MLB Players Projected to Surge in 2025: Big WAR Gains Ahead
several MLB players are poised for critically important statistical jumps in the 2025 season, according to FanGraphs Depth Charts projections. These projections, which combine data from the Steamer and ZiPS systems, predict impactful improvements across the league.
topping the list of potential breakout players is Julio Rodríguez of the Seattle Mariners and Adolis Garcia of the Texas Rangers, both projected to see a jump in WAR of 2.3. Garcia, who struggled offensively in 2024, is expected to rebound with a projected 2.1 WAR in 2025.
Rounding out the top three is Spencer Strider of the Atlanta Braves, predicted to increase his WAR by 1.9. Strider is coming off a strong 2023 season and should continue his upward trajectory as a dominant force in the pitching rotation.
This projected surge in performance could mark a turning point for these players, solidifying their positions as key contributors to their respective teams. fans eagerly anticipate seeing these players translate these projections into reality and dominate on the field during the 2025 season.
Top 7 MLB Players Poised to Bounce Back in 2025
After an offseason of big moves and trades, many MLB teams are looking to rebound in the 2025 season.A key factor in those triumphs will likely be breakout performances from players who struggled in 2024. These seven players all have the talent and potential to bounce back and have a significant impact on their teams’ success next year.
adolis García,OF,Texas Rangers (+2.4 WAR Projected)**
Adolis García enjoyed a phenomenal 2023 season, setting records in the playoffs while leading the Texas rangers to a World Series championship. However, he struggled in 2024, recording a significantly lower WAR and missing his usual offensive production. A return to form for García could be crucial for the Rangers’ bid to defend their title in 2025.
Austin Riley, 3B, Atlanta Braves (+4.6 WAR Projected)**
Before a season-ending hand injury cut short his 2024 campaign, austin Riley was already seeing a dip in performance compared to his impressive 2021-2023 stretch. However, projections anticipate a full recovery and a return to Riley’s established WAR production in 2025.
Walker Buehler, SP, Boston Red Sox (+1.8 WAR Projected)**
Returning from Tommy John surgery, Walker Buehler faced a challenging 2024 season with the Dodgers, posting a significantly higher ERA than his previous dominant years.
Even though he struggled early, Buehler delivered strong pitching in the postseason, hinting at a possible rebound. Boston, betting on his return to form, is hopeful that Buehler can become a centerpiece of their rotation in 2025.
Xander bogaerts,SS,San Diego Padres (+3.9 WAR Projected)**
Xander Bogaerts navigated a tumultuous 2024 season.An unexpected switch to second base and a fractured shoulder sidelined him for an extended period. Despite these challenges,Bogaerts demonstrated signs of returning to his offensive prowess upon returning from injury in July.
MLB Players Poised for a Bounce Back in 2025
Several MLB players are projected to make significant improvements in 2025, according to baseball analysts. Those with the highest upside include catcher Adley Rutschman and shortstop Xander Bogaerts.
Rutschman, who blossomed into one of the game’s premier catchers in his first two seasons with the Baltimore Orioles, stumbled in the latter half of 2024. After a strong start, he saw a significant drop in his performance,[1] but FanGraphs Depth Charts project a rebound with a 122 wRC+ and 4.6 WAR for the 2025 season.
after a strong 2023 season,Bogaerts experienced a less impressive 2024. However, he is expected to return to form in 2025.[1]
Other players projected for betterment include Jonah heim of the Texas Rangers and Jorge Polanco of the Seattle Mariners. Both players faced challenges in 2024 but are expected to bounce back in 2025.
These projections highlight the dynamic nature of Major League Baseball and the constant potential for players to rise to new heights.