The Los Angeles Dodgers have reclaimed the number one ranking in the latest MLB power rankings, a spot they’ve frequently occupied over the last decade. Despite midseason https://www.u4gm.com/mlb-the-show-25-stubs turbulence, they’ve surged back to the top, driven by one of the most potent offenses in baseball and an uncanny ability to win close games. But as they sit atop the rankings once more, one can’t help but wonder — is this a sign of sustained dominance or a perfectly timed surge?

It’s impossible to talk about the 2025 Dodgers without discussing the early expectations. This team entered the year as one of the heavy favorites to win the World Series. After all, they added Japanese sensation Roki Sasaki to an already formidable pitching staff and retained MVP-caliber players in Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, and Freddie Freeman. The opening weeks seemed to confirm their status. But then the injuries came.

The Dodgers’ rotation, which was supposed to be a strength, turned into a revolving door. Glasnow went down, Sasaki had a setback, and Blake Snell struggled with command before hitting the injured list himself. Suddenly, the team’s depth was tested, and it became clear that they couldn’t rely on pitching alone. That’s when the offense stepped in to carry the load.

Led by Ohtani and Freeman, the Dodgers’ offense became the best in the National League. Newcomer Andy Pages has added power and consistency, while veterans like Betts and Will Smith have continued to produce. Their ability to score in bunches has masked pitching deficiencies and turned the Dodgers into a team capable of outslugging opponents on any given night.

Yet, what has been most impressive about their climb back to number one is their resilience. Many teams buckle under the pressure of injuries and adversity. The Dodgers have instead responded with a sense of urgency. Their bullpen, while overused, has been effective. Young arms have stepped up in key moments. And Dave Roberts has managed to squeeze the most out of his roster.

Still, questions remain. Can they hold onto the top spot through the rest of the season? Their pitching situation remains precarious. The bullpen has been leaned on heavily, and fatigue is a real threat. The offense has carried the team thus far, but even the best lineups go through slumps. And the schedule will not get easier. Division matchups and a tough interleague slate loom ahead.

Meanwhile, other teams are rising. The Braves remain a force in the NL. The Tigers have matched the Dodgers in win percentage. The Yankees and Orioles are heating up in the AL. All of them have more stable pitching staffs at the moment, which could give them an edge as the season progresses.

The Dodgers are undoubtedly one of the most talented teams in baseball. Their return to the number one ranking reflects their resilience and star power. But staying there will require more than talent — it will take health, strategic bullpen management, and continued excellence at the plate. For now, they’re back on top. Whether they remain there will be one of the key storylines to watch in the second half of 2025.