Despite being in the early stages of the 2025 MLB season, a handful of teams are already floundering. There could be potential adjustments in the coaching staff or higher-ups if their fortunes remain lackluster. Three managers, in particular, are potentially skating on thin ice. Let’s delve into discussing them.
Rocco Baldelli of the Minnesota Twins recovered from the astonishing downfall of the team in 2024, where the Twins experienced a heart-breaking 12-27 series after August 17th, leading to their failure in making it to the playoffs. Despite the tumultuous culmination of the season, the players vouched for Baldelli’s retention, overriding the numerous calls for his dismissal.
However, loyalty can only extend so far. The Twins have started off the season in a wavering stride with a 7-12 record and out of the entire American League, only the 4-13 White Sox have inaugurated the 2025 season with a worse track record. Although they’ve clenched the last two victories leading up to Thursday, the bitter taste of the 2024 debacle continues to loom over the team.
Persistent losing may sound the death knell for Baldelli’s tenure with the Twins. The season is only beginning, and the air of anticipation is laced with anxiety for the Minnesota team.
Over in Colorado, Rockies’ manager Bud Black faces two considerable challenges. Firstly, he has the unfortunate fate of being lumped into the NL West, where as of Thursday, four other teams in the division boast a winning percentage over .600. Secondly, the Rockies lack an adequate lineup of major league talent, making it increasingly difficult for them to compete within their own division.
But invariably, the burden of defeat falls on the team’s leader. With a disheartening 3-15 record leading into Thursday’s game, the Rockies have the worst performance in the major leagues. Continuing to grapple with a six-game losing streak, a 1-11 record on the road, and a void of victories within their own division, the Rockies are struggling to make headway.
Indeed, the winds of change already seem to be brewing. In the wake of the team’s poor performance, the Rockies have already announced the departure of their hitting coach, Hensley Meulens. Manager Bud Black might be next in line if the Rockies fail to revive their performance.
Moving to the Washington Nationals, the team’s stance has been firm – their days of rebuilding are over. The Nationals’ General Manager, Mike Rizzo, made their position clear by dismissing any excuses on the grounds of regrouping, while outfielder Dylan Crews confidently asserted that the Nationals’ moment has arrived.
Given this backdrop, the expectations for 2025 were unambiguous – the Nationals were infringing upon the playoff contention. Contrarily, they have blundered at the starting line, recording a disappointing 7-12 after losing to the 8-12 Pittsburgh Pirates on Thursday.
Manager Dave Martinez, who led the Nationals to World Series victory in 2019, his second year in the role, has not seen a triumphant season since. The Nationals may still have opportunities to turn their currents season around, but given the competitive nature of their division, they cannot afford a losing streak.
If fortunes don’t pivot soon, one can’t help but speculate that Martinez might be searching for new employment. The Nationals’ aspirations for the current season remain intact, however, they can’t afford any more setbacks in an already challenging division.
In conclusion, the early stages of the 2025 MLB season have been full of intrigue, disappointment, and suspense. There are several managers on the precipice, fully aware that their future in their current role is dependent on how they counter their teams’ initial struggles.
Rocco Baldelli, Bud Black, and Dave Martinez – all face monumental challenges at the helm. Their respective teams – The Twins, The Rockies, and The Nationals, look towards them for leadership and direction. Each coming game will be scrutinized, every decision analyzed as the season evolves.