Bookmakers favor Dodgers to repeat as World Series champs

The Los Angeles Dodgers, fresh off their second World Series championship in five years, are favored to make it two in a row next year. Following the Dodgers' 7-6 win over the New York Yankees that sealed the title in Game 5 on Wednesday, Draft Kings and Fan Duel both listed the Dodgers as a +400 favorite to take the 2025 crown. The Yankees were the second choice at both sportsbooks, listed at +700 by Draft Kings, +750 by Fan Duel. The Dodgers figure to be just as strong on offense next season, but their pitching could get a serious upgrade if numerous starters return to good health. Two-way star Shohei Ohtani, who never pitched in 2024 while becoming the first player ever to hit 50 homers and steal 50 bases in the same season, should be back on the mound next year. Tyler Glas now, Dustin May and Gavin Stone also could return to the Dodgers' staff, as could Clayton Kershaw if he picks up his player option. The Yankees' biggest offseason question is whether they can re-sign right fielder Juan Soto, who will be a free agent. After the Dodgers and Yankees, the biggest favorites to win next year's World Series are the Atlanta Braves, the Philadelphia Phillies and the Baltimore Orioles. The Braves are at +750 at Draft Kings and +800 at Fan Duel. Both books list the Phillies at +1000 and the Orioles at +1100. The next tier consists of the Houston Astros (+1200 Fan Duel, +1300 Draft Kings), the New York Mets (+1200 Fan Duel, +1400 Draft Kings) and the San Diego Padres (+1500 Fan Duel and Draft Kings). On the other end of the odds board are the Chicago White Sox, who set a modern major league record (since 1901) this year by losing 121 games. They have +50000 odds at Fan Duel and +40000 odds at Draft Kings to pull an immediate turnaround and win the 2025 World Series. --Field Level Media