The 2024 MLB season has been full of surprises, both good and bad. As we reach the All-Star break, it’s time to take a look at some of the biggest busts in baseball so far this year. From former All-Stars to highly touted free-agent signings, there have been a number of players who have failed to live up to expectations.
One of the most notable disappointments this season has been the duo of 1B Paul Goldschmidt and 3B Nolan Arenado of the St. Louis Cardinals. Both players are perennial All-Stars and future Hall of Famers, but they have struggled to perform at their usual levels this year. Goldschmidt, in particular, has seen a significant decline in his offensive numbers, raising questions about whether age has finally caught up with him. Arenado, on the other hand, is on pace for his lowest homer and RBI totals in years, leading to concerns about his future with the team.
Another high-profile bust this season has been LHP Blake Snell of the San Francisco Giants. The former Cy Young Award winner has failed to live up to expectations since joining the team, posting a disappointing 0-3 record and a bloated 6.31 ERA. Despite a recent perfect game bid, Snell has struggled to find his form and has been a major disappointment for the Giants.
In addition to Goldschmidt, Arenado, and Snell, another player who has underperformed this season is LHP Jordan Montgomery of the Arizona Diamondbacks. Montgomery, who was expected to bolster the rotation of the reigning World Series champions, has struggled on the mound and has been booed by fans multiple times. To make matters worse, he is currently sidelined with a knee injury, adding to his woes this season.
Lastly, OF Randy Arozarena of the Tampa Bay Rays has also been a disappointment this year. The 2021 AL Rookie of the Year has seen a significant drop in his batting average and slugging percentage, leading to a decline in his overall production. With the Rays struggling to stay above .500, Arozarena’s lackluster performance has been a contributing factor to their struggles this season.
Overall, the first half of the 2024 MLB season has seen its fair share of busts, with several high-profile players failing to live up to expectations. As we head into the second half of the season, these players will need to step up their game if they hope to turn their disappointing seasons around.
