The first six weeks of the MLB season have been thrilling, featuring standout moments such as Aaron Judge’s record-setting performances, the Tigers’ impressive start, and MacKenzie Gore leading the league in strikeouts. However, there have also been significant disappointments, many of which were unforeseen. It’s still early in the season, allowing for potential recovery for both teams and players, as well as a re-evaluation of some offseason decisions by management. Nonetheless, there’s reason for concern.
1. Orioles as Major Disappointments
The Orioles were anticipated to be playoff contenders, yet they currently sit at the bottom of the American League East with a 13-22 record. Their pitching staff ranks poorly, sitting 29th in ERA, strikeouts, and batting average against. Former ace Corbin Burnes left for Arizona, and top starter Grayson Rodriguez is sidelined for months due to injury. Charlie Morton has struggled mightily, with an ERA over 10, while other pitchers also fail to perform. The batting lineup, enhanced in the offseason, has not succeeded either, with key players like Tyler O’Neill and Gary Sánchez facing injuries and poor performance. Even their promising young talents have faltered, leading to a disastrous start that could jeopardize jobs in Baltimore if not rectified soon.
2. Rockies’ Historic Struggles
The Rockies have shocked fans with their poor record of 6-29 (.171), putting them on track to eclipse the White Sox’s infamous loss record from the previous season. Surprisingly, they rank last in runs scored despite playing in the high-scoring environment of Coors Field, resulting in a staggering -91 run differential. Currently, they are 18 games behind the division-leading Dodgers, with their performance raising alarms across the league.
3. Rangers’ Underwhelming Offense
Predicted to win the American League West, the Rangers’ offense has been abysmal, ranking last in the AL with a mere 3.3 runs per game. The lack of run support led to the firing of their hitting coach. Only Wyatt Langford and Corey Seager have shown consistent performance, while offseason acquisitions like Jake Burger and Joc Pederson have struggled tremendously. Given their offensive woes, a change in coaching might be necessary to revive their season.
4. Poor Starts for Top Closers
Devin Williams and Emmanuel Clase were heralded as elite closers entering the season but have both struggled significantly. Williams’ performance has diminished, earning him a lower role, while Clase’s statistics reflect a concerning decline. Although Clase has recently shown improvement, both players need to return to their elite status for their teams to remain competitive.
5. Rookie Stars Falling Flat
The favorites for the National League Rookie of the Year, including Roki Sasaki, Dylan Crews, and Matt Shaw, have not delivered strong performances thus far. In contrast, rookies Kristian Campbell, Jacob Wilson, and Agustin Ramírez have emerged as the top performers. Although it’s still early, the overall rookie class has not lived up to expectations, mirroring past seasons where early struggles led to future success.
6. Disappointing Free-Agent Signings
Many of the offseason’s high-profile free agents have underperformed, including Willy Adames and Anthony Santander, each failing to meet the expectations set during their signings. Notably, Juan Soto, while showing flashes of brilliance, hasn’t fully lived up to his potential with the Mets, creating concern for their significant investment. The performances of these players will be critical for their teams as the season progresses.
