Critique of MLB The Show 25 Cover Stars and MLB Offseason Moves
Baseball writers often face criticism for their Hall of Fame votes and award choices. However, a recent selection by Sony Interactive Entertainment has sparked controversy. Sony picked Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes, Baltimore Orioles shortstop Gunnar Henderson, and Cincinnati Reds shortstop Elly De La Cruz for the cover of MLB The Show 25.
Enter Bobby Witt Jr., a name critics believe Sony overlooked. Witt, who finished second in the 2024 AL MVP voting, surpasses Henderson in achievements despite being just two years older than Skenes, 18 months older than De La Cruz, and a year older than Henderson.
Skenes, De La Cruz and Henderson on the cover of “MLB The Show 25”. (Image courtesy of Sony Interactive Entertainment)
A Sony spokesperson justified the choice, stating, “Even though we chose three players for the first time in the history of the franchise, there are always deserving guys that don’t make the cover. We couldn’t be more thrilled to have Paul, Gunnar and Elly grace the cover.”
While the decision may be debatable, it raises questions about criteria for such honors. Bobby Witt Jr. seems a notable oversight.
The Philadelphia Phillies’ Future Directions
The Philadelphia Phillies had a relatively quiet offseason, adding Jordan Romano, Max Kepler, Jesús Luzardo, and Joe Ross. However, their next moves will be crucial.
The Phillies face a significant challenge in 2026 as several key players reach free agency. Kyle Schwarber and J.T. Realmuto, both valuable, will be 33 and 35, respectively. The team needs to renew their contracts strategically while considering prospects like Andrew Painter and Aidan Miller.
Bryce Harper (left) and Kyle Schwarber (right) are among the Phillies’ core players now in their early 30s. (Bill Streicher / Imagn Images)
To address this, the Phillies should prepare to spend in the 2026 offseason, capitalize on the current collective bargaining agreement, and prepare for potential changes in 2027. Players like Kyle Tucker could offer valuable additions, particularly if he reaches free agency in 2026 at the age of 29.
San Diego Padres: A Puzzling Team
General Manager A.J. Preller’s comments at FanFest signaled interest in adding “a bat or two” and “an arm or two.” However, the list of remaining free agents is limited.
Pete Alonso and Alex Bregman, while appealing, do not fit the Padres’ budget. Options like Nick Pivetta, Andrew Heaney, José Quintana, and Alex Verdugo might be considered, but none are game-changers.
The team’s financial situation and potential ownership changes add uncertainty. The Padres’ current farm system ranks sixth-worst in the game, complicating their ability to develop internal solutions.
Preller might explore trades for players like Luis Arraez, Dylan Cease, or Michael King. The team’s decision-making will be pivotal for their long-term success.
Toronto Blue Jays and Luxury Tax Concerns
The Blue Jays’ current payroll, estimated at $273.3 million by Fangraphs, places them within striking distance of the luxury-tax thresholds. However, signing Vladimir Guerrero Jr. to an extension and landing a big free agent could push them further.
Extending Guerrero Jr. starting in 2026, as the Red Sox did with Rafael Devers, could help manage payroll while ensuring future stability. If the Jays do surpass the highest threshold, known colloquially as the “Steve Cohen Tax,” they would face an 80% tax on additional spending for 2025.
Moving within $8 million of the second-highest threshold could also impact their draft position. Despite these challenges, the Blues Jays’ strong core and prospect pipeline position them well for future success.
Around the League
Moving beyond specific teams, several free-agent pursuits illuminate broader trends in the league.
The Kansas City Royals and Los Angeles Angels both pursued Anthony Santander, with the Blue Jays ultimately securing him for a five-year deal. Santander’s decision to reject shorter offers indicates his value and preference for long-term financial security.
Jack Flaherty’s two-year, $35 million agreement with the Detroit Tigers showcases the challenges for mid-career pitchers who rejected qualifying offers, as they navigate their next big contracts.
Nick Pivetta, a talented but inconsistent starter, faces challenges in securing a long-term deal due to the unpredictable nature of free-agent contracts and the potential for a lockout affecting team budgets.
Free-agent hitters, with Pete Alonso and Alex Bregman leading the way, are pivotal players who could shape future rosters. Available options include Justin Turner, Yoan Moncada, Randal Grichuk, Ty France, Harrison Bader, Mark Canha, David Peralta, Tommy Pham, and Anthony Rizzo.
(Top photo of Bobby Witt Jr.: Jamie Squire / Getty Images)
As baseball continues to evolve, this offseason’s moves signal the direction of the sport. Teams must balance financial realities with strategic long-term planning to thrive in an ever-changing league.
With the upcoming season, we will see how these decisions play out and shape the competitive landscape of Major League Baseball.
We invite you to share your thoughts on these moves in the comments below. Subscribe for more in-depth analysis and news from around the league.
