The first month of the 2025 MLB season has delivered a mix of thrilling surprises and frustrating disappointments, as assessed by a poll of 20 front-office executives.
From strong starts by under-the-radar teams to breakout performances by rising stars, the season’s opening chapter has set the stage for an unpredictable and electrifying year.
However, not every team has lived up to preseason expectations, with some clubs struggling to find their footing.
Biggest Surprises of the 2025 Season So Far
The San Francisco Giants emerge as the most surprising team of the first month, earning acclaim for their impressive 19-13 record.
The Giants’ success stems from elite pitching performances and the arrival of Jung Hoo Lee, an international star who has quickly become a game-changer in their lineup.
Lee’s impact has been undeniable, both with his bat and his ability to galvanize the team.
Oakland Athletics: Small-Market Overachievers
On the other side of the Bay, the Oakland Athletics have also turned heads.
Despite perennial underdog status, the A’s are off to a better-than-expected start thanks to rookie Jacob Wilson and emerging standout Tyler Soderstrom.
Wilson’s elite contact skills and Soderstrom’s breakout play have given A’s fans reason for hope.
However, doubts linger over their pitching depth, which could prove costly as the season grinds on.
Other Teams Earning Praise
The Chicago Cubs’ aggressive offseason moves appear to be paying dividends, as they now boast the best offense in the National League.
Meanwhile, the San Diego Padres have managed to exceed expectations despite operating with a less-than-ideal roster due to injuries and roster challenges.
The New York Yankees, though plagued by injuries and key departures, have managed to top the tough AL East early on—a clear testament to organizational depth and resilience.
The Season’s Biggest Disappointments
While some teams have surged out of the gate, others stumbled badly in April.
Chief among them are the Baltimore Orioles, who sit in last place with a dismal 12-18 record.
Once known for their promising blend of young talent and veteran stability, the O’s are struggling due in large part to their injury-afflicted pitching staff.
Underwhelming Performances from the Braves and Twins
The Atlanta Braves—a perennial postseason contender—have yet to live up to their lofty expectations.
Injuries to key stars like Ronald Acuña Jr. have significantly dampened their early-season performance.
Similarly, the Minnesota Twins have been among the season’s biggest letdowns, hindered by roster underperformance and inconsistent play across the board.
Breakout Stars and Early Rookie Standouts
The 2025 season is already showcasing its fair share of breakout performances.
Topping the list of surprises is the Giants’ Jung Hoo Lee.
The South Korean star has dazzled with a stellar .319/.375/.526 slash line, earning him recognition as the most surprising breakout player.
Carson Kelly has also shocked observers with his unexpected offensive production.
Rookie Revelations: Jacob Wilson and Kristian Campbell
Several rookies are making immediate impacts in their debut seasons.
Jacob Wilson has been central to Oakland’s strong start, displaying elite contact skills and a mature approach at the plate.
Meanwhile, Boston’s Kristian Campbell has become a valuable asset with his incredible versatility, contributing across multiple positions and in key moments.
Slow Starts from Established Stars
Not every big name has lived up to expectations in April.
Willy Adames, Joc Pederson, and Marcus Semien have all struggled out of the gate, leaving fans and analysts alike wondering if their slow starts are an aberration or a sign of deeper issues.
Whether these stars can bounce back will be crucial for their respective teams moving forward.
Conclusion: A Season Full of Twists and Turns Awaits
As the first month of the 2025 MLB season wraps up, it’s clear that baseball’s unpredictability remains one of its greatest strengths.
Teams like the Giants, A’s, and Yankees have captivated fans with their resilience and unexpected success.
Perennial powerhouses like the Orioles, Braves, and Twins find themselves needing answers.
Here is the source article for this story: Execs dish on biggest surprises, disappointments so far
Experience Baseball History in Person
Want to walk the same grounds where baseball legends made history? Find accommodations near iconic ballparks across America and create your own baseball pilgrimage.
Check availability at hotels near: Yankee Stadium, Fenway Park, Wrigley Field, Dodger Stadium
Plan your ballpark visit: Get MLB Ballpark Tickets and find accommodations nearby.
- Biographies
- Current Baseball Players
- Current Players by Team
- Players that Retired in the 2020s
- Players that Retired in the 2010s
- Players that Retired in the 2000s
- Players that Retired in the 1990s
- Players that Retired in the 1980s
- Players that Retired in the 1970s
- Players that Retired in the 1960s
- Players that Retired in the 1950s
- Players that Retired in the 1940s
- Players that Retired in the 1930s