Who are MLB's teams to beat this October -- and who could take them down? Execs, insiders weigh in
Briefly

Who are MLB's teams to beat this October -- and who could take them down? Execs, insiders weigh in
"The MLB playoffs are just around the corner and shaping up to be a wide-open affair. For the second consecutive season, there is not a single team on pace to win 100 or more games. That means there is plenty of parity across the majors, which is bound to carry over to October."
"All three teams can slug their way to the World Series, but the Dodgers have a distinct advantage in the power game, outhomering both Philadelphia and Milwaukee by a wide margin this regular season. However, Philly employs easily the best closer of the three -- a crucial element that could help finish off those tight October games."
"They seem like a team that has a really solid plan and cohesive approach. And they seem like they're on the same page. I just like how they play. And they've done it all year; why can't they keep it going?"
"They still have to figure out the back end of their pen, but in a short series, they have the luxury of sending one of their good starters to the bullpen. And they might just"
Postseason projections show considerable parity across MLB, with no team on pace for 100 wins. Nineteen baseball players, executives and scouts provided picks for the teams to beat in both leagues, producing split results in the National League. Vote totals included Phillies five, Dodgers four, Padres two and Mets one. The Brewers emerged as the poll favorite based on consistent performance, balanced strengths and a deep, healthy starting staff. The Dodgers lead in raw power, Philadelphia boasts the top closer, and short-series strategy could allow starters to be used in bullpen roles.
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