By mid-June 2025, we’re starting to see the real storylines unfold in the MLB. With Aaron Judge batting .400 and the Chicago Cubs boasting the best offense, there are plenty of exciting things happening.
However, not all the news is good. Several players are really struggling, and it’s becoming a cause for concern.
Luis Robert Jr., CF, Chicago White Sox
2025 Season Stats: 218 AB, .193 AVG, 6 HR, 21 SB, .588 OPS
Luis Robert Jr. was supposed to be a major player for the rebuilding White Sox, a potential star who could be a big trade chip come deadline time.
Instead, his season has taken a nosedive. With a batting average of just .185 and a striking 31.1% strikeout rate, it’s clear he’s been struggling at the plate. His power has also vanished, with only six homers this year and just 1 in the last 30 games.
And with such a pattern, the White Sox might explore options to deal him in no time.
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Jarren Duran, LF, Boston Red Sox
2025 Season Stats: 301, .269 AVG, 5 HR, 14 SB, .748 OPS
The Boston Red Sox are facing rumors about potential trades involving their outfielders Jarren Duran and Wilyer Abreu. This comes after the promotion of top prospect Roman Anthony.
Tim Kelly from Bleacher Report predicts that either Duran or Abreu will be traded at the MLB trade deadline. And according to him, teams like the San Diego Padres are especially paying close attention to development around Duran.
Duran, who has a solid .271 batting average with a .753 OPS in 2025, enjoyed an impressive 2024 season. He led the league in doubles and triples and posted an .834 OPS. He is under team control until 2028, which enhances his trade value.
With the Red Sox looking to restructure their roster and integrate younger talent, the decision to trade Duran could potentially yield a strong return in trade.
Zac Gallen, SP, Arizona Diamondbacks
2025 Season Stats: 80.1 IP, 5.15 ERA, 1.33 WHIP, 75 K, 36 BB
Zac Gallen, once a shining star and ace for the Diamondbacks, is having a really rough go this season. His ERA is among the highest for qualified pitchers, and his strikeout rate has dropped to a career low at just 21.7%.
As he heads toward free agency, his value is uncertain, and the Diamondbacks may be considering flipping him if they decide to sell. While things look grim, both he and the team might benefit from sticking together for another year to help Gallen get back on track.
But likewise, teams have a certain perspective around the pieces/players and have some objectives to move them.
So these players represent a couple of the bigger worries in MLB right now. As we head into trade season, their futures and the decisions their teams make will be key storylines to watch.
Also Read: Mets Trade Rumors: Kodai Senga Injury Sparks Interest In Potential Trade Candidate
