MLB 2025 Power Rankings: Top Teams & Surprising Starts After Opening Week
Breaking down the MLB's top teams and biggest surprises after the first week of the 2025 season, including undefeated runs and shocking slumps.

MLB Week 1 Power Rankings: Dominance, Disappointments & Rising Stars
The 2025 MLB season has opened with fireworks, record-breaking performances, and unexpected storylines. Let's dive into the first ESPN Power Rankings of the new campaign.
1. Los Angeles Dodgers (8-0) ⚡
Despite missing Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman for most games, the Dodgers' offense remains unstoppable:
- Betts has shown remarkable power after illness-induced weight loss
- Shohei Ohtani continues his two-way dominance
- Team batting .289/.371/.487 through 8 games
2. San Diego Padres (7-0) 🎉
The Padres are making franchise history with their scorching start:
- Jackson Merrill's $135M extension followed by HR heroics
- MLB-best +29 run differential
- Rotation combining for 2.14 ERA
Biggest Risers & Fallers
Team | Movement | Key Factor |
---|---|---|
Giants | +10 spots | Posey's new regime clicking |
Braves | -9 spots | Winless with historically bad offense |
Cardinals | +5 spots | Arenado renaissance |
Must-Watch Matchups Next Week
- Dodgers @ Padres (Apr 10-12): First meeting of undefeated NL West rivals
- Yankees @ Orioles (Apr 8-10): Judge vs. Henderson in AL East showdown
- Phillies @ Braves (Apr 9-11): Can Atlanta avoid disaster start?
Stat of the Week
Aaron Judge's 11 RBIs in 3 games matches his 19-game total to start his historic 2024 season.
Analyst Takeaways
"The Dodgers' depth is terrifying. They're winning without stars while developing new ones like Edman." - Gonzalez
"Watch Houston's Arrighetti - that sweeper could make him an ace by summer." - Schoenfield
"Jackson Merrill's extension shows the Padres are all-in on this new core." - Olney