25 MLB players who have the most to prove in 2025

After a long offseason, Alonso returned to the Mets on a one-year deal. It was a disappointing result for the 30-year-old first baseman, but shows the rise of analytics and teams’ nervousness about his aging curve. However, Alonso remains an elite power hitter, and is hoping for a bigger payday next offseason.

A star early in his career, Bichette had a forgettable 2025 season hitting .225-4-31 in 81 games. He enters a walk year hoping to rebound offensively and defensively.

Bryant’s contract has been a nightmare for the Rockies since signing in 2022. He’s expected to be the team’s primary DH with the departure of Charlie Blackmon, and Colorado hopes the former MVP can find some of his old form.

Durability has been a theme of Cole’s career, but that changed last season with only 17 starts due to an elbow injury. His strikeouts and velocity have been down the last two years, and the Yankees need him to rebound after losing Juan Soto.

DeGrom has long been one of the game’s most talented pitchers but also one of the most injury prone. He last reached 100 innings in 2019, but was terrific in three starts returning from elbow surgery last year. Texas hopes the now 36-year-old can turn a corner this season.

Goldschmidt won the NL MVP with the Cardinals in 2022, but his numbers have been in freefall since then. He was battling his swing for much of last season, though the Yankees are hopeful he can rebound. This could be Goldy’s last year if the downhill trend continues.

Hayes signed an eight-year deal with Pittsburgh in 2022, but has failed to develop in large part due to a back injury. Last season was his worst year yet, but better health and offense from Hayes could go a long way in returning the team to the playoffs.

Holliday was arguably the top prospect in baseball when he was promoted by Baltimore last season, though his arrival didn’t go as hoped. The team still sees big things ahead as Holliday enters his age 21 season, but he will need to deliver soon in a brutal AL East division.

Jones was one of the biggest breakouts in baseball during the 2023 season, but struggled last season while fighting through injuries. It’s unclear which version of Jones as real. The Rockies could be about to find out.

Jung has been plagued by injuries in his three MLB seasons, most recently a wrist injury last year. The Rangers felt he had superstar power, but building momentum has been impossible up to this point. Texas hopes Jung can have a healthy season in 2025.

Is Kelenic finally getting his final shot? He will be on the outside looking in if Atlanta’s top three starting outfielders are healthy, but has a chance to play at the beginning of the season with Ronald Acuna Jr. recovering from knee surgery. Kelenic’s first month could decide his playing time for the rest of 2025 and beyond.

McKenzie looked like an ace in 2022, but has been plagued by injuries since then. He also lost velocity last season, a red flag for his pitching future. McKenzie faces a pivotal opportunity with a Guardians squad desperate for pitching.

McLain was a Rookie of the Year candidate upon his call-up in 2023. However, he missed all of last season due to injuries, and is out to prove he can stay healthy in 2025. The Reds are counting on their young star to prove it, with the added possibility of playing in the outfield.

Moncada was considered a star in the making when he signed out of Cuba, and garnered MVP consideration with the White Sox in 2019. Injuries and struggles at the plate have sidetracked Moncada’s career over the last five years, but the Angels hope a change of scenery will do the trick.

Luzardo has often pitched like an ace when he’s been healthy, but durability continues to be an issue. He enters Spring Training on a new team and with a clean bill of health, and he could earn a big payday with a healthy season.

Seattle’s young superstar has been somewhat inconsistent in his first three seasons, and saw his numbers go backwards last year. The Mariners still love Rodriguez’s potential, but he needs to get his numbers back on track for the team to reach the playoffs.

Toronto moved on from Romano after elbow problems last season, but he’s closer to by Philadelphia’s closer. Romano was an elite closer in Toronto for three years, though he must earn that status again this season.

Senga was terrific for the Mets in his rookie campaign during 2023, but threw only one game last season due to multiple injuries. Injuries were also a problem for Senga in Japan, but the Mets need him to stay healthy this season with Frankie Montas already injured.

Story has yet to play 100 games in any of his three seasons with Boston, facing one injury after another. He was generally durable during his time in Colorado, and the Red Sox would love his contribution on a loaded roster.

While Tatis was an All-Star last season, he’s yet to find his old form after missing the 2022 season. He played only 102 games last season due to a quad injury, but San Diego is counting on him again after multiple losses in the offseason.

Trout has reached 100 games played only once in the last five seasons, and played only 29 games last year. The team is prepared to move him off center field, but it remains to be seen if that will make a difference.

A fluky leg injury limited Tucker to only 78 games last season. Now the pressure is on him to carry the Cubs offense as he heads into his walk year. A complete rebound could allow Chicago to make a run in October.

Volpe has shown flashes of brilliance in two seasons with the Yankees, but his offense has been inconsistent. He sacrificed power for batting average last season, and the team hopes he can return to his rookie 20/20 form this season.

Arguably the Cardinals best prospect since Albert Pujols, Walker hasn’t found consistency in the majors yet. The team’s swing adjustments haven’t helped yet, but Walker enters his third MLB season very optimistic.

A chronic back injury has plagued Yelich for much of his career. He hopes the injury is behind him after surgery last season, and will be counted on again to lead the Brewers offense after a surprise 2024 season.