As we approach the end of May, the baseball season is heating up, and some players are truly on fire. It's fascinating to witness the evolution of these athletes, especially those who have been featured previously and are now thriving. Let's dive into the performances of Max Meyer, Ryan Waldschmidt, and Curtis Mead, and explore what their recent success could mean for the future.
The Ace in the Hole: Max Meyer
Max Meyer, the Miami Marlins' starting pitcher, is currently in the driver's seat for the ace role. This isn't the first time Meyer has shown promise; last year, he had a stellar April, ranking among the top 30 pitchers. However, his momentum was cut short due to an injury. This year, Meyer is back with a vengeance, and his performance is even more impressive.
What sets Meyer apart is his exceptional slider. It's a pitch that dominates by all metrics, from velocity to whiff rate. Our in-house pitch grading stat, PLV, highlights its excellence. Additionally, Meyer's sweeper pitch is equally impressive, showcasing excellent velocity and movement. The unique aspect is the distinct difference in movement between these two pitches, which is uncommon in the league.
While Meyer's slider is a standout, his fastball has been a concern. Traditionally, a solid fastball is the foundation for a power pitcher. However, Meyer has made significant improvements in this area, with increased vertical break, especially in domed environments. This development is a positive sign for his overall performance. Despite these gains, there are still some concerns about the drop in extension compared to last season.
In my opinion, Meyer's performance this year is a testament to his growth and adaptability. He has shown a longer stretch of dominance, and the changes in his approach and pitch selection are encouraging. However, we must remember that consistency is key, and Meyer has had his fair share of ups and downs. Personally, I'm excited to see if he can maintain this level of excellence throughout the season.
Hitting Factory: Ryan Waldschmidt
The Arizona Diamondbacks have quietly become a hitting powerhouse, with breakout campaigns from players like Ildemaro Vargas and consistent performances from stars like Corbin Carroll and Ketel Marte. Among this talented roster is Ryan Waldschmidt, the team's top prospect, currently ranked #33 on MLB Pipeline's list.
Waldschmidt has been a consistent performer since joining the big club. His batting average has hovered above .300, and he has contributed significantly to the team's offensive output. However, he hasn't hit any home runs yet, which is a bit surprising given his elite speed. In 2025, he stole 29 bases across two minor league levels, and with his current on-base percentage, he could be a threat to steal 20 bases annually.
Despite his impressive ratios, I have some reservations about Waldschmidt's long-term success. His wRC+ has slipped since I featured him this week, and his high whiff and strikeout rates suggest that maintaining a batting average over .300 might be challenging. While I expect to see more extra-base hits, given his decent power at all levels, I believe the super-high batting average we've seen so far is a mirage.
The Resurgent Prospect: Curtis Mead
Curtis Mead, the former Rays top prospect, has made a surprising comeback. After being traded multiple times, Mead has found his stride with the Minnesota Twins. His on-base percentage is a key area of improvement, and he's walking at a higher rate than ever before. This change in approach has elevated his overall performance.
Mead's power surge is also notable. He's already hit seven home runs this season, and the secret to his success isn't improved bat speed or exit velocity. Instead, he's pulling the ball in the air more frequently, which has increased his home run potential. If Mead can consistently hit 20 home runs per season, he'll be a valuable asset to any team.
Additionally, Mead has become a more balanced player against left-handed and right-handed pitchers. Previously, he struggled against lefties, but now he's become an average hitter against both sides. This development could make him a permanent everyday player, which is an exciting prospect.
While I'm hesitant to fully endorse Mead's legitimacy just yet, his recent performance is impressive. Players like Jordan Walker have shown that tangible changes can lead to success, and Mead's wRC+ over 130 this season is a promising sign. However, we must wait and see if he can maintain this level of effectiveness throughout the year.
Final Thoughts
As we reflect on the performances of these players, it's clear that baseball is a game of constant evolution and adaptation. Max Meyer's dominance, Ryan Waldschmidt's impressive ratios, and Curtis Mead's resurgence all highlight the potential for growth and improvement. While consistency is key, these players have shown that with the right adjustments, they can reach new heights. It will be fascinating to see how their stories unfold as the season progresses.
