As the 2025 MLB regular season nears its conclusion, the playoff races are tighter than ever, delivering drama and excitement for fans across the league. From clinched division titles to nail-biting Wild Card battles, every game matters as teams jockey for postseason positioning. Here’s the latest breakdown of standings, key matchups, and must-watch storylines, along with how fans can gear up with official MLB merchandise from Pro Merch.

Dodgers Clinch NL West; Kershaw’s Final Season

The Los Angeles Dodgers secured their 12th NL West title in 13 years with a commanding 8-0 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks on Thursday. With the division wrapped up, attention now turns to veteran pitcher Clayton Kershaw, who is expected to retire after the postseason. Fans looking to commemorate Kershaw’s legendary career can find exclusive Dodgers apparel and collectibles at Pro Merch.

AL Wild Card and Division Races

In the American League, the Boston Red Sox clinched a Wild Card berth with a dramatic walk-off win on Friday, earning the No. 5 seed. If the playoffs started today, the Red Sox would face the New York Yankees, though final AL East and Wild Card seedings are still undecided. Meanwhile, the AL Central remains tightly contested between the Detroit Tigers and Cleveland Guardians, with the Guardians holding the tiebreaker. Houston sits just one game behind for the final AL Wild Card spot.

National League Wild Card Battle

The National League Wild Card race is equally intense. The Cincinnati Reds and New York Mets are tied for the final spot, with the Reds holding the head-to-head tiebreaker. Recent results favored the Reds, who defeated the Milwaukee Brewers 3-1, while the Mets fell 6-2 to the Miami Marlins. Both teams have two games remaining, meaning every at-bat and pitch could be decisive.

Notable Games From September 26

Several key games this past week shaped the playoff picture:

• New York Yankees 6, Baltimore Orioles 1 – Giancarlo Stanton crushed two home runs and drove in five RBIs. Will Warren earned the win for New York, striking out seven over five innings.
• Cincinnati Reds 3, Milwaukee Brewers 1 – Gavin Lux doubled twice and scored the go-ahead run in the sixth inning.
• Miami Marlins 6, New York Mets 2 – The Marlins handed the Mets a critical loss in their Wild Card pursuit.

Fans can celebrate these standout performances with official team gear from Pro Merch, from jerseys and hats to collectible memorabilia.

Games in Progress and Today’s Schedule (September 27, 2025)

As of 3:43 PM ET, the Chicago Cubs lead the St. Louis Cardinals 3-1 in the 5th inning, while the Toronto Blue Jays are ahead 3-0 against the Tampa Bay Rays in the 2nd. Later today, fans can tune in to multiple high-stakes matchups:

• San Francisco Giants vs. Colorado Rockies – 4:05 PM ET at Oracle Park
• Washington Nationals vs. Chicago White Sox – 4:05 PM ET at Nationals Park
• Boston Red Sox vs. Detroit Tigers – 4:10 PM ET at Fenway Park
• Miami Marlins vs. New York Mets – 4:10 PM ET at LoanDepot Park (Clay Holmes vs. Eury Perez)
• Philadelphia Phillies vs. Minnesota Twins – 6:05 PM ET at Citizens Bank Park
• Atlanta Braves vs. Pittsburgh Pirates – 7:15 PM ET at Truist Park
• Cleveland Guardians vs. Texas Rangers – 7:15 PM ET at Progressive Field
• Milwaukee Brewers vs. Cincinnati Reds – 7:15 PM ET at American Family Field
• San Diego Padres vs. Arizona Diamondbacks – 8:40 PM ET at Petco Park
• Los Angeles Angels vs. Houston Astros – 9:38 PM ET at Angel Stadium
• Seattle Mariners vs. Los Angeles Dodgers – 9:40 PM ET at T-Mobile Park
• Oakland Athletics vs. Kansas City Royals – 10:05 PM ET at Sutter Health Park

With playoff positioning still undecided in both leagues, each matchup carries enormous implications, making this stretch of the season some of the most intense baseball of the year.

