September baseball is here, and the contenders are separating from the pretenders. The playoff race is heating up, the stars are shining, and every pitch feels bigger than the last. Some teams look unstoppable, while others are clinging to hope. Here are the latest MLB Power Rankings—a no-nonsense look at who’s built to chase a World Series and who’s just along for the ride.
1. Milwaukee Brewers
Why they’re No. 1: Sitting atop the MLB.com power rankings as we enter September. They’re in prime position to win 100 games—potentially the best winning percentage in franchise history.
Supporting analysis: ClutchPoints mirrors that standing, citing their commanding performance, their 6.5-game lead atop their division, and the return of Jackson Chourio from the injured list as key boosts.
SBNation’s view: Classified in Tier 1, noting the Brewers as the outright favorites for the World Series.
2. Philadelphia Phillies
Momentum: Ranked second by MLB.com after a strong division lead in the NL East and Kyle Schwarber chasing a massive home-run pace.
Top-tier recognition: Also placed in Tier 2 by SB Nation—recognized as an elite club with high upside, yet with some lingering concerns.
3. Detroit Tigers
Climbing fast: MLB.com slots them at No. 3, noting the impact of their energized home crowd, playoff push, and drive for home-field advantage.
4. Los Angeles Dodgers
Return to elite form: MLB.com places them at No. 4—highlighting improved rotation health at the season’s end.
World Series potential: SB Nation ranks them in Tier 2, underscoring their elite talent and championship pedigree.
5. Toronto Blue Jays
Consistently strong: ClutchPoints slots them at No. 3, reflecting a solid hold in the AL East and consistent performance this season.
Contender status: SB Nation also counts them among the “elite” in Tier 2.
Other Notable Teams & Tiers
Chicago Cubs – Ranked No. 5 by ClutchPoints. They’re seen as a strong team capable of a deep run if they navigate recent inconsistencies.
Houston Astros – Climb by two spots in the CBS Sports power rankings; part of a cluster of AL contenders.
New York Yankees – Up one spot in CBS Sports rankings; still battling for playoff qualification and listed in SB Nation’s Tier 5—fringe contenders due to inconsistency and bullpen worries.
Tier Breakdown – World Series Contenders
Tier 1: Brewers (dominant clear favorite)
Tier 2: Phillies, Dodgers, Blue Jays (talented, elite teams with some question marks)
Tier 3: Cubs, Padres, Tigers (strong but with notable hurdles ahead)
Tier 4: Astros, Mariners (good, but with significant concerns)
Tier 5: Yankees, Mets, Red Sox (talent-laden but underwhelming currently)
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