As we huddle in the icy grip of winter up here in the north country, the warmth we crave doesn’t come from the weak February sun, but rather from the comforting heat of our toasters. But in the world of baseball, a different kind of heat is building up – the pressure on teams, front offices, and managers to make 2025 their year of triumph, or face the consequences.
According to a survey conducted with 32 baseball insiders, the spotlight is shining brightly on certain teams, front offices, and managers who are feeling the heat more than others. Let’s delve into the results of this survey and explore the storylines that are captivating the baseball world.
Leading the pack with a whopping 22 votes are the Toronto Blue Jays, helmed by Mark Shapiro, Ross Atkins, and John Schneider. Since the arrival of Vlad Guerrero Jr. in 2019, expectations have been high, but the lack of postseason success has left fans and analysts questioning the team’s future. The looming free agency of Guerrero Jr. adds another layer of drama, making this a make-or-break season for the Blue Jays.
The Chicago Cubs, under the leadership of Jed Hoyer and manager Craig Counsell, are next in line with 12 votes. Despite their curse-breaking World Series win nearly a decade ago, the team has struggled to replicate that success in recent years. With a talented roster and high expectations, the pressure is on for the Cubs to deliver results this season.
The Philadelphia Phillies, anchored by Bryce Harper and Trea Turner, received 7 votes in the survey. With a hefty payroll and a roster built to win, the Phillies have faltered in the postseason in recent years. The clock is ticking for this core group of players to prove they can compete in a challenging division.
In Seattle, Jerry Dipoto and the Mariners are feeling the heat with 7 votes. Despite building a strong rotation, the team has yet to make a significant postseason impact. Ownership constraints have limited Dipoto’s ability to make necessary moves, leaving the team in a state of uncertainty.
Other teams and managers mentioned in the survey include the San Diego Padres, Los Angeles Angels, New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, St. Louis Cardinals, Houston Astros, Minnesota Twins, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Colorado Rockies. Each of these teams is facing their own set of challenges and expectations as they navigate the 2025 season.
As the baseball world gears up for another thrilling season, all eyes will be on these teams, front offices, and managers under pressure to deliver results. The stage is set for a dramatic and unpredictable year in the world of baseball, and fans can’t wait to see how it all unfolds.
