Baseball, as ever, finds a way to dazzle us when we least expect it — and as we look ahead to the 2025 World Series, the obvious names will, of course, dominate headlines. But it’s the undercurrents that shape history, the players quietly positioning themselves for a breakout on the game’s biggest stage. That’s where the idea of a dark horse MVP comes in — and 2025 may be ripe for one.
William Contreras: Milwaukee’s Underrated Backbone
William Contreras has been a revelation behind the plate for Milwaukee. While catchers are rarely center stage, Contreras brings both a commanding presence and offensive firepower. He’s evolved from a bat-first prospect into a cornerstone player — one capable of neutralizing a running game and smashing key home runs in equal measure. If the Brewers make it deep, don’t be surprised if Contreras becomes their heartbeat.
Royce Lewis & Josh Jung: Postseason Stars in the Making
Royce Lewis, meanwhile, is the embodiment of resilience. After enduring a gauntlet of injuries, he exploded onto the scene with a flair for clutch moments — grand slams, walk-offs, high-octane plays at third base. His ceiling remains tantalizingly high, and should the Twins make another run, Lewis could write the type of October saga that cements legacies.
Josh Jung might be the most underappreciated young star in Texas. He’s disciplined at the plate, power-packed, and plays with a veteran’s calm. His performance in the 2023 postseason hinted at what’s to come. The Rangers’ lineup is already potent, but Jung’s bat could be the one that sears hottest under the October lights.
Tarik Skubal: A Left-Handed Ace Ready to Break Out
And then there’s Tarik Skubal — a lefty with electric stuff who’s taken massive strides in 2024. If the Tigers finally claw their way back into contention, Skubal is the arm you trust to go toe-to-toe with any ace in baseball. His dominant outings and capacity to silence crowds make him the kind of pitcher October narratives are built around.
None of these names are safe bets — that’s the point. But MVPs aren’t always born from superstardom. Sometimes, they emerge from the shadows — from players who seize the moment with no script, no expectations, and nothing to lose. And in 2025, one of these four could very well do just that.
