Early Season MLB Report: Identifying Top Performers And Struggling Teams (2025)

Aria Freeman

6 min read

Post on May 14, 2025

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Top Offensive Performers: Early Season MVP Candidates

This year's offensive surge has produced some exciting early season MVP candidates. We're seeing both expected powerhouses delivering and some unexpected breakout stars stealing the show.

Unexpected Breakout Stars

Several players have significantly exceeded preseason projections, captivating fans and fantasy baseball managers alike.

• Juan Soto, New York Mets: Soto's move to the Mets seems to have revitalized his career. With a .360 batting average, 8 home runs, and 25 RBIs in the first month, his on-base percentage is through the roof. Analysts credit his improved approach at the plate and the supportive Mets clubhouse. His high OPS (.987) solidifies his position as a top contender for the MVP.
• Bobby Witt Jr., Kansas City Royals: Witt Jr. is showcasing improved plate discipline and more consistent power, leading to a significant increase in his overall offensive production. His .320 batting average, 7 home runs, and 18 RBIs are a testament to his hard work and development. His improved approach against different pitching styles has greatly increased his effectiveness and his fantasy value.
• Julio Rodríguez, Seattle Mariners: Rodríguez is building on his already impressive 2024 season with even more power and consistency. His 9 home runs and .315 batting average have placed him at the top of the league's early-season leaders. His speed on the basepaths also makes him a valuable asset to his team.

These are just a few examples of players exceeding expectations, demonstrating the unpredictable nature of the MLB season and impacting fantasy baseball rankings significantly.

Consistent Powerhouses Delivering

While some players are surprising us, others are delivering exactly as expected – and sometimes even better.

• Shohei Ohtani, Los Angeles Angels: Ohtani continues to defy expectations, leading the league in both home runs (12) and RBIs (30) while simultaneously maintaining a stellar pitching performance. His combination of power and pitching dominance is truly unique in baseball history. His consistent performance makes him a guaranteed fantasy baseball pick.
• Mookie Betts, Los Angeles Dodgers: Betts is proving once again why he is among the game's elite. His .340 batting average, 6 home runs, and 20 RBIs demonstrates his reliable performance. His consistent excellence in all facets of the game remains a cornerstone for the Dodgers and a valuable pick in fantasy leagues.
• Freddie Freeman, Atlanta Braves: Freeman’s batting average of .330, 7 home runs, and 22 RBIs speaks to his continued status as one of the best hitters in baseball. His consistency makes him a key element for the Braves' success and a dependable player in fantasy baseball lineups.

Pitching Dominance: Cy Young Contenders and Unexpected Gems

Pitching is shaping up to be just as captivating as the offensive side of the game this season.

Ace Pitchers Leading the Charge

Several starting pitchers are dominating the league, exhibiting impressive command and pinpoint accuracy.

• Shane McClanahan, Tampa Bay Rays: McClanahan has quickly established himself as a Cy Young contender. His low ERA (1.85) and high strikeout numbers (75 in 5 starts) are testaments to his dominance on the mound. His consistent performance positions him as a top pick in fantasy baseball drafts and among the most elite pitchers in the MLB this season.
• Gerrit Cole, New York Yankees: Cole’s consistent excellence continues with a 2.10 ERA and 62 strikeouts in his first 5 starts. His exceptional control and ability to consistently generate strikeouts makes him a force to be reckoned with. Cole's impact on the game demonstrates why he's a consistently high draft pick for many fantasy baseball players.
• Blake Snell, San Diego Padres: Snell is showing improved control and strikeout numbers this year. His 2.00 ERA and 68 strikeouts are incredibly impressive, solidifying his position as a top Cy Young candidate. His high strikeout rate and consistent ability to limit runs makes him a valuable fantasy baseball asset.

Relief Pitchers Making a Difference

The bullpens are also showcasing some exceptional talent that's proving crucial for team success.

• Liam Hendriks, Chicago White Sox: Hendriks’s early-season performance has been phenomenal, registering 6 saves already, a low ERA, and high strikeout numbers. His experience and dominance in high-pressure situations make him a key figure in the White Sox bullpen.
• Josh Hader, New York Mets: Hader's combination of velocity and pinpoint control has made him nearly untouchable, leading to a remarkable save count and a very low ERA. His consistent ability to close out games makes him an invaluable asset.
• Emmanuel Clase, Cleveland Guardians: Clase maintains his status as one of baseball’s most dominant closers. His high strikeout rate and ability to consistently induce weak contact highlight his value as a key reliever.

These pitchers represent the high-caliber talent impacting the game's outcome and fantasy baseball leagues.

Struggling Teams and Potential Turnarounds

The early season also highlights some teams underperforming and others exceeding expectations.

Underperforming Powerhouses

Several teams predicted to contend are facing early-season struggles.

• Los Angeles Dodgers: Despite their star-studded lineup, the Dodgers are showing some vulnerabilities in their pitching rotation and inconsistent hitting. Roster moves may be necessary to address these issues and improve their standing. Their defensive capabilities are also being questioned this year.
• Houston Astros: The Astros, while still a competitive team, are experiencing a dip in their usual offensive production. Improved pitching consistency could be a key factor in their turnaround.
• New York Yankees: The Yankees are struggling with inconsistent pitching and a lack of timely hitting. Strategic adjustments to both pitching and hitting strategies are needed to improve their performance.

These teams need to address their key weaknesses to improve their chances of a successful season.

Surprise Underdogs Showing Promise

Several teams are exceeding expectations early on.

• Baltimore Orioles: The Orioles are displaying excellent team chemistry and strong pitching, exceeding expectations with a surprisingly strong start to the season. Their consistent performance across all areas of the game makes them a formidable opponent.
• Texas Rangers: The Rangers are demonstrating a strong offensive and defensive performance, with key players stepping up to lead the team's efforts. Their success is attributed to improved team chemistry and tactical adjustments.
• Milwaukee Brewers: The Brewers are showcasing effective pitching and timely hitting, leading to a more impressive record than projected. Their strategy and cohesive teamwork are essential to their success.

These teams are proving that strong team dynamics and consistent gameplay can lead to significant early-season success.

Conclusion

This early season MLB report has highlighted the top performers and struggling teams, providing insights into unexpected successes and disappointing performances. We've analyzed key stats and provided analysis on potential turnarounds. Many early-season surprises showcase both individual talent and team dynamics impacting the standings. Several players are demonstrating significant improvements in their individual game as well as their contribution to their teams’ overall success.

Call to Action: Stay tuned for our next early season MLB report for continued updates on top performers and struggling teams, and continue to follow the exciting 2025 MLB season! Keep checking back for more in-depth analysis and fantasy baseball advice!