Tommy Edman’s Explosive Start in the 2025 MLB Season
Tommy Edman has emerged as one of the MLB’s most exciting players in the early stages of the 2025 season. Known previously as a defensive utility player, Edman’s recent performances have catapulted him into the ranks of the league’s top power hitters. His evolution from a reliable defender to an all-around superstar has been nothing short of remarkable, and fans can now appreciate why the Los Angeles Dodgers secured him with a long-term contract.
Statistical Evidence of Edman’s Transformation
As of April 11, 2025, Edman is hitting with a batting average of .259, slightly below his career average of .263. However, his slugging percentage tells a different story. In 2024, he posted a slugging percentage of .417, but this year, it has soared to .574. In just 58 at-bats, Edman has already hit five home runs, nearly matching his total of six homers in 153 at-bats the previous year. In 2023, he hit 13 home runs over 528 at-bats, and his current pace is four times faster.
The Mechanics Behind the Power Surge
This transformation is not a mere fluke. Edman’s average exit velocity in 2023 was 89.1 mph, with a hard-hit rate of 38.8%, ranking him among the lower tiers in the league. In 2025, his average exit velocity has increased to 92.2 mph, and his hard-hit rate has climbed to 55.3%, placing him in the top 13% of the league. These improvements are attributed to changes in his swing mechanics and enhanced power.
The Dodgers’ Role in Edman’s Development
The Los Angeles Dodgers’ coaching staff, particularly hitting coach Robert Van Scoyoc, played a pivotal role in Edman’s development. After signing a five-year, $74 million extension post-2024 World Series win, Edman spent the off-season refining his hitting approach. The focus was on reducing unnecessary forward movement in the batter’s box and optimizing swing angles for better ball contact. Edman adjusted his stance to allow for a more upright position, which expanded his impact zone and led to more powerful and concise contact.
Edman’s Switch-Hitting Evolution
Edman’s improvement as a switch hitter is also noteworthy. Historically more successful from the right side, he has flipped the script in 2025. From the left side, he’s hitting .303 with an OPS of .988, including three home runs, matching the prowess of players like Shohei Ohtani. Conversely, his right-handed stats show a .191 average and a .667 OPS, indicating a newfound strength from the left side of the plate.
More Than Just a Utility Player
Tommy Edman has always been valued for his versatility, able to capably play every position except catcher. His impressive defensive skills earned him the National League Gold Glove for second base in 2021, and his ability to adapt to shortstop and center field makes him an invaluable asset. While he gained attention during the 2023 World Baseball Classic with the Korean team primarily for his defense, his offensive prowess is now undeniable.
The Future of Tommy Edman in MLB
Edman is no longer just a quiet utility player. He is becoming a central figure in the Dodgers’ lineup, alongside stars like Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, and Shohei Ohtani. His comprehensive skill set, encompassing defense, base running, positional flexibility, and now hitting, makes him a critical component of the Dodgers’ strategy. As MLB trends toward power-focused play, Edman exemplifies how thoughtful adjustments and dedication can redefine a player’s career trajectory.
A New Chapter for a Korean-American Baseball Star
Tommy Edman’s story is one of perseverance and transformation, embodying the spirit of modern baseball. As a key player for the Dodgers, his journey is a testament to hard work and adaptability, offering inspiration to fans and players alike. As the 2025 season progresses, Edman’s contributions are set to leave a lasting impact, not just on his team, but on the game itself.