MLB 2025: Pitching dominance or offensive crisis? Analysis and statistics

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MLB Batting in 2025: An In-Depth Analysis

The 2025 MLB regular season has revealed a notable trend in hitter performance, marking a significant shift in the game. The disparity between the National and American leagues is evident, with a concentration of standout hitters in the latter. In the American League, several players achieved impressive averages, surpassing the .300 barrier. On the other hand, in the National League, only one player reached this mark.

Best Hitters

  • Aaron Judge – NYY – .331
  • Bo Bichette – TOR – .311
  • Jacob Wilson – OAK – .311
  • George Springer – TOR – .309
  • Jeremy Peña – HOU – .304
  • Trea Turner – PHI – .304 (only one from the National League)
  • Yandy Díaz – TB – .300

Impact on the League

This situation reflects a transformation in modern baseball. Traditionally, batting averages of .300 were common among several players per league; today they have become a statistical rarity. In the American League, offensive power remains prominent, with figures maintaining high averages. However, in the National League, the decrease is notable, with most batters hovering between .260 and .290. This influences how teams build their rosters, prioritizing power, speed, and plate discipline over the classic contact hitter.

Key Factors

Several factors contribute to this evolution:

  • Mastery of Modern Pitching: Average speeds exceeding 95 mph, increased use of breaking pitches and changes of speed with high precision, and the “bullpen game” that confronts hitters against constantly fresh pitchers.
  • Evolution of Statistical Analysis: The “launch angle” and “power swing” generate more home runs, but also more strikeouts. Slugging and OPS are prioritized over batting average.
  • Greater Defensive Discipline: Although the “shift” was limited, teams employ new intelligent defensive formations.
  • Training and Adaptation: Hitters must adjust their preparation to the increasingly sophisticated pitching, seeking to balance contact and power without sacrificing productivity.

Conclusion: Game Changer?

What happens in MLB goes beyond just hitters not hitting. It’s a reflection of a transformed game:
  • Pitchers are more complete and better prepared.
  • Hitters have modified their approach towards power.
  • The .300 average is no longer the norm, but the exception, and reaching that figure today is a sign of absolute elite.

Current baseball values impact more than consistency. Therefore, batting .300 in 2025 is an extraordinary achievement.

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