The Passan Awards 2025: Celebrating the Highlights of the MLB Season
Two months after the revelation of the winners for Most Valuable Player, Cy Young, and Rookie of the Year, it’s the perfect time to honor the most exciting aspects of the 2025 MLB season. The third annual Passan Awards seek to recognize the most enjoyable aspects of the season, highlighting even those who don’t reach the top.
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The Passan Awards 2025: Celebrating the Highlights of the MLB SeasonBadonkadonk of the Year: Cal RaleighSlugger of the Year: Kyle SchwarberBase Thief of the Year: Juan SotoBest Unknown Player: Geraldo PerdomoIndividual Performance of the Year: Nick KurtzMost Disgusting Release of the Year: Jacob MisiorowskiGame of the Year: Pirates vs. Rockies“Chicken-and-Beer” Award for Most Spectacular Collapse: New York MetsTransaction of the Year: Red Sox Acquire Garrett CrochetThe Tickle Me Elmo Award: Torpedo BatSomething we’ll be talking about in 50 years: The Rockies’ career differential
Badonkadonk of the Year: Cal Raleigh
The award couldn’t be for anyone else. Cal Raleigh, the best catcher in MLB, a hero who bats from both sides of the plate, winner of the Platinum Glove and who punishes home runs. Nicknamed “Big Dumper”, for his imposing physique, Raleigh has had a stellar season. Raleigh is competing for the AL MVP. He has the numbers to back up his candidacy, including being the home run king of 2025 and playing the most important position in the game. His performance has led the Seattle Mariners to the brink of their first West Division title since 2001.Slugger of the Year: Kyle Schwarber
Kyle Schwarber, the designated hitter for the Philadelphia Phillies, has proven to be a demigod of the three true outcomes. He leads the National League in home runs and has had memorable moments, such as his performance in the All-Star Game, where he won the swing-off with three consecutive home runs. Despite not being recognized as an MVP due to his low batting average, Schwarber is an exceptional slugger, ready to shine in October. His ability to hit home runs and the energy of the fans make him a fearsome player.Base Thief of the Year: Juan Soto
The biggest surprise of the 2025 season: Juan Soto leads MLB in stolen bases in the second half. With 35 stolen bases, he almost triples his previous record. Soto, known for his power and plate patience, has shown that speed isn’t the only factor in stealing bases. This achievement highlights the effectiveness of the new rules and the audacity of Soto, who, after signing the largest contract in the history of the sport, has actively sought a more complete version of himself.Best Unknown Player: Geraldo Perdomo
Geraldo Perdomo, the shortstop for the Arizona Diamondbacks, has had an outstanding season. His numbers, including a high batting average and on-base percentage, position him as a key player. Perdomo is at the top of the WAR statistics and proves to be a reliable player on the field, despite not being the most well-known star on the team.Individual Performance of the Year: Nick Kurtz
Nick Kurtz, the A’s rookie, had a historic game against the Houston Astros. He hit a single, a double, and four home runs, tying a record. His performance could earn him the American League Rookie of the Year award and positions him in the MVP voting.Most Disgusting Release of the Year: Jacob Misiorowski
Jacob Misiorowski, the Brewers pitcher, has made an impact with his slider at an average speed of 94.1 mph. His pitch has left batters astonished, as demonstrated by the strikeout he delivered to Mookie Betts. This release, combined with its speed and movement, represents an evolution in the world of baseball.Game of the Year: Pirates vs. Rockies
The game between the Pirates and the Rockies was an encounter full of emotions. A game that began with an unusual nine-run rally in the first inning. Despite having teams with low performance, both teams offered an unforgettable spectacle, culminating with a home run by Brenton Doyle in the ninth inning.“Chicken-and-Beer” Award for Most Spectacular Collapse: New York Mets
The New York Mets, after a promising start, suffered a significant collapse, going from leaders to being out of the postseason. This decline was characterized by inconsistent performance in all aspects of the game. The lack of results and the reliance on young players to salvage the season are a sign of the failure of a team with a large investment.Transaction of the Year: Red Sox Acquire Garrett Crochet
The acquisition of Garrett Crochet by the Red Sox is the most impactful transaction of the year. Crochet, who leads MLB in strikeouts and the American League in innings pitched, has transformed the Red Sox’s rotation. Although the deal was risky, both parties benefit.The Tickle Me Elmo Award: Torpedo Bat
The torpedo bat promised to revolutionize baseball, but it did not achieve the expected impact. Although some players use it, it did not adapt to all batting styles. Innovation in sports is constant, and the torpedo bat is an example of the search for new tools.