Key Storylines Heading Into October

• Tight playoff races in both leagues – Wild Card and divisional spots remain undecided, promising thrilling finishes.
• Clayton Kershaw’s impending retirement – Dodgers fans are savoring every moment of the legendary pitcher’s final season.
• The Mets’ struggles – Despite having the league’s highest payroll, New York faces a tense playoff push.
• Unexpected playoff contenders – Teams like the Guardians and Reds have surged late, highlighting the unpredictable nature of baseball.

Gear Up with Pro Merch

For fans looking to celebrate the final weeks of the 2025 MLB season or prepare for the postseason, Pro Merch offers a wide selection of authentic team gear. From jerseys, hats, and hoodies to collectible memorabilia, you can show your support for your favorite clubs and players while commemorating a thrilling regular season.

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The 2025 MLB regular season is entering its final stretch, and with just days left before the last pitch on Sunday, September 28, the playoff picture is as thrilling as it gets. Some teams have already clinched their postseason spots, while others are locked in nail-biting battles for both division crowns and wild-card berths. The drama is building, and fans everywhere are refreshing standings by the hour.

And while we break down the intensity of the final week, don’t forget to gear up for October baseball by checking out the latest officially licensed gear at Pro Merch’s MLB collection—your one-stop shop for jerseys, caps, and fan essentials to rep your team heading into the postseason.

American League: Wild-Card and Division Drama

The Wild-Card Race

The AL wild-card chase is shaping up to be a photo finish.

• Toronto Blue Jays: Already clinched a playoff spot and in strong position.
• Seattle Mariners: Well-positioned, but not quite secure yet.
• New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, Cleveland Guardians: Locked in a tense, three-team showdown with every game carrying massive weight.
• Houston Astros: Still fighting to crash the party. Not only do they have a chance to snag a wild-card spot, but if the Mariners stumble, Houston could sneak back into the AL West title hunt.

With so many teams still alive, the scoreboard watching across the league will be fierce.

AL Central Showdown

The Detroit Tigers are living through what could be remembered as one of the most stunning collapses in recent baseball history. After controlling the AL Central for most of the season, their slide has opened the door for the Cleveland Guardians, who trail by just one game. The two clubs face off in a high-stakes series this week—likely deciding who wears the crown and who scrambles for a wild-card ticket.

AL East Tension

While the Toronto Blue Jays are celebrating their clinched berth, the division title is still up for grabs. The Yankees remain within striking distance, and seeding could be crucial when the dust settles.

National League: Chaos on the Horizon

The Wild-Card Picture

The NL race is equally unpredictable.

• Chicago Cubs: Already secured one of the three wild-card berths.
• New York Mets: A late-season slide has put their spot in jeopardy.
• Cincinnati Reds: Suddenly back in contention, fueled by strong September play.
• Arizona Diamondbacks & San Francisco Giants: Both clubs remain in striking distance and could ride a hot week into October.

Every inning matters as these four teams fight to extend their seasons.

Divisional Outlook

• NL Central: The Milwaukee Brewers have wrapped up the division title.
• NL East: The Philadelphia Phillies are officially crowned champs.
• NL West: The Los Angeles Dodgers remain in command, but their focus now shifts to securing seeding and home-field advantage.

Key Storylines to Watch

• Home-Field Advantage: Clinched teams like the Blue Jays, Brewers, Phillies, and Dodgers are laser-focused on locking up top seeds. The top two seeds in each league earn a coveted first-round bye.
• No More Game 163s: Since MLB eliminated one-game tiebreakers in 2022, postseason entry will be decided by head-to-head matchups and statistical formulas, meaning every earlier win and loss matters.
• Wild-Card Wildness: With several teams essentially playing for survival, the final week could deliver shocking upsets. Clubs with nothing to lose often play spoiler, and that unpredictability keeps fans glued to every pitch.

