Ever the laughingstock of MLB divisions, the AL Central surprisingly birthed three playoff teams last season. The 2025 AL Central odds project another year of strong competition.
The Tigers (+225) and Twins (+225) are favored to win the division, with the Guardians (+275) and Royals (+275) not far behind on the odds board. The White Sox, baseball’s worst squad, is +30,000 to win the AL Central.
AL Central Odds
| Team | Odds to win AL Central |
|---|---|
| Minnesota Twins | +225 |
| Detroit Tigers | +225 |
| Cleveland Guardians | +275 |
| Kansas City Royals | +300 |
| Chicago White Sox | +30,000 |
Odds as of Feb. 28 at bet365
Minnesota Twins (+225)
The Twins’ offseason was… uninspiring. While their divisional rivals made moves to get better, Minnesota seemed content to sit on its hands, making only marginal tweaks to its roster. Sure, they still have Byron Buxton and Carlos Correa, but with Buxton’s health always a question mark and a pitching staff that lacks top-end talent, this team feels more like a placeholder than a contender. Banking on internal improvements might not be enough in such a competitive division.
Detroit Tigers (+225)
The Tigers are trending upward under A.J. Hinch’s guidance. Young stars like Riley Greene and Spencer Torkelson are coming into their own, and Jack Flaherty makes a nice addition to a strong rotation anchored by reigning AL Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal. Detroit is finally emerging from its lengthy rebuild and looks like a legit threat to win the division. If the young core clicks, watch out.
Cleveland Guardians (+275)
It’s a familiar formula for Cleveland: elite pitching, a solid farm system, and just enough offense to keep things interesting. José Ramírez continues to carry the lineup, but the Guardians didn’t address their glaring need for power bats this offseason. With Shane Bieber and Triston McKenzie leading the rotation, Cleveland won’t roll over, but without run support, this team has a limited ceiling in 2025.
Kansas City Royals (+300)
The Royals are an intriguing contender this season. Bobby Witt Jr. is officially a premier talent, and the addition of Jonathan India bolsters their infield. Their young pitching staff has shown promise, and after winning a playoff series last year, the team carries newfound confidence and grit into 2025. Kansas City could surprise many and make a strong push for the division title.
Chicago White Sox (+30,000)
The White Sox are in a rebuilding phase after a dismal 2024 season, which saw them break the single-season loss record. The team has made minimal moves to improve, and expectations remain low for 2025. Fans should brace for another challenging year as the organization focuses on long-term development.
AL Central Odds & Pick: Royals (+300)
In a division lacking a clear frontrunner, the Royals offer compelling value at +300. Kansas City is well-positioned to capitalize on the uncertainties within the AL Central and its postseason experience from last year adds to their credibility as a legitimate contender for the division crown. Somehow, some way, the Royals will work their magic.
Last 10 AL Central Champions
| Year | AL Central Winner | Opening Day Odds |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Guardians | +375 |
| 2023 | Twins | +200 |
| 2022 | Guardians | +1000 |
| 2021 | White Sox | -125 |
| 2020 | Twins | -125 |
| 2019 | Twins | +320 |
| 2018 | Guardians | -415 |
| 2017 | Guardians | -380 |
| 2016 | Guardians | +185 |
| 2015 | Royals | +500 |
Teams with the Most AL Central Titles
| Team | Number of AL Central Titles | Most Recent AL Central Title |
|---|---|---|
| Cleveland Guardians | 12 | 2024 |
| Minnesota Twins | 9 | 2023 |
| Chicago White Sox | 4 | 2021 |
| Detroit Tigers | 4 | 2014 |
| Kansas City Royals | 1 | 2015 |
