MLB 2025 First-Half Review: Surprising Predictions and Key Takeaways

Each week in MLB brings its own set of surprises, both positive and negative. As we approach the second half of the 2025 season, let's revisit some of the bold predictions made earlier in the year and see how they have panned out.

Rafael Devers: A Season of Ups and Downs

Prediction: Don't be surprised if things don't get significantly better for Boston Red Sox 3B Rafael Devers.

Outcome: Devers started the season with a dismal 0-for-19 record in March, striking out 15 times. However, he turned things around in May, hitting .356 with seven home runs and 33 RBIs. Despite a mid-season trade to the San Francisco Giants, where he has struggled (.202 average with two home runs in 25 games), Devers remains on pace for over 30 home runs and 100 RBIs for the season.

James Wood: Rising Star in Washington

Prediction: Don't be surprised if Washington Nationals OF James Wood becomes a top-10 fantasy outfielder.

Outcome: Wood has lived up to the hype, currently ranking as the No. 10 hitter on the Player Rater. His performance in roto/categories leagues has surpassed expectations, making him a valuable asset for fantasy managers.

Marcus Semien: Defying the Doubters

Prediction: Don't be surprised if Texas Rangers 2B Marcus Semien leads the most-dropped list soon.

Outcome: Semien proved the doubters wrong with a strong June, hitting .324 with 16 RBIs and 18 runs scored. He is now the No. 15 second baseman on the Player Rater, showcasing his durability and consistency.

Corbin Carroll: Power Surge in Arizona

Prediction: Don't be surprised if Arizona Diamondbacks OF Corbin Carroll delivers 35 home runs.

Outcome: Carroll has already hit 21 home runs, just four shy of his career best. However, his increased strikeout rate and reduced stolen bases have slightly diminished his overall fantasy value.

Paul Skenes: Struggling for Wins in Pittsburgh

Prediction: Don't be surprised if Pittsburgh Pirates RHP Paul Skenes fails to win 10 games this season.

Outcome: Skenes has a stellar 1.17 ERA but only a 4-8 record due to Pittsburgh's lackluster offense. Despite his impressive performance, wins remain elusive for this talented pitcher.

Shohei Ohtani: Chasing History in Los Angeles

Prediction: Don't be surprised if Los Angeles Dodgers DH/SP Shohei Ohtani breaks the modern mark for runs scored in a season.

Outcome: Ohtani leads the league with 91 runs scored in 95 games. While breaking the record of 150 runs in a season remains a tall order, Ohtani continues to be a fantasy powerhouse.

Other Notable Performances

• Kyle Tucker (Chicago Cubs): A top-10 fantasy hitter, despite not being No. 1.
• Hunter Brown (Houston Astros): Ranked No. 4 among starting pitchers.
• Nick Kurtz (Oakland Athletics): On pace for 30 home runs in his rookie season.
• Hunter Goodman (Colorado Rockies): Emerging as a top-10 fantasy catcher.
• Eugenio Suarez (Arizona Diamondbacks): Solidifying his spot among the top 50 fantasy hitters.

Conclusion

The first half of the 2025 MLB season has been full of surprises and standout performances. As we move into the second half, fantasy managers will need to stay vigilant and adapt to the ever-changing landscape of player performance and team dynamics.