MLB Franchise Rankings: Evaluating 25 Years of Performance

As we embark on the latest iteration of our MLB franchise rankings, we have opted for a fresh approach—shifting from a focus on the Wild-Card Era (which began in 1995) to a comprehensive evaluation of the past 25 years, aptly termed “25 for ’25”. This adjustment sets an exciting stage to analyze each team’s accomplishments from 2000 to 2024.

Scoring Methodology

The criteria utilized in these rankings stem from a mathematical scoring system originally inspired by football analyst Bob Sturm, tailored specifically for the nuances of Major League Baseball postseason dynamics. The points are allocated as follows:

• World Series Champion: 9 points
• World Series Runner-Up: 6 points
• Championship Series Exit: 3 points
• Division Series Exit: 2 points
• Wild-Card Round Exit: 1 point

This structured scoring also rewards franchises for winning divisional titles (+1 point) and deducts points for consecutive seasons where a team loses 90 games or more (-1 point). The aim is to establish a clear picture of franchise durability and success over a significant period, without weighing recent achievements more heavily.

Ranking Criteria and Tiebreakers

To create a fair and comprehensive ranking, the following tiebreaker criteria apply: World Series victories, runner-up finishes, appearances in the Championship Series, participation in the Division Series, and division championships.

Notable Franchise Performances

Pittsburgh Pirates

Historically underperforming, the Pirates find themselves with three playoff appearances since 1992, achieving only a single Division Series advancement. With recent player acquisitions aimed at revitalizing the team, such as the return of Andrew McCutchen, hope emerges for the 2025 season.

Total Playoff Years: 13DS, 14WC, 15WC. Last Decade Score: 0 points (MLB rank: t-26th).

Baltimore Orioles

The Orioles have shown signs of recovery in recent years, particularly with their youth talents. Despite a considerable struggle in the years prior, they have recently appeared more competitive. Their overhaul includes notable talents like Gunnar Henderson and Adley Rutschman.

Total Playoff Years: 12DS, 14CS, 16WC, 23DS, 24WC. Last Decade Score: 4 points (MLB rank: t-20th).

Cincinnati Reds

The Reds have the unfortunate distinction of a negative point tally over the past decade. Despite strong individual performances, injuries have hampered consistent success. The team’s focus will be on maintaining player health as they look to improve going forward.

Total Playoff Years: 10DS, 12DS, 13WC, 20WC. Last Decade Score: -2 points (MLB rank: 30th).

Seattle Mariners

With dwindling postseason appearances, the Mariners have struggled to maintain competitiveness. However, recent roster adjustments signal a potential for improvement. The franchise continues to seek a breakthrough that may reestablish its status within the league.

Total Playoff Years: 00CS, 01CS, 22DS. Last Decade Score: 2 points (MLB rank: t-22nd).

Cleveland Guardians

While the Guardians are the highest-ranked team without a World Series title in this period, they have consistently appeared in the playoffs. Recent management strategies aim to leverage their small-market approach into sustained future success.

Total Playoff Years: 01DS, 07CS, 13WC, 16WSL, 17DS, 18DS, 20WC, 22DS, 24CS. Last Decade Score: 21 points (MLB rank: 5th).

Conclusion

This new 25-year evaluation period emphasizes sustained performance and achievements in Major League Baseball. As teams look to reshape and strengthen their rosters, the upcoming seasons could significantly alter these rankings, creating opportunities for franchises often perceived as underachievers to rise through the ranks.

(Illustration: Will Tullos / The Athletic; Photos: Scott Taetsch, Ric Tapia, Lachlan Cunningham, Nick Cammett / Getty Images)