Unrecognized Excellence: The 2025 MLB 'All-Awardless' Team
The holiday season is a time for celebration and recognition, but for some MLB players, the awards have already been distributed, leaving them without a shiny trophy to call their own. But here's a twist: these players deserve some spotlight too!
The Catchers:
- Willson Contreras: Despite a fractured finger, he was a key contributor to the Brewers' success, ranking high among catchers with a .754 OPS and impressive defensive skills. His clutch homers in the NLDS sealed his spot on this list.
First Base:
- Luke Busch: With an impressive .866 OPS and 140 wRC+, Busch's breakout season helped the Cubs reach the playoffs. His improved strikeout rate and high expected slugging percentage went largely unnoticed.
Second Base:
- Corey Donovan: A versatile defender with an impressive offensive record, Donovan's .775 OPS and 119 wRC+ are stats that can't be ignored. His extra-base hits and low strikeout rate make him a standout.
Shortstop:
- Trea Turner: Turner's season was special, winning the Phillies' first batting title since 1958. His all-around excellence, including 36 stolen bases, is a testament to his skill.
Third Base:
- Nick Soderstrom: Drafted as a catcher, Soderstrom's journey to left field was impressive. His .276/.346/.474 slash line and 25 homers are even more remarkable considering his anonymity.
Outfield:
- Trent Grisham: Once considered a non-tender candidate, Grisham's 2025 season proved his worth. His career-best OPS (.812) and wRC+ (129) among center fielders earned him a significant pay raise.
- Michael Frelick: With a stellar strikeout rate (13.6%) and solid OPS (.756), Frelick's defense is his standout feature. His speed and range kept him among the elite defenders.
Designated Hitter:
- Jorge Polanco: Limited by injuries, Polanco made the most of his DH role. His .821 OPS and power numbers were impressive, but his heroics in the playoffs truly defined his season.
Starting Pitcher:
- Tyler Abbott: A first-time All-Star, Abbott's 2.87 ERA and 159 ERA+ speak for themselves. His success in limiting hard contact and walks is a crafty lefty's dream.
Relief Pitcher:
- J.C. Uribe: With a 1.67 ERA and an MLB-leading 37 holds, Uribe was the unsung hero of the Brewers' bullpen. His versatility and clutch performances in the postseason can't be overlooked.
Manager:
- John Schneider: Leading the Blue Jays from worst to first in the AL East is no small feat. Schneider's work nearly brought Toronto a World Series title, and his recognition is long overdue.
And there you have it—the 2025 'All-Awardless' team. These players and managers deserve a round of applause for their outstanding contributions, even if they didn't take home the hardware. But here's where it gets controversial: do you think these players were truly overlooked, or is this list just a consolation prize? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's spark a discussion!