Gear Up for October with Pro Merch

As the playoff race intensifies, fans are already thinking ahead to October baseball. Whether you’re rooting for a powerhouse like the Dodgers or Phillies, or hoping your Yankees, Guardians, or Mets claw their way into the postseason, it’s the perfect time to show your team pride.

Explore the full lineup of MLB products, caps, hoodies, and playoff gear at Pro Merch’s MLB shop. With new arrivals and postseason collections on the way, Pro Merch has everything you need to represent your favorite franchise when the stakes are highest.

Final Pitch

The last week of the 2025 MLB season has all the ingredients for a legendary finish: collapsing contenders, surging underdogs, and division titles hanging in the balance. No matter how the standings shake out, October baseball promises drama, intensity, and unforgettable moments.

Stay tuned, stay loud, and stay ready—because playoff baseball is almost here. And don’t forget to hit up Pro Merch to grab the gear that will carry you from the final week of the regular season into the heart of the postseason.

At Pro Merch, we don’t just follow the game—we live it. From the heat of the pennant race to the quiet, powerful moments that shift baseball history, we’re all about celebrating the stories that matter. And right now, Major League Baseball is writing two major ones.

Jen Pawol Set to Become MLB’s First Female Umpire

In a sport built on tradition, trailblazers don’t just show up—they stand out. That’s exactly what Jen Pawol is doing. According to The Athletic, Pawol is on the cusp of becoming MLB’s first-ever female umpire, a monumental step forward in a game that has seen its share of change—but never quite like this.

After years of grinding through the minor league system and earning the respect of players, coaches, and fellow umpires, Pawol’s promotion isn’t just symbolic—it’s well-earned. Her journey is a testament to perseverance, precision, and pure passion for the game.

At Pro Merch, we believe in celebrating moments that redefine the sport. Pawol’s upcoming debut represents more than history—it represents the future. It sends a clear message to young girls everywhere: there is space for you here, not just in the stands, but on the field, behind the plate, and in every role the game offers.

Want to gear up and show your support for the evolution of baseball? Explore our full collection of official MLB apparel and fan gear right here: Shop MLB Collection at Pro Merch

Roman Anthony Nearing Extension with Boston Red Sox

In other major news, the Boston Red Sox are reportedly finalizing an extension with top outfield prospect Roman Anthony, per The Athletic. The 20-year-old slugger has been rising quickly through the ranks and turning heads with his mature approach at the plate, elite bat speed, and standout athleticism.

Locking in Anthony would mark a huge step in the Sox’s effort to build a sustainable core around young, high-upside talent. For fans in Boston and beyond, this signals a shift in momentum—a team doubling down on its future by investing in the stars of tomorrow.

As Anthony prepares to make waves in the majors, there’s no better time to lock in your Red Sox gear. Whether you’re a lifelong member of Red Sox Nation or just starting to follow the team’s rising stars, Pro Merch has you covered. Shop our exclusive collection of Boston Red Sox apparel and support the next generation of greatness: Red Sox Gear Available Now

Baseball is Evolving. Stay Ahead of the Curve with Pro Merch.

From breaking barriers to building legacies, MLB is heading into a new era—and we’re here for all of it. At Pro Merch, we’re more than just a store. We’re fans. We’re community. And we’re your go-to destination for authentic MLB merchandise, exclusive fan drops, and the freshest gear in the game.

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The air in Major League Baseball is thick with anticipation! This Thursday, July 31st, at 6 p.m. ET, marks the annual trade deadline, a critical moment when teams finalize their strategies for the remainder of the season. It’s a whirlwind of speculation, high-stakes decisions, and potential game-changing moves that can swing a team from contender to rebuilder, or vice-versa. The “mushy middle” is shrinking fast, and we’re here to break down which teams are poised to buy big, which are ready to sell, and who’s still playing their cards close to the vest.

At Pro Merch, we know that being a dedicated fan means living and breathing every moment of the baseball season, especially during this electrifying period. That’s why we’re thrilled to announce a brand-new collection of merchandise, perfect for showcasing your team loyalty as the trade deadline drama unfolds!

