Baltimore Orioles’ Young Slugger Predicted to Win First MVP Award This Season

The 2025 Major League Baseball (MLB) season is on the horizon, and anticipation is building around the Baltimore Orioles, who have been on an upward trajectory in recent years. This season, however, they are in the spotlight for more than just their continued growth as a team. The focus is squarely on one of their brightest stars, a young slugger predicted by many to win his first Most Valuable Player (MVP) award this year.

While the MLB MVP award has typically been a domain of veterans who have established themselves as consistent performers, the Orioles’ phenom represents a new wave of talent in the league — a generation of young players ready to make their mark. The slugger in question is none other than Adley Rutschman, the catcher who has already captivated the hearts of Orioles fans and the broader baseball community. This piece explores why Rutschman, widely expected to be the 2025 MVP, is poised for a historic season, along with the factors contributing to his breakout and the larger impact on the Orioles’ future.

The Rise of Adley Rutschman

Adley Rutschman, drafted by the Baltimore Orioles as the first overall pick in the 2019 MLB Draft, wasted little time in proving his worth. From his very first at-bat in the majors, Rutschman exhibited the poise, maturity, and skill that led to high expectations for his career. The Oregon State product has been heralded not only as a generational talent but also as one of the best all-around players in the game, capable of impacting the game both offensively and defensively.

In just his first full MLB season (2023), Rutschman posted an impressive slash line of .254/.362/.445, with 23 home runs and 87 RBIs. He also demonstrated his exceptional eye at the plate, drawing 82 walks, which helped him accumulate a solid on-base percentage of .362. However, it was his defensive work behind the plate, his leadership, and his ability to control the game from the catching position that set him apart from many of his peers.

The 2024 season saw Rutschman continue to develop as one of the top young players in the league. His offensive numbers improved significantly, and he solidified his reputation as a strong defensive presence. By the end of 2024, Rutschman had become one of the most valuable players on the Orioles roster, helping propel the team back into playoff contention and finishing near the top of the American League in multiple statistical categories. Many experts began speculating that 2025 could be the year Rutschman truly breaks out and claims the MVP award.

Adley Rutschman’s Skill Set

To understand why Rutschman is poised to win the MVP award, it’s important to look at his skill set in detail. A truly exceptional player, Rutschman combines power, discipline, and defensive prowess, making him an all-around threat.

1. Offense: The Power and Patience of a Future Superstar

One of the most remarkable aspects of Rutschman’s game is his ability to combine power with patience. As a switch-hitter, Rutschman is capable of driving the ball to all fields, with a particularly strong pull-side approach. His 23 home runs in 2023 were just a taste of what he could achieve in his prime years. As he matures and continues to refine his swing, many expect Rutschman’s home run totals to climb higher, making him a serious contender for the league-lead in that category.

But Rutschman’s patience at the plate is just as impressive as his power. His high walk rate indicates a keen eye for the strike zone and an ability to lay off pitches that others might chase. In a game that increasingly values on-base percentage (OBP), Rutschman’s ability to get on base at a high rate is a critical asset. If he can continue to increase his power output while maintaining his disciplined approach, he will not only improve his offensive numbers but also his ability to contribute in key situations.

2. Defense: The Pillar of Stability Behind the Plate

While many young sluggers excel offensively, it’s rare for a catcher to have such an immediate and significant impact defensively as Rutschman has. Behind the plate, he possesses remarkable skills that make him one of the most well-rounded catchers in the game. His pitch framing ability is elite, helping pitchers navigate through difficult innings. Furthermore, his strong arm and quick release allow him to control the running game, preventing stolen bases and keeping opposing teams from getting comfortable on the basepaths.

But it’s Rutschman’s leadership and ability to manage a pitching staff that truly set him apart. A catcher who can guide pitchers through the ebb and flow of a game, making pitch-calling decisions based on the strengths and weaknesses of his staff, is invaluable. Rutschman’s rapport with his pitchers, paired with his cerebral approach to the game, allows him to influence the outcome of games even when he’s not at the plate.

3. Baseball IQ: The Intangible Factor

One of Rutschman’s most noteworthy traits is his baseball IQ. Coming from a collegiate program renowned for its development of professional-caliber players, Rutschman has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of the game. Whether it’s his ability to read pitchers, anticipate base runners’ movements, or identify weaknesses in opposing teams, Rutschman’s intellect on the field makes him a constant threat in all aspects of the game. His knowledge of the game allows him to adjust on the fly, a skill that will be crucial as he works toward an MVP-caliber season.

