As the 2025 Major League Baseball (MLB) season approaches, fans and analysts alike are eager to see which young talents will emerge as the sport’s next superstars. This year, a remarkable cohort of rookies and young players is poised to make significant impacts on their respective teams. From international sensations to homegrown prodigies, here’s a closer look at the top 10 young athletes to watch in the 2025 MLB season.
1. Roki Sasaki, Pitcher, Los Angeles Dodgers
Roki Sasaki, often dubbed the “Reiwa Monster,” has been a dominant force in Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) before making his transition to MLB. In April 2022, he pitched a perfect game with 19 strikeouts, showcasing his exceptional talent. In 2023, Sasaki matched Shohei Ohtani’s record by throwing pitches at 165 km/h (102.5 mph). After being posted by the Chiba Lotte Marines in November 2024, Sasaki signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers in January 2025, receiving a $6.5 million signing bonus. Both Baseball America and MLB.com have ranked him as the No. 1 prospect entering the 2025 season.
2. Paul Skenes, Pitcher, Pittsburgh Pirates
At 22, Paul Skenes has already made a significant mark in MLB. In his rookie season with the Pittsburgh Pirates, he earned the National League Rookie of the Year title, finished third in the NL Cy Young voting, and secured an All-Star appearance. Skenes is seen as a potential bridge to engage Gen Z fans with baseball, but he remains focused on refining his skills and leading the Pirates to success.
3. Cam Smith, Third Baseman, Houston Astros
Cam Smith, the Houston Astros’ top prospect, has been turning heads during Spring Training. Despite limited minor-league experience, his powerful performances have positioned him as a strong candidate for the MLB roster. With first baseman Christian Walker sidelined due to injury, Smith might debut on Opening Day. His promotion could also benefit the Astros through MLB’s Prospect Promotion Incentive (PPI) program, potentially granting the team additional draft picks.
4. Oneil Cruz, Shortstop, Pittsburgh Pirates
Oneil Cruz showcased his potential last season, hitting .259 with 21 home runs, 76 RBIs, 22 stolen bases, and a .773 OPS. However, his high strikeout rate (30.2%) and struggles against left-handed pitchers (.202 career average) raise concerns. Additionally, Cruz has played more than 87 games in only one season and has yet to prove consistency over a full season. While his impressive exit velocity and hard-hit rates are promising, his current draft position might be too optimistic given his performance variability.
5. Aidan Miller, Third Baseman, Philadelphia Phillies
Aidan Miller, one of the Phillies’ top prospects, had a brief stint in the big league camp this spring. Although he went hitless in nine at-bats, he drew three walks and scored a run. Expected to start the 2025 season at Double-A Reading, Miller’s development will be closely monitored, with potential promotions to Triple-A later in the year.
6. Justin Crawford, Outfielder, Philadelphia Phillies
Justin Crawford, another top prospect for the Phillies, impressed during his spring appearances. He hit .300 over ten at-bats, stole two bases, and scored four runs. Like Miller, Crawford is slated to begin the season at Double-A Reading, with eyes set on rapid advancement through the ranks.
7. Carson Seymour, Pitcher, San Francisco Giants
Carson Seymour, known for his high-90s fastball and cutting slider, was recently optioned to minor league camp by the Giants. Despite a 4.82 ERA in Triple-A last season, his potential remains high, and he is expected to join the major league team in the future.
8. Carson Ragsdale, Pitcher, San Francisco Giants
Carson Ragsdale, who led the Giants’ minor leaguers in strikeouts in 2024 after recovering from thoracic outlet surgery, was also sent to minor league camp. His resilience and performance make him a promising candidate for future major league contributions.
9. Ethan Holliday, Infielder, Stillwater High School
Ethan Holliday, a high school phenom, is already drawing attention from MLB scouts. Despite not yet being drafted, his performance in amateur showcases and his impressive stats make him a likely top pick in the upcoming MLB Draft.
10. Jackson Jobe, Pitcher, Detroit Tigers
Jackson Jobe, one of the Tigers’ most promising young pitchers, continues to develop his craft. With a fastball reaching the upper 90s and a devastating slider, Jobe is expected to make his MLB debut in 2025 and become a cornerstone of Detroit’s rotation.
These ten athletes represent the future of Major League Baseball. Their journeys will undoubtedly shape the league’s landscape in the coming years, and fans should keep a close watch on their progress throughout the 2025 season.
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