MLB Teams Assess Early Season MVPs as Memorial Day Approaches

NEW YORK, NY — As the 2025 MLB season approaches the critical Memorial Day milestone, teams are starting to analyze player performances and potential MVPs. With enough games played to gauge trends, experts from The Athletic have compiled the standout players who have made significant impacts for their teams.

The New York Yankees boast Aaron Judge as their early MVP. Despite being labeled a contrarian choice, Judge’s impressive statistics, including a near .400 batting average and a league-leading home run total, underscore his value. He leads with nearly 50% more wins above replacement than his teammates.

Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Phillies see Zack Wheeler as their standout player. Wheeler’s reliability as a starter has been highlighted by his career-best strikeout rate and consistent performances, solidifying his spot among the league’s elite right-handed pitchers.

For the Los Angeles Dodgers, Yoshinobu Yamamoto has stepped up as their top pitcher amid injuries to key starters. His impressive performance, including a 1.86 ERA in 10 starts, showcases his ability to fill significant gaps in the rotation.

The New York Mets have recognized pitching coach Jeremy Hefner for turning around several players and creating a strong rotation. Hefner’s work has led to improved performances, especially from once-struggling pitchers.

Detroit Tigers‘ ace Tarik Skubal is another player turning heads following a historic complete game. Skubal struck out 13 batters, showcasing his elite talent as he attempts to replicate last year’s Cy Young Award-winning season.

Young stars like Pete Crow-Armstrong of the Chicago Cubs are also making a name for themselves. His impressive numbers place him among the top contributors in the league, raising expectations for his future.

As teams head into summer, the dynamics will continue to evolve. The players highlighted are merely some of those who have emerged early on, affecting their respective rosters significantly. MLB rosters are adjusting as player performances dictate the direction of teams heading into the next half of the season.