2025 Season Outlook: Why This Could Be Rutschman’s Year

Looking ahead to the 2025 season, there are several factors that make it highly likely that Rutschman will capture his first MVP award.

1. Improved Offensive Numbers

As mentioned earlier, Rutschman’s offensive numbers have steadily improved each season since his debut. The 2025 season could see a significant leap in his power numbers, particularly if he continues to refine his swing and improve his bat speed. His ability to hit for both average and power positions him well to compete for the MVP award. In an increasingly offensive era in baseball, a catcher who can provide 30+ home runs, 100+ RBIs, and a high OBP is a rare and valuable commodity.

If Rutschman can stay healthy and have a full, uninterrupted season, he has the potential to push his offensive numbers into the elite category. With a balanced approach that combines power and patience, Rutschman could easily establish himself as one of the most dangerous hitters in the league.

2. Team Success: The Orioles’ Playoff Push

While individual performance is a major component of the MVP award, team success plays a crucial role in a player’s candidacy. Historically, MVP winners often come from playoff-contending teams, as voters tend to favor players who contribute to their team’s success. The Orioles have been rebuilding for the past several years, but they are finally showing signs of emerging as a legitimate contender in the American League.

Baltimore’s roster has been bolstered by the emergence of several young players, including Rutschman. The team’s overall depth and the growth of its pitching staff make it a strong candidate to contend for a playoff spot in 2025. If the Orioles can maintain a competitive edge and secure a spot in the postseason, Rutschman’s MVP candidacy will only be strengthened by his contributions to the team’s success.

3. The Evolution of Rutschman’s Role in the Orioles’ Lineup

As one of the Orioles’ premier players, Rutschman is likely to be at the center of the team’s lineup, playing a major role in driving the offense. His ability to hit in the heart of the order means he will have ample opportunities to produce runs, whether through base hits, walks, or home runs. With an increasing reliance on analytics in baseball, Rutschman’s strong on-base skills and ability to make contact in high-leverage situations will likely place him in favorable positions to generate offensive production.

Additionally, the team’s growing investment in player development and analytics suggests that Rutschman will receive even more support from the Orioles’ front office in terms of optimizing his performance. Expect to see the Orioles make use of cutting-edge data to help Rutschman maximize his strengths while mitigating his weaknesses.

Comparisons to Other MVP Contenders

While Rutschman is one of the favorites to win the MVP award, he will face stiff competition from other players around the league. Superstars like Aaron Judge, Shohei Ohtani, and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. are always threats to claim the title. However, Rutschman’s unique combination of elite defense and emerging offensive power makes him stand out among his peers.

Additionally, Rutschman plays a position (catcher) that typically doesn’t receive the same amount of attention as other positions, especially when it comes to MVP voting. His ability to be an elite defender while also contributing offensively in a big way gives him a unique edge over other MVP candidates who may not have the same defensive value.

The Future of the Baltimore Orioles

If Rutschman is able to claim the MVP award in 2025, it would mark a new era for the Baltimore Orioles. The team has long been in the rebuilding phase, but with Rutschman at the helm, they have the opportunity to transition into a perennial contender in the American League. His development into an MVP-caliber player would represent the culmination of the Orioles’ rebuilding efforts, offering hope for a bright future in Baltimore.

With Rutschman leading the charge, the Orioles have the potential to become a powerhouse in the AL East and beyond. His success in 2025 could also attract other talented players to Baltimore, further accelerating the team’s growth and making them a team to watch for years to come.

Adley Rutschman’s predicted MVP season in 2025 is not just a reflection of his immense talent but also the product of a combination of factors — his all-around game, his maturity as a player, and the continued rise of the Baltimore Orioles. With his unique blend of offensive power, plate discipline, and defensive brilliance, Rutschman has all the tools needed to make 2025 his breakout year and capture the prestigious MVP award.

The Orioles’ young slugger is not only a future star in the making but a player who has the potential to redefine the catcher position in MLB. As the 2025 season unfolds, expect Rutschman to continue his rise, captivating fans and analysts alike and ultimately earning recognition as one of the league’s most valuable players. For Baltimore, the future has never looked brighter.