The MLB 2025 season is officially underway, and Opening Day has already delivered its first dose of excitement. With 28 of the league’s 30 teams in action Thursday, fans across the country watched eagerly as storylines began to unfold—from historic firsts in New York to championship celebrations in Los Angeles.
But beyond the thrilling debuts and dazzling ceremonies, there’s one question on every fan’s mind: What will this season look like once it really gets going? MLB 2025 Predictions.
To get a sense of what’s ahead, we asked a panel of MLB executives and insiders to share their predictions for 2025. From breakout stars and sleeper teams to blockbuster trades and clutch players, these seasoned voices offered insights that could shape how we view the next six months of baseball.
Let’s break down what they had to say.
MLB 2025 Season Survey: Opening Day Highlights Set the Tone
Before diving into predictions, let’s look back at some Opening Day highlights that set the tone for what’s sure to be an unforgettable season.
In the Bronx, New York Yankees catcher Austin Wells made MLB history by becoming the first catcher ever to hit a leadoff home run on Opening Day. His historic blast helped the Yankees defeat the Milwaukee Brewers and showcased the kind of firepower that could define their season.
On the West Coast, the Los Angeles Dodgers enjoyed a Hollywood-style pregame celebration. After winning the 2024 World Series, the team raised their championship banner at Dodger Stadium in dramatic fashion. Players walked out through the center-field gates, and rapper Ice Cube drove the trophy onto the field, handing it off to Magic Johnson in front of a roaring crowd.
It was a reminder of where the league is headed—bold, star-powered, and filled with big moments.
Breakout Stars to Watch in 2025 – MLB 2025 Predictions
We asked executives to name the players they believe will break out in 2025, and several names kept popping up.
1. Jackson Holliday (Baltimore Orioles)
At just 21, Holliday has already shown elite plate discipline and gap power. One exec said, “He reminds me of a young Corey Seager but with even better wheels.” Expect Holliday to be in the Rookie of the Year race if he continues to develop.
2. Bobby Miller (Los Angeles Dodgers)
The hard-throwing right-hander flashed brilliance in 2024 but now looks poised to make a leap. “With the Dodgers lineup behind him and improved command, he could be a Cy Young dark horse,” another executive noted.
3. Anthony Volpe (New York Yankees)
Volpe is no longer under the radar. After a solid debut in 2024, executives believe his improved approach at the plate could help him become a top-five shortstop in the league this season.
4. Sal Frelick (Milwaukee Brewers)
With blazing speed and defensive versatility, Frelick could be a key player for the Brewers. One insider said, “He plays with an edge that can ignite a clubhouse.”
Sleeper Teams Ready to Surprise – MLB 2025 Predictions
Not every team entered 2025 with championship buzz, but that doesn’t mean they’re out of the conversation. Execs picked three sleeper teams to watch closely this year.
1. Seattle Mariners
Seattle’s young rotation and depth in the outfield drew praise from multiple insiders. “They’re a bullpen away from being a real contender,” one GM commented.
2. Miami Marlins
Despite flying under the radar, the Marlins’ strong farm system and scrappy style of play give them a chance to shock the NL East, especially if their pitching stays healthy.
3. Kansas City Royals
Yes, you read that right. A few execs pointed to Royals top prospect Gavin Cross and a quietly solid offseason as reasons for optimism. “They’ll make life difficult for AL Central contenders,” an executive said.
MLB 2025 Season Survey: Who Gets Traded?
No MLB season is complete without blockbuster trades, and executives already have a few names circled as prime candidates to be moved before the deadline.
1. Pete Alonso (New York Mets)
If the Mets underperform, Alonso becomes one of the biggest trade chips on the market. “He’s a franchise player, but that’s also why he’s valuable,” one source said.
2. Shane Bieber (Cleveland Guardians)
Bieber’s contract is nearing its end, and Cleveland could cash in while his value remains high. Expect plenty of interest from contenders needing a frontline starter.
3. Tim Anderson (Chicago White Sox)
Injuries and inconsistency have hurt his stock, but Anderson still has All-Star potential. “A change of scenery could do wonders,” an exec said.
Most Clutch Players: Who Do Execs Trust with the Game on the Line?
We asked insiders a simple but telling question: Who would you want at the plate or on the mound with your season on the line?
At the Plate: Freddie Freeman
Calm, consistent, and powerful. Freeman’s name came up repeatedly. “He’s one of the best pure hitters of our generation,” an executive said.
On the Mound: Gerrit Cole
Still a dominant force, Cole remains the go-to ace in pressure situations. “He rises to the moment,” said a rival AL scout. “You can always count on him in October.”
Young Talent Is Taking Over
One consistent theme from the survey? The youth movement is real.
Several executives believe the 2025 season will mark a changing of the guard, as emerging stars like Corbin Carroll, Elly De La Cruz, and Eury Pérez continue to grab headlines and All-Star nods.
“The league is in great hands,” one exec said. “There are so many young, marketable stars ready to carry baseball into a new era.”
MLB 2025 Season Survey: Rule Changes and What to Expect
The league has introduced some new rule tweaks this season, and executives believe they’ll make an impact.
New Pitch Clock Adjustments
Pitchers now have one fewer second with runners on base. This is expected to speed up the pace even more while testing pitchers’ mental stamina in high-leverage spots.
Automated Ball-Strike Challenge System (ABS)
Expanded to more parks in 2025, the ABS system lets hitters and pitchers challenge calls in real time. “It’s not perfect,” said one GM, “but it adds a fun strategic wrinkle to the game.”
World Series Picks: Who’s Going All the Way?
We couldn’t wrap up the survey without asking the big question: Who do execs believe will win the 2025 World Series?
The consensus?
- Atlanta Braves – With a balanced roster and young talent, the Braves are viewed as the most complete team in baseball.
- Los Angeles Dodgers – No surprise here. Fresh off a title and with one of the deepest lineups in the league, the Dodgers remain the team to beat.
- Texas Rangers – A few bold picks went to the defending AL West champs, who some believe are building a quiet dynasty.
What to Expect from the MLB 2025 Season
The MLB 2025 season is just getting started, but if Opening Day and early expert opinions are any indication, we’re in for one of the most exciting seasons in years.
From breakout stars and surprise teams to high-stakes trades and dramatic rule changes, the landscape is wide open. The youth movement is alive and well, the drama is just beginning, and every pitch, hit, and catch could become part of this season’s defining moments.
For fans, it’s time to buckle up and enjoy the ride. And for front offices? The clock is ticking on moves that could define their franchises for years to come.
