Last year the Los Angeles Dodgers won it all, capturing their first World Series championship since 1988 while looking very dominant in the process, beating the Tampa Bay Rays in six games. The Dodgers seem to be the odds on favorite to win the World Series again this year, which would make them the first repeat champion in Major League Baseball since the 2000 New York Yankees if that happens.
Repeating is never easy in any sport, especially baseball with the long schedule and the multiple rounds of playoffs. Plus the fact the San Diego Padres have reloaded their roster with free agent signings and players acquired in trades to compete with the Dodgers in the National League West division. Once the season gets rolling, it will be fun to see how things turn out once October rolls around.
For a look at the divisional races and post-season forecasts, Heftyinfo will attempt to break things down and pick the World Series champions for the 2021 MLB season.
National League
East
1. Atlanta - The Braves appear poised to win their third consecutive division title, but the East is loaded.
2. Washington - If this team stays healthy, they could contend for the title again.
3. NY Mets - They look good on paper, but the Mets must prove they can be a winning team.
4. Philadelphia - Bullpen issues a year ago must be resolved if Phillies hope to make playoffs.
5. Miami - BIG difference between 60 games and 162 games. Back to reality in 2021 for the fish.
Central
1. St. Louis - The Cardinals have big potential, now they have to get it done on the field.
2. Chicago Cubs - Don't write this team off just yet.
3. Milwaukee - The Brewers could finish anywhere from first to third in this division race.
4. Cincinnati - The Reds have some holes to fill this season.
5. Pittsburgh - The Pirates will try to avoid the 100-loss mark this season.
West
1. LA Dodgers - World Series or bust once again for the Dodgers.
2. San Diego - Very hyped up team. Can they take bigger steps and make the World Series this year?
3. San Francisco - The Giants could finish anywhere from third to fifth in the NL West.
4. Arizona - The Diamondbacks are looking to be a .500 team this season.
5. Colorado - The Rockies traded their best player, but still have some punch in the lineup.
American League
East
1. NY Yankees - If they can avoid injuries and the starting pitching comes through, look out.
2. Toronto - Blue Jays ready to take flight once again this season.
3. Tampa Bay - Last year's surprise team will be hard pressed for a repeat effort in 2021 season.
4. Boston - The Red Sox get their manager Alex Cora back this season.
5. Baltimore - The Orioles have a lot of young talent, but still a couple of years away from contending.
Central
1. Minnesota - The Twins seem to find ways to win, until the post-season that is.
2. Chicago White Sox - Losing Eloy Jimenez hurts, but this team is loaded and can go far this year.
3. Cleveland - The Indians will try for one last hurrah before the team's name change next year.
4. Kansas City - The Royals could surprise some folks in the 2021 season.
5. Detroit - Rebuilding yet again it seems, but also with some veteran players still around.
West
1. Oakland - The A's just seem to come through when it counts and make the playoffs.
2. Houston - The Astros will need steady pitching if they want to contend this year.
3. LA Angels - Will Mike Trout and company make the post-season this year?
4. Seattle - Young team that is on the rise.
5. Texas - The Rangers are looking toward the future and will likely have a rough year.
National League Playoffs
Wild Card - San Diego over Washington
Division Series - Los Angeles over San Diego; Atlanta over St. Louis
NLCS - Los Angeles over Atlanta
American League Playoffs
Wild Card - Chicago over Toronto
Division Series - Chicago over NY Yankees; Oakland over Minnesota
ALCS - Chicago over Oakland
2021 WORLD SERIES - Los Angeles Dodgers over Chicago White Sox
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