Three slow MLB starts that could last all season

Every MLB team goes through slumps during the season — it is just more noticeable when a team is cold at the start of the season. However, not every slow start is the same. Let's take a look at three teams whose slow starts could last all year.

*records and stats as of Saturday morning

Boston Red Sox (4-9, last in AL East)

The Red Sox have been in an odd spot since trading Rafael Devers on June 15. Three of the four players received in that deal are no longer with the team. Alex Bregman, who took over as the Red Sox's third baseman last year, departed in free agency after the Red Sox reportedly did not believe his offer from the Cubs when given a chance to match those terms. While the Red Sox bolstered their pitching staff, there were still plenty of questions about the lineup.

Those moves have led to a 4-9 record, the worst in the majors. Shortstop Trevor Story and third baseman Caleb Durbin have combined for 12 hits in 102 plate appearances, with three doubles and a homer. Pitcher Ranger Suarez, their biggest signing of the offseason, has an 8.62 ERA and a 1.920 WHiP in his 8.1 innings. Unless the Red Sox can turn their season around quickly, it may be a long summer in Boston.

Seattle Mariners (5-9, last in AL West)

The Mariners' biggest issue is clear — they are not hitting at all. Seattle hitters have combined for a .190/.297/.311 batting line, ranking last in the majors in batting average, 23rd in on-base percentage and 29th in slugging percentage and OPS (.607). 

The Mariners' bats should heat up during the season. Catcher Cal Raleigh, first baseman Josh Naylor and outfielder Julio Rodriguez will eventually return to form. However, they have also been shut out three times in just 14 games. The Mariners will need their lineup to perform to expectations soon if they hope to return to the postseason.

Philadelphia Phillies (6-7, fourth in NL East)

The Phillies essentially ran back the same team from 2025, hoping that small tweaks and an infusion of youth from outfielder Justin Crawford and pitcher Andrew Painter would be enough to contend for the postseason. Instead, the Phillies have struggled to hit, posting a .219/.306/.356 batting line on the season.

Things have not been better on the pitching side. Taijuan Walker has been atrocious filling in for an injured Zack Wheeler, allowing 11 runs, 10 earned, on 17 hits and six walks over 9.2 innings. Jesus Luzardo has been unlucky to start the year, posting a 6.23 ERA with a 2.34 FIP. Reliever Jose Alvarado has not been the same after returning from his suspension for PEDs, allowing 11 runs, 10 earned, on 14 hits and six walks over 10.1 innings since August 20, 2025. The Phillies play in a difficult division with the Atlanta Braves, Miami Marlins and New York Mets all harboring playoff aspirations. If the Phillies do not heat up soon, they may need to look ahead to 2027.