As Major League Baseball (MLB) hits the midway point of the 2025 season, the excitement and intrigue surrounding the sport are at an all-time high. While some teams are exceeding expectations, others are falling short, and the race for postseason spots is becoming increasingly intense. With standout individual performances and thrilling storylines unfolding, we take a closer look at the key narratives shaping this year’s MLB season.
Breakout Stars: Who’s Shining in 2025?
Every season, new stars emerge to capture the imagination of fans, and 2025 is no exception. Here are a few players who are making a name for themselves in the first half of the season:
1. Julian Hernandez – New York Mets
After an up-and-down rookie campaign, 2025 has been a breakout year for 22-year-old Julian Hernandez. The Mets’ center fielder has not only been a standout defensively but has also emerged as a major offensive force, leading the team in batting average and stolen bases. His ability to change the game with his speed and bat has quickly turned him into one of the most exciting players in the league.
2. Noah Cardenas – Los Angeles Angels
The Angels’ catcher, Noah Cardenas, has quickly become one of the most complete young players in the league. With a combination of power, discipline at the plate, and exceptional game-calling behind the dish, Cardenas is shaping up to be a cornerstone player for the Angels’ future. If he continues his strong play, he could even find himself in the conversation for a Gold Glove and Silver Slugger at season’s end.
3. Jorge Morales – Chicago Cubs
Jorge Morales has been a revelation for the Cubs in 2025. The 24-year-old second baseman has been a consistent contributor at the plate, with an OPS above .900, and has provided stability on defense. His ability to hit for both power and average makes him one of the most dangerous players in the Cubs’ lineup and one of the league’s best-kept secrets.
Surprises and Disappointments: Teams Defying Expectations
As is always the case in a long MLB season, some teams are far outperforming their preseason projections, while others are falling short of their lofty expectations. Here’s a closer look at the teams making waves — both positively and negatively.
Surprise Team: Miami Marlins
The Miami Marlins have been one of the most surprising teams in 2025. Coming off a quiet offseason, many analysts had them pegged as a bottom-tier team, but their strong pitching staff and impressive performances from younger players have propelled them into playoff contention. With a strong core of pitchers led by ace Pablo Lopez and breakout seasons from players like outfielder Jonathan Davis, the Marlins could be a dark-horse contender for the postseason.
Disappointment: Boston Red Sox
The Boston Red Sox, on the other hand, have underperformed relative to expectations. Despite a strong lineup, the team’s pitching staff has been inconsistent, leading to a middling first half of the season. While stars like Rafael Devers and Trevor Story are producing, the lack of production from key pitchers like Chris Sale and the bullpen has held the team back. If they don’t figure out their pitching woes, the Red Sox could miss out on the playoffs in a tightly contested AL East division.
MVP Race: Who’s on Track for the Award?
With half of the 2025 season in the books, the race for the MVP award is heating up. A few standout players are separating themselves from the pack:
1. Shohei Ohtani – Los Angeles Angels
It’s no surprise that Shohei Ohtani is once again in the conversation for MVP. After another dominant first half of the season, Ohtani is doing it all for the Angels. His bat has been a key asset in the heart of the lineup, and his pitching has been just as elite. With a .300+ batting average, 25 home runs, and an ERA under 3.00, Ohtani continues to prove that he is one of the most valuable players in baseball history.
2. Juan Soto – San Diego Padres
After a somewhat slow start to his Padres career, Juan Soto has been on a tear in 2025. His combination of elite plate discipline and power has made him one of the most feared hitters in the game. Soto’s .410 on-base percentage and 30 home runs in the first half of the season have placed him firmly in the MVP conversation as he helps lead the Padres’ charge toward the playoffs.
3. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. – Toronto Blue Jays
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is back to his MVP-caliber form in 2025. With a monstrous first half that includes 28 home runs and a batting average above .330, Guerrero is leading the charge for the Blue Jays in the competitive AL East. His consistent production and leadership at the plate could earn him his first MVP trophy if he keeps up this level of performance.
Underperforming Teams: Which Clubs Are Struggling?
While some teams are thriving, others are facing a difficult 2025 campaign. A few teams that were expected to compete for playoff spots have yet to find their rhythm:
1. St. Louis Cardinals
The St. Louis Cardinals, who have historically been perennial contenders, have been struggling in 2025. Injuries have taken a toll, and despite strong individual performances from players like Paul Goldschmidt and Nolan Arenado, the team’s pitching staff has been their biggest weakness. With a rotation that has underperformed and the bullpen struggling, the Cardinals are at risk of missing the postseason unless they can turn things around in the second half.
2. Philadelphia Phillies
The Phillies are another team that has been disappointing so far in 2025. After making significant offseason additions, many expected the Phillies to challenge for a top spot in the NL East, but their inconsistent pitching and lackluster offensive performances from players like Bryce Harper and J.T. Realmuto have kept them from reaching their potential. If they can’t find consistency in the second half, the postseason may be out of reach.
The Race for the Postseason: Who’s in the Hunt?
As the second half of the season begins, the race for playoff spots is heating up. In both the American and National Leagues, several teams are jockeying for position:
American League Playoff Picture
- The Houston Astros continue to be a powerhouse in the AL West, but the Seattle Mariners are hot on their heels.
- The New York Yankees and Toronto Blue Jays are both fighting for the top spot in the AL East, with MVP candidate Vladimir Guerrero Jr. leading the charge for the Jays.
- In the AL Central, the Cleveland Guardians and Minnesota Twins are in a tight race, with Cleveland’s strong pitching staff giving them an edge.
National League Playoff Picture
- The Atlanta Braves remain one of the best teams in baseball, but the New York Mets and Philadelphia Phillies are both looking to close the gap in the NL East.
- In the NL Central, the Milwaukee Brewers are holding a slight lead over the Chicago Cubs, who are riding high on the strong play of their young talent.
- The Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres are on track for a thrilling NL West battle as both teams aim for the top seed in the National League.
Conclusion: What’s Next for the MLB in 2025?
With the season halfway through, the MLB is brimming with excitement as teams and players jockey for position in the race toward October. Breakout stars, key MVP candidates, and teams in both the American and National Leagues are all pushing toward the postseason. The second half of the season promises even more drama, and with so many contenders still in the hunt, it’s anyone’s guess who will come out on top. As the playoff race intensifies, all eyes will be on the stars, the teams, and the moments that will define the 2025 MLB season.
