucker Solo HR (16)<\/p>\n<p>\ud83d\udccf Distance: 409 ft<br \/>\n\ud83d\udca8 EV: 104.4 mph<br \/>\n\ud83d\udcd0 LA: 25\u00b0<br \/>\n\u26be\ufe0f 90.3 mph cutter (STL &#8211; RHP Erick Fedde)<br \/>\n\ud83c\udfdf\ufe0f Would be out in 29\/30 MLB parks<\/p>\n<p>CHC (5) @ STL (0)<br \/>\n\ud83d\udd3a 3rd<a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/hashtag\/BeHereForIt?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">#BeHereForIt<\/a> <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/PWl6tyJWAA\">pic.twitter.com\/PWl6tyJWAA<\/a><\/p>\n<p>\u2014 MLB Home Runs\ud83d\ude80 (@MLBHRs_) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/MLBHRs_\/status\/1938030493154611405?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\">June 26, 2025<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p><script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script><\/p>\n<h4>SportRelay Writers Predictions:<\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li data-start=\"1434\" data-end=\"1461\">Brooks Thomason: Padres in 3<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1464\" data-end=\"1504\">Dean Koutouratsas: Cubs in 3<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1507\" data-end=\"1534\">Ezra Charles: Padres in 2<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1537\" data-end=\"1564\">Terynce Garner: Cubs in 3<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1567\" data-end=\"1599\">John (JJ) Misiewicz Jr: Padres<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1602\" data-end=\"1634\">Nate Miller: Chicago Cubs in 2<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1637\" data-end=\"1660\">Fabian Garcia: Padres<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1663\" data-end=\"1686\">Chris Gray: Cubs in 2<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1689\" data-end=\"1714\">Joshua Gingrich: Padres<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1717\" data-end=\"1756\">Jeffrey Cagan: Padres in 3<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1759\" data-end=\"1781\">Peyton Youse: Padres<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1784\" data-end=\"1802\">Grant: Cubs in 2<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"1805\" data-end=\"1828\">Evan Thompson: Padres<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>(Padres eight picks, Cubs five picks)<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h4>Main Image:<\/h4>\n<p><a id=\"AdSiPxMmRMJLBxudYfc-EA\" class=\"gie-single\" style=\"color: #a7a7a7; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal !important; border: none; display: inline-block;\" href=\"http:\/\/www.gettyimages.com\/detail\/2176009449\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Embed from Getty Images<\/a><script>window.gie=window.gie||function(c){(gie.q=gie.q||[]).push(c)};gie(function(){gie.widgets.load({id:'AdSiPxMmRMJLBxudYfc-EA',sig:'ylo-dUrLJz1507r8ZChGWgwTduZM5kPTkM1zGEwHoQM=',w:'594px',h:'396px',items:'2176009449',caption: true ,tld:'com',is360: false })});<\/script><script src='\/\/embed-cdn.gettyimages.com\/widgets.js' charset='utf-8' async><\/script><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>After a dramatic 2025 MLB regular season, the American League and National League\u2019s best teams now battle in the postseason, starting with the wild card. The MLB playoffs start Tuesday (1:00 ET). After a full 162 games, 18 teams are out, leaving 12 still chasing the Commissioner\u2019s Trophy. With the MLB playoffs now in swing, [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":20,"featured_media":16199,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"pmpro_default_level":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[1895,2041,1835,1995,1842,1833,2088,1983,1860],"class_list":["post-16159","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-general","tag-2025-boston-red-sox","tag-2025-chicago-cubs","tag-2025-cincinnati-reds","tag-2025-cleveland-guardians","tag-2025-detroit-tigers","tag-2025-los-angeles-dodgers","tag-2025-mlb-postseason","tag-2025-new-york-yankees","tag-2025-san-diego-padres","pmpro-has-access","eq-blocks"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v25.0 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>MLB Wild Card 2025: SportRelay Writers Predict - Sport Relay<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"After a dramatic 2025 MLB regular season, the American League and National League\u2019s best teams now battle in the wild card.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/sportrelay.com\/mlb\/2025\/09\/30\/mlb-wild-card-2025-sportrelay-writers-predict\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"MLB Wild Card 2025: SportRelay Writers Predict - 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