1. Los Angeles Dodgers
The key players from 2017 are back and ready to take the title that was almost theirs last year. The Dodgers just need a couple of starters beyond Clayton Kershaw who can step up on the defensive end to earn a longer lead in the postseason.
Make-or-break player: If Cory Seager’s elbow causes him to be unable to keep up his stellar shortstop performance, then L.A. will fall short defensively. Luckily, there’s been no sign so far that this will be the case.
2. Houston Astros
Justin Verlander will pick up where he left off last season, and newly-recruited Gerrit Cole will finesse his inner-first-rounder. If Carlos Correa keeps all his ligaments intact, he could give teammate Jose Altuve a run for his money in trying to become just the second American League player this century to win back-to-back MVP titles.
Make-or-break player: Just like the Dodgers, the Astros must rely on their shortstop, Correa. Last season, when Correa was healthy, they went 81-39 (.675). During his six-week injury absence, they went 20-22 (.476).
3. New York Yankees
The Yankees have a pretty good shot in gaining their 28th World Series. They’ve got power in their pitching and in their batting that could carry them far this season. Also, their appearance in last year’s American League Championship Series may have been the key experience that this younger roster needed to prepare for this season.
Make-or-break player: With a superstar roster, this team’s biggest breakout player catcher Gary Sanchez won’t have too much pressure on his hands. His offseason defensive tweaks should also directly impact the Yankees.
4. Cleveland Indians
The Indians had 102 wins last season, which was the fourth-best win percentage in franchise history. With almost everybody back this season, it's World Series or bust for this team that hasn't won anything since 1948.
Make-or-break player: Corey Kluber’s inability to deliver in the American League Division Series last year was the cause of the Indians’ loss against the Yankees. Kluber will need to regain his health and dominance by October if the Indians still want a chance at making it to the World Series.
5. Washington Nationals
The Nationals’ biggest offensive moves this offseason were re-signing Howie Kendrick and bringing in Matt Adams to replace Adam Lind as a power bat off the bench. Bryce Harper, Daniel Murphy and Anthony Rendon are also three of the best hitters in the National League, and Ryan Zimmerman is also a relevant threat.
Make-or-break player: Anthony Rendon may be the most valuable player on this loaded Washington roster since his 6.9 fangraph wins above replacement was not only the top on the team, but also the best in the National League.