Elly De La Cruz Shines in Opening Week
Elly De La Cruz made a significant impact during the first week of the MLB season. On Monday, he achieved four hits, including a double and two home runs, along with a stolen base and seven RBIs. This performance marked his third career game with at least three extra-base hits and a stolen base. This achievement set a record for the most such games by any player before turning 24 since 1900, surpassing legends like Joe Morgan and Orlando Cepeda. De La Cruz’s explosive start has set the tone for what could be a remarkable season.
Unexpected Start for Luis Arraez
Luis Arraez had a rocky start to the season, beginning 0-for-16. However, he managed to get a hit on Monday, becoming the third reigning batting champ to start at least 0-for-13 in a season since 1900. The others were Ferris Fain in 1952 and Arraez himself last season. Despite the slow start, both Fain and Arraez went on to win another batting title that year. Arraez’s ability to bounce back will be crucial for his team’s success this season.
Eugenio Suárez’s Grand Slam
On Tuesday, Eugenio Suárez hit a grand slam with a hang time of 6.6 seconds, the longest for any home run so far this season. Suárez joined Rob Deer and Rodolfo Castro as players whose first five hits of a season were homers since 1900. However, none of these players extended their streak to six. Suárez’s power at the plate is a key asset for his team as they aim for a strong season.
White Sox’s Impressive Pitching Streak
The White Sox started the season with a 28-inning streak without their starters allowing an earned run. This is the fourth-longest such streak by team starters in the expansion era, behind the 1963 Cardinals, 1976 Brewers, and 2015 Tigers. The White Sox’s pitching staff has set a high standard early in the season, and maintaining this level of performance will be crucial for their playoff aspirations.
Hunter Greene’s High Velocity
Hunter Greene threw 59 fastballs on Wednesday, averaging 100.0 mph. He is the only pitcher in the pitch-tracking era to throw over 50 four-seamers/sinkers in a game averaging over 100 mph, achieving this feat seven times. Greene’s ability to consistently throw at such high speeds makes him a formidable opponent for any batter.
Heliot Ramos Ties Record
Heliot Ramos has an extra-base hit in six straight games to open 2025, tying Felipe Alou’s record from 1963 for the longest season-opening streak by a Giant. The longest streak to begin a season in the last 125 years is eight games, achieved by J.D. Martinez, Alex Rodriguez, and Sandy Alomar Jr.. Ramos’s consistency at the plate is a promising sign for the Giants.
California Teams Off to a Hot Start
The Padres and Dodgers have both started the season strong, with records of 7-0 and 8-0, respectively. This marks only the fifth MLB season where multiple teams started at least 7-0 or better. They join teams like the Royals and Giants in 2003, Braves and White Sox in 1982, and others. The Dodgers are also the first defending World Series champs to start a season at least 8-0 or better, surpassing the 1933 Yankees.
Pete Alonso’s Power Display
On Wednesday, Pete Alonso had three hits each clocked at least 113 mph, including his game-tying home run in the eighth inning. He became the sixth player under Statcast to achieve three base hits of 113+ mph in one game, joining O’Neil Cruz, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and others. Alonso’s power hitting is a significant advantage for his team.
Matt Olson’s Ironman Streak
Matt Olson has played 627 consecutive games entering Friday, dating back to May 2, 2021. There have been only seven other streaks of 600+ games beginning during the divisional era. Olson’s durability and consistency make him a valuable asset for his team.
Ben Rice’s Power Surge
With Giancarlo Stanton sidelined, Ben Rice has stepped up for the Yankees. Rice hit five home runs during spring training and secured the designated hitter position. His power surge is attributed to offseason strength training. Despite some swing-and-miss tendencies, Rice remains a valuable DH option against right-handed pitchers.
Nick Pivetta’s Successful Adjustment
Nick Pivetta joined the San Diego Padres and delivered an impressive performance against the Braves, allowing only one single over seven shutout innings. A subtle adjustment by moving his position on the pitching rubber closer to first base may have contributed to his success. Pivetta’s performance is a promising sign for the Padres’ pitching staff.
Injury Updates Across the League
Several players have faced injuries early in the season. Blake Snell of the Dodgers was placed on the 15-day injured list with left shoulder inflammation. Freddie Freeman is expected back soon after aggravating his ankle. Shohei Ohtani is recovering from elbow surgery. Victor Robles of the Mariners was carted off the field with a shoulder injury. Ketel Marte of the D-backs is on the injured list with a hamstring strain. The Blue Jays have also faced injuries, with George Springer and Max Scherzer dealing with back spasms and thumb inflammation, respectively. These injuries could impact team performances as the season progresses.
Conclusion
The first week of the MLB season has been filled with exciting performances, unexpected starts, and unfortunate injuries. As teams and players continue to adjust, fans can look forward to more thrilling moments and developments in the coming weeks. The season is just beginning, and there is much more to unfold in the world of baseball.