Dodgers Favored for Three-Peat, But History Suggests Caution

Jeff Passan declares LA the biggest World Series favorites in 25 years, but past precedents show October randomness can't be ignored.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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The Los Angeles Dodgers are coming off back-to-back World Series titles and have further bolstered their roster by signing star outfielder Kyle Tucker and closer Edwin Diaz. Top baseball writer Jeff Passan believes the Dodgers are the biggest World Series favorites he's seen in 25 years of covering the sport. However, the article cautions that while the Dodgers are undoubtedly talented, historical precedents suggest that October randomness and unpredictability can't be ignored, as evidenced by the 2022 Dodgers team that won 111 games in the regular season but was eliminated in the NLDS.

Why it matters

The Dodgers' quest for a three-peat championship has major implications for the sport, as their dominance has led to increased calls for a salary cap from owners. Their ability to assemble a historically talented roster also raises questions about parity and the randomness of the MLB postseason.

The details

The Dodgers have brought back their core championship group while adding superstars like Tucker and Diaz. Their depth, with players like River Ryan and Justin Wrobelski, is a key part of their roster construction. However, the article notes that even the most talented teams can falter in the playoffs, pointing to the 2023 Padres as an example of a star-studded team that missed the postseason.

  • The 2026 MLB season is set to begin in just three weeks.
  • The Dodgers won the World Series in 2020, 2025, and 2026.

The players

Los Angeles Dodgers

The reigning back-to-back World Series champions, who have further bolstered their roster with the additions of Kyle Tucker and Edwin Diaz.

Jeff Passan

A top baseball writer who has covered the sport for nearly 25 years and believes the Dodgers are the biggest World Series favorites he's seen in that time.

Blake Snell

A Dodgers starting pitcher who is expected to start the 2026 season on the injured list.

River Ryan

A Dodgers player who is expected to step into the rotation if needed, according to Passan.

Justin Wrobelski

Another Dodgers player who provides depth and talent, according to Passan.

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What they’re saying

“They have won two straight World Series. They are bringing back their catcher, first baseman, second baseman, shortstop, third baseman, left fielder, center fielder. They signed their right fielder for $60 million a year in Kyle Tucker, and brought in arguably the best closer in baseball in Edwin Diaz.”

— Jeff Passan, Baseball Writer (outkick.com)

“Even though Blake Snell is probably not going to start the season in the rotation, you can look at a guy like River Ryan coming back from elbow surgery, able to step right in...Justin Wrobelski. They are talented, they are lethal, and they are deep. And it's a crazy combination when you see what the Dodgers have.”

— Jeff Passan, Baseball Writer (outkick.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.