Padres favored among four: predicting which MLB team is next to win its first World Series
Four franchises still waiting
The article says that, as of October 2026, four of MLB’s 30 teams have yet to win a World Series: the Rockies, Rays, Mariners and Padres. It notes that Colorado and Tampa Bay are among the league’s newest franchises, while the Rays are approaching their 30th season.
The piece contrasts Tampa Bay’s three World Series appearances since 2008 with the other three teams’ combined total of three. It also points out that Seattle has never won a pennant.
Tampa Bay’s mixed outlook
The Rays are described as having a potentially bright future because they are not burdened by bad contracts and unproductive players. However, the article criticizes Cash’s postseason decisions and doubts the team can win a championship while he manages in Tampa.
The Rays’ history includes three World Series appearances since 2008, according to the article. It also says the team had no winning record during its first 10 seasons.
Seattle and San Diego considered
Seattle is said to have a comparatively easier path because it does not share a division with the Dodgers. Still, the article questions whether the Mariners can sustain their performance, calling them a possible one-year success.
The Padres are also viewed as having significant challenges. The article highlights Fernando Tatis Jr. as an especially electric player, while referencing past concerns about his maturity and his 2022 PED suspension.
Rockies dismissed, Padres favored
The article is sharply pessimistic about Colorado, questioning whether the Rockies can approach a .500 record within the next decade. It says the club offers little reason for optimism beyond its stadium and uniforms.
Among the four teams, the article ultimately picks San Diego, while acknowledging that this is a qualified choice. It says a title in a potentially shortened 2027 season would still count as legitimate; the sportsbook odds mentioned in the piece are not specified.
Key points
- The article identifies the Rockies, Rays, Mariners and Padres as teams without a World Series title.
- It criticizes Kevin Cash’s postseason management but sees potential in Tampa Bay’s roster situation.
- Seattle has never won a pennant, while the Padres are the article’s preferred choice.
- The piece considers a title in a potentially shortened 2027 season legitimate.