• "Key MLB Updates: Ohtani, Acuña, and Promising Projections for 2025 Season"

  • Feb 19 2025
  • Length: 3 mins
  • Podcast

"Key MLB Updates: Ohtani, Acuña, and Promising Projections for 2025 Season"

  • Summary

  • In the latest MLB news, several key developments have emerged, particularly in the areas of player health and upcoming season projections.

    Shohei Ohtani, the two-way superstar of the Los Angeles Dodgers, is on track to return as a hitter on Opening Day and as a pitcher in May, following his recovery from right elbow surgery and a recent left shoulder labrum surgery. Despite these setbacks, Ohtani is projected to have the highest combined WAR (Wins Above Replacement) for the 2025 season, highlighting his continued dominance in the league[1][3].

    Injury updates are also a significant focus, with Ronald Acuña Jr. of the Atlanta Braves still recovering from a torn right ACL. While he won't be ready for Opening Day, he is hopeful to return to the lineup soon after, possibly in late April or early May. Other notable injury concerns include Evan Phillips and Michael Kopech of the Dodgers, who are behind schedule due to a right shoulder injury and right forearm inflammation, respectively[3].

    On the roster front, the Chicago Cubs have integrated Kyle Tucker, who was traded from the Houston Astros in December. Tucker is expected to have a strong platform season before testing free agency at the end of 2025, despite missing a significant portion of the 2024 season due to a right shin fracture[1].

    In terms of player performances, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. of the Toronto Blue Jays is projected for a strong walk-year performance, with 32 home runs, 100 RBIs, and a 152 wRC+ (Weighted Runs Created Plus). Gunnar Henderson of the Baltimore Orioles is also highly anticipated, with projections indicating 31 home runs, 17 steals, and a 147 wRC+[1].

    Sandy Alcantara, the 2022 NL Cy Young Award winner, is set to return to the Miami Marlins' rotation after missing the entire 2024 season due to Tommy John surgery. He is expected to start on Opening Day and has already shown promising signs in Spring Training, throwing a 21-pitch live batting practice session[3].

    The Dominican Republic recently secured the 2025 Caribbean Series title, with Escogido winning the LIDOM title in a dramatic Game 7 victory. This international competition highlights the talent and competitiveness in baseball beyond the MLB[2].

    As teams prepare for the upcoming season, there are no major trades or signings reported in the last few days, but the focus remains on how these teams will align and perform based on their current rosters and player health.

    Thank you for listening to the Baseball News Tracker podcast. Don't forget to subscribe for the latest updates and analysis on all things MLB and professional baseball.
    Show more Show less

What listeners say about "Key MLB Updates: Ohtani, Acuña, and Promising Projections for 2025 Season"

Average customer ratings

Reviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.