As the 2025 Major League Baseball season begins, USA TODAY Sports analyzes the significance of certain players whose performances will greatly affect their franchises' playoff chances. The article lists players like Adley Rutschman of the Orioles and Walker Buehler of the Red Sox, emphasizing their recent struggles and the weight of expectations for bounce-back performances. A total of 30 players are featured, each identified as pivotal to their team's success over the course of the season, illustrating the importance of individual contributions in achieving team goals.
As the 2025 MLB season kicks off, USA TODAY Sports highlights 30 players whose performances could critically influence their teams' playoff chances over the next six months.
Rutschman remains the Orioles' cornerstone, and a rebound from his late-season struggles could be pivotal for Baltimore's success this year.
Buehler's recovery from injury is crucial for the Red Sox, where his ability to improve his ERA could greatly impact the team's playoff prospects.
Vargas, once a top prospect, faces a critical season to prove himself as a valuable player for the White Sox's playoff hopes.
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