As the MLB season approaches the two-month mark, we’re beginning to see a clearer picture of which teams are contenders and which are not. Several surprises have emerged, both at the team and individual levels, igniting excitement for fans across the league. Here’s a look at ten of the most remarkable developments in the 2025 season so far.
Aaron Judge continues to astound as he hits a staggering .398, flirting with a .400 batting average deep into May. The reigning AL MVP leads the majors in key offensive categories, including homers (18) and hits (80), and is on course to break Babe Ruth’s single-season record for total bases, last achieved in 1921.
The St. Louis Cardinals have also been a pleasant surprise, overcoming low expectations to sit just one game outside of a wild-card spot. Despite not having a player with 10 homers, the team’s run differential of plus-40 indicates they are competing effectively. Key performances from NL hits leader Brendan Donovan and pitcher Matthew Liberatore signal a rejuvenation for the team that was believed to be in a rebuilding phase.
The American League Central has turned the traditional hierarchy on its head, with three teams potentially qualifying for the playoffs. The Detroit Tigers are leading the charge with the best record in the AL, while the Minnesota Twins have made strides with a recent impressive stretch. Meanwhile, the AL East, once deemed the powerhouse division, has faltered, with only the Yankees and the Rays above .500.
Nathan Eovaldi, the 35-year-old pitcher, has made a notable resurgence, placing himself in the AL Cy Young conversation with the league’s lowest WHIP and impressive strikeout rates. His transformation into a frontline starter has become a key asset for his team.
On a contrasting note, the Baltimore Orioles face a season filled with disappointment, resulting in a managerial firing. Struggling offensively and suffering from poor pitching, they hold one of the worst records in the league, presenting a stark contrast to their anticipated success.
In Detroit, Javier Báez has finally begun to deliver on his potential after a challenging few years, significantly improving his performance and sense of vitality on the field. His resurgence could lead to recognition as the AL Comeback Player of the Year, demonstrating that sometimes players can turn things around against the odds.
The Atlanta Braves have had a rocky start, initially looking like playoff contenders but now grappling with injuries and late-game struggles. Despite being closer to .500, historical statistics indicate that teams starting the season 0-7 rarely make the playoffs. However, the health of key players brings a glimmer of hope.
The Colorado Rockies are experiencing an extraordinary downturn, posting the worst record through 50 games since 1895. Despite a change in management, the team’s performance has not improved significantly, suggesting they might be in for a long season ahead.
On a positive note, the New York Mets, despite facing key injuries in their rotation, have seen their pitching staff excel, leading the league with the lowest ERA. Their resilience on the mound has kept them competitive in the NL East, showcasing the depth of their roster.
Lastly, rookie sensation Pete Crow-Armstrong has exceeded expectations, leading the NL in fWAR and shaping up to potentially reach impressive milestone seasons for the Cubs. With a blend of speed and stellar defense, the future looks bright for this young star and his team.
The 2025 MLB season continues to deliver surprises and hopeful storylines, with plenty of games left to be played as teams strive to secure their places in the postseason.