The Buyer’s Market: Contenders Making Their Push

Several teams are unequivocally in “buy” mode, looking to bolster their rosters for a deep postseason run:

• Boston Red Sox: After a stellar 25-14 run since a key trade, the Red Sox are firmly in the playoff picture. Expect them to prioritize pitching reinforcements across the board, even if it means some minor roster adjustments.
• Chicago Cubs: With a sense of urgency driven by a star outfielder’s contract situation, the Cubs are eyeing a starting pitcher, bullpen help, and potentially a third baseman to fortify their NL Central push.
• Detroit Tigers: Despite a recent dip, the Tigers maintain a comfortable division lead thanks to their hot start. Bullpen help is a glaring need, and they’re expected to add at least one, if not more, relievers.
• Houston Astros: A significant injury to their third baseman means the AL West leaders now need an offensive bat in addition to their ongoing search for starting pitching and general depth. The Astros are certainly buyers.
• Los Angeles Dodgers: Even with substantial offseason bullpen investments, the Dodgers are hunting for late-inning relief arms and would also welcome an outfielder to strengthen their formidable lineup.
• Milwaukee Brewers: Boasting an impressive 62-40 record since early season struggles, the Brewers are neck-and-neck in their division and see a strong World Series window. A power-hitting third baseman is high on their wish list.
• New York Mets: Despite recent bullpen additions, the Mets are looking for more relief help and a center fielder as they strive to create separation in the competitive NL East.
• New York Yankees: While they’ve slid recently, the Yankees are still in a Wild Card spot and, true to their nature, are adding pieces rather than selling. They’ve already brought in a third baseman and a bench bat, with significant bullpen reinforcements expected.
• Philadelphia Phillies: Consistently battling the Mets for division supremacy, the Phillies have already added a veteran reliever and will continue to prioritize bullpen depth, along with seeking an outfielder, possibly two, with a solid bat.
• San Diego Padres: Despite payroll constraints, the Padres are committed to buying, potentially moving some pieces to create room. An outfielder, a designated hitter, and pitching depth are all on their shopping list.
• Seattle Mariners: Already active with a first baseman acquisition, the Mariners are now focused on securing a third baseman and bullpen help as they pursue a rare postseason berth.
• Texas Rangers: A strong recent performance has solidified the Rangers as buyers, now tied for a Wild Card spot. Bullpen help is paramount, with a starting pitcher and another bat also being desirable additions.
• Toronto Blue Jays: Enjoying one of the best records over the last two months, the Blue Jays have surged into a commanding division lead. They are firm buyers, prioritizing bullpen support and potentially another offensive bat.

The “Probable Buyers” and The “Middle Ground”

Some teams are leaning towards buying but face unique considerations:

• Cincinnati Reds: Just a game out of a Wild Card spot, the Reds should buy, but the extent of their acquisitions will depend on ownership’s willingness to take on payroll. Bullpen help and an outfielder are likely targets.
• San Francisco Giants: Despite a recent slide, they remain within striking distance of a postseason berth. Injuries mean they’ll be in the market for a starting pitcher, and another bat would also be beneficial.

Then there are teams in the “mushy middle,” who could go either way depending on the right offer:

• Cleveland Guardians: A hot-and-cold season has them just outside a Wild Card spot. They might move a reliever or two for offensive help, particularly an outfielder.
• Kansas City Royals: Though the math is challenging, a recent outfielder acquisition suggests they are “soft buyers.” They might look for long-term outfield pieces, which could involve some selling.
• St. Louis Cardinals: After a strong May, July has been tough, leaving them a few games out. While they might ship out rental relievers, they could also add players with an eye on both this season and beyond 2025.
• Tampa Bay Rays: Known for their unique “buy and sell” strategy, the Rays are expected to make moves in both directions. Pitching, especially bullpen help, is their priority if they add.

