As the 2024 MLB season reaches its midpoint, the Los Angeles Dodgers remain the favorites to capture the World Series title. Despite the season’s grind, the uncertainties of injuries, and the trade deadline, the Dodgers have maintained their status as frontrunners. According to Jaxon.gg sportsbook, the odds have hardly changed from the beginning of the season. Although we are not yet halfway through, these factors underscore how quickly the landscape can shift. Nevertheless, the Dodgers and a few other top teams have emerged as strong contenders. Here’s a closer look at the favorites and dark horses poised to make a deep run in the postseason, along with their current records and odds to win the World Series.
The Top Dogs
Los Angeles Dodgers
The Dodgers continue to be a dominant force in the National League, leading the NL West despite numerous injuries to their pitching staff. Their depth and versatility have been key to their success. Shohei Ohtani and Mookie Betts are both having MVP-caliber seasons, and Freddie Freeman is still providing consistent production. Rookie Andy Pages, called up in mid-April, has muscled his way into an everyday role and Rookie of the Year candidate.
Tyler Glasnow leads the pitching staff, which is bolstered by Walker Buehler’s return. The Dodgers’ 12-year deal with Yoshinobu Yamamoto has fortified their rotation. If the Dodgers can stay healthy and see improved performances from players like James Outman and Chris Taylor, they will be formidable opponents come October.
Current Record: 33-19, Odds to Win World Series: +325
New York Yankees
The Yankees, with their star-studded roster, are always in the mix for the World Series. Juan Soto, Aaron Judge, and Giancarlo Stanton lead a powerful lineup that can change the game with one swing. The team has seen tremendous success without ace Gerrit Cole as the bullpen remains a major strength. The Yankees have managed to stay healthy, and their balanced roster makes them a top contender in the American League.
Current Record: 35-17, Odds to Win World Series: +600
Atlanta Braves
The Braves are a consistent presence in the postseason conversation, thanks to a strong core of players. Ronald Acuña Jr. is not having a second MVP-caliber season, but Marcell Ozuna is, and the rest of the lineup is deep and potent. Spencer Strider and a revitalized Chris Sale lead a solid pitching staff that’s without ace Max Fried. The Braves front office has done an excellent job of assembling a balanced roster that excels in all facets of the game. Their experience and depth make them a formidable playoff team.
Current Record: 29-18, Odds to Win World Series: +700
Strong Contenders
Philadelphia Phillies
The Phillies are building on their momentum from last year’s playoff run, positioning themselves as strong contenders in the National League East. Bryce Harper and Trea Turner anchor a potent lineup, while the pitching staff, led by Zack Wheeler and Aaron Nola, has been solid, and Ranger Suárez has been lights out. The Phillies have shown resilience and the ability to perform in clutch situations, making them a dangerous team in the postseason.
Current Record: 37-14, Odds to Win World Series: +800
Baltimore Orioles
The Baltimore Orioles have emerged as a surprising powerhouse in the American League East. Young stars like Adley Rutschman and Gunnar Henderson have propelled the team to new heights. Their pitching staff, featuring John Means and Grayson Rodriguez, has been impressive. The Orioles’ blend of youth and talent has made them a team to watch, and their resilience suggests they can compete with the best in the postseason.
Current Record: 30-18, Odds to Win World Series: +1200
The Dark Horses
Cleveland Guardians
The Guardians have quietly positioned themselves as a dark horse in the American League. Led by José Ramírez, their lineup is capable of producing big numbers. The pitching staff, featuring Shane Bieber and Triston McKenzie, has been stellar. The Guardians’ ability to perform under pressure and their balanced approach makes them a potential surprise contender in October.
Current Record: 33-17, Odds to Win World Series: +3000
San Diego Padres
The Padres have built a powerhouse team with a mix of young talent and seasoned veterans. Fernando Tatis Jr. and Manny Machado headline a dynamic offense, while Yu Darvish and Joe Musgrove have made the loss of Blake Snell palatable. The Padres’ aggressive roster-building approach is starting to pay off, and they are well-positioned to make a deep postseason run. Staying healthy and maintaining consistency will be key to their success.
Current Record: 27-26, Odds to Win World Series: +4500
Final Verdict
As the 2024 season progresses, the Dodgers, Phillies, Yankees, Orioles, and Braves have established themselves as the favorites to win the World Series. These teams have a blend of strong pitching, powerful offenses, and strategic management that sets them apart. Meanwhile, the Padres and Guardians are poised to make surprising runs as dark horses. Baseball fans can look forward to an exciting and competitive postseason as these teams vie for the ultimate prize in October.
