Full MLB Playoff Predictions from Wild Card Through World Series

Now that we've all had a chance to catch our breath since the MLB trade deadline, we get to see just how all these deals pan out.

From Zack Greinke to Hanley Ramirez, big-name players could be the difference between winning a division, taking home field in the postseason or squaring off in a one-game playoff as a wild-card team.

There is still plenty of baseball to decide who ends up playing in October, but the early returns give us some indications of things to come.

A number of teams are in contention for the two wild-card spots in each league. But here are predictions of what could unfold this fall if we're given these matchups.

AL Wild Card: Detroit Tigers vs. Oakland Athletics

The Oakland Athletics have been one of the more surprising stories in baseball this season as they find themselves contending in the competitive AL West after a significant offseason sell-off.

Even though they're certainly well-versed in facing tough competition, the likes of Miguel Cabrera and Prince Fielder in the batter's box combined with the possibility of Justin Verlander toeing the rubber in a wild-card playoff could be too much to overcome.

Winner: Detroit Tigers

NL Wild Card: Atlanta Braves vs. Pittsburgh Pirates

Another one of baseball's best stories in 2012, the Pittsburgh Pirates have come out of nowhere and appear poised to make their first postseason appearance in two decades.

With Andrew McCutchen setting the standard for offense in baseball this season, the Pirates may just have what it takes to work their way into a division series matchup.

Winner: Pittsburgh Pirates

ALDS 1: New York Yankees vs. Detroit Tigers

Coming off of a loss to the Detroit Tigers in last year's ALDS, the New York Yankees would certainly have payback on their minds if they ended up squaring off again.

A matchup between the teams should test both lineups to the fullest extent. The Tigers boast a powerful lineup with Prince Fielder and Miguel Cabrera, and the Yankees counter with Derek Jeter and Robinson Cano, among others.

In the end, the Tigers' offense could prove to be too much if it is clicking in the hitter-friendly confines of Yankee Stadium.

Winner: Detroit Tigers in five

ALDS 2: Texas Rangers vs. Chicago White Sox

The Chicago White Sox have surpassed expectations for much of the 2012 season. They have had the early favorite Detroit Tigers chasing them in the AL Central.

With A.J. Pierzynski coming on and Paul Konerko and Adam Dunn blowing up pitchers, they'll give the Rangers all they can handle.

In the end, however, the Rangers also have a stacked lineup. If their pitching is on and Josh Hamilton shows up, they could be on their way to another league championship series.

Winner: Texas Rangers in four

NLDS 1: Washington Nationals vs. Pittsburgh Pirates

This matchup pits two of the most surprising teams in baseball.

As the Nationals decide how many innings Stephen Strasburg will be allowed to pitch, we need to keep in mind that their decision could have serious implications when the playoffs do get underway.

Having Strasburg in the rotation along with Gio Gonzalez and Edwin Jackson would go a long way toward getting the Nationals one step closer to a surprising World Series appearance.

Winner: Washington Nationals in four

NLDS 2: Cincinnati Reds vs. Los Angeles Dodgers

2012 has been an extremely active year for the Los Angeles Dodgers, as the team finds itself with new owners and a number of new players.

Hanley Ramirez's addition will make them a favorite down the stretch, and their ability to get more deals done down to the wire this July has shown just how committed they are to succeeding, and doing it now.

The Cincinnati Reds put a strong product on the field as well, but in the end it'd be hard to bet against the Dodgers in this matchup.

Winner: Los Angeles Dodgers in five

ALCS: Detroit Tigers vs. Texas Rangers

After coming ever so close to a World Series appearance a year ago, the Detroit Tigers were no doubt looking to decipher what it would take to get them over the hump in 2012.

They may have found their answer in slugger Prince Fielder.

He's added a strong element to the lineup, and with reigning AL MVP and Cy Young winner Justin Verlander heading up the rotation, they may have a chance to get past the Rangers this time around.

Winner: Detroit Tigers in six

NLCS: Washington Nationals vs. Los Angeles Dodgers

An NLCS matchup featuring the Los Angeles Dodgers and Washington Nationals would be a showcase for two of the game's best young pitchers, with Clayton Kershaw and Stephen Strasburg leading their respective staffs.

Both teams have strong offenses, and though the Nationals boast another young gem in Bryce Harper, the Dodgers have a balanced enough attack to take advantage in a series that gets drawn out to the limit.

Winner: Los Angeles Dodgers in seven

World Series: Detroit Tigers vs. Los Angeles Dodgers

Awaiting the final destination of Albert Pujols may have been the most intriguing topic of last year's offseason. But in the end, it could be Prince Fielder who makes the difference when the Fall Classic rolls around.

Justin Verlander doesn't have the strongest postseason resume, with a 3-3 record and ERA north of 5.50, so he'll no doubt be looking for redemption.

As mentioned earlier, the Los Angeles Dodgers have invested a great deal into the success of their franchise, in both the long term and short term. So Matt Kemp and company will certainly give it their best effort.

But in the end, the Tigers could be the last team standing if they peak at the right time.

Winner: Detroit Tigers in seven