MLB Week 1 Power Rankings: Dominance, Disappointments & Rising Stars

The 2025 MLB season has opened with fireworks, record-breaking performances, and unexpected storylines. Let's dive into the first ESPN Power Rankings of the new campaign.

1. Los Angeles Dodgers (8-0) ⚡

Despite missing Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman for most games, the Dodgers' offense remains unstoppable:

• Betts has shown remarkable power after illness-induced weight loss
• Shohei Ohtani continues his two-way dominance
• Team batting .289/.371/.487 through 8 games

2. San Diego Padres (7-0) 🎉

The Padres are making franchise history with their scorching start:

• Jackson Merrill's $135M extension followed by HR heroics
• MLB-best +29 run differential
• Rotation combining for 2.14 ERA

Biggest Risers & Fallers

Must-Watch Matchups Next Week

• Dodgers @ Padres (Apr 10-12): First meeting of undefeated NL West rivals
• Yankees @ Orioles (Apr 8-10): Judge vs. Henderson in AL East showdown
• Phillies @ Braves (Apr 9-11): Can Atlanta avoid disaster start?

Stat of the Week

Aaron Judge's 11 RBIs in 3 games matches his 19-game total to start his historic 2024 season.

Analyst Takeaways

"The Dodgers' depth is terrifying. They're winning without stars while developing new ones like Edman." - Gonzalez

"Watch Houston's Arrighetti - that sweeper could make him an ace by summer." - Schoenfield

"Jackson Merrill's extension shows the Padres are all-in on this new core." - Olney