The Seller’s Market: Rebuilding for Tomorrow

For other teams, the trade deadline is about strategically offloading assets to build for the future:

• Arizona Diamondbacks: After a tough recent stretch, the D-backs are clear sellers. Key pitchers and their third baseman are likely candidates to be moved.
• Atlanta Braves: Despite a disappointing season, major core shake-ups are unlikely. Any selling will involve high-leverage bullpen arms who could fetch a good return.
• Baltimore Orioles: Their selling started early, and more is expected. Rental pitchers and outfielders are among those likely to find new homes.
• Chicago White Sox: Facing another challenging season, the White Sox have attractive trade pieces in their outfield and a starting pitcher.
• Colorado Rockies: On pace for a challenging season, the Rockies have already begun selling. Several relievers are expected to garner attention, along with other players on the block.
• Los Angeles Angels: It’s reported the Angels have made their rental players available, including a starting pitcher, closer, third baseman, and utility players. Even players under contract for next season could potentially be moved.
• Miami Marlins: Despite a recent surge, the Marlins are clear sellers. Their top starting pitchers and outfielders, along with numerous relievers, are highly sought-after trade chips.
• Minnesota Twins: With a tough record since early June, the Twins are selling. While a full tear-down is uncertain, rental players at multiple positions are obvious trade candidates.
• Pittsburgh Pirates: The Pirates are in a tough spot, and decisions loom over whether to move their starting pitcher (under control for three more years) and closer (under team control through 2026).
• (Sacramento) Athletics: Expected to subtract at the deadline, the A’s have appealing starting pitchers. While moving their dynamic closer seems unlikely, other pieces will surely be on the move.
• Washington Nationals: The Nationals have begun their sale, already trading a utility player. Their closer, a starting pitcher, infielder, and designated hitter – all set to be free agents after the season – are available, with even their All-Star lefty’s name popping up in rumors.

Step Up to the Plate! New MLB Trade Deadline Gear at Pro Merch!

As the Major League Baseball trade deadline brings unparalleled excitement and tension, it’s the perfect time to show your colors and represent your favorite team! At Pro Merch, we’ve just dropped a fantastic collection of new merchandise, designed for the ultimate baseball fan. Whether your team is buying big, selling smart, or right in the thick of the action, we’ve got the gear to keep you in the game!

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The anticipation is palpable! It’s Home Run Derby day at Truist Park in Atlanta, and baseball’s biggest sluggers are ready to unleash a barrage of bombs into the stands. This marquee event, airing Monday at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN, is always one of the summer’s most thrilling spectacles, and 2025 is shaping up to be no exception.

While we won’t see a repeat champion this year (2024 winner Teoscar Hernandez isn’t in the mix), the field is packed with electrifying talent. Will Atlanta’s own Matt Olson, a late replacement for Ronald Acuna Jr., electrify his home crowd? Can Cal Raleigh maintain the incredible power that led to a whopping 38 first-half home runs? Or will one of the younger, up-and-coming stars seize the moment?

At Pro Merch, we’re your ultimate destination for all things MLB, and we’ve got your comprehensive guide to the Derby, from expert predictions and live updates as the action unfolds, to in-depth analysis and key takeaways once the dust settles. And speaking of MLB, make sure to check out our incredible selection of MLB gear to support your favorite team and players! You can find all the latest apparel, collectibles, and more at https://pro-merch.com/product-category/mlb/.

The 2025 MLB Home Run Derby Field: Who’s Ready to Launch?

The stage is set for an epic showdown. Here are the powerhouses vying for the 2025 Home Run Derby crown:

• Cal Raleigh, Seattle Mariners (38 home runs in 2025)
• James Wood, Washington Nationals (24 home runs)
• Junior Caminero, Tampa Bay Rays (23 home runs)
• Byron Buxton, Minnesota Twins (21 home runs)
• Brent Rooker, Oakland Athletics (20 home runs)
• Matt Olson, Atlanta Braves (17 home runs)
• Jazz Chisholm Jr., New York Yankees (17 home runs)
• Oneil Cruz, Pittsburgh Pirates (16 home runs)

Predictions: Who Will Reign Supreme and Who’s the Dark Horse?

