The Unluckiest MLB Hitters

Baseball is a game of numbers. From batting average to OPS and slugging percentage, stats drive the narrative of every MLB season. But sometimes, even when hitters are making great contact, the box score doesn't tell the full story. Balls get smoked—only to find a glove. And in those moments, strong performances go unrewarded.

Dimers.com takes a look at some of the unluckiest hitters in the MLB over the past month, using advanced metrics to identify players who are hitting well—but just aren’t seeing the results.

Whether you're betting on player props or looking for value plays, these names are worth keeping an eye on. And if you’re new to sports betting, check out the Best betting sites and sports betting apps to get started.

Unlucky Sluggers

Juan Soto - New York Mets

Juan Soto is widely regarded as one of the most complete hitters in baseball. His plate discipline, elite walk rate, and power make him a consistent threat. But in 2025, despite a solid season, Soto’s stats are slightly down—and he didn't even earn an All-Star selection. Not exactly what you want out of a guy that just signed one of the richest deals in sports history.

According to Baseball Savant:

• Expected batting average (xBA): .316

• Actual batting average: Significantly lower, currently sitting at .252, making it the 5th-largest gap in MLB

• Expected slugging percentage (xSLG): .649 – that's .142 points higher than his actual slugging at the time of writing, the second-largest difference in MLB

These are elite-level numbers. And it's kinda crazy to say this for a guy who so far has 30 dingers on the season, but it could have been so much better. For bettors, this creates a valuable opportunity. As the Mets push for the playoffs, Soto’s props are regularly undervalued, especially against weaker pitching. This is where using a tool like Dimers’ best odds can help you capitalize.

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Ben Rice – New York Yankees

Ben Rice may not be a household name yet, but his underlying metrics are screaming breakout.

Despite a .240 batting average at the time of writing, Rice’s Statcast profile is outstanding:

• Average exit velocity: 93.2 mph

• Max exit velocity: 113.5 mph

• Hard-hit rate: 54.8%

• Barrel rate: 15.8%

• Expected batting average (xBA): .289 – that’s .056 points higher than his actual

• Expected slugging (xSLG): .555 vs actual .456 – nearly a .100-point gap

For someone buried in a star-studded lineup with Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton, Rice’s home run props are flying under the radar. With Yankee Stadium’s short porch and his elite batted-ball metrics, this is a spot savvy bettors can take advantage of.

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Mike Trout – Los Angeles Angels

Mike Trout is still Mike Trout. But 2025 has been a frustrating year for the Angels’ superstar, mostly because the results haven’t matched the process.

After missing time with injury, Trout returned and has been making quality contact—without the payoff:

• Batting average: .230

• Expected batting average (xBA): .277 (11th-largest gap in MLB)

• Expected slugging (xSLG): .566

• Actual slugging: .446 (120-point difference)

For a player known for consistent power and contact, this level of underperformance is rare—and unsustainable. As variance evens out, Trout is a strong candidate to finish the season hot. His props might be priced based on outdated perception, which offers an edge for those watching closely.

Bryan Reynolds – Pittsburgh Pirates

Reynolds has quietly had one of the most unlucky seasons of any hitter in baseball. Overshadowed by the Pirates' struggles, his Statcast numbers suggest he’s due for a turnaround.

• Expected slugging (xSLG): 0.127 higher than his actual slugging percentage

He’s hitting the ball hard, but the production hasn’t followed. With the Pirates out of the playoff race, Reynolds will be swinging freely in the season's final stretch, looking to pad his personal numbers—and possibly help bettors along the way.

If you're betting on props, sports betting apps like those recommended by Dimers can help you track player markets efficiently.

Final Word

Bad luck doesn't last forever. In baseball, underlying metrics almost always catch up with surface stats. That’s why staying ahead of the curve matters.

If you're looking to leverage data like this, Dimers.com gives you access to daily projections, predictive models, and sharp betting insights. Whether it's finding the best odds, placing smarter props, or getting an edge during streaks like these, tools matter.

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Responsible Gambling

Remember to please gamble responsibly. If you sense that you're taking your luck too far, know when to call it quits and don't be afraid to seek assistance. Keep in mind that gambling is all about having a fantastic experience! If you or someone you know is grappling with gambling issues, reach out to 1-800-GAMBLER for crisis counseling and support