As Major League Baseball (MLB) progresses through the 2025 season, several significant issues persist that organizations need to address. While the actual gameplay remains in a satisfactory state, concerns regarding competitive team-building practices and organizational leadership add to the cloud of discontent surrounding the league. This article explores five key problems plaguing MLB, along with potential solutions to these challenges.

One major concern involves the current interpretation of the strike zone. Reports from Jayson Stark and Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic indicate a shift in how umpires have been adjudicating pitches, resulting in a smaller perceived strike zone. This has led to a notable reduction in strikeouts and an increase in balls in play since 2018, showcasing some benefits behind the change. However, the situation has caused confusion among hitters and pitchers alike due to a higher walk rate and more pitches called inside the zone. A promising solution lies in the implementation of the Automated Ball-Strike System (ABS), which showed positive results in spring training. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred has expressed hopes of introducing this technology in the near future, pending agreement with the MLB Players Association.

Another pressing issue arises from on-field collisions, particularly at first base. A recent incident involving Luis Arraez and Mauricio Dubón resulted in Arraez sustaining a concussion. While it is difficult to quantify the frequency of such collisions, they represent risks that are largely preventable. The introduction of a double-sided first base bag, utilized in slow-pitch softball and some college baseball programs, may serve as an effective measure to mitigate injuries. San Diego Padres’ manager Mike Schildt has shown support for this change, arguing it would improve player safety without negatively impacting the game.

The topic of player promotions and service-time manipulation continues to spark debate among teams and analysts. The current system, established through the new collective bargaining agreement in 2022, was designed to incentivize teams to elevate top prospects earlier, rewarding organizations with extra draft picks. Despite some successful outcomes, certain teams remain hesitant to promote their best players immediately, opting instead for extended club control. For instance, the Pittsburgh Pirates faced consequences with Paul Skenes’ promotion last year when his performance did not translate into a draft pick after winning Rookie of the Year. To combat this issue, expanding the benefits tied to Prospect Promotion Incentives may encourage teams to showcase promising talent sooner.

Compounding these issues, the Colorado Rockies appear on course to break the record for the most losses in a single MLB season. Their dismal record of 9-45 after the first 54 games highlights ongoing concerns about competitive balance within the league. Following recent trends, teams like the Chicago White Sox and Oakland Athletics have similarly struggled in past seasons, leading to calls for accountability for teams that fail to remain competitive. A system imposing fines for excessive losses, similar to the rewards for success during playoffs, could serve as a deterrent against prolonged poor performance.

Despite these extensive issues, competitive balance in MLB remains relatively intact, with no team surpassing the 100-win mark in recent years. Yet, the ongoing disparity in team payrolls raises eyebrows. The Los Angeles Dodgers’ luxury-tax payroll dwarfs that of the lowest-spending teams combined, influencing playoff outcomes. Suggested solutions include increased revenue-sharing through luxury-tax penalties and implementing accountability measures for owners overseeing poor performance. Moreover, addressing the financial ecosystem in MLB through the possible introduction of a salary cap would require delicate negotiations with the players' union, but it is an avenue worth exploring for a more equitable structure.

As MLB navigates through these intricate challenges, the focus must remain on fostering a competitive environment where teams prioritize performance over financial limitations. Only then can MLB address its pressing issues while building a more sustainable and engaging league for fans and players alike.