This is how the current National League playoff picture looks entering play on Friday:
National League 1: Milwaukee Brewers
Jul 21, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Milwaukee Brewers second baseman Brice Turang (2) hits a double against the Seattle Mariners during the sixth inning at T-Mobile Park. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images
The Brewers have been the hottest team in all of baseball and have their largest division lead of the season.
National League 2: Philadelphia Phillies
Jun 27, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Philadelphia Phillies catcher J.T. Realmuto (10) signs autographs for fans during a rain delay before a game against the Atlanta Braves at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images
The Phillies have taken over top spot in the division and continue to get better as the season progresses.
National League 3: San Diego Padres
Jul 20, 2025; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; San Diego Padres third baseman Manny Machado (13) tosses his bat after drawing a walk against the Washington Nationals during the second inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
The Padres have taken advantage of the Dodgers struggles and have taken over top spot in the NL West.
NL Wild Card 1: Chicago Cubs
Jul 15, 2025; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; National League outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong (4) of the Chicago Cubs hits a double during the second inning during the 2025 MLB All Star Game at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
The Cubs started the season strong and have played well all year. They did lose their top spot in the divison though, because the Brewers have been the best team in the league.
NL Wild Card 2: Los Angeles Dodgers
Jun 20, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw (22) reacts during the fifth inning against the Washington Nationals at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
The Dodgers have one of the best rosters in the league, so despite their recent struggles, they are still seemingly a lock for the playoffs.
NL Wild Card 3:New York Mets
Mar 28, 2025; Houston, TX, USA; New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor (12) smiles during the game against the Houston Astros at Daikin Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
The Mets have dealt with key injuries to their rotation, and Juan Soto started the season slowly, but the Mets have gotten some starters back on the mound and Soto has been raking. Still, they have struggled lately and have seen the Phillies take over the division from them.
By Louis Friedl 
Angel Atienza-Romero