2025 Top 100 MLB Players: #20 - #16

20. Freddie Freeman, First Baseman, Los Angeles Dodgers

Freddie Freeman continues to demonstrate that he ranks among baseball's most reliable and effective first basemen at the age of 35. The eight-time All-Star has been a foundational player for the Dodgers since joining the team in 2022, following an illustrious 12-year tenure with the Atlanta Braves.

The 2024 season was particularly significant for Freeman, as he guided the Dodgers to their second World Series championship in just four years. Despite facing an ankle injury towards the conclusion of the season, Freeman rose to the occasion when it mattered, earning World Series MVP honors by accomplishing an extraordinary four-game home run streak in the Fall Classic. His walk-off grand slam in Game 1 marked the first instance of such an achievement in World Series history, underscoring his knack for performing under pressure during baseball’s most critical moments.

With a career batting average of .300, 346 home runs, and over 2,200 hits, Freeman exemplifies a unique blend of elite power and remarkable contact skills. His left-handed swing is considered one of the most aesthetically pleasing and effective in the sport, while his Gold Glove-caliber defense at first base adds substantial value to his team. Freeman’s leadership qualities in the Dodgers' clubhouse have received accolades from manager Dave Roberts, who has likened him to "the modern-day Tony Gwynn."

19. Ronald Acuña Jr., Outfielder, Atlanta Braves

Ronald Acuña Jr. was enjoying an extraordinary season in 2024 before suffering his second ACL tear in three years, this time affecting his left knee. Despite this devastating injury sustained in May that prematurely ended his season, Acuña's remarkable talent and past achievements ensure his high ranking on this list.

The 2023 season was groundbreaking for Acuña, as he became the first player in MLB history to achieve membership in the 40-70 club, with 41 home runs and 73 stolen bases, earning the National League MVP Award unanimously. His exceptional combination of power and speed is unparalleled in contemporary baseball, and at just 27 years of age, he remains one of the sport's most electrifying figures.

Acuña's career highlights thus far include four All-Star selections, three Silver Slugger Awards, and the 2018 NL Rookie of the Year Award. Before his injury in 2024, he was batting .250 with 4 home runs and 16 stolen bases across 49 games. His remarkable speed and strong arm in the outfield classify him as a five-tool player, and the Braves are optimistic that he will return to form following his rehabilitation.

18. Elly De La Cruz, Shortstop, Cincinnati Reds

Elly De La Cruz has swiftly made a name for himself as one of baseball's most thrilling players. Standing at 6'5" with remarkable speed and considerable power, this switch-hitting shortstop followed a promising rookie season with an outstanding sophomore campaign in 2024.

After joining the Reds in June 2023, De La Cruz wasted no time revealing his immense potential, becoming the youngest player to hit for the cycle since César Cedeño in 1972. In 2024, he secured his first All-Star selection while leading MLB in stolen bases and becoming the first shortstop in history to achieve a 20-60 season, finishing with 25 home runs and 67 stolen bases.

De La Cruz's athletic prowess is off the charts—he has been clocked as MLB's fastest player with a sprint speed of 30.5 feet per second and has recorded the hardest infield throw of the Statcast era at an impressive 97.9 mph. While he continues to work on minimizing strikeouts at the plate, his improvement from a .235 batting average during his rookie year to a more effective showing in his sophomore season indicates that he is on a promising trajectory toward becoming a perennial All-Star. His dynamic style of play has endeared him to fans and made him a central figure in the Reds' rebuilding efforts.

17. Jurickson Profar, Outfielder, Atlanta Braves

Jurickson Profar's career resurgence represents one of the most captivating stories in baseball for 2024. After signing a modest $1 million contract with the Padres, the versatile outfielder compiled his best season yet, which culminated in his first All-Star selection and a Silver Slugger Award.

Profar's journey has certainly not followed a straightforward path. Once hailed as baseball’s top prospect with the Rangers, his early career was marred by shoulder injuries that sidelined him for two full seasons. After navigating through four different organizations, Profar finally found his groove in San Diego, transitioning from a utility infielder to a dependable corner outfielder.

In 2024, Profar achieved career highs in multiple categories, exhibiting excellent bat control, power, and defensive versatility. His impressive performance earned him a three-year, $42 million contract with the Atlanta Braves for the 2025 season. As a switch-hitter with a patient approach at the plate, he brings significant value to any lineup, and at 32 years old, he appears to be thriving in what seems to be his prime years after overcoming substantial obstacles.

16. Ketel Marte, Second Baseman, Arizona Diamondbacks

Ketel Marte has established his reputation as one of the premier second basemen in baseball. The switch-hitter achieved his second All-Star selection in 2024, following a spectacular 2023 postseason where he was named NLCS MVP for his role in propelling the Diamondbacks to the World Series.

Marte's 2024 season was his most prolific to date; he set career highs with 36 home runs and 95 RBIs while maintaining an impressive .292 batting average. His outstanding performance earned him his first Silver Slugger Award, solidifying his status as the cornerstone player for Arizona, which led to a six-year, $116.5 million contract extension in early 2025.

What distinguishes Marte is his ability to excel in both batting average and power, employing a smooth swing that produces line drives to all fields. Additionally, he has evolved into a reliable defensive second baseman after initially starting his career as a shortstop. Marte's postseason feats in 2023 included setting an MLB record with a 20-game hitting streak to commence his playoff career, highlighting his capacity to perform magnificently in high-pressure situations.