Our experts have weighed in with their picks for who will lift the trophy and who will make it to the final round. The competition is fierce, and opinions are divided!

• Jeff Passan is backing Cal Raleigh. He points to Raleigh’s Derby-perfect swing, leading MLB in both pull and fly ball percentage. Plus, his newfound prowess from the right side could give him an edge, potentially making him the first switch-hitter (and catcher!) to win the Derby. Passan sees him defeating Buxton in the final.
• Alden Gonzalez is all-in on Oneil Cruz. Despite his inconsistencies, Cruz’s youth, stamina, left-handed swing (which favors Truist Park’s right field), and incredible exit velocity make him a Derby dream. He predicts Raleigh will put on a great show but ultimately finish as the runner-up.
• Buster Olney likes the home-field advantage for Matt Olson. Though a late addition, Olson’s prior Derby experience gives him a leg up in handling the pressure and pace. With his local pitcher, Eddie Perez, by his side and the park favoring left-handed hitters, Olson is a strong contender.
• Jesse Rogers also leans towards Matt Olson, emphasizing the home-field benefit in Atlanta’s heat and humidity. Olson’s ability to pace himself and his “nothing to lose” mentality as a late entry could see him outlast the younger sluggers. Rogers also agrees that Raleigh will be in the finals against Olson.
• Jorge Castillo is making a bold pick with James Wood. While Wood doesn’t always hit a high percentage of fly balls, his immense power is undeniable. In an event designed to launch the ball, Wood will unleash his titanic strength, overcoming Cruz in the final.

The Longest Blast: Who Will Send One Into Orbit?

Beyond the winner, everyone’s buzzing about who will hit the most prodigious home run of the night. These sluggers are known for their moonshots, and Atlanta’s hot, humid air could help them defy gravity!

• Passan is betting on Oneil Cruz, citing his record-breaking exit velocities. He foresees a 493-foot blast from Cruz.
• Gonzalez envisions James Wood joining elite company like Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton, predicting Wood will smash a 497-plus foot homer.
• Olney also believes James Wood has the “Stanton- and Judge-type power” to clear the Chophouse, calling for a 497-foot bomb.
• Rogers predicts Byron Buxton will unleash his “massive strength” for a 505-foot monster shot, even if he doesn’t go far in the competition.
• Castillo expects Oneil Cruz to crush a few “lasers,” with one reaching a staggering 500 feet.

Breakthrough Star: Who Will Capture the Fans’ Attention?

The Home Run Derby is often a launching pad for new fan favorites. Which slugger will leave a lasting impression on baseball fans?

• Passan thinks Byron Buxton will remind everyone why he was once the top prospect in baseball. After a recent cycle, a healthy Buxton is poised to put on a memorable display.
• Olney believes Junior Caminero will open eyes. Once a lesser-known prospect, Caminero has refined his game and is now showcasing “ridiculous power” that will undoubtedly get noticed.

The Defining Moment: What Will We Be Talking About Tomorrow?

Every Derby has that one unforgettable moment or overarching theme. What will stick with us long after the last ball lands?

• Gonzalez expects the sheer “incredible distances and velocities” achieved by sluggers like Wood, Cruz, Caminero, Raleigh, and Buxton to be the highlight, amplified by Atlanta’s hot and humid weather.
• Rogers humorously predicts the “exhaustion on the hitter’s faces,” as they battle the heat and humidity of “Hot-lanta” while swinging for the fences.
• Castillo anticipates Oneil Cruz’s 500-foot blast and his barrage of “lasers” in the early rounds before he eventually runs out of steam in the finals.

The 2025 MLB Home Run Derby promises to be an unforgettable night of power, excitement, and incredible athleticism. Grab your favorite MLB merchandise from https://pro-merch.com/product-category/mlb/ and get ready to witness history!

What are your predictions for the Derby? Who do you think will hit the longest home run?