With approximately 50 games remaining on each Major League Baseball team's regular-season schedule, a list of best-case scenarios for teams around the league has been compiled. Theoretically, the best-case scenario for any team is to win every remaining game. While that may seem improbable, the Colorado Rockies are still weeks away from being mathematically eliminated from the playoffs, and the Milwaukee Brewers could set a historical precedent with a potential 118 wins. However, it is essential to approach these 'best-case scenarios' with a realistic perspective: the dozen teams with at least a 60 percent chance of making the playoffs are striving for a No. 1 seed, while those in the four percent to 60 percent range are hoping to remain competitive as October approaches. The ten teams currently out of playoff contention are focusing on building for a better 2026 season.

In the AL East, the Baltimore Orioles (51-63) are looking for positive outcomes from their injured pitchers Grayson Rodriguez, Kyle Bradish, and Tyler Wells. All three are crucial components of the team's long-term pitching strategy, with contracts extending at least through 2027. Both Bradish and Wells are nearing returns from Tommy John surgery, but Rodriguez's availability remains uncertain. Determining which of these pitchers can stabilize the rotation for 2026 would significantly aid the team's plans for the offseason. Meanwhile, the Boston Red Sox (64-51) aim to maintain their momentum, having surged from two games below .500 on July 4 to 13 games above by August 5. They have seen impressive performances from Jarren Duran, Roman Anthony, and Trevor Story, while their bullpen has transformed into a formidable force. The Red Sox remain in contention for the best record in the American League, even after an underwhelming approach to the trade deadline.

The New York Yankees (60-54) are focused on getting Aaron Judge healthy to reverse their fortunes this season. While many fans express skepticism about manager Aaron Boone, there remains time for the team to recover. Judge's return to the lineup could help rekindle the Yankees' offensive prowess, especially with solid performances from pitchers Max Fried and Carlos Rodón in the early part of the season. The Tampa Bay Rays (56-59) face challenges as they navigate a potential team sale worth $1.7 billion while sustaining a dismal record over their last 32 games. Despite their recent struggles, the Rays are hopeful that a return from pitcher Shane McClanahan could provide a spark as they work to evaluate their short- and long-term plans for the franchise. The Toronto Blue Jays (67-48) are aiming to secure the AL East title for just the second time in over three decades, hoping that the addition of Shane Bieber will help fortify their pitching staff as they’ve experienced a need for improvement across the board.