The 2025 MLB season is heating up, and the race for the World Series is already taking shape. The Los Angeles Dodgers, fresh off their 2024 championship, remain the heavy favorites, but challengers like the New York Yankees, New York Mets, and Detroit Tigers are closing the gap.
This comprehensive guide covers:
✔ Latest odds (American & decimal)
✔ Top contenders & dark horses
✔ Key factors influencing the race
✔ Smart betting strategies
Current World Series Odds (June 2025)
| Team | American Odds | Decimal Odds | Implied Probability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles Dodgers | +240 | 3.40 | 29.4% |
| New York Yankees | +550 | 6.50 | 15.4% |
| New York Mets | +800 | 9.00 | 11.1% |
| Philadelphia Phillies | +850 | 9.50 | 10.5% |
| Detroit Tigers | +800 | 9.00 | 11.1% |
| Chicago Cubs | +1300 | 14.00 | 7.1% |
| Seattle Mariners | +2000 | 21.00 | 4.8% |
| Atlanta Braves | +2200 | 23.00 | 4.3% |
(Odds via BetMGM, DraftKings, and ESPN BET as of June 8, 2025).
Key Takeaways:
- Dodgers (+240) are the clear favorites, boasting a stacked roster with Blake Snell, Roki Sasaki, and Shohei Ohtani.
- Yankees (+550) remain strong despite Gerrit Cole’s injury, thanks to Aaron Judge’s MVP-level performance.
- Mets (+800) surged after signing Juan Soto, while the Tigers (+800) are the AL’s surprise contender.
- Longshots: The Braves (+2200) and Mariners (+2000) offer value if they heat up.
Top Contenders: Who Could Win?
1. Los Angeles Dodgers (+240)
Why They Could Repeat:
- Elite pitching: Snell, Sasaki, and Kershaw form a deadly rotation.
- Loaded lineup: Betts, Freeman, and Ohtani anchor the offense.
- Playoff experience: Won 2 of the last 5 World Series.
Weaknesses:
- Injury risks: Ohtani’s UCL recovery and Glasnow’s health.
- History is against them: No repeat champion since the 2000 Yankees.
2. New York Yankees (+550)
Why They’re Dangerous:
- Aaron Judge (.400 BA, 1.200 OPS) is unstoppable.
- Max Fried has been a Cy Young-caliber ace.
- Playoff pedigree: 27-time champions know how to win.
Weaknesses:
- Rotation depth: Cole’s absence leaves them vulnerable.
- Soto’s departure weakened their lineup.
3. New York Mets (+800)
Dark Horse Appeal:
- Juan Soto & Pete Alonso form a lethal duo.
- Clay Holmes has revolutionized their bullpen.
- Hot start: Best record in the NL early.
Concerns:
- Rotation questions: Beyond Senga, reliability is shaky.
- Pressure: NYC expectations are brutal.
Key Factors Influencing the Race
1. Pitching Health
- The Dodgers’ Snell/Sasaki combo must stay healthy.
- The Yankees’ post-Cole rotation is a question mark.
2. Trade Deadline Moves
- The Tigers or Cubs could surge with reinforcements.
- The Braves need pitching help to contend.
3. Playoff Format
- Byes for top seeds reward teams like the Dodgers/Yankees.
- Wild Card volatility could upset favorites early.
How to Bet on the World Series
Best Betting Markets
- Outright Winner: Dodgers (+240) vs. Yankees (+550)
- League Winner: NL (-150) vs. AL (+130)
- Exact Matchup: Dodgers vs. Yankees (+400)
Where to Bet
- Mainstream Books: DraftKings, BetMGM, ESPN BET
- Prediction Markets: Polymarket (for hedging)
Betting Strategy
- Safe Pick: Dodgers (+240) – Still the most complete team.
- Value Bet: Tigers (+800) – AL’s hottest team.
- Long Shot: Braves (+2200) – If Acuña & Strider return to form.
Final Prediction & Best Bets
- Most Likely: Dodgers over Yankees in 6 games.
- Upset Potential: Mets or Tigers steal the crown.
- Best Prop: Aaron Judge WS MVP (+750).
