The Los Angeles Dodgers enter the 2025 season as reigning World Series champions and clear favorites to dominate again. However, MLB.com insider Will Leitch has made a bold prediction, suggesting that the Dodgers may not be as dominant as many expect.
Leitch believes that Los Angeles will have its lowest winning percentage in seven years, citing factors such as an aging roster and increasing competition. While this may not seem an extreme take initially, the Dodgers' recent success sets an incredibly high bar. The team has won 98 or more games in five of its last six full seasons, including an astounding 111 wins in 2022 and back-to-back 106-win seasons in 2021 and 2023.
If Leitch's prediction holds, the Dodgers may have a win total closer to the 91 victories they secured in 2016 or the 92 from 2018. Despite those strong seasons, they pale compared to the team's recent dominance.
One of Leitch's main concerns is the team's age. He noted that Hyeseong Kim is the only likely starting position player under 30 on Memorial Day, and he may even start the season in the minors. While experience and veteran leadership have been key strengths for the Dodgers, an older roster comes with the risk of injuries and decline.
That said, even a "down" year by the Dodgers' standards would likely still result in an NL West title. Their depth, talent, and financial resources make it hard to envision an actual downfall. While Leitch raises valid points, the idea that the Dodgers will suddenly struggle seems unlikely. They are more motivated than ever to prove their doubters wrong.
