The Major League Baseball trade deadline has concluded, setting the stage for the 2025 season‘s final months. Amid this period, Andrew Vaughn‘s Brewers breakout performance has caught attention, while Mookie Betts struggles with a notable offensive slump. Meanwhile, the Texas Rangers failed to address problems at the designated hitter spot, putting their postseason hopes at risk.

Mookie Betts Faces Career-Low Offensive Numbers

Mookie Betts is hitting only .231 this season, with an OPS+ of 85, a significant drop from his career average of 135 OPS+. Despite his downturn, the Los Angeles Dodgers continue to keep Betts at the top of their batting order. His prolonged slump raises concerns about his ability to rebound before the postseason.

Andrew Vaughn Emerges as a Key Contributor for the Brewers

Since his call-up, Andrew Vaughn has impressively hit .371 for the Milwaukee Brewers, demonstrating better plate discipline and power. His surge at the plate provides hope for the Brewers as they push toward postseason contention, highlighting his potential as a valuable asset in high-stakes games.

Rangers’ Inability to Fix Designated Hitter Problems Could Impact Playoff Chances

The Texas Rangers’ designated hitter position is performing poorly, recording a team batting average of just .171, which stands as one of the lowest in MLB history. Although their offense has improved, averaging 5.48 runs per game since July 1, the failure to solidify the DH role through trades leaves their playoff push uncertain. The team may now need to rely on internal adjustments to improve this key area.

Outlook as Playoffs Approach

With the postseason looming, the contrasting fortunes of these players and teams intensify the pressure. Betts must regain his offensive form to help the Dodgers remain competitive, while Vaughn’s breakout with the Brewers offers a promising boost. The Rangers face a critical challenge in resolving their DH issues to maintain momentum in their playoff pursuit.