Deep Analysis of Early Disappointments in MLB 2025
As the baseball season progresses, it’s time to analyze the major disappointments that have marked the beginning of the 2025 campaign. Although there’s still a lot of season left, we can already evaluate the performance of players and teams that haven’t met expectations. Below, we present an analysis of the most outstanding situations, determining whether the problems are real or not.
Players Under the Spotlight
Juan Soto: Does the $765 Million Player Deliver?
Juan Soto, the New York Mets star, has not shown the expected performance. With a batting average of .233, 11 home runs, and 30 RBIs in 60 games, his numbers are acceptable, but not for a player with his salary. Despite some highlights, such as home runs against the Rockies and Clayton Kershaw, Soto has struggled.
Statcast analysis reveals that bad luck might be influencing his results. His batting average and slugging projections are below expectations, and his 2025 numbers are lower than those of 2024. Several powerful hits that did not turn into hits have been recorded, suggesting that luck has not been on his side.
- April 30: Line drive to right field with a speed of 112.7 mph, caught by the outfielder.
- April 13: Fly ball to shortstop with a speed of 112.4 mph, caught after bouncing off the glove.
- May 7: Line drive to center field with a speed of 110.2 mph.
- May 27: Spectacular catch in center field with a speed of 109.9 mph.
- May 9: Fly ball catch with a speed of 106.5 mph.
- April 30: Fly ball to left field with a speed of 106 mph.
- May 4: Stolen home run in center field with a speed of 105.9 mph.
- April 1: Line drive to center field with a speed of 104.8 mph.
- May 21: Fly ball to the warning track in left field with a speed of 104.7 mph.
- April 29: Line drive to center field with a speed of 104 mph.
- April 6: Easy catch in right field with a speed of 103.2 mph.
- May 24: Catch on the warning track with a speed of 102.5 mph.
- May 4: Fly ball to the warning track in left field with a speed of 102 mph.
- May 4: Catch at the right field fence with a speed of 99.7 mph.
Although there have been some spectacular catches and notable defensive plays, the impact of bad luck is evident. Soto’s production in terms of fly balls has decreased compared to 2024. His expected numbers suggest that the actual production should improve, and the Mets could benefit greatly if Soto regains his form.
Verdict: Not Real
Despite the criticism, Soto has potential to improve. The Mets are confident that his performance will rebound, and the offense could become very dangerous if Soto regains his level.
Willy Adames and Anthony Santander: Failed Signings?
Willy Adames, with a seven-year, $182 million contract with the San Francisco Giants, is batting .203 with a low WAR. Anthony Santander, with a five-year, $92.5 million contract with the Blue Jays, is also showing low performance. Both players have similar profiles: hitters with a low average, with some offensive instability and defensive concerns. Adames could lose his shortstop position, and Santander has been at designated hitter longer. Santander is on the injured list due to shoulder inflammation.Verdict: Not Real
It’s premature to rule them out, but their contracts seem risky. In Santander’s case, injuries could affect their performance. Adames faces challenges, and time will tell if he can exceed expectations.Tanner Scott: Is He No Longer an Elite Reliever?
Tanner Scott, with a four-year, $72 million contract with the Dodgers, has underperformed. His ERA is 4.55, with a batting average of .260 and an OPS of .727. His pitch velocity has decreased, and his strikeout rate has also gone down.
Verdict: Real
Relievers can have ups and downs. Scott is still a good reliever, but he hasn’t maintained the level of dominance shown previously.
Sandy Alcantara: A Failed Trade Target?
Sandy Alcantara returns from Tommy John surgery, but his 7.89 effectiveness and low WAR are concerning. His command has been problematic, especially against left-handed hitters.Verdict: Not Real
Alcantara’s struggles are detrimental to the Marlins, who were hoping to get value in a possible trade. He will need a string of good performances to increase his value.
Team Analysis
The Baltimore Orioles: A Foretold Disaster?
The Orioles have suffered from injuries in the starting rotation, underperformance of key players, and a bullpen that hasn’t responded. After a season of 101 wins in 2023 and 91 in 2024, a season with around 100 losses would be disappointing.Verdict: Real
It’s likely too late for the Orioles to turn things around. The lack of pitching depth suggests they are unlikely to reach the playoffs.
Texas Rangers and Atlanta Braves Offenses: Out of the Running?
The Rangers’ and Braves’ offenses have diminished their performance. The Rangers, with a struggling offense and a lower runs-per-game average, have wasted good pitching. The Braves, though marginally better, are not displaying the feared offense of 2023.
Verdict: Real
The Rangers could see a regression in their pitching, and the lack of getting on base is a key problem. The Braves, with problems in their offense, need to improve to have a chance.Diamondbacks Pitching: Can They Recover?
The Diamondbacks, with one of the best offenses, are behind in the National League West Division due to pitching problems. The rotation has suffered, and the bullpen also faces difficulties.
Verdict: Not Real
The situation could change, but Burnes’ injury and bullpen issues complicate matters.
