- The 2025 MLB season officially begins with 14 games on Opening Day.
- Paul Skenes is a key player to watch, with high strikeout expectations against the Marlins.
- Bold predictions include Ben Rice hitting four homers in a game and Bobby Witt Jr. reaching 12 WAR.
2025 MLB Opening Day: A New Season Begins
The 2025 MLB season is officially underway, with 14 games scheduled for Opening Day. After the Cubs and Dodgers kicked off the season with two games in Japan, the rest of the league joins the action. Here’s a breakdown of the key highlights, predictions, and players to watch.
Paul Skenes: A Strikeout Machine
Paul Skenes, the Pittsburgh Pirates’ ace, is one of the most talked-about players heading into Opening Day. Facing the Miami Marlins, Skenes is expected to dominate with his strikeout ability. Last season, he recorded at least seven strikeouts in 16 of his 23 starts. With the Marlins unfamiliar with his pitching style, Skenes has a significant advantage. As Brewers star Christian Yelich noted, ‘He’s really advanced for his age and knows how to use his stuff effectively.’
Bold Predictions for 2025
Baseball analysts Jake Mintz and Jordan Shusterman have made some audacious predictions for the 2025 season. Among them:
- Ben Rice of the New York Yankees will hit four home runs in a single game, a feat not seen since 2017.
- The Baltimore Orioles will combine for 500 home runs, a rare statistic last achieved in the 2019 juiced ball season.
- Bobby Witt Jr. of the Kansas City Royals will reach a 12-WAR season, a level not seen since Barry Bonds.
Expert Moneyline Picks
For those looking to bet on Opening Day, here are some expert moneyline picks:
- New York Yankees (-150) vs. Milwaukee Brewers
- Toronto Blue Jays (+103) vs. Baltimore Orioles
- Philadelphia Phillies (-165) vs. Washington Nationals
Breakout Players to Watch
Every season brings new stars, and 2025 is no exception. Here are some players poised for breakout seasons:
- Lawrence Butler, RF, Oakland Athletics: At 24, Butler has shown tremendous potential with his ability to adjust and adapt.
- Hunter Greene, SP, Cincinnati Reds: A strikeout artist on the rise, Greene is expected to dominate on the mound.
As the season unfolds, these players and predictions will shape the narrative of the 2025 MLB season. Stay tuned for more updates and analysis.