Part of what elevates a good team to greatness or instills hope in the hearts of fans supporting a struggling team is the ability of players to surpass their preseason expectations. In this analysis, Moneyline has examined some of the best-kept secrets for each MLB team thus far in the 2025 season. These may be young players coming into their own or veterans exceeding their performance from previous seasons. This overview is crafted from a national perspective. Fans who follow their teams closely might not be surprised by these names, but for those looking to identify underappreciated talents across the league, this article aims to shed light on those individuals.

For the New York Yankees, one notable player is Fernando Cruz. Currently recovering from right shoulder inflammation, Cruz showcased impressive potential earlier in the season, posting a 2.66 ERA in 21 games before being sidelined. He was acquired in the offseason trade that sent José Trevino to the Cincinnati Reds and has recorded a remarkable 13.3 K/9 over 23.2 innings pitched in his debut season with the Yankees. Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Rays have José Caballero, who, despite stealing a league-high 44 bases last season, also faced challenges with a league-worst 16 times caught stealing. So far in 2025, Caballero has improved his success rate, completing 19 of 23 attempts, while boosting his OPS from .630 to .735.

In Toronto, Addison Barger, drafted in the sixth round in 2018, has emerged as a promising figure for the Blue Jays, recording 11 doubles, an .801 OPS, and 1.2 WAR across 37 games. His versatility in the infield and outfield adds further value. The Boston Red Sox's Brennan Bernardino has been another positive surprise, returning to form after a down year in 2024. He boasts a 1.27 ERA and 3.34 FIP over 27 appearances this season. The Baltimore Orioles have found a bright spot in Bryan Baker, whose 2.88 ERA helps offset a challenging start to the season for the team. For the Detroit Tigers, Will Vest has been a standout reliever, achieving an exceptional 2.00 ERA and eight saves in 25 appearances this season.

The Cleveland Guardians are seeing contributions from Daniel Schneemann, who stepped up after Andrés Giménez was traded. In 46 games, Schneemann has demonstrated both power and defensive adaptability with seven home runs and two outs above average at second base. For the Minnesota Twins, Louis Varland is performing well with a 2.73 ERA over 29 appearances, a significant improvement from his previous career stats. The Kansas City Royals are bolstered by Noah Cameron, who has made a remarkable start as a 2021 seventh-round pick, posting a 1.05 ERA in four starts following his promotion.

Mike Vasil of the Chicago White Sox has generated some intrigue with a solid 2.10 ERA across 17 games, although concerns about his FIP could indicate potential regression. Seattle Mariners pitcher Gabe Speier is having a breakout season with a 2.01 ERA, showcasing a drastic improvement in his control metrics. The Houston Astros have introduced Bennett Sousa to their bullpen, where he has thrived with a 2.50 ERA to date, signaling his potential as a reliable reliever.

The Texas Rangers have successfully acquired Robert Garcia, who has delivered a 2.25 ERA in 28 games since joining the team. For the Los Angeles Angels, José Soriano has transitioned to a quality starter role, demonstrating a 3.42 ERA and 3.78 FIP, indicating his potential impact in the rotation. In Oakland, Jacob Wilson has become an emerging name, boasting a .345 batting average and an impressive .883 OPS, solidifying his Rookie of the Year candidacy despite defensive challenges.

The Philadelphia Phillies have seen contributions from left-handed reliever Tanner Banks, who has helped bolster the bullpen in light of José Alvarado's suspension. The New York Mets have rediscovered Reed Garrett, who has transformed from a struggling reliever to a standout with a 0.73 ERA. For the Washington Nationals, Cole Henry has thrived with a 2.14 ERA in 18 games, greatly assisting a beleaguered bullpen.

Among the Atlanta Braves, Daysbel Hernández has showcased a high ceiling despite his wildness, showing promise with a 2.25 ERA. Miami Marlins pitcher Valente Bellozo has also made an impression, posting a 2.89 ERA over 28 innings, contributing positively despite concerns over FIP. In Chicago, Cubs veteran Caleb Thielbar has rebounded with a strong 2.29 ERA, while Kyle Leahy has become an essential setup man for the St. Louis Cardinals, flaunting a 2.08 ERA across 30.1 innings.

Abner Uribe, representing the Milwaukee Brewers, has excelled with a 1.65 ERA and 12.2 K/9, maintaining the bullpen's competitive edge. The Cincinnati Reds' Lyon Richardson, although limited in opportunities, has performed admirably, allowing only two earned runs in 14 innings. The Pittsburgh Pirates are witnessing rapid development from Dennis Santana, who has emerged as a top reliever with a 1.48 ERA, indicating his rising profile ahead of the trade deadline.

In the Los Angeles Dodgers' bullpen, Jack Dreyer has stepped up significantly, with a 2.97 ERA in his first 23 games. Lastly, motivation comes for the San Diego Padres from Gavin Sheets, who has flourished after his transition, hitting .269 with 11 home runs. Randy Rodríguez from the San Francisco Giants has bounced back strongly this season, posting a minuscule 0.70 ERA as he solidifies his place as an essential relief option. Lastly, Shelby Miller, with the Arizona Diamondbacks, stands out with a 1.99 ERA, providing stability within the bullpen amidst a challenging season for the Colorado Rockies, where Jordan Beck has displayed promise with eight home runs in his second MLB season.