As the 2026 MLB regular season winds down, ESPN asked 16 executives and scouts who are the teams to beat in each league. In the NL, the Milwaukee Brewers got 6 votes, followed by the Los Angeles Dodgers (5), Philadelphia Phillies (4), and Chicago Cubs (1). Voters cited Milwaukee's pitching, especially Jacob Misiorowski and Logan Henderson. An NL scout said, "The Brewers' offense -- especially at home -- can hang with anyone." An NL executive added, "I like the Brewers. Their young players don't ever seem fazed by the moment."

The Phillies are seen as a big threat. An AL executive said, "I'm not betting against [Cristopher] Sanchez, [Zack] Wheeler and [Jesus] Luzardo -- not to mention Bryce and [Kyle] Schwarber." The Dodgers also have support. An NL executive said, "I'm not picking against the Dodgers. They've played it perfectly this year... As long as they get a bye, they're in great shape." The Cubs got one vote, praised for being first in offense and defense.