As we enter 2025, Major League Baseball’s starting rotations remain a key factor in determining a team’s success. The top rotations in the game combine ace-level talent with depth, making them tough to crack over the course of a season. Here’s a look at the 10 best starting rotations in the league heading into the new year, based on performance trends, roster strength, and future potential.
1. Atlanta Braves
The Braves remain a powerhouse thanks to a rotation headlined by Max Fried, Spencer Strider, and a strong supporting cast that includes Charlie Morton and Bryce Elder. Fried is a bona fide ace with a history of consistency, while Strider has evolved into one of the game’s most electrifying pitchers. Atlanta’s ability to produce homegrown talent and their depth with guys like Morton provides a well-rounded rotation that gives them a clear edge in the NL.
2. New York Mets
Despite their turbulent 2024 season, the Mets’ starting rotation still boasts some of the most impressive arms in the game. With the dynamic duo of Justin Verlander and Max Scherzer—though both veterans—they offer an intimidating 1-2 punch. Behind them, the Mets feature talented young pitchers like Kodai Senga and David Peterson, who add valuable depth. With a revamped lineup, the Mets’ rotation is poised for a bounce-back year.
3. Houston Astros
The Astros continue to dominate on the mound, with a mix of veteran savvy and emerging young talent. Framber Valdez, Cristian Javier, and José Urquidy are all steady options at the top of the rotation, each capable of shutting down an opposing lineup. With Lance McCullers Jr. returning from injury and a deep bullpen to back them up, Houston’s starting staff remains one of the most well-rounded in MLB.
4. Tampa Bay Rays
The Rays may not always have the big names, but their pitching development system is second to none. Shane McClanahan and Tyler Glasnow lead the way, with both pitchers capable of Cy Young-caliber seasons when healthy. The rotation is also bolstered by the reliability of guys like Jeffrey Springs and Zach Eflin, providing both upside and stability. Tampa’s knack for maximizing pitching talent makes them a constant threat in the AL.
5. Los Angeles Dodgers
The Dodgers are no strangers to success, and their starting rotation is a major factor in that. Clayton Kershaw may be on the tail end of his career, but he’s still capable of being an ace. Julio UrÃas and Dustin May provide further depth, with rookie Bobby Miller emerging as a strong future option. The Dodgers’ commitment to pitching innovation and development ensures they remain one of the most formidable rotations in the league.
6. San Diego Padres
The Padres’ rotation is one of the most high-upside groups in baseball, led by ace Yu Darvish and the talented Blake Snell. With Joe Musgrove and MacKenzie Gore in the fold, San Diego has the depth to compete with any team. The key for the Padres will be staying healthy—particularly with Darvish and Snell, who have both had injury concerns in recent years. If they can stay on the field, their rotation could be one of the best.
7. Cleveland Guardians
Cleveland continues to develop elite pitching talent, with Shane Bieber anchoring the rotation as one of the game’s top pitchers. Behind him, the Guardians have a talented group of young arms like Triston McKenzie and Cal Quantrill, who have proven themselves capable of delivering solid performances. Cleveland’s ability to churn out pitchers who excel in high-leverage situations gives them one of the most consistent rotations in the AL.
8. Milwaukee Brewers
Milwaukee’s pitching staff has long been one of the best in the National League, and 2025 should be no different. With Corbin Burnes and Brandon Woodruff leading the way, the Brewers have two front-line starters capable of dominating any lineup. Freddy Peralta provides an additional strikeout-heavy option, while a solid bullpen backs up their starters. Depth might be a question, but the top end of their rotation is elite.
9. Chicago White Sox
While the White Sox have had a difficult time putting it all together in recent seasons, their starting rotation remains one of the most potent in the AL. Dylan Cease has emerged as one of the league’s top strikeout pitchers, and Lance Lynn, if he can stay consistent, adds significant veteran presence. Michael Kopech and Lucas Giolito give the White Sox depth, and their high strikeout potential makes them a dangerous staff when firing on all cylinders.
10. Toronto Blue Jays
The Blue Jays’ rotation has undergone some changes, but it remains a formidable group. Alek Manoah is one of the most dominant pitchers in the AL, while Kevin Gausman and Yusei Kikuchi bring additional stability to the top of the staff. With rising star José BerrÃos and the potential for the Blue Jays’ pitching depth to improve, Toronto remains a team to watch as their rotation continues to develop into one of the top units in the league.
In conclusion, the starting rotations for 2025 promise to be a mix of veteran excellence and emerging talent. From the Atlanta Braves’ complete staff to the development pipeline of the Cleveland Guardians, teams with both depth and top-tier talent are setting themselves up for success in the new year. Expect fierce competition on the mound, as pitching continues to drive MLB’s most successful teams.
