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By: Jim Williams – Capital Sports – Senior Columnist

The Los Angeles Dodgers finished the 2025 season at 93–69, clinching the NL West and winning their second consecutive World Series, defeating the Toronto Blue Jays in a dramatic Game 72. Their back-to-back titles echo the Yankees’ 1998–2000 dynasty and the Reds’ 1975–76 run.

The San Diego Padres ended 2025 at 88–74, securing a Wild Card spot but falling in the NLDS. The San Francisco Giants posted a 79–83 record, missing the playoffs for the third straight year. Meanwhile, the Arizona Diamondbacks (76–86) and Colorado Rockies (66–96) continued their rebuilds.

Sports Talk California

What Each Team Needs to Win in 2026

Dodgers:

  • Left field upgrade is a priority. They’re targeting Kyle Tucker and possibly reuniting with Cody Bellinger4.
  • Bullpen depth and a backup catcher are also on the shopping list.
  • With most of their core returning, they’re focused on filling gaps rather than overhauling.

Padres:

  • Need rotation depth behind Musgrove and Darvish.
  • Bullpen reinforcements and a consistent center fielder are key.
  • Could pursue Japanese star Munetaka Murakami to boost offense.

Giants:

  • Desperate for middle-of-the-order power and a frontline starter.
  • May chase Jordan Montgomery or Lucas Giolito, and explore trades for a slugger.
  • Internal pressure is mounting to return to contention.

Diamondbacks:

  • Focused on developing young arms and adding a veteran bat.
  • Could be active in the second-tier free agent market.

Rockies:

  • Rebuilding mode continues.
  • Need pitching, defense, and leadership, but unlikely to make major splashes.

Projected 2026 NL West Finish

  • Dodgers remain the favorite with elite depth and postseason experience.
  • Padres could challenge if they land a big bat and stabilize their rotation.
  • Giants are a wild card—if they hit on offseason moves, they could surge.
  • Diamondbacks will hover near .500, with upside from young talent.
  • Rockies likely finish last again unless their prospects accelerate.

The NL West remains one of MLB’s most competitive divisions, but the Dodgers’ dynasty is far from over.