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The 2025 Major League Baseball (MLB) season is underway, marking the commencement of the annual six-month regular season. From Opening Day to the peak of summer and leading into the playoffs, this extensive schedule provides ample opportunities for compelling narratives to unfold. Here are 10 intriguing players who could capture significant attention throughout this baseball season.
Shohei Ohtani, Designated Hitter, Los Angeles Dodgers
While seemingly obvious, the anticipation surrounding Shohei Ohtani is undeniable. Coming off a historic season of 54 home runs and 59 stolen bases, Ohtani is expected to complete his rehabilitation from Tommy John surgery and potentially return to pitching duties later this year. With the Dodgers already possessing a formidable pitching rotation, the addition of Ohtani raises the question: Could they be a lock for a return to the World Series?
Elly De La Cruz, Shortstop, Cincinnati Reds
Elly De La Cruz’s rare blend of speed and power, coupled with his consistent development, makes him a must-watch player. Standing at 6-foot-5, his challenge this season involves building upon his 25 home runs and league-leading 67 stolen bases while aiming to reduce his 218 strikeouts. Notably, he is still only 23 years old.
Tarik Skubal, Starting Pitcher, Detroit Tigers
Last season, left-hander Tarik Skubal achieved a remarkable feat, becoming only the eighth player since 2000 to attain pitching’s Triple Crown in the American League (AL). He led the AL with 18 wins, a 2.39 ERA, and 228 strikeouts. Skubal’s ERA has decreased and his win percentage has improved each season of his five-year career. The question now is: How much further can he elevate his performance this year, potentially becoming the first AL pitcher to win consecutive Cy Young Awards since Pedro Martinez in 1999?
Justin Verlander, Starting Pitcher, San Francisco Giants
At 42, Justin Verlander is currently the oldest player in MLB. With 262 career wins, he is approaching the prestigious 300-win milestone. More immediately, Verlander could significantly contribute to the San Francisco Giants this season. His spring training performance, featuring a 2-0 record and a 3.43 ERA, suggests he can still be effective. While Logan Webb and Robbie Ray are expected to lead the rotation, Verlander’s veteran presence and ability to contribute are crucial for the Giants to compete in a challenging division. He has expressed a desire to pitch until age 45.
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Paul Skenes, Starting Pitcher, Pittsburgh Pirates
In stark contrast to Verlander’s veteran status, Paul Skenes represents the future of pitching. As a rookie last season, Skenes topped all National League (NL) pitchers with at least 130 innings pitched in strikeout rate and ERA, among other metrics. Opponents batted just .198 against him, and his outstanding performance earned him the nod as the NL All-Star Game starting pitcher. The compelling storyline for Pirates fans this season centers on: Can Skenes deliver an encore performance of similar dominance? Dwight Gooden’s iconic 1985 season, which included a pitching Triple Crown and Cy Young Award, remains the benchmark for second-year pitchers.
Luis Arraez, Second Baseman, San Diego Padres
While Fernando Tatís Jr.’s health is crucial for San Diego’s playoff aspirations, Luis Arraez’s postseason hitting could also be a pivotal factor. In an era emphasizing on-base percentage, batting average may not be the sole determinant of success, but Arraez’s consistency is remarkable. Last season, he became the first player in history to win three consecutive batting titles with three different teams. After securing the title for the Padres with a .314 average, he remains with the team this season. Another batting title would place him in an elite group of four-time winners, including Padres legend Tony Gwynn.
Julio Rodríguez, Outfielder, Seattle Mariners
At just 24 years old, Julio Rodríguez’s 2022 Rookie of the Year season showcased his MVP potential. However, he hasn’t yet consistently reached that ceiling. Last season saw a decrease in his RBI and home run totals compared to the previous year. This season raises the question: Will working with Hall of Fame designated hitter Edgar Martínez, now a Mariners coach, be the catalyst for Rodríguez to fully unlock his immense talent and potential?
Francisco Lindor, Shortstop, New York Mets
The arrival of Juan Soto and his substantial contract has generated significant buzz in New York. However, Francisco Lindor’s contributions might be equally vital for the Mets. He was ranked second in MLB.com’s player survey for best defensive shortstops, trailing only Andrés Giménez. Both statistical analysis and visual observation confirm Lindor’s exceptional defensive range, enabling him to reach balls inaccessible to many other infielders. His defensive prowess anchors the Mets’ infield.
Dylan Crews, Outfielder, Washington Nationals
Dylan Crews experienced a varied introduction to Major League Baseball in 31 games last season. Despite this, he is consistently recognized as a top prospect in MLB, alongside names like Dodgers rookie Roki Sasaki. As Crews enters his first official rookie season, the Nationals are optimistic that he will find greater comfort and success in Washington D.C., especially after a promising spring training at the plate. His development is key to the Nationals’ future.
Mike Trout, Outfielder, Los Angeles Angels
Once widely regarded as baseball’s premier player, particularly during his stretch of leading the majors in on-base percentage from 2016 to 2019, Mike Trout has only exceeded 54 games played once since 2019. His recurring injuries have not only sidelined a major star but have also hampered the Angels’ competitiveness. The franchise’s last postseason appearance was in 2009, two years before Trout’s arrival. The Angels are navigating a challenging rebuild, attempting to improve without fully committing to a complete teardown or attracting top-tier free agents, all while still committed to paying Trout a substantial $37 million annually. A healthy and productive Trout would be a significant boost for the team.