Major League Baseball (MLB) often takes criticism for being slow or outdated, especially when compared to the fast pace of basketball or the physicality of football. But in 2025, I believe the athleticism on display in baseball is not only underrated—it’s among the most elite in all of sports.
The game has evolved. Players today are faster, stronger, and more versatile than ever before. Just look at the rise of two-way stars like Shohei Ohtani, who continue to redefine what an athlete can do. Pitching 100 mph fastballs one day and hitting 450-foot home runs the next? That level of athleticism doesn’t exist anywhere else. And it’s not just the superstars—across the league, you’re seeing outfielders making diving grabs at full sprint, infielders with lightning-quick reflexes, and base runners stealing with razor-sharp instincts and top-tier speed.
Defensive metrics have become more advanced, and they’re revealing just how athletic these players are. Statcast data shows that outfielders cover more ground than ever before, with sprint speeds rivaling NFL wide receivers. Infielders are being shifted into new roles, expected to cover more ground and make impossible throws with ease. Reaction time and agility are as important as strength and speed—baseball demands a blend of skills that’s often overlooked.
Even the conditioning and training regimens have changed dramatically. Today’s players train like Olympic athletes. Nutrition, recovery science, and analytics are at the forefront of player development. Gone are the days of “beer and hot dogs” stereotypes—modern players spend their offseasons transforming their bodies to improve speed, power, and flexibility.
Critics say the game is “too slow,” but they miss the point: baseball’s action comes in explosive bursts. Every pitch is a moment of tension, every swing a display of timing and raw power. That kind of precision requires a unique type of athleticism. Baseball isn’t just about brute force—it’s about coordination, reflexes, and strategy.
In 2025, MLB players are some of the best athletes on the planet, even if that’s not always reflected in mainstream narratives. The next time someone questions the athleticism in baseball, just show them a highlight reel from today’s game—they’ll quickly realize just how wrong they were.